The Laney Nathan East Digbeth DB-EAST-PRE is a Nathan East signature bass pre-amplifier and the latest addition to the acclaimed DIGBETH Bass amplifier series, developed in partnership with one of the most respected bass players in the world. Designed to reproduce the full, rich tone of Nathan's big rig in a compact, portable pedal format, the DB-EAST-PRE is equally at home in the studio and on stage. Independent FET and Tube channels can be blended together, and the Tube channel provides three selectable gain characteristics: from mild asymmetric clipping (I) to more pronounced asymmetrical clipping (II) and aggressive distortion with strong odd harmonics (III). The RANGE control works in tandem with the GAIN setting to determine how much low-end signal enters the distortion stage, precisely shaping the punch and depth of the bass response. A comprehensive EQ section featuring Bass, Lo-Mid (with switchable Q and centre frequency), Hi-Mid, and Treble is complemented by selectable mid PRE-SHAPES and the TILT function for effortless tone shaping at any volume. The Master Volume controls the main output level independently of the DI and FX loop, while dual inputs with individual trim allow two basses to be connected and switched remotely. The LA.IR-equipped balanced XLR DI output ships pre-loaded with Nathan's favourite cabinet impulse responses: the DBV410 on input 1 and DBV212 on input 2, delivering a studio-ready cab-emulated signal straight to the desk. USB Type C connectivity enables class-compliant audio streaming at 48 kHz and gives access to the free LA.IR app for loading custom IRs and performing firmware updates. An ultra-transparent FX loop handles everything from vintage pedals to high-end rack units, while a tuner output and 3.5 mm stereo Aux in complete the connectivity.

Key Specifications

Channels: Independent FET and Tube channels with blend; Tube channel with 3 selectable gain types (I: mild, II: asymmetric, III: aggressive odd-harmonic distortion)

EQ: Bass, Lo-Mid (switchable Q and centre frequency), Hi-Mid, Treble; selectable mid PRE-SHAPES and TILT function

DI Output: Balanced male XLR with LA.IR cabinet emulation (pre-loaded DBV410 / DBV212 IRs); switchable Ground Lift and Source Mode (Pre / Post / LA.IR)

Connectivity: Dual 1/4-inch inputs (Input 2 with trim), USB Type C (48 kHz audio I/O + LA.IR app), 3.5 mm Aux in, FX loop, Tuner out, footswitchable Bypass/Mute

Dimensions / Weight: 67 x 199 x 143 mm (H x W x D) | 1.1 kg | Power: 9-12V DC 500 mA centre-negative (PSU not included)