Top 10 Best Multi Effects Pedals For Bass (2020 Review)

Top 10 Best Multi Effects Pedals for Bass (2021 Review)

In this article, we’re going to be talking about the top 10 best Bass Multi Effects Pedals that you can get for your bass rig in 2021.

Zoom B3 Electric Bass Guitar Multi Effects FX Amplifier Modelling Floor Pedal
Tech 21 FlyRig 5 v2 Multi-FX Pedal
Boss ME-80 Multi-Effects Pedal
Boss GT-1B Bass Multi-Effects Processor
VOX StompLab 2B Multi-Effects Modeling Pedal with Expression for Bass Guitar
MSRP
$138.00
$329.00
$448.00
$198.50
$127.68
Our Rating
93
91
89
86
85
Dimensions
7.8 x 13 x 3.5 inches
2.6 x 1.1 x 11.7 inches
18 x 13 x 6 inches
4.5" x 2.5" x 5.5" inches
9.0" x 3.0" x 7.0" inches
Weight
3.5 pounds
1.15 pounds
8.25 pounds
0.65lbs
4.5lbs
Presets
50
No
23
99
100
Built-in Tuner
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
XLR Output
Yes
Yes
No
No
No
Power
9V Battery or Power Supply
9V Battery or Power Supply
9V Battery or Power Supply
9V Battery or Power Supply
9V Battery or Power Supply
Zoom B3 Electric Bass Guitar Multi Effects FX Amplifier Modelling Floor Pedal
MSRP
$138.00
Our Rating
93
Dimensions
7.8 x 13 x 3.5 inches
Weight
3.5 pounds
Presets
50
Built-in Tuner
Yes
XLR Output
Yes
Power
9V Battery or Power Supply
More Information
Tech 21 FlyRig 5 v2 Multi-FX Pedal
MSRP
$329.00
Our Rating
91
Dimensions
2.6 x 1.1 x 11.7 inches
Weight
1.15 pounds
Presets
No
Built-in Tuner
Yes
XLR Output
Yes
Power
9V Battery or Power Supply
More Information
Boss ME-80 Multi-Effects Pedal
MSRP
$448.00
Our Rating
89
Dimensions
18 x 13 x 6 inches
Weight
8.25 pounds
Presets
23
Built-in Tuner
Yes
XLR Output
No
Power
9V Battery or Power Supply
More Information
Boss GT-1B Bass Multi-Effects Processor
MSRP
$198.50
Our Rating
86
Dimensions
4.5" x 2.5" x 5.5" inches
Weight
0.65lbs
Presets
99
Built-in Tuner
Yes
XLR Output
No
Power
9V Battery or Power Supply
More Information
VOX StompLab 2B Multi-Effects Modeling Pedal with Expression for Bass Guitar
MSRP
$127.68
Our Rating
85
Dimensions
9.0" x 3.0" x 7.0" inches
Weight
4.5lbs
Presets
100
Built-in Tuner
Yes
XLR Output
No
Power
9V Battery or Power Supply
More Information

However, before we do this, we’re going to first talk about what exactly a bass effects pedal does, and the main advantages and disadvantages over using singular function pedals such as a bass compressor pedal or bass chorus pedal.

What are Bass Multi Effect Pedals?

Simply put, a Bass Multi-Effects Processor combines a multitude of bass effects within a single physical unit, making it particularly convenient for a bassist as they do not need to purchase an entire pedalboard, wiring kits, and individual effects pedals.

Usually, these units come with the standard effects which include compression/limiter, EQ, distortion, overdrive, delay, reverb, tuner, chorus and a few more.

What are the main advantages and disadvantages of using a Multi-Effects Pedal for Bass?

As previously mentioned, the main advantage of using a multi-effects pedal is…

  • The convenience of having all the effects in a single unit;
  • Additionally, they are generally significantly lower in cost than if you were to purchase all of the equivalent singular pedals that would provide the same functionality.

As for the disadvantages, we’re a little hesitant to discuss these, as they’re less applicable in this case, as we’re only sharing the 10 best bass multi-effects pedals, and hence these disadvantages don’t necessarily apply to these.

