AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Darkglass Bass Pedals 2026
The top pick is Darkglass Electronics ADAM Aggressively Distorting Advanced Machine ($590). Darkglass Electronics Microtubes Infinity gives you the most for the money at $233. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 17 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Darkglass Electronics ADAM Aggressively Distorting Advanced Machine
Adam · Darkglass
23 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight0.7 kg
The Darkglass Adam is a powerhouse – a distortion pedal, audio interface, and creative hub all rolled into one. It's perfect for gigging bassists needing a versatile, high-quality tone shaping tool, and for studio players who want seamless recording and direct output capabilities. The sheer amount of tweakability means you can really dial in your signature sound.
Pros
- Exceptional Darkglass distortion character – tight, modern, and articulate.
- Integrated audio interface simplifies recording and direct-to-PA routing.
- The rotary encoders offer incredible recall and nuanced parameter adjustments.
Cons
- Premium-priced, a significant investment for many bassists.
- Complex feature set demands time to fully master and utilize.
66AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$590 now$590€529 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Darkglass Electronics Hyper Luminal Hybrid Compressor
Hyper Luminal Compressor · Darkglass
63 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The Hyper Luminal delivers Darkglass’s signature compression in a surprisingly compact and approachable package. The modeled vintage circuits are genuinely impressive, and the touch-through controls feel fantastic. It's a great choice for bassists seeking a polished, professional sound without overcomplicating their signal chain, especially those who like a touch of vintage vibe.
Pros
- Analog signal path preserves warmth and clarity, a Darkglass signature.
- Touch-through metal sensors offer precise, tactile ratio adjustments.
- Three modeled compressors provide versatile tonal shaping options.
Cons
- Lacks battery operation, requiring a dedicated power supply.
- Limited to three compressor models; not as flexible as some others.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$317 now$317€284 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Darkglass Electronics Microtubes Infinity
Microtubes Infinity · Darkglass
49 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The Microtubes Infinity is a powerhouse preamp, delivering Darkglass’ signature aggressive distortion alongside a surprisingly flexible EQ. It's a fantastic choice for players seeking a blend of modern growl and vintage warmth, especially those playing heavier styles or needing a supremely clean DI signal on stage. It's a serious tool for the working bassist.
Pros
- Exceptional Darkglass distortion models: B3K, Vintage, and X offer tonal variety.
- Versatile 6-band EQ precisely shapes low-end and high-frequency response.
- Built-in compression smooths dynamics and adds sustain without muddiness.
Cons
- Relatively premium-priced, a significant investment for many bassists.
- No battery operation limits portability; requires external power supply.
57AudioFu
Index↓ 3.2%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$556 · Aug 17$539 now$539€483 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Darkglass Electronics Microtubes Infinity
Microtubes X · Darkglass
49 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The Microtubes X is a powerhouse for bassists seeking that aggressive, modern, and deeply saturated tone. It's fantastic for metal, progressive rock, and anything needing serious low-end thump. While it's not a one-stop-shop for all bass tones, it excels at what it does.
Pros
- Exceptional low-end saturation, retains clarity even at high gain
- Highly effective high/low pass filters for tonal shaping
- Compact size makes it pedalboard-friendly for most setups
Cons
- Limited versatility beyond aggressive, modern bass tones
- Can be muddy if high-pass filter isn't carefully adjusted
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$233 now$233€209 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Darkglass Electronics Microtubes X7 Multiband Distortion
Microtubes X7 · Darkglass
40 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The Microtubes X7 is a powerhouse for bassists chasing that modern, aggressive tone – think Meshuggah or Gojira. The built-in EQ is a huge win, letting you shape the distortion instead of just adding more mud. It’s a premium-priced option, but delivers serious sonic impact for players focused on heavy genres.
