Chase Bliss Automatone Preamp MKII: Motorized Faders Meet Benson Amps Preamp Studio Preamp Character With Real-Time Control
The Chase Bliss Automatone Preamp MKII combines the preamp circuitry of a Benson Amps amplifier with motorized fader control for real-time parameter automation. Priced at approximately $349, this pedal delivers premium preamp character with the innovation of motorized controls that move physically in response to parameter changes. The MKII refines the original with improved circuitry and more intuitive control layouts. For players seeking studio-quality preamp tone with real-time control capability, the Automatone is a unique and powerful tool.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Preamp with Motorized Faders |
| Controls | Motorized Faders (Volume, Bass, Mid, Treble, Gain), Expression Input |
| Bypass | True Bypass |
| Power | 9V DC (300mA) or USB |
| I/O | 1/4″ Input/Output, Expression Pedal Input |
Tone and Sound Character
The Automatone’s tone is defined by warm, musical preamp character derived from Benson Amps designs. The pedal adds presence, clarity, and subtle saturation that enhances your guitar tone without imposing obvious coloration. The motorized faders control volume, bass, mid, treble, and gain with smooth, responsive character. The bass control adds warmth and fullness, mid shapes presence, treble adds brightness and sparkle, gain introduces saturation. All controls remain musical and responsive across their entire range.
The motorized fader control is where the Automatone shines. The faders move physically in response to parameter changes, making control intuitive and visible. You can set parameter automation that plays back during performance, or use expression pedal input for real-time manual control. The combination of preamp tone and motorized control creates unique performance possibilities unavailable in traditional static preamps.
Features and Versatility
The motorized faders are the Automatone’s defining feature. They provide real-time parameter control with visual feedback showing exactly what’s happening. The expression pedal input provides additional real-time flexibility. True bypass ensures tone preservation when off. The robust construction reflects its position as a premium tool. The USB connection allows editing and parameter automation programming.
This pedal excels for studio musicians wanting preamp coloration and automation, performers seeking real-time control during live play, and anyone wanting to automate parameter changes musically. The motorized control makes it suitable for creating evolving tone characters throughout performances or recordings.
Who Should Buy the Chase Bliss Automatone Preamp MKII
The Automatone is ideal for studio musicians wanting preamp character and automation, performers interested in real-time tone manipulation, and anyone appreciating the craftsmanship of motorized controls. If you value premium tone and innovative control methods, the Automatone is a worthwhile investment. Avoid this if you want simplicity, basic preamp coloration, or prefer fixed tone-shaping.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do the motorized faders improve on traditional knobs?
Motorized faders move physically, providing visual feedback of parameter changes. You can program automation sequences that play back during performance, or use expression pedal input for real-time manual control with motorized response. Traditional knobs can’t provide this level of feedback or automation.
Can you control faders with an expression pedal?
Yes, the expression pedal input controls any assigned fader in real-time. The motorized faders respond to your expression pedal movement, providing coordinated control of multiple parameters from a single pedal.
Is this suitable for direct recording?
Yes, the Automatone works beautifully for direct recording, adding preamp character and polish to your guitar signal before it hits an audio interface. Many studio musicians use it for this purpose specifically.