However, we’re here to talk objectively and thus we’ll explore the subject, and the main disadvantage is that some multi-effects units lack the superior sound quality of the singular units; Most of the time this is for two main reasons;

  • The singular effect pedals usually have analog circuitry, giving it a more natural, warmer sound… Most multi-effects units use digital circuitry, although we have featured a few analog pedals.
  • There are fewer sounds available in a singular effects pedal, thus the development teams can focus on these select few and effect these much easier than if there were 100s.

Therefore it’s simply a choice as to, do the benefits outweigh the drawbacks…

If so, then read on where we’ll be discussing the 10 top bass multi effects pedals.

Otherwise, take a look at our range of singular function effect pedals reviews.

As always, the list below featuring all of the best bass multi-effects units is ordered by price, starting from the lowest priced, leading to the most expensive at the bottom.

So without further ado, let’s talk about the 10 best bass multi-effects processors in 2020!

Zoom B1on Bass Multi-Effects Pedal

Zoom B1Xon Bass Effects Pedal with Expression Pedal

Features

  • Multi-Effects unit built specifically for Bass
  • Engineered by Zoom
  • 100 bass DSP effects including Compressors, Noise Gates, EQ, Filters, Boosters, Overdrives, Pitch Shifts, Octaver, Chorus, Looper, Synth etc
  • 100 user programmable patches
  • Up to 5 effects can be used simultaneously
  • Built-in Tuner
  • 68 Built-in rhythm accompaniment patterns
  • Pedal/Tube Amp Model Simulations (Marshall Super Bass, Ampeg SVT, etc)
  • Aux input & headphone input
  • Runs on a 4 x AA batteries, but can also be directly run on a 9v power supply (not included) or via USB connection.
  • Link to Owners Manual

Technical Specifications

  • 1/4″ jack input
  • 1/4″ jack output
  • 9v battery (included): 9v AC adaptor is sold separately (9V Power Supply – Buy on Amazon)
  • Weight: 1.41lbs
  • Dimensions : 6.1″ x 9.3″ x 2.0″ inches

Summary

The Zoom B1on Bass Multi-Effects Pedal certainly provides fantastic bang-for-your-buck! This unit is ideal for the bassist who’s after a lightweight, highly portable bass processor, which also has a huge range of features & functionality. 

With over 100 effects to choose from, alongside 100 memory banks for the storage of user-created patches, it’s really able to provide you with a lot of customization in such a small unit.

Alongside the wide range of effects, it even features a Chromatic Tuner, Looper feature (30 seconds of CD-quality recording), accompanying rhythmic patterns (which can be used with the looper) and famous pedal/amp simulations;

This includes the unit being able to emulate such pedals as the MXR DynaComp, dbx 160A, Moog MF-101, etc… And such classic tube amplifiers as the Marshall Super Bass, Fender Bassman, Ampeg SVT, etc.

For the full range of pedal/amp model emulations visit Zoom’s page here: link to emulations

With over 100 available DSP bass effects, and with the option to use up to 5 effects simultaneously, it’s really a great unit… And all below $80! It’s a true steal. 

As for the way in which the Zoom B1ob sounds, we like this processor, it has such a wide range of sounds to offer.

The quality is good too, but remember this is around $80 and not $800, you’re not going to get your socks completely blown off. However, you will feel a tingling!

Who would we recommend this unit for

This pedal is suited to the casual bass player, someone who does the occasional gig, but is really looking to use this  (with the use of rhythm patterns that can be played to) to facilitate your creativity, helping you write those incredible bass riffs.

For a demonstration of the processor, take a look at the video demonstration below:


VOX StompLab 2B Multi-Effects Modeling Pedal for Bass Guitar

VOX StompLab 2B Multi-Effects Modeling Pedal

Features

  • Multi-Effects unit built specifically for Bass
  • Engineered by Vox
  • The processor is housed in a rugged metal casing
  • 100 presets
  • 61 programmable effects
  • 10 amplifier options
  • Each preset can stack up to 8 simultaneous effects
  • Has built-in tuner & headphone amp
  • Runs on a 4 x AA batteries, but can also be directly run on a 9v power supply (not included)
  • Link to Owners Manual

Technical Specifications

  • 1/4″ jack input
  • 1/4″ jack output
  • 9v battery (included): 9v AC adaptor is sold separately (9V Power Supply – Buy on Amazon)
  • Weight: 4.5lbs
  • Dimensions : 9.0″ x 3.0″ x 7.0″ inches

Summary

The StompLab 2b is Vox’s answer to a bass multi-effects unit, aimed at providing a large range of effects and amplification simulators, whilst still being affordable to the everyday musician. The unit itself is priced in the same range as the Zoom B1on, and they are very close in their feature-set and functionality.  

