The follow-up to Mesa/Boogie's acclaimed Subway bass preamp pedals consolidates two models into one compact, feature-packed unit built for stage, studio and everything in between.
Bassists have long trusted the Mesa/Boogie Subway series for premium tone in a pedalboard-friendly format, and the new Subway+ Bass DI-Preamp II takes that reputation further. Consolidating the strengths of the original two Subway preamp models into a single unit, it’s approximately 40% smaller than the previous Subway+ design – and somehow manages to pack in more.
Catch up on all the latest news here.
Drawing on the DNA of the Subway D-800, D-800+ and D-350 preamps, the DI-Preamp II is built around an extended-range J-FET preamp that plays well with both active and passive instruments. A Deep switch adds low-end weight and roundness, a Bright switch brings bite and top-end sparkle, and Mesa’s variable Hi-Pass Filter – sweepable from 30 Hz to 150 Hz – cuts sub-sonic content that would otherwise eat into your headroom. It’s a thoughtful signal chain control that recording engineers and live sound engineers will appreciate as much as the players themselves.
Its tone shaping is where the DI-Preamp II earns its keep. A fully active 4-band Baxandall EQ with sweepable mids gives you precise control over your low and high frequencies, while the Variable Voicing control shifts the overall character from modern and flat to something warmer and more vintage – all with a single knob. Gain, a footswitchable Boost and Master Volume cover everything from clean and rounded to driven and mix-ready.
Connectivity is equally well considered. Aux In and Headphone Out support quiet practice sessions, a Preamp Output handles both unbalanced TS and balanced TRS connections, and a mic-level balanced XLR DI with Pre/Post EQ switching and Ground Lift sends straight to front-of-house, monitors or a recording interface with ease.
At a compact size, the Subway+ Bass DI-Preamp II is as practical as it is capable, whether it’s your primary rig or a touring backup you hope you never need.
The Subway+ Bass DI-Preamp II available now at mesaboogie.com. For local enquiries on Mesa/Boogie, head here.
