Turn your bass into a full-scale synth machine with the MXR MB301 Bass Synth. Designed in collaboration with bassist and tone specialist Ian Martin Allison, the MB301 delivers vintage analog-style character, deep sub-octave weight, expressive filtering, and lush modulation—all in a compact, pedalboard-friendly format. The MB301 produces a wide range of monophonic synth-bass sounds, from smooth triangle-wave warmth and aggressive sawtooth textures to fat, punchy square-wave tones. Use the Voice button to add harmonically tuned oscillators for thicker, more complex sounds, while the Sub Mix control blends in thunderous sub-octave reinforcement. A powerful set of hands-on controls lets you shape the response and character of every sound. Adjust the filter cutoff and resonance, control the speed and feel of the envelope, add modulation, and blend your natural bass signal with the synthesized tone. The pedal responds dynamically to your playing and provides excellent tracking and sustain across the bass guitar’s range. Eight presets created by Ian Martin Allison make it easy to access professionally dialed-in synth sounds immediately. For deeper customization, secondary parameters provide control over compression, glide, oscillator balance, noise mix, gate sensitivity, output level, and tracking behavior. Dedicated tracking modes optimize the pedal for 4-string bass, extended-range 5- and 6-string basses, or even standard-tuned guitar. Advanced connectivity also supports stereo operation, external preset switching, and expression-pedal control. Key Features Monophonic bass synthesizer with vintage analog-style character Designed with bassist and tone specialist Ian Martin Allison Triangle, sawtooth, and square oscillator waveforms Additional harmonically tuned oscillators selectable with the Voice button Powerful sub-octave generator with independent Sub Mix control Adjustable envelope, cutoff frequency, resonance, modulation, and dry/effect blend Eight ready-to-play presets created by Ian Martin Allison Excellent tracking and natural sustain Selectable tracking modes for 4-string bass, 5- or 6-string bass, and guitar Secondary controls for compression, glide, gate sensitivity, oscillator mix, noise, and more Stereo-output capability Expression-pedal and external preset-switching support Freeze function for sustaining the current synth note Compact, stage-ready MXR construction Power Requirements The MXR MB301 requires a regulated 9-volt DC, center-negative power supply capable of providing at least 330 mA. Power supply sold separately. This pedal cannot be powered by a battery. Availability In stock now and ready to ship. Shipping and Local Pickup We ship throughout the continental United States using UPS, FedEx, or USPS, depending on the safest and most efficient delivery method. In-stock orders typically ship the same or next business day. Local pickup is available by appointment in El Cajon, California. For a local-pickup quote without shipping, contact us at [email protected]. Frequently Asked Questions Is the MXR MB301 Bass Synth currently in stock? Yes. This pedal is currently in stock and ready to ship. What kinds of synth sounds can it produce? The MB301 covers smooth vintage-style synth tones, deep sub-bass, punchy funk sounds, sweeping filters, aggressive sawtooth textures, fat square-wave sounds, and more experimental modulated effects. Does it include presets? Yes. It includes eight presets created by Ian Martin Allison, allowing you to access a variety of professionally designed synth-bass sounds immediately. Will it track a low-B string? Yes. Its extended-range bass tracking mode is designed to track from the low B through the upper range of a 24-fret, 6-string bass. Can it be used with a 4-string bass? Yes. A dedicated 4-string tracking mode provides a faster response while covering the instrument’s standard range down to low E. Can I blend in my clean bass tone? Yes. The Mix control blends your dry bass signal with the synthesized signal, helping you preserve the natural attack and definition of your instrument. Can it operate in stereo? Yes. The MB301 supports stereo output and offers additional control options through its TRS and external-control connections. What styles of music is it suited for? It works especially well for funk, electronic music, disco, pop, industrial, rock, worship music, cover bands, and any setting that calls for a powerful synth-bass texture. The MXR MB301 Bass Synth is an excellent choice for bassists who want deep, expressive, and highly customizable synth tones without adding a keyboard or complicated MIDI system to their rig.
