Ashdown is renowned for its amplifiers and effects units, produced primarily for bass guitar but also for electric guitar. Based in Chelmsford, Essex, England, the company was founded in 1997 by Mark Gooday—formerly the chief engineer and manager at Trace Elliot—who designed the logo based on the badge found on Austin-Healey sports cars. Ashdown’s unwavering focus on design and innovation is evident across its product range, which includes tube and hybrid amplifiers, combos, practice amps, effects pedals, and more.
Ashdown Engineering remains true to its roots today, just as it was in 1997.
The Ashdown Pro Di is a bass guitar preamp/DI featuring a 5-band equalizer and the signature "Shape" function found on most Ashdown amplifiers, allowing for instant tonal adjustments. Its tube overdrive emulation includes Mix and Gain controls; combined with Ashdown’s signature output VU meter, these allow you to balance the levels between your dry signal and the driven sound. The Pro Di also features an active/passive pad to accommodate different instrument types.
The Ashdown Pro Di offers an isolated XLR DI output for direct connection to a PA system. It also includes a Link output for connecting to your amplifier—functioning like a standard DI—as well as a Line input for external audio sources and a headphone output for quiet home practice.
Specifications:
Bass preamp tailored specifically to the needs of modern touring bassists
Integrated overdrive functions with Drive Mix and Level controls
Features a 5-band EQ with a "Shape" option for additional tone-shaping possibilities
EQ based on the ABM preamp and subsequent variants, such as the MAG and Rootmaster series
Input sensitivity pad (-3dB attenuation) for use with active or passive instruments
Line input with dedicated Line Mix control
DI output providing a balanced signal for Front-of-House or monitor feeds
Ground lift
Ashdown VU meter
Additional Link output for connecting to another monitor feed or an alternative FOH output
True bypass
Mute function ("Showtime")
Outputs: Headphone mini-jack, XLR, 2 x 1/4" jack
Power supply: 9V DC (power adapter not included)
Dimensions (H/W/D): 65mm x 116.2mm x 183mm
Weight: 1.46 kg
