Tech 21 announces SansAmp Programmable Bass Driver ELITE
January 20, 2026 · 2 sources
Tech 21 announced the SansAmp Programmable Bass Driver ELITE, a digital version of its programmable bass pedal, in news reports published on January 20, 202612. Both reports describe inventor Andrew Barta as having long sought to put the SansAmp's tube amplifier sounds into the digital domain, and say he would not "go digital" until he found a way to replicate the dynamics, responsiveness and fluidity of its analog counterpart12.
The pedal has two modes: Performance mode, which keeps three main presets at the ready, and Studio mode, with up to 128 locations for custom presets12. Controls include Drive, Presence, Blend, Compressor, 3-band active EQ and Level12. An additional "Red" mode switches the controls to Preamp, Filter, Frequency, Q, Ambiance, Ratio and Chorus, and can activate pre-programmed Chorus and/or Filter effects12.
The MIDI interface allows deep editing of parameters for amplifiers, blendable IRs, effects and EQ12. The IR section includes a SansAmp IR, a curated collection of modifiable IRs, the ability to custom blend them, and uploading of external IRs12. Other features include a chromatic tuner, an effect loop, 1/4-inch and XLR outputs, and an all-metal housing12. It runs on an included 9V DC auto-switching power supply with interchangeable international plugs and measures 7.5 inches long, 5.25 inches wide and 2.0 inches high12. Bass Magazine lists it as designed and manufactured by Tech 21 USA, Inc.2
Neither report gives a price or a ship date.
"Just as the original SansAmp was a personal mission to encapsulate tube amplifier sounds in a compact, portable pedal"