Zoom launches B6 bass multi-effects processor with DI models and color touchscreen
The effects firm’s new multi-FX is a mid-range modeller designed solely for bassists
Zoom has announced a new bass-only multi-effects unit, dubbed the B6.
The B6 clearly hopes to become the go-to modelling unit for (the often underserved) bass guitarists, incorporating a number of thoughtful low-end focussed features.
First up, it includes 11 bass amp and four DI models, based on “iconic” tube and solid-state models. Then there’s a dual input (with adjustable impedance from 1M to 10M ohms) and an A/B switch, enabling players to quickly swap between two instruments, for instance, acoustic and electric basses.
Zoom has clearly put a lot of thought into the controls on offer, too. Firstly, via a new 4.3” color touchscreen and nine footswitches. It’s also the first multi-effects to offer support for the visually impaired, via VoiceOver operation on the B6 Guitar Lab app.
Under the hood is a new analog circuit, which the firm says “vastly improves the low-frequencies” in the B6’s tones and an 88.2 kHz effects processor. Then there’s also a looper and 10 new preamp and effects models, including Bass Analog Octave, a ’1073’ preamp and a new ‘Djent preamp’.
Finally, the B6 doubles up as a 2-in/2-out USB audio interface. It is perhaps surprising, given the price point, that the B6 doesn’t offer Bluetooth connectivity in the base unit, but there is the optional extra of a Bluetooth adapter for those who prefer wireless connections.
The Zoom B6 has an MSRP of £478 / €534 (approx. $650). Head to the official Zoom site for more information.
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Matt is Features Editor for GuitarWorld.com. Before that he spent 10 years as a freelance music journalist, interviewing artists for the likes of Total Guitar, Guitarist, Guitar World, MusicRadar, NME.com, DJ Mag and Electronic Sound. In 2020, he launched CreativeMoney.co.uk, which aims to share the ideas that make creative lifestyles more sustainable. He plays guitar, but should not be allowed near your delay pedals.
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