Some great selling points of the Vox StompLab 2b would be the strong, rugged metal casing that is beneficial to ensure longevity, alongside the fact that it’s built by one of the most renowned music equipment manufacturers in the world, so you should be confident in assuming it’s made up of high-quality components and has been tested meticulously.  

As for the way in which the Vox Stomplab 2B  sounds, well this really depends on how you plan to use it, for example, the clean effects, alongside wah and slap-bass settings sound awesome; However, some of the more overdriven effects can sound a little overwhelming.  

Who would we recommend this unit for

This pedal is suited to the more casual bass player, but can definitely be used to play shows with it being built to last.

The sounds that this processor can create are good, as long as you know there are limits to it’s capability, which were apparent on distortion/overdrive settings. For a demonstration of the processor, take a look at the video demonstration below:


Zoom MS-60B Multi-Stomp Bass Pedal

Zoom MS60B Multi-Stomp Bass Pedal

Features

  • Multi-Effects unit built specifically for Bass
  • Engineered by Zoom
  • Compact unit with metal casing, suitable for portability (gigs)
  • Backlit LCD screen for visibility
  • 58 DSP effects & Bass Amplifier/Cab simulation models
    • Dynamics/Filter:
    • Overdrive/Distortion:
    • Amplifiers: 6 amp model emulations including Ampeg SVT, Fender Bassman, Hartke HA3500, ect
    • Modulation/Special Effects: 14 modulation & special effects (phasing, flanging, chorusing, detuing, pitch shift, tremolo
    • Delay/Reverb: 8 reverb types
    • For a full list of MS-60B effects visit the owners manual
  • Create, save and easily re-arrange effects in 50 memory patches
  • 30 preset patches
  • Use up to 4 effects simultaneously
  • Tap tempo for sync of delay/modulation
  • Stereo output
  • Built-in Tuner
  • Runs on a 2 x AA batteries, but can also be directly run on a 9v power supply (not included) or via USB connection.

Technical Specifications

  • 1/4″ jack input
  • 2 x 1/4″ jack (stereo) output
  • 9v battery (included): 9v AC adaptor is sold separately (9V Power Supply – Buy on Amazon)
  • Weight: 1.1lbs
  • Dimensions : 3.1″ x 3.8″ x 6.5″ inches

Summary

The MS-60B by Zoom is the second unit by the brand to feature on our list of top bass multi-effects processors.   This unit is highly compact and has a rugged metal casing, making it extremely suitable for the gigging musician.

Not only this, but similarly to the Zoom B1on it offers a range of effects (although not as many), programmable patches and amplifier emulations.   The main difference between this pedal and the Zoom B1on, other than the metal casing, is the stereo output.

Therefore if having a bass multi-effects pedal with stereo output is important, this may be the one for you.   The MS-60B can be powered from 2 x AA batteries, which is the least number of batteries needed by any unit we’ve featured on this list.  

As for the sound quality, it really does impress; A solid sound quality on most of the effects, and it really does provide some versatile sounds, from arpeggiated synths to swooping synths, to heavy metal distortion (which surprisingly sounds somewhat good).  