Pros
- Exceptional low-end saturation, retains note clarity even at high gain
- Integrated 4-band EQ provides sculpting power beyond basic distortion
- High-pass filter cleans up muddiness, crucial for modern bass tones
Cons
- Can be overly aggressive for subtle, nuanced playing styles
- Relatively heavy for a compact pedal, stage stability is a consideration
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$356 now$356€319 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Darkglass Electronics Alpha Omega Bass Preamp
Alpha-Omega · Darkglass
43 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
This Finnish pedal gives you full control over your bass tone with seven EQ knobs plus two special sound switches. It works great on stage because the XLR output sends a clean signal to your mixer. Just remember to bring your own power adapter since the box doesn't include one. Perfect for players who want precise shaping without extra gear.
Pros
- Seven distinct EQ controls shape the bass tone perfectly
- Growl and Bite switches add unique character options
- Professional XLR DI output ensures clean mixing
Cons
- Power supply adapter is not included in the box
- No input jack listed, likely requires direct cable
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$371 now$371€333 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Darkglass Electronics Microtubes B7K Ultra V2 Bass Preamp
Microtubes X Ultra · Darkglass
32 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The Microtubes X Ultra is a powerhouse for bassists wanting serious tonal sculpting. It takes the core Microtubes sound and elevates it with a fantastic EQ, cab sim, and a surprisingly useful clean channel – perfect for modern metal, progressive rock, or anyone needing a truly versatile bass tone shaping tool.
Pros
- Exceptional frequency-selective compression and saturation
- Comprehensive 6-band EQ provides precise tonal shaping
- Built-in Impulse Response (IR) cab simulation adds realism
Cons
- Price places it in the premium-priced effects pedal category
- Complex controls require a learning curve to master fully
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$464 now$464€416 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Darkglass Kaamos is a seriously impressive distortion pedal. It nails that classic British amp vibe while giving you a ton of routing and octave options to experiment with. If you're a seasoned bassist looking for a versatile and powerful distortion with unique character, this is a fantastic choice.
Pros
- Excellent recreation of vintage British amp saturation and harmonic complexity.
- Flexible routing options allow for incredibly diverse tonal sculpting possibilities.
- The 'Drive Mod' adds a unique, aggressive edge beyond standard distortion.
Cons
- Complex routing can be overwhelming for beginners needing simpler distortion.
- The 'Tone' control can be a bit narrow, limiting precise treble shaping.
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$445 now$445€399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Darkglass Electronics Alpha Omega Ultra V2 Bass Preamp
Alpha Omega Ultra V2 · Darkglass
20 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The Alpha Omega Ultra V2 is a powerhouse for bassists seeking a truly versatile and aggressive tone. It's a serious upgrade for players wanting to sculpt their sound with multiple distortion flavors and a detailed EQ, especially those playing modern metal, progressive rock, or needing a direct-to-PA solution. It’s a premium-priced pedal, but the sonic possibilities justify the investment.
Pros
- Dual distortion circuits offer incredible tonal flexibility and aggression
- The 6-band graphic EQ provides precise and surgical tonal shaping
- Aux input allows blending external sounds for unique textures and layering
Cons
- The complex controls can be overwhelming for beginners needing a simpler preamp
- The size, while manageable, can be a constraint on smaller pedalboards
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$512 now$512€459 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Darkglass Electronics Vintage Ultra v2 with Aux Input
Vintage Ultra v2 Aux · Darkglass
15 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The Vintage Ultra v2 Aux is a serious contender for bassists chasing that classic, cranked amp tone without the amp. The speaker simulation options are fantastic, and the aux input is a genuinely useful addition for practice or recording. It's perfect for players wanting a versatile, high-quality overdrive pedal with a vintage vibe and modern features.
Pros
- Exceptional vintage-voiced overdrive with modern flexibility.
- User-loadable IRs significantly expand tonal possibilities.
- Balanced XLR output with selectable speaker simulation is a huge convenience.
Cons
- Price point places it in a premium-priced category.
- Micro-USB connection feels a bit dated for a modern pedal.
