The Aguilar DB 599 Bass Compressor is an analog compressor pedal for bass, built to control dynamics in a simple, compact format. RockBoard's PedalPedia describes it as tailored around the specific needs of bass players, using musically appropriate compression ratios and attack and release parameters set for bass rather than generic guitar settings1. Guitar World covered its launch in May 2021, with availability from mid-May at $1692.
Controls
The control layout is deliberately minimal, which RockBoard's PedalPedia says gives bassists the ability to control their dynamics in a simple and compact format1.
| Control | What it does |
|---|---|
| COMP | Adds the desired amount of compression1 |
| GAIN | Adjusts your volume1 |
| Footswitch | Engages and bypasses the effect2 |
Set the amount of squeeze with COMP, then use GAIN to bring your level back up to where you want it. That is the whole interface: no ratio, attack or release knobs to dial in, because Aguilar has set those parameters internally for bass12.
Gig-saver bypass
One feature worth knowing before a gig: Guitar World reported that the DB 599 includes a gig-saver bypass function, "which allows the signal to pass through unhindered in the event of its power supply dying mid-song"2. If power fails on stage, the pedal stops compressing but your bass keeps reaching the amp.
The DB 599 runs on a 9V DC center-negative supply and draws 6.5mA1. No battery option is listed, so it needs a power supply connection.
Size and where it fits
The DB 599 comes in a mini pedal-sized enclosure, and Guitar World described its control layout as super simple2. That makes it an easy fit on a crowded board, including alongside other Aguilar pedals such as the TLC Bass Compressor, a larger compressor option in the same line, or the DB316 Mid EQ Micro Pedal, another compact Aguilar pedal. For more on how compression works and how the DB 599 compares, see the compressor pedals page.
Videos
Aguilar Amplification
Bass Guitar Review
Brooksy's Bass Corner
Questions
Is the Aguilar DB 599 analog?
Yes. Aguilar lists the DB 599 as an analog circuit, and the company has described its pedal line as all-analog. It is a straightforward compressor built around musically appropriate compression ratios and attack and release parameters tailored to bass, rather than a digital modeling unit.
What power does the Aguilar DB 599 use?
The DB 599 runs on 9V DC with a center-negative plug and draws 6.5mA. That low current draw means it sits easily on a pedalboard power supply alongside other pedals.
Does the DB 599 have a battery option?
No battery option is listed for the DB 599. It is powered from a 9V DC, center-negative supply, so plan for a power supply connection on your board.
What does the gig-saver bypass do?
Guitar World reported that the DB 599 includes a gig-saver bypass function, which allows the signal to pass through unhindered if the pedal's power supply dies mid-song. In practice, a power failure on stage does not cut your sound off.
How big is the DB 599?
The DB 599 comes in a mini pedal-sized enclosure, according to Guitar World's launch coverage. That keeps it compact on a crowded pedalboard, with a simple control layout of two knobs and a footswitch.
Sources (2)
- DB 599 Bass Compressor by Aguilar, RockBoard PedalPedia, 2026
- Aguilar Amplification launches the ultra-compact DB 599 Bass Compressor pedal, Guitar World, 2021-05-05
