Author: Claudio Ribeiro

News

Valeton Releases the New GP-150 and GP-180

Valeton Expands the GP Series with the New GP-150 and GP-180 Valeton has announced two new additions to its GP multi-effects lineup: the GP-150 and GP-180. Designed as next-generation tone workstations, both units combine advanced HD modeling, flexible routing, and modern connectivity in performance-ready floorboard formats. At the core of both processors is Valeton’s updated second-generation HD digital modeling engine, delivering 24-bit/48kHz audio performance and a broad range of detailed amp and effects models. Players can run up to 12 simultaneous effect modules with freely adjustable signal chains, drawing from a library of more than 200 built-in effects covering amp simulations, drives, modulation, delays, reverbs, pitch effects, filters, and more. A major highlight is the integration of SnapTone technology, which supports NAM (Neural Amp Modeler) files. This allows users to import highly detailed amp and pedal captures for ultra-realistic tones. Each unit comes loaded with 50 SnapTone presets and supports up to 100 in total, giving players access to boutique-style sounds and custom profiles within a compact processor. Both models support third-party cabinet impulse responses, with space for up to 20 user IRs, alongside a 200-patch memory system that includes 100 factory presets. Built-in practice and creative tools include a drum machine with over 100 rhythm patterns and a looper offering up to 180 seconds of recording time, making the units equally suited for songwriting, rehearsal, and live use. Connectivity is comprehensive. The GP-150 and GP-180 function as 6-in/4-out USB-C audio interfaces compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices for direct recording and streaming. Bluetooth capability enables wireless editing and preset management, while multiple outputs, headphone connectivity, and expression/footswitch inputs allow flexible routing for stage or studio environments. GP-150: Portable Power The GP-150 delivers the full feature set in a streamlined chassis equipped with two footswitches and an onboard expression pedal. A 2.4-inch color LCD provides clear navigation, and a built-in 3,000mAh rechargeable battery offers over six hours of operation per charge, making it ideal for mobile setups, rehearsals, and on-the-go sessions. GP-180: Expanded Performance Control The GP-180 builds on the same core platform but adds an extra footswitch and expanded front-panel controls for greater real-time command during live performance. Dual TRS jacks allow connection of additional expression pedals or external footswitches, and MIDI compatibility ensures seamless integration into more complex rigs. With the GP-150 and GP-180, Valeton continues to push accessible modeling technology forward, delivering deep customization, modern features, and stage-ready reliability in two versatile formats. Make sure to check out other Valeton releases here on BassGearReview.com

February 20, 2026 No Comments

News

Electro-Harmonix Launches the Bass Big Muff Pi 2

Electro-Harmonix has unveiled the Bass Big Muff Pi 2, a new low-end-focused evolution of one of the most recognizable fuzz circuits ever created. Built on the legacy of the classic Big Muff while drawing inspiration from the elusive Op-Amp variant of the 1970s, this latest release delivers a fresh voice tailored specifically for bass players. The Big Muff has long held a place on pedalboards across genres, prized for its singing sustain and aggressive midrange character. The Bass Big Muff Pi 2 expands on that heritage with a circuit design built around dual op-amps, offering a distinct tonal profile that blends vintage grind with modern clarity. The result is a fuzz that cuts through dense mixes while preserving the depth and authority bassists rely on. Designed to maintain low-end integrity, the pedal introduces two key features aimed squarely at bass performance: a BLEND control and a BASS BOOST switch. The BLEND knob allows players to mix their dry signal with the fuzz effect, keeping articulation and punch intact even under heavy saturation. Engaging the BASS BOOST switch reinforces the fundamental frequencies, delivering added weight — especially useful when dialing in brighter tones via the TONE control. The familiar VOL, TONE, and SUSTAIN controls remain at the core of the layout, providing the wide tonal sweep and near-endless sustain synonymous with the Big Muff name. Whether set for subtle grit or full fuzz assault, the Bass Big Muff Pi 2 offers a versatile range of textures suited for rock, alternative, doom, punk, and experimental styles. Performance flexibility extends to the footswitch, which features true bypass operation with both latching and momentary functionality. A standard click engages the effect in traditional on/off fashion, while pressing and holding the switch unleashes a temporary burst of fuzz — ideal for accents, transitions, and dynamic live moments. The pedal uses a mechanical relay true bypass system housed beneath a soft-touch footswitch for reliable operation. Power options include an included 9V battery, with compatibility for an optional 9V adapter. With the Bass Big Muff Pi 2, Electro-Harmonix refines a legendary fuzz platform into a bass-optimized powerhouse — delivering massive sustain, crushing grind, and uncompromised low-frequency impact in a compact, performance-ready design.

