Ampeg SGT-DI: The perfect compact bass rig?
New compact bass preamp, DI solution
4,1 / 5,0 | 
The Ampeg SGT-DI is a compact pedal format, preamp and DI aimed at bass players who want those classic Ampeg bass amp tones. It also includes a host of modern-day features aimed at making performing a lot simpler.
Ampeg SGT-DI
Ampeg’s SGT-DI features their Super Grit Technology overdrive circuit that offers both Ampeg SVT and B15 voices. This should be familiar tonal territory for most bass players and having those tones in a compact pedal format is very useful.
Controls consist of Vol/Comp, Bass, Mid/Freq and Treble, along with a dedicated one for Grit/Level.
Classic bass amp tones · Source: Ampeg
EQ
It also features a 3-Band EQ with a sweepable Mid circuit allowing users to sculpt the tone to taste. Plus, there is an Ultra-Hi switch and a three-way Ultra-Lo switch. These two Ultra switches allow players to finetune their tone.
They have also included a variable 10:1 compressor section. I really like the overall layout and design of the pedal. Everything is clearly labelled and the switches are behind a metal bar which protects them.
IR Loader · Source: Ampeg
Impulse Responses
There is an onboard IR Loader/Cab Simulator section so that you can set it up as a DI out to a recording console/DAW or front of the house. It comes factory loaded with three classic factory cabinet emulations or users can use three cabs of their own by using the free Ampeg IR Loader application.
- Cab Mode: Ampeg Heritage B-15, Heritage SVT-410HLF and SVT-810 Squareback IRs.
- User Mode: overwritable Ampeg SVT-112AV, SVT-210AV and SVT-212AV IRs
Rear panel · Source: Thomann
Monitoring
The pedal has a dedicated Aux /Headphone section with dedicated level control, that allows it to be used for in-ear monitoring as well. A nice touch and one many bassists will no doubt welcome.
Connectivity is excellent and includes standard 1/4″ input and outputs, a Preamp Out and the aforementioned Line Out for headphones, plus an XLR Direct Out and a USB-C for IR Loading.
Plus, the usual Ground Lift and a handy Thru Out for the dry signal.
Verdict
Overall, I think this looks like a solid bit of gear and a very flexible one as well. If you play bass and want that Ampeg tone, this could be a no-brainer. The price is also pretty competitive for what it has to offer. Though maybe more space for IRs would have made it a nicer studio tool.
MSRP – EUR 429 *
More Information
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2 responses to “Ampeg SGT-DI: The perfect compact bass rig?”
My partner records through the Ampeg SCR-D.I. and it sounds phenomenal, this looks like a nice upgrade. It’s going to be good.
It sounds and looks great (and practical).
In a similar form factor, I love the HX Stomp for guitar, but the bass amps have always been a little disappointing.
If the band I’m currently gigging with keeps going, I may look into one of these and take out my old Hafler power amp. I like simple equipment, I want to focus on what I’m playing.