Who would we recommend this unit for

Someone looking for a highly portable, small, ruggedly built multi-effects processor for bass, with stereo output. This pedal sounds great and has a bunch of functionality to play with. For a demonstration of the processor, take a look at the video demonstration below:  


DigiTech BP90 Bass Guitar Multi-Effects Processor

DigiTech BP90 Bass Guitar Multi-Effects Processor

Features

  • Multi-Effects unit built specifically for Bass
  • Engineered by Digitech
  • 32 Bass effects
  • 11 Amplifier models
  • 5 Cabinet models
  • 100 presets (50 factory & 50 user programmable)
  • 40 drum patterns
  • Built-in Tuner
  • On-board Expression pedal
  • Requires power supply (Included)
  • Link to Owners Manual

Technical Specifications

  • 1/4″ jack input
  • 2 x 1/4″ jack (stereo) output
  • Headphones (1/4″) output
  • Power Supply Included
  • Weight : 0.65lbs
  • Dimensions : 4.5″ x 2.5″ x 5.5″ inches

Summary

The Digitech BP90 is the brand’s bass multi-effects pedal. It comes at the high-end of what would be considered a lower-tier budget, and for this, you do get a range of functionality, including plenty of bass effects, amplifier/cabinet emulations and presets to choose from.  

As for where this processor sits in comparison to others around this price-point, it’s safe to say that we believe there are newer, more technologically advanced and better-sounding processors on the market; I.E the Zoom MS-60B.  

However, please don’t take our word for it alone, check out the demonstration videos to get a full audible representation of how it sounds in comparison.  

As for the sound quality, it’s really good considering the price. Some of the effects that stood out for us as being particularly good were the cleaner reverbs and chorus effects.  

Who would we recommend this unit for

This would be great for the casual bassist looking for a pedal to practice and jam with. However, even despite how impressed we were about this device, we’d still highly recommend one of the pirce-equivant Zoom pedals.   For a demonstration of the processor, take a look at the video demonstration below:  


Zoom B3n Multi-Effects Processor for Bassists

Zoom B3n Bass MultiEffects Pedal

Features

  • Multi-Effects Processor built specifically for Bass
  • Engineered by Zoom
  • 3 Backlit LCD screen for visibility
  • 67 DSP effects
    • 19 Dynamic effects
    • 15 Overdrive & Distortion effects
    • 17 Modulation effects
    • 11 Delay & reverb effects
    • For a full list of Zoom B3n effects visit the owners manual
  • Create, save and easily re-arrange effects in 100 memory patches
  • 50 factory preset patches
  • Use up to 5 effects simultaneously
  • 5 adjustable amplifier/cabinet modes (Ampeg SVT, Fender Bassman 100, SWR SM-400, Trace Elliot AH400SMX, Aguilar DB 750)
  • On-board Looper: 80 seconds of looping
  • 41 rhythm patterns to be used in conjunction with the looper
  • Built-in Tuner
  • Runs on a 4 x AA batteries, but can also be directly run on a 9v power supply (not included) or via USB connection

Technical Specifications

  • 1/4″ jack input
  • 2 x 1/4″ jack (stereo) output
  • 1/8″ Aux in
  • Input for external foot-switch or expression pedal
  • USB port for power & updates
  • 9v battery (included): 9v AC adaptor is sold separately (9V Power Supply – Buy on Amazon)
  • Weight: 0.65lbs
  • Dimensions : 4.5″ x 2.5″ x 5.5″ inches

Summary

Yet again, another Zoom processor in this article… But that’s because they are really that good!   The B3n provides 3 LCD screens, and 3 multiple-use stomp-pedals similar to it’s predecessor, the Zoom B3, but has an updated chipset and greater processing power.  

The real update is the fact that 5 effects can be used simultaneously in the B3n unit, unlike the B3 unit providing 3.   This unit comes with 67 bass effects, alongside 100 memory locations where you as the user can store your own user-created patches.   Directly comparing this against its predecessor, the Zoom B3, it does provide fewer bass effects (nearly half with the B3 unit offering 111), however, it’s about quality, not quantity…

With new patches being released for the B3n, as the B3 has now been discontinued.   Additionally, this unit provides 5 adjustable amplifier/cabinet emulations so you really have a wide range of sounds that you can obtain.

However, despite the B3n unit being the updated model, it does not provide a DI output like the original B3 unit does.   As for the sound quality of this unit, it sounds decent, especially for cleaner sounds. It does feature some effects which simply should not be used in any kind of commercial music, but the majority sound solid.  

