Quilter Labs’ Elevate & V803 Bass Amp Redefine Tone – Inside Look at NAMM Show 2025

Quilter Labs is shaking things up at NAMM 2025 with a sneak peek at their newest creation: the Elevate, a groundbreaking pedalboard solution that ditches the traditional modeling approach for something more intuitive and musical. On top of that, they’re showcasing the Bass Block V803—a featherweight amp head with massive SVT-style tone—and the Direct Amp, a pedal-friendly power solution with Bluetooth connectivity. Visit Quilter Labs to learn more about these innovations.

The Innovation Journey

Quilter Labs is calling the Elevate the “anti-modeler,” and for good reason. Instead of stacking thousands of IRs and amp models, they’ve developed a streamlined approach that helps guitarists dial in the sound they actually want—fast. With 100 factory presets, 100 user slots, and a web-based editor that lets you tweak everything from a Google Chrome browser, this unit makes tone-building accessible and efficient. Plus, every preset comes with an A/B function, meaning you can instantly switch between clean and dirty, echo and dry, or any two variations of a tone within a song.

But the Elevate doesn’t stop there. It includes the Jam Link system with Bluetooth compatibility, allowing players to stream backing tracks, practice with headphones, and even use MIDI control for expanded flexibility. With two stereo XLR outs, dual quarter-inch outputs, and aux outputs for separate monitor levels, this pedalboard powerhouse is designed for real-world performance needs. As Christopher Parks, CEO of Quilter Labs, put it:

"The ease of use is so dramatic, you can develop nearly any preset yourself with maybe as little as five minutes of pulling this out of the box. Simple."

Impact & Vision

Quilter Labs has always been about innovation, and the Bass Block V803 proves that once again. Weighing in at just 3.75 pounds, this amp head delivers the legendary punch and warmth of a 75-pound vintage SVT tube amp—without the back-breaking weight. Using the same patented tube-like technology found in Quilter’s Aviator Mach 3 and Aviator Cub, the V803 delivers classic bass tones in a package that’s compact, reliable, and road-ready.

"All of our hopes and dreams were shattered because we're selling them so fast that we have to order in another year in advance because it's selling so well," said Parks, emphasizing the overwhelming response to the amp. If you’re a bass player and don’t have one, as he put it, "you’re blowing it."

And for players who rely on pedalboards as their main rig, the Direct Amp is a game-changer. Designed to bridge the gap between pedals and PA systems, this unit simplifies live setups while integrating Bluetooth with Apple’s lossless codec and APTX for Android. A single switch engages wireless audio, making it easier than ever to stream tracks or play along with music.

Behind the Technology

At the heart of these innovations is Quilter Labs’ dedication to real-world usability. Whether it’s the Elevate’s fast and intuitive tone-building workflow, the Bass Block V803’s lightweight yet powerful design, or the Direct Amp’s seamless pedalboard integration, each product solves a genuine problem for gigging and recording musicians.

The Elevate rethinks digital processing by focusing on a song-based approach rather than a deep-dive modeling philosophy. Its ability to modify presets on the fly via a web browser ensures it remains adaptable to different playing situations, and its MIDI capability makes it a versatile centerpiece for any rig. Meanwhile, the V803 and Direct Amp take Quilter’s signature analog-style warmth and combine it with modern convenience.

Our Perspective

Quilter Labs has never been about following trends—they redefine them. The Elevate breaks away from the “more-is-more” mentality of traditional modeling units, offering a refreshing approach that emphasizes ease of use and musicality. The Bass Block V803 is a dream come true for bassists looking for massive vintage tone in an ultra-portable package, and the Direct Amp makes it easier than ever to integrate pedals into a professional live or studio setup.

Future Outlook & Final Thoughts

With the Elevate, Bass Block V803, and Direct Amp, Quilter Labs is proving once again that innovation isn’t about cramming in features—it’s about making musicians’ lives easier. As amp modeling continues to evolve, Quilter is carving out a space for players who want simple, powerful solutions that just work. If you’re a guitarist or bassist looking to elevate your rig in 2025, these new releases should be on your radar.

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