Zoom B6 Bass Multi-Effects Processor

The Zoom B6 is a floor-based bass multi-effects processor designed for players who need flexible tone shaping, direct outputs, and practical control in one unit. It combines bass-focused effects, amp and cabinet modeling, DI voicing, a looper, and USB audio functionality. It is suited to electric, acoustic, and upright bass players building a compact live, practice, or recording rig.

Its four selectable DI models include two tube-style and two solid-state-style voices, allowing players to choose a direct tone character that fits the instrument and application. The two input jacks can be switched between basses without repatching, and each input has selectable 1 MΩ or 10 MΩ impedance. This is useful for rigs that alternate between standard electric bass and piezo-equipped acoustic or upright bass.

The B6 processes at an 88.2 kHz sampling frequency and supports up to six simultaneous effects, including amp emulation. Its touchscreen interface supports arranging effects within a patch, while footswitch-based play modes provide access to effect-board, bank/patch, memory, and looper operation. With 240 user patch memories, it can organize sounds for rehearsals, sets, and different instruments.

For cabinet-based tones without a physical bass cabinet, the processor includes 36 factory impulse responses and accepts compatible user or third-party IR files. It also provides 12 bass cabinet simulations, each with three microphone-position variations. A balanced XLR output supports connection to a PA system, while the AMP/LINE [PHONES] output can feed a bass amp, powered monitors, or headphones.

The onboard looper records stereo loops up to 45 seconds without external storage, or from 2 seconds to 2 hours when an SD-compatible card is installed. Sixty-eight built-in rhythm patterns provide practice accompaniment, and the USB connection enables 2-in/2-out audio interface operation with compatible computers and devices. The B6 can also work with Zoom Guitar Lab, and an optional BTA-1 adapter enables wireless control from the Handy Guitar Lab for B6 iPhone/iPad app.

Key Features

• Four DI Models: Select tube-style or solid-state-style direct tones for different basses and signal paths.
• Dual Variable-Impedance Inputs: Switch between two connected basses and match electric or piezo-equipped instruments.
• Six-Effect Signal Chain: Combine effects and amp emulation within a configurable patch.
• IR Loading: Use factory, personal, or third-party cabinet impulse responses for direct rigs.
• SD Card Looper: Extend recording time to two hours and save loops externally.
• USB Audio Interface: Record processed bass audio to a computer through 2-in/2-out USB audio.

Design & Installation

The B6 is built in an integrated pedalboard-style format with a 4.3-inch color touchscreen, parameter knobs, dedicated input and DI controls, and nine stomp switches. Its layout places performance functions, patch access, looper control, and bypass operation at foot level while retaining touchscreen access for editing. A rear-panel ground-lift switch is provided for the balanced XLR output.

Connect one or two basses to INPUT 1 and INPUT 2, set each impedance selector for the instrument, and choose the active input with the onboard switch. Feed a PA from the balanced XLR output, or use the AMP/LINE [PHONES] jack with an amp, powered monitors, or headphones; use the SEND and RETURN jacks to place an external effect in the signal path. The included Zoom AD-16 adapter powers the unit, while an SD/SDHC/SDXC card, optional FP02M expression pedal, and optional BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter can expand its operation.