Large [277.2 KB]
Extra Large [1.9 MB]
Large [267.5 KB]
Extra Large [1.8 MB]
Large [255.7 KB]
Extra Large [1.7 MB]
Large [118.2 KB]
Extra Large [1.2 MB]
Large [183.9 KB]
Extra Large [1.9 MB]
Large [168.9 KB]
Extra Large [1.8 MB]
If a lack of money and floor space is all that's been standing between you a roomful of vintage guitar amps and effects pedals, get ready to love the BASS V-AMP. It comes loaded with 32 amp models, 23 speaker cabinet models and 16 classic effects.
Any Classic You Like
The BASS V-AMP's 32 amp models are organized into three groups: ACOUSTIC, KEYBOARD and GUITAR. Just twist the dedicated dial to plug into unbelievably authentic simulations of the greatest bass sounds from the 1950s to today. When you select an amp model, a speaker cabinet model is automatically selected. But if you'd prefer a different model, just go to EDIT>CABINETS, then use the BANK UP/DOWN buttons to navigate through all 15 options.
Just like on an actual bass amp, you've got a three-band EQ, GAIN, VOLUME and MASTER VOLUME dials. There's even a COMPRESSOR dial for tight, smooth tone with a variable attack. By holding the TAP button, the TREBLE dial becomes a PRESENCE control. This enables the adjustment of a high-frequency filter that can add or remove a "shimmer" from the BASS V-AMP's tone.
Top Tone—In Full Effect
The BASS V-AMP gives you flanger, chorus, reverb, delay and 12 other beautiful digital effects to apply to your sound. Adjust the effect's level in the mix via the EFFECTS dial. To adjust effect parameters, you can rhythmically press the TAP button to alter delay times or LFO speeds, or hold down the TAP button and twist the EFFECTS knob to access e.g. feedback or depth. By using a MIDI pedal, such as the BEHRINGER FCB1010, you can access an additional Wah Wah effect. You can adjust the filter characteristic by entering EDIT mode, selecting the DRIVE menu and turning the EFFECTS knob while holding the TAP button.
Presenting the Presets
All of these elements have been combined into 125 different presets divided into 25 banks, accessible through the BANK UP/ BANK DOWN buttons. Within each bank, you can press buttons A through E to explore its different presets. You can also create and save your own presets. Start by selecting a preset, then making any changes you wish: amp, EQ, effect, etc. The preset LED will begin to flash, indicating that the BASS V-AMP is ready to save your settings. To do this, hold the preset button down for about two seconds. Once the LED stops flashing, you have saved the modified preset. On top of all this, the BASS V-AMP also features a built-in tuner and noise gate. In essence, it's a Swiss Army Knife for the home recording enthusiast or gigging bassist who can't seem to settle on one amp.
Stunning in the studio
The BASS V-AMP features several configurations that make it an invaluable asset in the studio. Access the configuration menu by pressing the B and D buttons at the same time. Then use BANK UP and BANK DOWN to select a configuration.
When using headphones, the BASS V-AMP will switch into Studio Mode 1 (S1). This stereo mode works well for both monitoring and recording with effects, amp and speaker modeling. It doesn't apply the additional three-band EQ to the signal, but most recording programs—like energyXT2.5— have their own EQ. In Studio Mode 2 (S2), the BASS V-AMP sends a signal with amp and speaker simulation, but only the right output has effects. You can either record both left and right outputs to separate tracks, or record the "dry" left output while monitoring the right output.
Stellar on Stage
The BASS V-AMP has three live configurations. When performing live with this device, you can either run it to an amp on stage, run directly to the mixing board, or both. Live Mode 1 is the best choice for running the outputs directly to the mixer, because it applies amp and speaker simulation, effects and an additional 3-band EQ.
Use Live Mode 2 to run the BASS V-AMP into the effects return inputs of 2 different guitar amps. This configuration does not feature speaker simulation, allowing the amplifier's natural speaker sound to go unaltered. In this scenario, the amps would be mic'd on stage to get the sound to the house speakers, and having a dedicated monitor would be less important. In Live Mode 3, you can send the left output to an amp's effects return for onstage volume, while the right output sends signal to the main mixer for inclusion in the main house mix. Also note that you can press the TAP key while turning the GAIN knob to adjust the input sensitivity to match the output of your guitar's pickups. If the CLIP LED lights, the input's sensitivity should be reduced.
