Detail 01
15–18V DC, center-negative, 300mA
Use a regulated linear isolated external supply within this voltage range.
Product detailSKU #1500000262838
AshdownOriginAL Tube Preamp DI
metalgroove metal
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
Ashdown’s OriginAL combines bass-signal shaping, DI operation, and a foot-switchable 12AX7 tube-drive circuit in one compact preamp. Set the input level and -3 dB pad to suit the bass, then use Drive Gain and Drive Level to match an overdriven sound with the clean level. Its five-band EQ offers overlapping control ranges, while the Shape button places a broad mid scoop ahead of the drive and EQ. Headphone and line connections on the rear support a more self-contained practice setup.
Strong match
Who this is for
- Switching between clean bass and tube-driven sounds while keeping their output levels closely matched.
- Practice setups that combine an instrument signal with a rear-panel 3.5mm line input.
- Silent tuning with a tuner connected to the active rear Link output during mute.
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- Power supplies limited to 9V; the unit requires 15–18V DC center-negative power at 300mA.
- Using the 1/4-inch output and headphone output at the same time; headphones are unavailable when the 1/4-inch output is in use.
What matters in use
The specifications, translated
Catalog numbers tell only part of the story. These are the details most likely to change how this product feels, sounds, or fits into a setup.
Detail 02
Five-band EQ: 100Hz, 340Hz, 680Hz, 1.6kHz, 7kHz
The bands overlap for a smooth EQ response.
Detail 03
12AX7-powered tube drive
Drive Gain controls the amount of valve overdrive, while Drive Level sets its output level.
Detail 04
Shape button
Engages a broad mid scoop before the drive circuit or EQ.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01Set the input level and -3 dB pad for the bass in use to avoid unwanted input distortion.
- 02The output control does not adjust the DI output.
- 03Avoid large volume jumps between clean and drive settings to reduce switching noise further down the signal chain.
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
01What power supply does the OriginAL need?
It requires a regulated, linear isolated 15–18V DC center-negative supply capable of 300mA, using its 2.1mm connector.
02Can I tune while the pedal is muted?
Yes. The rear Link output remains active at instrument level during mute and can drive a tuner.
03Can I use headphones while the 1/4-inch output is connected?
No. The headphone output is unavailable when the 1/4-inch output is in use.
Reference
Full specifications
The complete catalog record, organized around the decisions musicians make when comparing gear.
1 detailsSound
- EQ
- 5-band EQ, bass, low-mid, middle, hi-mid and treble
1 detailsConnections & power
- Power Requirement
- 15-18V external power supply centre pin negative
2 detailsSize & weight
- Weight
- 3.09
- Dimensions
- 2.44 inch x 7.09 inch x 4.65 inch
1 detailsOther
- Distortion
- 12AX7 powered tube drive
