The Ashdown FS-EQ12-DI is a 12-band graphic EQ pedal for bass with a built-in DI output. Ashdown positions it for players who want a new level of tone-shaping control that can feed an amp direct and DI to the desk, and with 12 bands of sound shaping control the maker says it is easy to create a characterful bass sound for almost any musical application.1
Controls and how it works
The pedal's controls cover level setting, tone shaping and output balance:
- Input level knob: used together with the VU meter to find the sweet spot, ensuring you get the best signal from active or passive basses.1
- VU meter: the Ashdown VU meter for setting level, read in combination with the Input level knob.1
- 12 EQ bands: the graphic EQ bands used to shape the bass tone.1
- Shape function: gives no-fuss access to the classic Ashdown sound with one click.1
- Output level control: lets you dial in the perfect balance between the effect and the true bypass level.1
- Footswitch: selects quickly between your chosen EQ curve and the Ashdown-shape.1
The Shape function and the footswitch work as a pair: instead of only switching the EQ in and out, you can move between your own curve and the Ashdown-shape, giving two ready tones at your feet.1
DI output
The FS-EQ12-DI carries a professional-quality DI output with its own level control, which lets you send your bass tone direct to the PA or studio mixer. For players whose signal reaches the desk as well as, or instead of, an amp, that level control keeps the DI send independent of what is happening on stage.1
Build
Ashdown describes the pedal as built with metal casings, premium controls and switches, recessed knobs and kickguards to protect screens and VU meters. The kickguards matter here because the VU meter sits in the panel as a working part of setting levels, not just as a display.1
Ashdown also states that Ashdown pedals feature genuine "true bypass" switching for zero-colouration of your input signal when the pedal is not in use.1
Where it sits on a board
As a graphic EQ with a DI, the FS-EQ12-DI covers two jobs at once: tone shaping in the equalization pedals family and the direct-to-desk duty usually handled by a preamp pedal or standalone DI. Ashdown's own framing, feeding your amp direct and DI to the desk, points at bass players who need both in one enclosure.1
Questions
Is the Ashdown FS-EQ12-DI true bypass?
Yes. Ashdown says its pedals feature genuine true bypass switching, so when the FS-EQ12-DI is not in use your input signal passes through without any coloration. The Output level control lets you dial in the balance between the effect and the true bypass level, so the two paths can be matched.
What does the Shape function do on the FS-EQ12-DI?
The Shape function gives one-click access to what Ashdown calls the classic Ashdown sound, without needing to set the 12 EQ bands by hand. Using the footswitch, you can switch quickly between your own chosen EQ curve and the Ashdown-shape, which makes it easy to move between two distinct bass tones during a set.
How do you set the input level with the VU meter?
Ashdown pairs the VU meter with the Input level knob. You adjust the Input level knob while watching the meter to find the sweet spot, which ensures you get the best signal whether your bass is active or passive. Setting this correctly is the first step before shaping the EQ bands.
Can the FS-EQ12-DI send a signal directly to a PA or mixer?
Yes. The pedal has a professional-quality DI output with its own level control, so you can send your bass tone direct to the PA or a studio mixer. That makes it usable without an amp, for example on stages where the bass runs straight to the front of house.
How long is the warranty on the Ashdown FS-EQ12-DI?
Ashdown says all Ashdown products purchased include a 5 year warranty, which the company describes as giving peace of mind and long-term support.
Sources (1)
- FS-EQ12-DI, Ashdown Engineering