Who would we recommend this unit for

This is ideal for the bassist who wants a huge array of effects which can be modified through using the DAW interface; The advantage of this processor is simply having three footswitches, which would make quick patch changes very easy.   For a demonstration of the processor, take a look at the video demonstration below:  


BOSS GT-1B Bass Effects Processor

BOSS GT-1B Bass Effects Processor Bundle with Blucoil Power Supply

Features

  • Multi-Effects unit built specifically for Bass
  • Engineered by Boss/Roland
  • Not a huge unit, meaning it will fit snugly into a gig bag
  • Utilizes Boss’s most advanced sound engine + MDP
  • 24-bit converters
  • 90 bass effects
    • Compressor, Limiter, EQ, Overdrive, Distortion, Octave, Harmonist, Defretter, Bass Synth, Wah, Delay, Reverb, Phase Looping (32 seconds), etc
  • 99 user-programmable presets + 99 (preset)
  • 13 different Pre-amp types
  • Runs on 4 x AA batteries, but can also be directly run on a 9v power supply (not included)
  • Link to Owners Manual

Technical Specifications

  • 1/4″ jack input
  • 2 x 1/4″ jack (stereo) output
  • Aux input
  • Phones Output
  • 9v battery (included): 9v AC adaptor is sold separately (9V Power Supply – Buy on Amazon)
  • Weight: 0.65lbs
  • Dimensions : 4.5″ x 2.5″ x 5.5″ inches

Summary

The Boss GT-1B is marketed as Boss’ more premium-priced multi-effects bass unit. Looking closely at the range of functionality, alongside the technology behind the processor itself, it’s no wonder why it’s priced within this range.  

The processor itself uses MDP (Multi-Dimensional Processing) Technology, which means that the input signal is segmented into many different elements based on the following criteria, pitch, loudness and timbre. By segmenting the signal based on these variables, the GT-1B is able to apply effect processing in a more detailed, refined way; Giving it a much better sound. For more information on MDP visit here.  

You have access to 90 bass effects, and 99 user programmable presets; Presets can be downloaded and updated via the USB connection, and there is an on-board easy-edit mode for quick changes.  

As for the sound quality of this unit… Yeah we really like this one! It honestly sounds great; Just take a listen to the first demonstration video. My personal favourite effect was the most unlikely one called ‘Atmostphere’, which you can hear in the second video demonstration at 2.38.  

Who would we recommend this unit for

We’d recommend this to a professional bassist looking for a long-term unit, for on-stage use and in-studio usage. For a demonstration of the processor, take a look at the video demonstration below:


Zoom B3 Bass Guitar Effects & Amp Simulator

Zoom B3 Bass Guitar Effects and Amp Simulator

Features

  • Multi-Effects Processor built specifically for Bass
  • Engineered by Zoom
  • Not a large unit
  • 3 Backlit LCD screen for visibility
  • 111 DSP effects & Bass Amplifier/Cab simulation models
    • Effects include Limiter, Graphic EQ, Para EQ, Attack, Wah, Filtering, Booster, Overdrive, Distortion, etc.
    • Emulating pedals such as Electro-Harmonix Big Muff, Fuzz Face, MXR Bass D.I.+, Fender Bassman, Hartke HA3500, Ampeg SVT, etc.
    • For a full list of Zoom B3 effects visit the owners manual and look under ‘Effect Types and Parameters’
  • Create, save and easily re-arrange effects in 100 memory patches
  • 50 factory preset patches
  • Use up to 3 effects simultaneously
  • 12 amplifier/cabinet modes
  • Looper: 40 seconds of looping
  • 41 rhythm patterns to be used in conjunction with the looper
  • Built-in Tuner
  • Runs on a 4 x AA batteries, but can also be directly run on a 9v power supply (not included) or via USB connection

Technical Specifications

  • 1/4″ jack input
  • 1/4″ jack output
  • Balanced XLR Output (with ground lift for DI connection – pre of post effect)
  • Input for external foot-switch or expression pedal
  • USB port for power & updates
  • 9v battery (included): 9v AC adaptor is sold separately (9V Power Supply – Buy on Amazon)
  • Weight: 0.65lbs
  • Dimensions : 4.5″ x 2.5″ x 5.5″ inches

Summary

As you can see, we clearly love Zoom… Well, we like them very much because they make really great processors, and the Zoom B3 is no exception.   This unit comes with 111 bass effects, alongside 100 memory locations where you as the user can store your own user-created patches.

