Aguilar Tone Hammer Preamp
Warranty from the manufacturer: 12 months.
Description of Aguilar Tone Hammer Preamp
Sometimes you spend ages searching for a truly versatile tool for both stage and studio, and it’s exactly in those moments when you realise that the Aguilar Tone Hammer Preamp might be the missing piece that completely transforms your sound. This compact unit isn’t just designed to boost or shape your signal — it reveals the true character of your instrument, adds clarity where needed, and delivers bite and drive when the music calls for it. Most importantly, it does all of this naturally, without compromising the liveliness and authenticity of your tone.
At first glance, it may seem like a pedal created solely for seasoned bassists who know exactly what they’re after. But in reality, it’s surprisingly well-suited for players who are only just beginning to experiment with shaping their sound. And that’s its biggest strength — the ability to be genuinely useful in all sorts of situations, from home practice to large stages.
Why choose this model?
- Pristine signal handling — it doesn’t take away from your tone, but adds depth and control
- Intuitive EQ section and the signature Adaptive Gain Shaping module — flexibility for any style
- Rugged, road-ready metal housing in a compact footprint
- DI output for direct connection into a studio interface or live sound desk
- A versatile tool equally valuable for beginners and seasoned professionals
Model Overview
The Aguilar Tone Hammer Preamp is far more than just a pedal — it’s a true command centre for bass tone. It was built from the ground up to give musicians full control over spectrum and dynamics. The three-band EQ features a selectable midrange frequency, allowing precise tonal shaping. Whether it’s the punch and weight needed for rock or the smooth warmth of jazz, this unit adapts effortlessly to your needs.
Special mention goes to Aguilar’s signature AGS (Adaptive Gain Shaping) technology, which reshapes the attack and saturation of your signal. With a single switch, you can instantly shift from a clean, sparkling bass tone to a grittier, more colourful sound. This is especially valuable for those who want to change their sonic character on the fly during a performance.
Another big plus is the integrated DI output — meaning the pedal can double as a standalone DI box for recording or connecting straight to a live mixer. That eliminates the need for extra gear, saving you time and hassle, especially when touring or working in different studios.
Despite its wide feature set, the control layout stays refreshingly simple. A handful of EQ knobs plus a master volume makes it quick to dial in your tone. This balance of power and simplicity is what makes it such a favourite among both newcomers and experienced players who need a ready-to-go sound without endless tweaking.
Who is it for?
The Aguilar Tone Hammer Preamp is ideal for anyone seeking a reliable, all-in-one solution that lets them focus more on playing and less on wrestling with gear. Beginners will appreciate its simplicity and intuitive sound-shaping — flexible enough to grow with them as their skills develop.
For experienced bassists and session players, it’s the reassurance of having a professional-grade sound tool always within reach. Producers and sound engineers will value the clean, stable signal it delivers, while for live gigs, its dependable DI output is a real time-saver. Even if you only play at home for your own enjoyment, you’ll feel the difference straight away in how much more expressive your instrument becomes.
Specifications of Aguilar Tone Hammer Preamp
- Type: Bass preamp / DI box
- EQ: Three-band with sweepable mids
- Technology: AGS (Adaptive Gain Shaping)
- Outputs: Balanced XLR DI, 1/4'' amp out
- Input: Standard 1/4'' instrument jack
- Power: 18V DC adapter or 2x 9V batteries
- Housing: Sturdy metal pedal enclosure
- Dimensions: 19 x 12 x 6 cm (approx.)
- Weight: around 1.1 kg
- Manufacturer: Aguilar, USA