MXR MB301 Bass Synth Pedal

Monophonic analogue-style bass synthesizer pedal with preset capabilities and flexible parameter control.

Designed in collaboration with bassist Ian Martin Allison, the MXR Bass Synth delivers monophonic synth tones inspired by classic funk, soul, and electro productions. The pedal provides direct access to vintage bass synth textures while maintaining the flexibility required for modern live and studio environments.

Constructed with standard 1/4" TRS inputs and outputs, the unit supports mono, stereo, and wet/dry signal routing. It operates on standard 9V DC power (300 mA minimum) and features a dedicated control jack for expression or external switching, along with switchable true bypass (mono) and buffered bypass (stereo) modes.

Key Features

Deep Sound Sculpting & Oscillators

• Dedicated controls for Mix, Sub Mix, Cutoff, Resonance, Envelope, and Modulation depth.

• Voice and Shape buttons providing quick access to Triangle, Sawtooth, and Square waveforms.

• Integrated sub-octave engine for low-end reinforcement.

• Secondary parameter editing for extended tonal adjustments.

Performance & Setup Versatility

• 8 user-selectable presets plus a live control mode for stage recall.

• Multi-function CTR jack supporting expression pedals, tap tempo, and external preset switching.

• Alternate tracking modes optimized for 4-string bass, 5-string bass, or electric guitar.

• Independent dry and wet signal blending to maintain low-end punch and clarity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Q: Is the MXR Bass Synth pedal analog or digital?

A: The MXR Bass Synth is a digital modeling pedal that accurately emulates classic analog-style monophonic synthesis. It combines digital DSP tracking and preset management with analog-style filter, envelope, and oscillator controls.

Q: Can I use the MXR Bass Synth with a 5-string bass or electric guitar?

A: Yes. The MXR Bass Synth features dedicated tracking modes accessible via secondary parameters: 5-string bass mode (tracks down to low B), 4-string bass mode (optimized for faster response down to low E), and guitar mode (tracks standard 24-fret guitar ranges).

Q: Does the MXR Bass Synth require a special power supply or can it run on a 9V battery?

A: The MXR Bass Synth cannot be powered by a standard 9V battery. It requires an external 9V DC center-negative power supply providing at least 300 mA (such as the Dunlop ECB003 adapter or MXR Iso-Brick series).

Q: Does the MXR Bass Synth support stereo output and expression pedals?

A: Yes. The main output jack uses a 1/4" TRS connection capable of true stereo output or wet/dry split routing. The secondary 1/4" CTR jack supports external expression pedals, tap tempo switches, or right-channel stereo output.

Q: How many user presets can be stored on the MXR Bass Synth?

A: The pedal stores 8 user presets (4 green bank, 4 red bank) alongside a dedicated Live Mode that mirrors current physical knob and switch positions. Presets can be cycled using the onboard footswitch, the preset button, or an external foot switch.

Q: What waveforms does the MXR Bass Synth generate?

A: The pedal offers three selectable oscillator waveforms via the Shape button: Triangle (smooth, warm low-end), Sawtooth (rich, aggressive bite), and Square (punchy, rubbery bass).

Select Your New Guitar In Person at Our Store!
Bonners Guitar Store, located on the South coast in Eastbourne, has a large dedicated showroom full of Electric, Acoustic and Bass Guitars. Whether you're looking for your first instrument, or something prestigious, our showroom is the perfect environment to touch, play, and select from an extensive range of guitars. When you visit Bonners Guitar Store, you'll be given the space and time to test several instruments in a comfortable, private environment, allowing you to ensure that you're making the right purchase decision.

We're located just off the A27 main road with plenty of on-site parking. If the train is more convenient for you, we're just a 2-minute walk from Hampden Park railway station (linked directly to London Victoria). 

Trade-In Offer - Upgrade to a New Guitar Today
Do you own a guitar you are considering upgrading to a new instrument? Take advantage of the Bonners part-exchange scheme and save yourself the hassle of selling on the private market. We accept most major brands of guitars that are in good condition and in full working order. Complete our online , and we'll get right back to you with a guide-price valuation.

Next, arrange to visit our store, where we can inspect your guitar to confirm it is in the expected condition. Once checked and the price is agreed, you're all set to trade it for your chosen new model! Call us on 01323 639335 if you would like to discuss trade-in options further.

Online guitar valuations are guide prices only. Confirmed valuations are subject to an instrument inspection by one of our team when you bring it to the store.