The original Tech 21 Bass Fly Rig (introduced in 2014) was a true game-changer for players in all categories, from touring pros to bedroom hobbyists, and expanded into a series. Each Tech 21 Fly Rig is much more than a pedalboard. In a single pedal. And no board. Less than 13" long and weighing just over 20 oz., each sleek, compact unit embodies an entire rig. At its core is the all-analogue SansAmp, which makes it possible to go direct to a PA, studio mixers and computer interfaces. Rodney McG tells us more about the Tech 21 Bass Fly Rig V2.
Tech 21's Bass Fly Rig V2 is the newest iteration on their all in one pedal format solution. The Bass Fly Rig V2 is designed to be a single unit that covers everything a bassist needs from preamp to cab sim, effects, and direct connections.
In the new era of ultra-lightweight touring and gigging, the Bass Fly Rig V2 offers an elegant solution for players who might want their entire travel rig to be able to be taken directly on a flight or just put in the front of a gig bag. This can even eliminate the need to for checking a bag.
Arriving at a gig with an unpredictable backline, badly taken care of amps, or antiquated gear that doesn't cover moderns is an often complained about issue that Tech 21 has aimed to solve.
Proving that this is the design focus, the Bass Fly Rig V2 comes with multiple adapters for the different variations on power supply in different countries. It's also housed in a sturdy metal casing, making it truly roadworthy.
The interface has four different selection sections available by footswitch. First is a Compressor, followed by the preamp / SansAmp section. Then an effects section that includes an Octave, Fuzz, and Chorus. Also on tap is a Tuner.
You are not limited to the onboard effects as a loop is included as well.
To make sure your connection is solid and performing its best, there is a pad for active basses, and if you are clipping your signal, the Chorus button will light up to alert you.
Not initially obvious is the fact that there are two different style SansAmp circuits on board. One based on the original SansAmp Bass Driver circuit, and one based on the VT Bass series. These are switchable by the Character switch.
The Octave function is deceptive in that there are a lot more available tones than a simple octave. By using the additional dials for Range and Q, you can get wild, almost synth-like effects and tones. It will fill up many hours of tone experiments after you dive in.
At the end of the unit, we have the Chorus that does a great job of offering more heavily modulated tones as well as subtle and more atmospheric sounds. A cab sim defeat switch is also on this end of the board, allowing you to use just the preamp and effects sections should you want to go through the available backline, etc.
Highlights here are the quiet switching and solid construction. If you are going straight to a board, any loud pops or noise when switching is an instant disqualifier. The heavy-duty housing means it can stand up to the beating road gear inevitably suffers.
Having a solid wrapping to a wide range of tones and options makes it a one-stop, single-source processor for live shows, travelling, and large and small venue conditions.
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