February 19, 2026 No Comments

News

Washburn Reintroduces the Scavenger ’78 Bass

Reviving a Wing Series Original Washburn has officially brought the Wing Series back into the spotlight with the return of the Scavenger ’78 Bass — a bold design that first emerged in the late 1970s and quickly established itself as one of the brand’s most distinctive instruments. When it first appeared, the Scavenger stood apart from the sea of traditional bass shapes dominating the market. Its offset body design and assertive tonal character offered players something visually striking and sonically different. Decades later, original models have become highly desirable among collectors, and now Washburn is channeling that same spirit into a modern reissue built for today’s stage and studio demands. The new Scavenger ’78 stays true to its roots with a mahogany body and mahogany set neck construction, delivering warmth, sustain, and a focused low-end response. The 34-inch scale length provides familiar feel and tension, while the rosewood fingerboard features 22 frets and pearloid dot inlays for a classic look and smooth playability. A comfortable neck profile and balanced body design make it equally suited for long rehearsals and live performance sets. Electronics are built around a powerful P-style pickup configuration, designed to produce punchy mids, solid fundamental lows, and enough articulation to cut through dense mixes. A straightforward Volume and Tone control layout keeps dialing in your sound intuitive and performance-ready. Vintage-inspired hardware complements the aesthetic while ensuring dependable tuning stability and sustain. Visually, the Scavenger ’78 retains the rebellious identity that defined the original Wing Series era. Its distinctive silhouette remains unmistakable, offering players an alternative to more conventional bass designs without sacrificing comfort or versatility. With the Scavenger ’78, Washburn bridges past and present — honoring a cult classic while delivering the reliability and tone modern bassists expect. For players seeking vintage attitude, unmistakable styling, and foundational low-end power, the Wing Series has officially taken flight once again.

February 18, 2026 No Comments

Reviews

MXR Bass Chorus Deluxe: Pedal Review (2026)

