Geddy Lee has been performing without onstage amps and speakers since the Test for Echo Tour in 1996, favoring major household appliances instead. Wanting to streamline his gear for new projects, Geddy initially partnered with Tech 21 to design a Signature SansAmp, the GED-2112. This challenging collaboration involved distilling a rackload of equipment into a single rackspace. According to Geddy, “The GED-2112 is really a continuation of my long-time approach to bass tone. A ‘deep clean’ tone coupled with the ‘edgy crunch’ I get from the SansAmp RPM now all in one box.”

The GED-2112 rackmount introduced a new framework for Parallel Pre-Amping –having two separate internal pre-amps. Following this concept, the compact SansAmp YYZ pedal adapted the architectural structure to simplify blending the two signal paths. Merging the design of the rackmount and the portability of the pedal, the SansAmp DI-2112 offers yet another new format that is designed to be equally at home on a studio desk-top as well as an amp-top. Each Signature SansAmp offers Geddy’s core sound and the versatility for many different styles.

The Drive pre-amp section is based upon the versatile SansAmp RPM, for a wide range of sonic possibilities. The Deep pre-amp section offers thick, meaty tones. Saturation goes from clean in lower settings to increased harmonics and tube-like compression in higher settings. You can use either section independently or blend them externally direct to a mixing board as well as to two amplifiers.

The Geddy Lee DI-2112 features dual all-analog SansAmp circuits, Drive for gain and overdrive, Blend to adjust the ratio of SansAmp tube amp emulation and the direct signal, sweepable semi-parametric EQ, and a Tight switch that adds definition to notes in cleaner settings and makes distorted tones snappier. Runs on 18V DC for increased headroom and clarity, via power supply or two 9V alkaline batteries (not included). Other features include dual 1/4-inch and XLR Outputs, rugged all-metal housing. Measures 6.375”l x 4.0”w x 1.75”h and weighs just 19 oz.