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$502 now$502€450 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 17 bass pedals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Darkglass NSG NoisegateDarkglass41↓ 3.0%$215€193$215€193Check ↗
- 12
Darkglass Vintage Microtubes Bass OverdDarkglass41↓ 2.9%$224€201$224€201Check ↗
- 13
Darkglass Microtubes B3K v2 Bass OverdrDarkglass39Stable$240€215$240€215Check ↗
- 14
Darkglass Alpha Omicron Bass DistortionDarkglass39Stable$243€218$243€218Check ↗
- 15
Darkglass Harmonic Booster 2.0 Bass PreDarkglass39Stable$264€237$264€237Check ↗
- 16
Darkglass Hyper Luminal Comp. LTD BKDarkglass39Stable$317€284$317€284Check ↗
- 17
Darkglass Microtubes B7K v2 Bass Overdr.Darkglass39Stable$366€328$366€328Check ↗
Bass Pedals by the numbers
Measured across all 151 models we track, not a sample.
Median $356 — half of all bass pedals here cost less.
median of 9 models · 0.33 kg–0.75 kg
How to choose the best bass pedals
Signature 'B9' Tone
That's the thing everyone notices - that focused, almost sculpted low-end. It's not just 'bass'; it's a specific frequency range that really digs in. It's a huge part of the Darkglass sound, and it's not easily replicated.
Dynamic Response
Darkglass pedals aren't just about distortion; they're about how they respond to your playing. The best models have incredible sensitivity to your pick attack and finger dynamics, offering a wide range of tones from subtle grit to full-on saturation.
Blend Control
This is crucial. It allows you to retain your clean bass signal while adding the harmonic richness and aggression of the overdrive or distortion. Mastering the blend is key to getting a balanced tone that cuts through without losing your fundamental.
Build Quality
The stompboxes are generally solid - metal enclosures, reliable footswitches. They're built to withstand the rigors of gigging, though earlier models sometimes had issues with the potentiometers, so check for smooth rotation if buying used.
Midrange Control
While often associated with scooped mids, Darkglass pedals allow for surprisingly precise midrange shaping. It's not just about pulling lows and highs; it's about sculpting that crucial 'honk' to ensure your bass isn't lost in the mix - a vital consideration for modern music.
Buying guide
Alright, let's talk Darkglass bass pedals. If you're chasing that modern, aggressive, and unbelievably defined bass tone - the kind that cuts through a dense mix without sounding muddy - Darkglass is probably on your radar. They've basically redefined what a bass overdrive and distortion pedal can be, and for good reason. We're not talking subtle boosts here; we're talking about a serious tonal shift that's become a staple on stages and in studios worldwide.
Darkglass pedals aren't cheap, and you're paying for that signature tone and the responsiveness. The earlier B7K models are a great entry point, but the later MicroDarkglass versions offer a lot of the same functionality in a smaller, more affordable package. Be wary of clones or budget imitations; they often lack the nuanced dynamic response that makes the originals so desirable.
Ultimately, the best Darkglass pedal is the one that best suits your bass and playing style.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 17 bass pedals from the Thomann catalogue (of 151 in the category). Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
Are Darkglass pedals only for metal?
Absolutely not. While they're hugely popular in metal and aggressive genres, their blend control and precise EQ shaping make them incredibly versatile for rock, funk, pop, and even jazz. It's about adding character, not just distortion.
Do I need an active bass to use a Darkglass pedal?
You don't need an active bass, but a bass with hotter pickups will generally yield more aggressive and defined tones. Passive basses will still work, but you might need to tweak the controls more to compensate for the lower output.
What's the difference between the B7K and MicroDarkglass pedals?
The MicroDarkglass pedals are essentially scaled-down versions of the B7K, offering a similar sound in a smaller enclosure. They sometimes have slightly fewer features, but the core tone is very comparable.
Are the potentiometers on Darkglass pedals reliable?
Early models (especially the B7K) had some reports of potentiometer issues. Newer versions seem to have addressed this, but it's still worth checking if you're buying used. A scratchy pot can ruin the experience.
Can I use a Darkglass pedal as a clean boost?
Yes! With the distortion/overdrive set low and the blend control favoring the clean signal, you can absolutely use a Darkglass pedal as a very transparent, yet powerful, clean boost. The EQ shaping can be a real asset in this mode.
