Audio Sprockets Tone Dexter II (Pre-Owned)

The Audio Sprockets ToneDexter II is a sophisticated acoustic instrument preamp designed to overcome one of the most persistent challenges of amplified acoustic performance: making a piezo pickup sound like the instrument itself. While piezo systems offer convenience, volume and feedback resistance, they can often sound thin, harsh or unnaturally direct. ToneDexter II addresses this through its proprietary WaveMap technology, which learns the tonal difference between your instrument's pickup and a microphone, then applies that correction to the pickup signal. The result is a much more natural, microphone-like sound without needing to position a microphone in front of your instrument during performance.

Creating a WaveMap involves connecting your instrument's pickup and a suitable microphone, then playing while ToneDexter analyses their respective sounds. Once trained, the microphone can be removed and the resulting sound stored in one of 32 preset locations. Different microphones, placements and instruments can be accommodated, making the system particularly useful for acoustic guitarists, mandolin players, violinists, double bassists and other acoustic musicians. Extensive EQ, spaciousness adjustment and intelligent feedback suppression allow the sound to be refined for different venues, while the configurable effects loop, boost function and professional DI output make integration into a live rig straightforward.

ToneDexter II builds upon the original ToneDexter with a colour display, improved processing, expanded connectivity and more comprehensive preset management. Its robust red metal enclosure houses a surprisingly capable set of tools for live performance and recording, including an onboard tuner, headphone output and USB connectivity. This example is supplied with its original retail box, which shows some signs of storage and handling.

A particularly thoughtful solution for acoustic musicians seeking the warmth and realism of a properly miked instrument with the practical advantages of a pickup.