Lush Modulation, Low-End Clarity, and Stereo Depth in One Compact Pedal For many bass players like myself, chorus isn’t just an effect — it’s a necessity! From shimmering ’80s fretless tones to subtle modern width in ambient and worship settings, chorus has long been a way to add motion without sacrificing groove and sound consisteny. The MXR Bass Chorus Deluxe was built specifically to solve a common problem: traditional chorus pedals often thin out the low end. MXR addressed that head-on by designing a bass-focused analog modulation pedal that preserves fundamental frequencies while adding dimension, shimmer, and even flanger textures. While some modulation pedals feel like guitar units repurposed for bass, the Bass Chorus Deluxe feels purpose-built. It delivers everything from subtle widening to dramatic swirl — all while keeping the bottom end intact. Whether you’re after classic fretless warmth, synth-like movement, or stereo depth for modern rigs, it offers a wide palette in a rugged, pedalboard-friendly format. TL;DR The MXR Bass Chorus Deluxe is an analog chorus/flanger pedal designed specifically for bass. It delivers lush, musical modulation without sacrificing low-end punch thanks to its crossover function. It can function as a subtle thickener, a stereo width enhancer, or a dramatic flanger. Players looking for transparent modulation with strong fundamental retention will love it; those wanting hyper-digital shimmer or extreme detune textures may want something more modern and hi-fi. Check the price on Amazon –> Build & Controls The control layout is intuitive and stage-friendly: Two additional switches expand functionality: The enclosure follows MXR’s standard compact housing — durable, road-ready, and pedalboard efficient. Performance Subtle Thickening With conservative Width and Intensity settings, the pedal acts almost like a dimensional enhancer. Notes feel wider and more present without obvious “swirl.” This works especially well in trio settings where bass must occupy more sonic space. Passive basses benefit from the organic analog warmth, while active basses retain clarity thanks to the onboard Bass and Treble shaping. Classic Chorus Character Increasing Width and Intensity produces the lush, liquid chorus tones associated with fretless bass and ’80s pop/rock. The modulation is smooth and musical — not sterile or overly bright. Unlike many guitar chorus pedals, your low B (if you play five-string) remains tight rather than warbly. The X-Over function is key here. By reducing modulation on the deepest frequencies, your fundamental stays anchored while upper harmonics shimmer above it. Flanger Engaging Flanger introduces a more pronounced, swooping character. It’s tighter and more controlled than many standalone flangers, making it usable for bass riffs without overwhelming the mix. With careful Rate settings, it can add movement without sounding gimmicky. Stereo Potential Using the stereo output (via TRS configuration) opens up a surprisingly immersive field. In studio or dual-amp rigs, the modulation spreads beautifully across left and right channels, adding dimension without mud. EQ Functionality The Bass control adjusts how much low-frequency content is present in the modulated signal. This is crucial — it prevents the chorus from hollowing out your tone. The Treble knob allows you to tame brightness or restore clarity depending on your amp and string type. Roundwounds can shimmer; flatwounds can stay warm and controlled. Together, these controls make the pedal far more adaptable than traditional two-knob chorus units. The Bass Chorus Deluxe excels as: It won’t replace high-end digital modulation units for ultra-modern shimmer or pitch-detune textures. Instead, it shines in analog warmth and musical movement. Pros & Cons Pros Cons Q&A Q: Does it thin out the low end like guitar chorus pedals?A: No — the X-Over switch specifically protects low frequencies from heavy modulation. Q: Can it handle five-string basses?A: Yes. The crossover function keeps low B notes defined and tight. Q: Is it subtle or dramatic?A: Both. It ranges from gentle widening to pronounced swirl, depending on settings. Q: Does it work with active basses?A: Absolutely. The EQ controls help tailor brightness and depth to higher-output instruments. Q: Is it good for recording?A: Yes. Especially in stereo — it adds width and movement without cluttering the mix. Conclusion The MXR Bass Chorus Deluxe isn’t about flashy, exaggerated modulation — it’s about musical movement that respects the role of the bass. Its analog circuitry delivers warmth and depth, while the crossover and EQ controls ensure your foundation remains solid. If you’re chasing vintage fretless shimmer, subtle spatial widening, or tasteful flanger motion without sacrificing low-end authority, this pedal delivers in a focused and practical way. It may not be the most experimental chorus on the market, but for bass players who value tone integrity and analog character, it’s a standout choice. Get Your MXR Bass Chorus Deluxe on Amazon Now! Other MXR Gear You Might Like If you enjoyed checking out this MXR pedal, here are more MXR products worth exploring — all tested and reviewed here on BassGearReviews: – MXR Bass Synth: Powerfull Bass Synth Pedal – MXR M87 Bass Compressor: Transparent and Versatile Compression for Bass

