Answers to the most common questions about BIAS Head/Rack — from purchasing and setup to connections and support.
General
Q: Where can I buy BIAS Head/Rack?
A: Please see our dealer listing.
Q: What's the difference between the silver and black model?
A: The silver version includes a power amp; the black version is an amp processor only. Both share the same DSP engine.
Q: Does BIAS Head/Rack have any built-in effects?
A: BIAS Head/Rack includes a built-in reverb effect only. For additional effects, use your own pedals or route through the FX loop.
Q: Could the built-in 600W amplifier damage my guitar speaker cabinet?
A: BIAS Head/Rack outputs 600W @ 8Ω and 300W @ 16Ω. Use caution and avoid turning the volume all the way up. Do not connect the Speaker Out to powered speakers or grounded equipment (pedals, DI boxes, audio interfaces, or mixers) as this may cause serious damage.
Q: Which speaker impedance should I use?
A: BIAS Head/Rack supports 4/8/16Ω cabinets. We recommend 8Ω for guitar players and 4Ω for bass players. Unlike traditional Class A/B amps, you can safely use line outputs without connecting to the Speaker Out.
Software & Licensing
Q: Can I get a redeem code for BIAS Amp on iOS?
A: BIAS Amp 2 for iPhone/iPad is a free download from the App Store. Full functionality is unlocked through the hardware registration/activation process within the app — no redeem code needed.
Q: I can't find my redeem code for BIAS Amp desktop. What can I do?
A: Every unit ships with a redeem card for BIAS Amp Professional (desktop). If yours is missing, open a support ticket and include a copy of your receipt.
Q: I bought my unit used. Do I need to purchase BIAS Amp software separately?
A: Yes, if the previous owner already claimed the software license, we are unable to transfer it. You will need to purchase BIAS Amp Professional (desktop) separately.
Connections & Setup
Q: How do I connect FX pedals using the FX loop?
A: The FX loop is designed for placing effects after the preamp. First, review Serial & Parallel Modes, then:
- Select Serial or Parallel mode using the Utility Switch (F2).
- Use two mono TRS ¼" cables.
- Connect Send → input of your effect unit.
- Connect output of your effect unit → Return.
Q: How do I connect BIAS FX software to BIAS Head/Rack?
A: BIAS FX already includes preamp/power amp simulations, so disable those for best results. Then:
- Connect your iPad or computer (via audio interface) to send signal from BIAS FX into BIAS Head/Rack.
- Connect Send of BIAS Head/Rack → input of your audio interface.
- Connect output of your audio interface → Return of BIAS Head/Rack.
Q: Can I use the Send output to connect a tube power amp?
A: Yes. The Send output acts as a line output and can be routed to any power amp. Two Cab-Sim statuses are available — refer to F2 Switch — Serial & Parallel Modes for details.
Q: Can I connect the XLR outputs to a device with 48v phantom power enabled?
A: No. BIAS Head/Rack is not designed to work with phantom-powered inputs. Connecting the XLR outputs to equipment with 48v phantom power enabled may damage your unit.
Q: Can I use BIAS Head/Rack as an audio interface in my DAW?
A: No. BIAS Head/Rack does not include an ASIO driver and cannot be recognized as an audio interface. Instead, feed the signal from the Line Outputs into a dedicated guitar audio interface, or mic the output with a dynamic/condenser/ribbon microphone. When using BIAS Amp 2 Desktop with BIAS Head/Rack via USB, we recommend using the Standalone version to avoid MIDI interference from your DAW.
Controllers & MIDI
Q: What MIDI footswitches are compatible with BIAS Head/Rack?
A: BIAS Head/Rack supports MIDI PC and CC signals. The following have been confirmed by users:
- Rolls MP128
- Behringer FCB1010
- Tech21 MIDI Mouse/Moose
Q: What type of footswitch works with BIAS Head/Rack? What is an I2C pedal?
A: Footswitch jack #1 is compatible with Positive Grid I2C products (BIAS Footswitch) only. Footswitch jack #2 supports most one-button latch-type footswitches and expression pedals, including Boss FS-5L, Roland EV-7/EV-5, Korg EXP-2, and Hotone Soul Press.
Support & Repairs
Q: My BIAS Head/Rack is malfunctioning. Where can I get it repaired?
A: Open a support ticket to receive an RMA number, then:
- United States: Ship to our Service Center using a trackable shipping method.
- International: Contact your local retailer or distributor first.
- Warranty repairs: Return shipping is covered by Positive Grid (4–7 business days).
- Non-warranty repairs: Customer is responsible for shipping costs both ways.