GRACE DESIGN BiX

Product overview

The GRACE DESIGN BiX is an acoustic instrument preamp, EQ, DI and boost pedal with high and low shelving EQ at selectable frequencies, a 10 dB variable boost, mute and boost footswitches, an FX loop, an unbalanced line output and a transformer-isolated XLR DI output, running from 9 V DC and made in the USA.

FELiX and ALiX have become preamps of choice for discerning touring and recording musicians, from banjo to bass players. BiX comes directly from this lineage and shares the exact same DNA, with an intelligently streamlined feature set for any performer, from the local coffee shop to the megadome. Sonically it is a carbon copy of its bigger siblings: crystal clear, ultra-quiet audio, with an internal operating voltage of better than 30 V DC for incredible headroom; the highs are smooth and open and the lows deep and rock solid.

Key features

• 1/4" high-impedance instrument input (1 MΩ) for even finicky passive pickups
• High and low shelving EQ, ±15 dB, with DIP-switch selectable transition frequencies (100 / 200 Hz and 2 / 4 kHz)
• 10 dB variable boost and mute footswitches
• Separate FX send and return jacks
• 1/4" unbalanced line output and balanced, transformer-isolated XLR DI output with ground lift
• 9 V DC operation with over 30 V internal operating voltage
• Compact, rugged, low-profile pedalboard friendly chassis
• Made in the USA

Dead simple controls

Input gain, high and low shelving EQ and a variable boost, with footswitches for mute and boost. The signal LED shows solid green at a good operating level and flashes red 10 dB before clipping.

Voiced for your instrument

Rear-panel DIP switches set the LOW transition at 100 Hz (for bass) or 200 Hz (for fiddle), and the HIGH transition at 2 kHz (upper mids) or 4 kHz (top end only). A third switch lifts the DI ground against buzz from ground loops.

Stage-ready outputs

The DI output feeds front of house, a monitor console, a mixer or an interface; the line output feeds a tuner or stage amp. A tuner connected to the FX send alone stays active even while BiX is muted. At the front of an electric guitar rig the boost can drive a valve amp's input stage into an earthy overdrive.

In the box

• BiX preamp
• 9 V DC power supply
• Owner's manual

GRACE DESIGN BiX: frequently asked questions

Can I power BiX from my pedalboard supply?

Yes. BiX runs from 9 V DC (6-12 V DC range) on a 2.1 mm centre-negative plug; use an output that can deliver at least 200 mA. A 9 V DC supply is included.

Which EQ frequencies should I choose?

For bass, a 100 Hz low transition; for fiddle, which has little below 200 Hz, the 200 Hz setting. Use 2 kHz for upper-mid control or 4 kHz to tailor only the highest frequencies.

Can I add more detailed EQ?

Yes. Insert a parametric EQ pedal in the FX send and return loop.

How do I stop a ground hum?

Set DIP switch 1 to iso to lift the DI output ground.

Where can I buy the GRACE DESIGN BiX in India?

The GRACE DESIGN BiX is available from Shivansh Electronics, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, with delivery across India.

Workflow 1: Acoustic guitar at a gig

Singer-songwriters and guitarists.

Connections

Setup

1. Set the gain to solid green.
2. Choose the EQ transitions by DIP switch.
3. Shape LOW and HIGH.
4. Use MUTE between songs.

Tip: Set DIP switch 1 to iso if the PA picks up hum.

Workflow 2: Upright or electric bass

Bass players.

Connections

Setup

1. Set the low transition to 100 Hz.
2. Set the gain.
3. Adjust LOW for weight.
4. Record or perform.

Tip: The DI output stays clean with 129 dB of dynamic range.

Workflow 3: Fiddle or mandolin

String players.

Connections

Setup

1. Set the low transition to 200 Hz.
2. Cut LOW to tame boom.
3. Set HIGH to 4 kHz for air.
4. Use the boost for solos.

Tip: Start the boost small with feedback-prone instruments.

Workflow 4: Tuner and effects

Players with a few pedals.

Connections

Setup

1. Connect effects in the loop.
2. Or connect only a tuner to SEND.
3. Mute to tune silently.
4. Unmute to play.

Tip: A tuner on SEND alone stays active while muted.

Workflow 5: Electric guitar boost

Electric players wanting extra drive.

Connections

Setup

1. Set the gain.
2. Set the BOOST level.
3. Press BOOST for solos.
4. Adjust to taste.

Tip: The boost can push a valve amp's input stage into overdrive.

Workflow 6: Recording direct

Home studios.

Connections

Setup

1. Set the gain.
2. EQ lightly.
3. Record.
4. Insert a parametric EQ in the loop for detailed work.

Tip: The EQ is for quick, broad adjustments.