Trondheim Audio Devices, a Norwegian company established by producer Jon-Tore Dombu, has developed the SkarBassOne, a multiband overdrive tailored for bass guitarists. This product is designed to help musicians achieve studio-like sound quality during live performances, a frequent request from the company’s studio clients. The SkarBassOne integrates essential features such as a multiband drive, a FET compressor, and a mid filter, aiming to enhance the control bass players have over their sound.
The SkarBassOne’s central feature is its multiband overdrive, designed to retain a clear, powerful low end across various settings. This functionality is crucial for bass players who need to preserve the foundational frequencies of their instrument, even when experimenting with higher levels of drive.
Compression is handled by a single knob FET compressor that offers quick response times for both attack and release, making it straightforward to adjust the dynamics of the bass sound. The compressor also includes a visual LED indicator to show the compression level in real-time, aiding in precise adjustments.
Mid-range frequencies can be sculpted using the mid filter, which allows bassists to carve out a distinct tone that cuts through the mix without overwhelming other instruments. This feature is particularly useful in band settings where frequency masking can obscure the clarity of the bass.
The mix control on the SkarBassOne enables quick balancing between low and high frequencies, helping users find the optimal tonal blend for different musical contexts.
Additionally, the unit features a footswitch that toggles between two modes:
- Red channel: Activates both Drive and Tone controls.
- Blue channel: Deactivates Drive and Tone while keeping the Compression, Mid, and Mix controls active.
The Drive knob adjusts the intensity of the multiband overdrive, offering a range from a gentle push to a pronounced bark. The Tone control is a hi-cut filter, essential for managing the high frequencies and ensuring a smooth output.
The SkarBassOne is currently available for purchase through Trondheim Audio Devices’ EU-based online shop.