February 17, 2026 No Comments

Reviews

Fender Mustang JMJ Signature: Bass Review

A Bass Player’s Secret weapon The Fender JMJ Mustang is one of those rare instruments that surprises you not with flash, but with feel. When I first picked up my Daphne Blue Justin Meldal-Johnsen Mustang, it didn’t feel like a new bass. It felt like a bass I had already owned for years. The relic wasn’t cosmetic theater — it felt earned. The neck was smooth, the body resonant, the response immediate. It had that elusive “broken-in” quality that most instruments only achieve after years of real playing. And then I noticed it came strung it with flatwounds. Check the Fender JMJ on Amazon Now –> There is something about this instrument with flats that borders on addictive. The tone becomes focused, authoritative, and warm without ever feeling dull. It sits in a mix with a confidence that feels almost disproportionate to its size. In many ways, it behaves like a Precision bass — but lighter, faster, and in my experience, sometimes even more articulate. It’s as if it captures the punch and midrange authority of a P-Bass while shedding the weight and bulk that can make longer sessions physically demanding. To understand why this instrument resonates so deeply with players around the world, you have to look at both its lineage and its intent. The History The Mustang Bass first appeared in 1966 as Fender’s short-scale offering, originally positioned as a more accessible instrument. Yet like many so-called “student” models, it quickly transcended that label. Over decades, the Mustang became a cult favorite for players who valued punch, simplicity, and comfort. Its 30-inch scale length gave it a slightly different string tension and response — tighter and more immediate than many would expect, with a natural midrange focus that allowed it to cut through mixes without overpowering them. Fast forward to 2017, when Fender collaborated with Justin Meldal-Johnsen to create a signature version based on his own 1966 Daphne Blue Mustang. This wasn’t a nostalgic reproduction for collectors. It was an attempt to capture the feel, wear, tone, and spirit of a working musician’s main instrument — a bass that had proven itself on major stages and in countless studio sessions. What makes the JMJ Mustang special is how deliberately restrained it is. It has a single split-coil pickup, simple volume and tone controls, and a short scale neck that immediately feels compact and manageable. There’s no onboard preamp, no tonal complexity for complexity’s sake. Instead, everything is optimized around touch and responsiveness. The 30-inch scale is central to its character. It reduces overall tension slightly, which makes bends smoother and fretting more relaxed. But contrary to the old misconception that short-scale basses lack authority, the JMJ has remarkable low-end solidity. The notes bloom quickly and decay in a controlled way. With flatwounds, the attack softens just enough to create a thick, woody fundamental that feels vintage yet focused. In many contexts, it behaves like a Precision bass that has been distilled down to its most essential qualities. The midrange presence is there. The punch is there. But the physical footprint is smaller, the instrument lighter, and the response quicker. Long rehearsals become easier. Studio sessions feel less fatiguing. The bass almost disappears against your body, leaving only the sound. That is one of the reasons so many players quietly refer to it as a “secret weapon.” It doesn’t scream for attention. It doesn’t dominate visually or sonically. But in a mix — especially with flats — it sits exactly where a bass should sit. It supports without clouding. It anchors without overwhelming. Engineers appreciate how predictably it records. Live sound engineers appreciate how little corrective EQ it demands. Bandmates appreciate how it holds the pocket without stepping on harmonic space. The relic finish plays a psychological role as well. Because it already looks lived-in, you feel less precious with it. You play it. You dig in. You let it resonate. There’s something freeing about not worrying over the first ding or scratch. It feels like an instrument built for music rather than preservation. That said, it is not universally perfect. If you are chasing ultra-modern slap tones with aggressive high-end snap, this may not be your primary choice. If you need extensive tonal sculpting options at your fingertips, the simplicity of its controls could feel limiting. And if you are deeply attached to the full-scale tension and sonic footprint of a traditional Precision, the shorter scale will feel different under your hands. But those are not shortcomings so much as identity markers. The JMJ Mustang knows what it is. It is compact. It is focused. It is responsive. It is built around feel more than spectacle. It favors musicality over versatility for versatility’s sake. For me, it represents an ideal balance between tradition and practicality. It delivers the authority of a classic Fender low end in a body that feels agile and effortless. It rewards nuance. It thrives with flatwounds. It encourages longer playing sessions. And most importantly, it inspires. That is why so many bass players consider it their secret weapon. Not because it is flashy. Not because it is rare. But because when the band starts, it simply works — every time! Check the Mustang JMJ on Amazon!

February 15, 2026 No Comments

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