IK Multimedia Z-TONE Buffer Boost Preamp/DI Pedal with Advanced Tone Shaping

The IK Multimedia Z-TONE Buffer Boost is a compact preamp and DI pedal designed for guitarists and bassists who want professional-grade tone shaping in their live or studio signal chain. Drawing on the input circuit technology from IK's award-winning AXE I/O audio interface, the Z-TONE Buffer Boost allows players to shape the character of their instrument through selectable preamp topologies, variable impedance control, and an adjustable boost circuit. It is equally suited to pedalboard use on stage and direct recording applications in the studio, and is designed and made in Italy.

• Active/Passive pickup selector for compatibility with a wide range of instruments
• PURE channel delivers a transparent, uncoloured preamp signal
• JFET channel provides a Class A input buffer with subtle harmonic enhancement, midrange focus and warmth
• Z-TONE variable impedance control adjusts from 1 MOhm to 2.2 kOhms for a wide range of tones and feels
• Transparent output buffer maintains signal integrity across long cable runs and complex pedalboard routing
• True bypass circuit ensures complete transparency when the unit is not engaged
• Adjustable boost circuit increases volume and drive to hit amps or pedals harder
• Balanced XLR output for connection to mixers and PA systems
• Unbalanced 1/4" output for additional routing flexibility
• Switchable ground lift eliminates noise and hum caused by ground loops
• Powered by 9V battery, +48V phantom power, or standard 9V pedal power supply
• Includes AmpliTube 5 SE software (Mac/PC) with 77 gear models

In live use, the Z-TONE Buffer Boost sits at the front of the signal chain, buffering the instrument signal to preserve clarity across longer cable runs and through multiple pedals. The Z-TONE impedance control can be used to tailor the interaction between the guitar and the rest of the rig, from a tight and precise response at maximum impedance to a thicker, more resonant feel as the load is increased. In the studio, the balanced XLR output allows simultaneous recording of a DI track alongside a miked amplifier, providing maximum flexibility during mixing and post-production.

Specifications:

AUDIO

• I/O Gain: Unitary, from 1/4” input JACK to both 1/4” and XLR outputs when GAIN is at 0dB and Z-TONE at the SHARP position.
• Gain Range: From -8dB to +8dB
• Boost range: From 0dB to +10dB
• Input impedance - Z-TONE set on PASSIVE mode: Variable from 1MΩ down to 2.2kΩ
• Input impedance - Z-TONE set on ACTIVE mode: Approx 20kΩ
• Output impedance, unbalanced out: 56Ω
• Output impedance, balanced out: 600Ω
• Max input level before clipping: +13dBm when powered by 48V phantom,+9dBm when powered by 9V battery
• Dynamic Range: better than 114dB(A) for both outputs, input gain at 0dB
• Total Harmonic Distortion, balanced output, 1kHz, +4dBm input: 0.0033% (PURE), 0.2% (JFET)
• Total Harmonic Distortion, unbalanced output, 1kHz, +4dBm input: 0.00055% (PURE), 0.2% (JFET)
• Frequency response: from 5Hz to 30kHz -1dB
• Phase deviation: 0° +/-10° from 20Hz to 20kHz

POWER

• Phantom power: +48V phantom on Balanced output.
• Battery power: 9V
• External DC power: 9VDC, positive outside - not included
• Current consumption from P48 phantom power source: 6.5mA

DIMENSIONS

• Size: 10.8cm/4.25" x 12cm/4.72" x 5.8cm/2.28"
• Weight: 600g/21.2oz

*Specifications subject to change without notice.