Darkglass Microtubes Infinity

Overview: Darkglass Microtubes Infinity

The Darkglass Microtubes Infinity is a multifunctional bass preamp pedal with a street price around $485. Released in September 2022, it combines the company's signature drive circuits with a comprehensive suite of features that can replace much of your traditional rig. Measuring 180 by 120 by 60 mm, the unit packs a remarkable number of sound-shaping tools and connectivity options into a robust and gig-ready chassis. While technically marketed as a preamp, bass players quickly encounter a device that functions as a programmable pedalboard and DI all in one.

Core Features

• Combines three classic Darkglass drive circuits: B3K (modern silicon overdrive), Vintage (warm, tube-like character), and X (versatile multi-band drive).
• 6-band equalizer (touch-sensitive control panel).
• Dedicated compressor, blend, tone, drive, and level controls.
• Bypass footswitch, three hardware multi-function buttons (push/rotate), LED status indicator.
• Input and output on 1/4-inch jacks, balanced XLR output, and 3.5 mm headphone out.
• External DC power (9 V center-negative, not included).

The pedal is designed for ultimate versatility whether you're rehearsing, recording direct, or playing live without an amplifier. The built-in XLR DI and headphone amp make it possible to go straight to front-of-house and practice in silence, or even use the Infinity as a compact audio interface for home recording setups.

Sound and Real-World Impressions

Bass players familiar with previous Darkglass pedals such as the Alpha Omicron or Alpha Omega Photon will recognize the brand's sonic signature, but the Microtubes Infinity pushes the versatility envelope. With three distinct drive engines inside, along with the ability to choose between clean and saturated sounds, users can fine-tune their character in ways that single-circuit pedals simply can't match.

Feedback consistently notes the "immediate impact" when the pedal is engaged, switching back to a plain bass signal often feels flat in comparison. The overdrive voicing is described as remarkably flexible. The B3K multi-band mode stands out, particularly for slap or palm muted playing, delivering separation and clarity even at higher drive settings. The preamp in clean mode also draws praise for its tube-inspired warmth, though exact purists may still prefer premium software or analog racks for ultra-high-fidelity tube simulation.

The compressor is straightforward, effective, and makes a substantial difference both live and in practice, while the equalizer ranges from subtle to surgical. The ability to split drive and compression across frequency bands is a key feature: for example, users can saturate only the upper mids and highs while keeping the low end full and tight, something that's programmable not just on the pedal but, crucially, within the Darkglass Suite software.

Control, Customization, and the Darkglass Suite

Much of the pedal's depth lies in its software integration. The Darkglass Suite (available for desktop and mobile) allows for detailed tone shaping beyond what the panel can directly access. Key options include assigning the EQ pre- or post-blend, changing cab simulation types by importing your own impulse responses, and setting filter frequencies for the multi-band drive and compression. Players can select virtual mic models and placements for cab sims, which is almost unheard of at this hardware price point.

The learning curve is real, feedback highlights the need to dig into both hardware and software to unlock the pedal's full potential. While the tactile equalizer is innovative, its touch sensitivity is sometimes noted as less responsive than hoped, especially in comparison to purely analog controls or larger touch screens. And, while some features are only adjustable via the Suite (multi-band frequency splits, mid boost, etc.), recent firmware updates have added a tone sharing function, making it easier to save and swap presets. This is a nod to the pedal's future-proof nature, as updates routinely broaden its feature set.

Live and Studio Applications

Users repeatedly cite the Infinity as a game-changer for live work. The XLR output and cab simulation mean you can walk on stage with a single pedal and your bass, no amp required. It's built to withstand heavy use, with high-quality switches and chassis construction. Several reviewers mention using the Infinity as their primary "rig" for entire tours across Europe without reliability hiccups. The headphone amp output also doubles as a practice solution, with enough volume for typical studio headphones (though not for anything below 32 ohms).

In the studio, the Infinity's clean channel, DI quality, and cab simulation offer a portable alternative to moving large amps or racks. It even performs as an audio interface for home recording, users can combine direct and processed signals to craft unique tracks without extra hardware.

Downsides and Limitations

• Some features are locked behind the Suite, and setting up multi-band processing on the fly at a gig is not practical without a laptop.
• No effects loop. This means you cannot position other pedals between the Infinity's distortion and its DI out.
• Touch EQ can be finicky in fast-paced or live situations.
• The pedal only runs on external power, no included adapter at this price stings. Users must supply their own 9V center-negative supply.
• Large footswitch spacing can make single-switch operation tricky for those with big feet or on crowded boards.
• Occasional noise on higher-gain presets and the built-in noise filter not being as effective as on some other Darkglass pedals.

Conclusion: Who Is It For?

The Darkglass Microtubes Infinity is unapologetically designed for the modern bassist who wants maximum sound-shaping power in a single, portable format. If you just want one iconic overdrive sound, you can find cheaper, simpler options. If you need programmable drive, compression, EQ, DI, cab simulation, and enough customization to replace almost any traditional rig, this pedal delivers. Its price reflects its ambition, and for those who spend the time learning its suite and controls, it unlocks a level of sonic flexibility and portability rare at any tier. The only major caution is the reliance on both hardware and software to access deeper features, and the lack of a bundled power supply. Otherwise, in the realm of bass preamps and programmable pedals, the Microtubes Infinity stands out as a class leader in features and sound.