There are some really nice features to be found on the Bassbone, and it definitely does present a package that’s excellent value for money. The sound is very similar to the MXR; unlike the Sansamp, it doesn’t colour the tone, and the DI sound is fantastic – there’s such a great deal of headroom, thanks to the 15 volt power supply. The EQ controls are equally as impressive, and seem to be voiced perfectly. The low adds chest thumping bass, without muddiness, the mid brings out serious growl, while the high control gives a beautifully glassy top-end, without being sharp on the ears. The functionality of this little box also extends to a footswitchable boost control, a tuner out, and an effects loop.

However, there are, of course, disadvantages. There’s no amp modelling to speak of, no drive, the EQ can only be used on one of the channels (although the other does have a switch to engage 2 preset contours), the effects loop isn’t switchable and requires a Y-shaped insert lead, and the boost control will be kind of redundant unless you play lots of bass solos. However, overall, the sound of this device prevails and it out-weighs the negatives by a great deal.

So, which box did I finally buy? You’ve probably guessed by the longer review, the Sansamp. I’m an absolute sucker for tubey tone, and this is delivered by the bucket load. The programmability is unrivaled, and, in my opinion, for use on stage and in the studio, it’s unmatched. The bass sound that this creates on record fills out the bottom end beautifully, and with slight bit of compression, it’s ready to go. It sounds great through PA and bass rigs alike, and even has an incredible talent of making my diminutive 15 watt practice amp sound like an SVT stack. What’s not to love?