
Anthony Easton
The MXR M281 Thump Bass Preamp is a compact pedal that combines the tone- sweetening magic of the Echoplex Preamp with a three-band EQ and midrange frequency adjustment, offering versatile tonal shaping capabilities for bass players. The pedal features the following technical specifications:
- Input Impedance: 1 MΩ
- Output Impedance: 100 Ω
- TONE CONTROLS:
- Bass: +15/-7 dBV at 40 Hz
- Mid: ±16 dBV at 1 kHz
- Treble: ±10 dBV at 4 kHz
- Frequency Sweep: 250 Hz to 1 kHz
- Noise Floor: -95 dBV
- Bypass: True Hardwire
- Current Draw: 9 mA
- Power Supply: 9 Volts DC (powered by Dunlop ECB003 9-volt adapter or DC
Brick, Iso-Brick, and Mini Iso-Brick power supplies)
The pedal's design includes separate Input and Output level controls, a 3-band EQ section with sweepable midrange, and a footswitch for toggling the effect on/off (indicated by a blue LED). The Thump Bass Preamp is suitable for various use-cases, such as punching up a solo, boosting the signal in a live mix, or adding edge to the sound of a passive bass.
The pedal is designed to be powered by a 9-volt adapter or compatible power supplies and cannot be powered by a battery. It is housed in a compact MXR mini housing, providing bass players with a versatile and space-saving solution for enhancing their tone.
Watch the latest video demos and reviews for the M281 Thump Bass Preamp from YouTube. Stompbx updates this every six months to reflect the most popular reviewers and guitar pedal demos for each pedal.

Below are live Reverb listings for the MXR M281 Thump Bass Preamp from Reverb. Stompbx automatically aggregates current offers to give you a quick look at available models, conditions, and prices. Perfect for comparing options and making an informed purchase.

Brand New
$165.43


Brand New
$200.81


Brand New
$202.19

Brand New
$198.42

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Check out the latest news and articles from around the pedal world.

Anthony Easton
Anthony Easton
Anthony Easton
Anthony Easton
Anthony Easton
Anthony Easton
Anthony Easton
Anthony Easton
Anthony Easton
Anthony Easton
Anthony Easton