Veni, MIDI, Vici
The BASS V-AMP comes fully equipped to fit right into a MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) setup. It can be controlled in real time from a computer, or via a MIDI foot controller during a live performance. Its MIDI connectors are international-standard 5-pin DIN connectors. You will need dedicated MIDI cables (not included).
The MIDI IN jack receives MIDI controller data. It can be adjusted in EDIT mode by pressing the A button and then using the arrow keys. MIDI OUT/THRU sends data to a computer. You can transmit both preset data and parameter changes. Some people even use the BASS V-AMP as a remote control for parameters of their DAW or VST instruments, which is more handy than using the mouse alone. If set to MIDI THRU, the BASS V-AMP does not send its own MIDI information, but passes on the signal received at the MIDI IN connector.
So Much Sound, So Little Hassle
It's hard enough finding another virtual bass amplifier with this much versatility, let alone one as economical as the BASS V-AMP. This go-anywhere, do-anything wonder will leave you reeling in your own creativity, with cash to spare for other gear you'll need along the way to becoming a sonic titan both live and in your home studio.
Software
| Software Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Editor Software | V-AMP Editor 2.03 - Design (english) (1353 KB) VampDesign2_03.zip |
| Editor Software | V-AMP Editor Help 2.0- Design Help (421 KB) V-ampHelp2_0.zip |
| Firmware | Please note that this update is intended for use with the BASS V-AMP only and will not function with any other models. To update your BASS V-AMP you will need to replace the original EPROM in the BASS V-AMP with a new EPROM which has been pre-programmed with the downloaded datafile. If you do not have the means to write this datafile to a blank EPROM, then you can order a pre-programmed EPROM from your nearest BEHRINGER authorised service centre. If you have further questions or require more detailed information we ask you to contact BEHRINGER customer support. WARNING
CAUTION
bvamp_1-09.zip |
Reviewed
Future Music
October 2003
BEHRINGER Popular V-AMP Gets The Bass Treatment, Offering Amp Modeling And Loads Of Effects. Roger Newell Gets Deep…
Without doubt the Bass V-Amp is packed with loads of great sounds that have been carefully chosen to enhance your performance. They range from the fat and robust to the over-effected and mildly irritating with just about everything in between! And the accuracy of the modeled sounds is pretty impressive, neatly reproducing the distinctive elements that are associated with the relevant models. I was particularly impressed with the British Pop setting that takes you back to the 60s and the sound of a hot Vox AC100. Also good is the rock 2 setting that revitalized SVT Pro II from Ampeg, a Goliath in physical stature, as well as sound delivery. It contains a degree of front-end distortion (over-driven valve preamp) and this emulation is so good it will have everything that’s not bolted down rattling, just like the real thing, even at this vastly reduced volume! For a bit of sub bass you can go for the more modern sounding and appropriately named Bottom End, as this works well for hip hop and breaksy tracks. […]
Our first encounter with Behringer’s new bass baby has certainly been a pleasurable experience, and although it’s been designed with portability in mind, its greatest benefit is found in the home recording studio where the expense of the ‘Pro’ version might be difficult to justify; there’s far more than you could ever really hope to use during a performance, anyway! It’s extremely practical, and having the ability to completely mix and match amps, cabs and effects presents a mind-boggling array of sounds, and all available at the click of a switch and the trimming of a pot. Its appeal is further enhanced by the offer of a more general approach to other instrument use, so if you’re a bass player who likes to record at home and play other instruments in the process, this has to be an ideal purchase.
The Bass V-Amp can certainly do a lot of things, and does them all well. And it will remain up to the minute by using future EPROM updates for the very latest features. At a little under 150 Pounds, it offers excellent value for money, so if you want to expand your sound potential, be it for recording or just for personal enjoyment, then this is well a listen.
SOUND ON SOUND
October 2003
BEHRINGER’s cost-effective take on amp and cabinet modeling and effects is now available for bass players.
The basic quality of the sounds the BASS V-AMP can produce, and their variety, is impressive. I especially liked the way subtle down-stream effects worked with alternative amps and speaker models. The amp simulations provide a foundation for a variety of sounds, and enable more subtle use of the multi-effects. On their own, too, without any effects, the amp and speaker simulations are fascinating and worthwhile. I remember in my youth occasionally hiring an old Fender Bassman 100 valve amp and a 1 x 15 cabinet. I loved sound it made—wonderfully warm, yet with punch and clarity—and I never really achieved the same with any other backline. I have a gig this evening, and I suspect I’ll have this new toy staring up at me from the stage!
Pros: versatile, great sounds, inexpensive.