Additionally, this unit provides a range of amplifer/cabinet emulations which will keep you up until the early hours of the morning.   A unique feature about the Zoom B3 is the three LCD screens on the front of the interface, making it especially useful for someone looking to quickly change between more than 2 patches within a song/performance.

These three LCD screens correlate with the 3 footswitches, which have multiple uses when held, providing quick access to the tuner and looper.   This more than makes up for the lack of an expression pedal, although there is an input for an external expression pedal for those who want one.  

As for the sound quality of this unit, it sounds decent, especially for cleaner sounds. It does feature some effects which simply should not be used in any kind of commercial music, but the majority sound solid.   However, unless you really need the DI output, take a look at the B3n which we review further down in this article; Since the B3n is the newer model.  

Who would we recommend this unit for

This is ideal for the bassist who wants a huge array of effects which can be modified through using the DAW interface; The advantage of this processor is simply having three footswitches, which would make quick patch changes very easy.   For a demonstration of the processor, take a look at the video demonstration below:


Valeton Dapper Bass Guitar Multi Effects Pedal (VES-2)

Valeton Dapper Bass Guitar Multi Effects Pedal (VES-2)

Features

  • Multi-Effects unit built specifically for Bass
  • Engineered by Valeton
  • Analog Technology
  • Similar size to the Tech 21 Bass Fly Rig
  • Rugged metal casing to protect the processor
  • No LCD screens, but LED lights for effect engagement
  • Multiple bass effects
    • Tuner, Boost, Compressor, Envelop Filter, EQ, Octave, Chorus, etc
  • Multiple footswitches
  • Runs on a 9V battery, but can also be directly run on a 9v power supply (not included)
  • Link to Owners Manual

Technical Specifications

  • 1/4″ jack input
  • 1/4″ jack output
  • XLR DI Output
  • 9v battery (included): 9v AC adaptor is sold separately (9V Power Supply – Buy on Amazon)
  • Weight: 0.65lbs
  • Dimensions : 4.5″ x 2.5″ x 5.5″ inches

Summary

The Dapper multi-effects pedal by Valeton is a thin unit, very similar in size, price and functionality to the Tech 21 Bass Fly Rig.   The unit consists of a metal outer casing, with analogue inner circuitry, helping give it a nice warm sounding output signal.

The output signal can be routed through a 1/4″ inch jack and/or XLR output, making it great for live stage performances.   As for the sound quality… It sounds very nice, although we would prefer the Tech 21 unit over this processor, as this seemed to squash the overdriven sound a little too much for our liking. This unit is also particularly expensive.

Who would we recommend this unit for

Based on numerous factors, we would probably advise anyone interested in this unit to instead look at the Tech 21 Bass Fly Rig. However, take a look at the video demonstrations to come up with your own opinion. For a demonstration of the processor, take a look at the video demonstration below:


Tech 21 Bass Fly Rig Bass Multi-effects Pedal

Tech 21 Bass Fly Rig Multi-Effects Pedal

Features

  • Multi-Effects Processor built specifically for bass
  • Engineered by Tech 21
  • Analog SansAmp technology
  • Rugged metal casing to protect the processor
  • No LCD screens, but LED lights for effect engagement
  • Multiple bass effects
    • Three band EQ, Octafilter, Chorus, Compressor, Boost, Tuner
  • Multiple footswitches
  • Runs on a 9V battery, but can also be directly run on a 9v power supply (not included)
  • Link to Owners Manual

Technical Specifications

  • 1/4″ jack input
  • 1/4″ jack output
  • XLR (DI) Output with ground connect
  • 9v battery (included): 9v AC adaptor is sold separately (9V Power Supply – Buy on Amazon)
  • Weight: 0.65lbs
  • Dimensions : 12.5″ x 2.5″ x 1.25″ inches

Summary

The Tech 21 Bass Fly Rig is an old school looking processor; With its metal casing, LED lights and multiple metal stompboxes, it really gives off a vintage vibe.   The processor itself utilizes an all-analog SansAmp which helps capture a rich,  underlying warmth and natural tone that is associated with the most sought-after tube amps.  

With this technology being the foundation of how this unit works in creating that warm analog sound, it really does well at providing overdriven & fuzz-like sounds.  

