Introduction
The Aguilar Tone Hammer Preamp Direct Box Pedal V2 is a versatile and essential tool for bassists seeking inspiring tone and flexibility in both live and studio environments. This pedal combines a high-quality preamp, a direct box, and a distortion circuit, offering comprehensive tone-shaping capabilities. Its robust construction ensures durability, making it a reliable companion for any musician.
Key Features
- Versatile Functionality: Functions as a preamp, DI box, and distortion pedal.
- Advanced Tone Shaping: Features a 3-band EQ with fully sweepable midrange frequencies, in addition to bass and treble controls.
- Updated Drive Circuit: Allows for precise control over clean and overdriven tones, with an additional gain structure and EQ accessible via footswitch.
- Robust Construction: Housed in a sturdy aluminum chassis for durability.
- Integrated Footswitches: Dedicated footswitches for engaging the preamp and activating the drive circuit.
- Comprehensive Connectivity: Equipped with 1/4" input and output jacks, an XLR output for direct recording, Aux In, and a Headphone Output for silent practice.
Controls and Functions
The Tone Hammer Preamp Direct Box Pedal V2 features an intuitive layout of controls designed for optimal tone shaping and ease of use. Familiarize yourself with each control to unlock the full potential of your pedal.
Figure 1: Top view of the Tone Hammer Preamp Pedal V2, highlighting its control layout.
Gain Control
Figure 2: Detail of the Gain control knob.
The Gain knob controls the input level of your instrument. Adjusting this control affects the overall sensitivity and can introduce subtle warmth or more aggressive saturation, especially when the drive circuit is engaged. A blue LED labeled "Engage" illuminates when the preamp section is active.
Treble Control
Figure 3: Detail of the Treble control knob.
The Treble knob adjusts the high-frequency content of your tone. Turn clockwise to increase brightness and clarity, or counter-clockwise to reduce harshness and smooth out the high end.
Bass Control
Figure 4: Detail of the Bass control knob.
The Bass knob controls the low-frequency content. Rotate clockwise for a fuller, more powerful low end, or counter-clockwise to tighten up the bass response and prevent muddiness.
Mid Freq and Mid Level Controls
Figure 5: Detail of the Mid Freq and Mid Level controls.
The Mid Freq knob selects the center frequency for the midrange boost or cut, allowing you to pinpoint specific frequencies. The Mid Level knob then adjusts the amount of boost or cut at the selected frequency. This fully sweepable midrange section provides exceptional control over your instrument's presence and character.
Volume Control
Figure 6: Detail of the Volume control knob.
The Volume knob controls the overall output level of the pedal. Use this to match the signal level to your amplifier or recording interface.
Drive Control
Figure 7: Detail of the Drive control knob.
The Drive knob adjusts the amount of gain applied to the signal when the drive circuit is active. This allows for fine-tuning of the overdriven sound, from subtle grit to heavy distortion.
Mix Control
Figure 8: Detail of the Mix control knob.
The Mix knob blends the clean signal with the overdriven signal. This allows you to retain clarity and low-end presence while adding the desired amount of distortion.
Engage Footswitch
Figure 9: Detail of the Engage footswitch.
The Engage footswitch activates or bypasses the preamp section of the pedal. When engaged, the blue "Engage" LED will light up.
Drive Footswitch
Figure 10: Detail of the Drive footswitch.
The Drive footswitch engages or disengages the updated drive circuit. When active, the red "Drive" LED will light up, allowing you to switch between clean and overdriven tones instantly.
Input and Output Jacks
Figure 11: Rear panel connections of the Tone Hammer Preamp Pedal V2.
The IN (Input) jack is where you connect your instrument. The OUT (Output) jack connects to your amplifier's input or to the input of another effects pedal in your signal chain. Both are standard 1/4" audio jacks.
XLR Output and Controls
Figure 12: Side panel with XLR output and related controls.
The XLR output provides a balanced direct signal for connecting to mixing consoles or recording interfaces. The PRE/POST switch determines whether the XLR output signal is taken before (Pre) or after (Post) the pedal's EQ and gain stages. The LIFT switch helps eliminate ground hum by lifting the ground connection of the XLR output.
Aux In and Headphone Output
The AUX IN jack allows you to connect an external audio source (e.g., an MP3 player or smartphone) for practice. The Headphone Output enables silent practice, allowing you to monitor your sound directly from the pedal without an amplifier.
Setup
- Power Connection: Connect an 18V DC power supply (not included) to the 18V power input jack on the rear of the pedal. Ensure the power supply meets the specified voltage and current requirements to prevent damage.
- Instrument Connection: Plug your bass guitar or other instrument into the 1/4" IN jack.
- Output Connection: Connect the 1/4" OUT jack to your amplifier's input or to the input of another effects pedal in your signal chain.
- DI Connection (Optional): For direct recording or connecting to a PA system, use an XLR cable to connect the XLR output to a mixing console or audio interface. Adjust the PRE/POST and LIFT switches as needed for optimal signal routing and noise reduction.
- Auxiliary and Headphone Connections (Optional): For silent practice, connect headphones to the Headphone Output and an external audio device to the AUX IN jack.
Operation
The Tone Hammer Preamp Pedal V2 is designed for straightforward operation, allowing you to quickly dial in your desired sound.
- Engaging the Preamp: Press the Engage footswitch to activate the preamp section. The blue "Engage" LED will light up.
- Adjusting Clean Tone: With the preamp engaged and the Drive circuit disengaged (red "Drive" LED off), use the Gain, Treble, Bass, Mid Freq, and Mid Level controls to shape your clean tone.
- Activating Drive: Press the Drive footswitch to engage the drive circuit. The red "Drive" LED will light up. Use the Drive and Mix knobs to control the amount of distortion and blend it with your clean signal.
- Output Level: Adjust the Volume knob to set the overall output level of the pedal.
- Silent Practice: When using headphones and Aux In, the pedal provides a complete practice solution without needing an amplifier.
For a visual demonstration of the pedal's features and sound, please refer to the official product video below:
Video: The Tone Hammer Preamp Direct Box Pedal. This video provides an overview of the pedal's features, including its EQ, updated drive circuit, and connectivity options, along with sound demonstrations.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the pedal's exterior. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents, which can damage the finish.
- Storage: Store the pedal in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. When not in use for extended periods, disconnect the power supply.
- Cable Care: Ensure all cables are in good condition and properly connected to prevent signal loss or damage to the jacks.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound output. | Incorrect cable connections, power supply issue, pedal not engaged. | Check all cable connections (input, output, power). Ensure the correct 18V power supply is used. Press the Engage footswitch to activate the preamp. |
| Unwanted noise or hum. | Ground loop, faulty cables, interference. | Engage the LIFT switch on the XLR output. Try different cables. Ensure power supply is isolated from other noisy devices. |
| Drive circuit not engaging. | Drive footswitch not pressed, pedal not powered. | Ensure the pedal is powered on and the Engage footswitch is active. Press the Drive footswitch firmly. |
| Weak or distorted sound (unexpectedly). | Incorrect gain staging, low battery (if applicable, though this pedal uses AC power), incorrect impedance. | Adjust the Gain and Volume controls. Ensure your instrument's output is appropriate for the pedal's input. |
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | THPREPEDAL |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 6.7" x 3.15" x 4.25" (17.02 cm x 8.0 cm x 10.8 cm) |
| Weight | 1.41 ounces (40 grams) |
| Color | Silver |
| Hardware Interface | 1/4-inch Audio, XLR |
| Signal Format | Analog |
| Power Source | AC Adapter (18V DC, 1000mA recommended) |
Warranty and Support
Aguilar products are built to the highest standards of quality and reliability. For information regarding warranty coverage, product registration, or technical support, please visit the official Aguilar Amplification website or contact your authorized Aguilar dealer. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
For more information, visit: www.aguilaramp.com