So how does this sound overall? It really does sound good, and the SansAmp analog technology really makes a noticeable difference on the sound of the more overdriven settings… It sounds great for slap-bass. Additionally, the chorus tones sound fantastic too!  

The only major negative for us is the price of this unit, being nearly $300 it may be a little steep for some, but considering the sound quality, it’s great!

Who would we recommend this unit for

We highly recommend this to the bassist looking for that vintage, all-analog sounding pedal. Just take a listen to the video demonstration, you’ll understand what we mean.   For a demonstration of the processor, take a look at the video demonstration below:   5.45 is where they isolate the bass sound, so you can hear it with full clarity  


Boss ME-50B Bass Multi-Effects

Boss ME-50B Bass Multi-Effects

Features

  • Multi-Effects unit built specifically for Bass
  • Engineered by Boss/Roland
  • Utilizes Composite Object Sound Modelling (COSM) Technology developed by Roland
  • The unit has been a top seller for years
  • 23 programmable memory banks
  • A large range of interface controls (23 different effects)
    • Compressor/Limiter
    • Filter/Tone
    • Drive/Synth
    • Delay/Modulation
    • Pedal Mode SW
    • Master
  • 3 Foot Switches to control Filter/Tone, Drive/Synth & Delay/Modulation
  • 1 Expression pedal
  • Built-in Tuner
  • Runs on 6 x AA batteries, but can also be directly run on a 9v power supply (not included)
  • Link to Owners Manual

Technical Specifications

  • 1/4″ jack input
  • 2 x 1/4″ jack output (L + R Stereo Output)
  • 9v battery (included): 9v AC adaptor is sold separately (9V Power Supply – Buy on Amazon)
  • Weight: 8.25lbs
  • Dimensions : 18″ x 12.5″ x 5.6″ inches

Summary

The Boss ME-50B is the golden standard of Bass Multi-Effects Processors. The unit itself has been around since 2004 and remain to this day a best-selling product; This is because it has so many fantastic characteristics which are worthy of praise.  

Firstly, this unit has an extremely solid construction making it ideal for the gigging bassist bringing this on the road. Alongside this, the processor has 23 user programmable memory banks, with each bank being able to store 3 sounds per stomp pedal; That’s sound customization sorted.   Additionally, the 3 stompboxes can be engaged individually or simultaneously to create custom sounds, meaning the possibilities are endless (or near to being).  

A nice thing about this processor is that it gives the user the choice as to run it on a 9V power supply (which is not included) or battery power (6 x AA batteries); So if the venue only has a few plug sockets available, that’s not a problem for you!  

As for the slight drawbacks surrounding this product; Well it’s nearly 14 years old, but we can safely say considering it’s still a best seller that the sound quality has stood the test of time.   Other than this, it’s still a little pricey, being over $300. However, considering the sheer amount of functionality, this is a small price to pay in the long-run.  

Who would we recommend this unit for

For those gigging bassists who want a highly reliable multi-effects pedal for bass, which will and has stood the test of time. It clearly has a multitude of features and sounds good.   For a demonstration of the processor, take a look at the video demonstration below:


In Conclusion, which bass multi-effects pedal would you recommend?

As with all our review recommendations, we like to make sure that we represent all of our readers, which means making appropriate recommendations taking into consideration budget, features and performance.

Hence we’ve provided the following:

If you’re looking for a premium quality, analog pedal, we suggest looking at the Tech 21 Bass Fly Rig Bass Multi-effects Pedal ($$$$ – Premium Priced) – Buy on Amazon

For the professional musician looking for a bass multi-effects unit to play shows & record with, we suggest looking at the BOSS GT-1B Bass Effects Processor ($$$ – Mid-Range Priced) – Buy on Amazon

For the bassist who’s after a device to jam with, that will provide a quality sound, a large range of effects and plenty of rhythmic tracks to play alongside to, we suggest looking at the  – Zoom B1on Bass Multi-Effects Pedal ($ – Budget Priced) – Buy on Amazon

For the lower budget, but for the bassist who wants to purchase a compact pedal that will last, we suggest looking at the Zoom MS-60B Multi-Stomp Bass Pedal ($$ – Moderately Priced) – Buy on Amazon

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