Are you looking for the Best Acoustic Guitar Di Box? If so, you’ve come to the right place.
Choosing the Best Acoustic Guitar Di Box can be difficult as there are so many considerations, such as Behringer, Whirlwind, Radial, Art Clay, Samson, Palmer, Muslady. We have done a lot of research to find the top 20 Best Acoustic Guitar Di Box available.
The average cost is $171.18. Sold comparable range in price from a low of $9.50 to a high of $949.99.
Based on the research we did, we think L.R. Baggs Venue DI Acoustic Guitar Preamp is the best overall. Read on for the rest of the great options and our buying guide, where you can find all the information you need to know before making an informed purchase.
20 Best Acoustic Guitar Di Box (20 Sellers)
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$245.51
4.8
Reviewers Noted:
Easy to use . Size . Weight . Sound quality . Portability
Features:
- Take your music creativity to the next level with this acoustic guitar preamp
- Led indicator lets you know the status of the battery
- Designed with 5 band eq to create different guitar effects
$52.00
4.5
Features:
- Make sure this fits by entering your model number.
- Connect your guitar or bass directly to your mixer without losing tone due to impedance mismatches, long cables and cycle hum.
- Converts any unbalanced line-level signal to balanced mic-level output.
$45.00$36.00
4.6
Features:
- Aluminum build of the case helps make it lightweight and durable
- Its 9v battery offers consistent power supply to compatible devices
- Gold-plating of the xlr connectors helps reduce signal distortion
$259.99
4.7
Reviewers Noted:
Easy to use . Size
Features:
- Designed with 9 effects to provide multiple options for audio mixing
- Frequency response of 20 hz to 20 khz balances low and high tones effectively
- Built-in compressor offers crisp and clear sound quality
Features:
- Full range passive direct boxes
- Isolation transformer eliminates noise
- Very low harmonic and phase distortion
Features:
- The 15 db pad reduces hot signals to keep your input free of clipping
- Rugged build of this direct box helps protect it from getting damaged
- The 20 hz-20 khz frequency response provides a crisp and clear audio quality
$48.00
4.7
Features:
- Make sure this fits by entering your model number.
- Switchable, extremely authentic speaker simulation.
- Internal battery automatically shut off when phantom power is connected.
$949.99
Features:
- Designed to use with electric guitars or any mono instrument for creating and mixing sound
- Color control offers subtle harmonic distortion for better sound output
- The level knobs make it convenient to operate
$69.99$55.99
4.9
Features:
- The -15db pad helps reduce distortion for crisp and clear sound
- Xlr output provides a reliable connection
- Frequency response of 20 hz – 20 khz delivers high-quality audio
$9.50
4.2
Features:
- Enables easy interfacing
- Provides connection between various audio gear in numerous applications
- Input attenuation: switchable (0db, -20db & -40db)
Features:
- The -15db pad reduces distortion for a clear and detailed sound
- Stereo-to-mono merge function offers easy connectivity with various types of inputs
- The eclipse et-db3 transformer adds a dynamic feel to the audio
Features:
- Designed with metal knobs to let you attenuate the signals conveniently
- Its 1/4" input allows convenient connection with compatible devices
- The aluminum enclosure helps make this device durable
$204.75
4.9
Features:
- 47 kohm helps reduce the distortion to deliver an enhanced audio experience
- Aluminum material makes this direct box corrosion-resistant
- Its 9 v internal battery helps provide optimal power supply for enhanced performance
$39.99
4.6
Features:
- Xlr connector offers a secure connection with compatible devices
- Switchable sensitivity feature lets you control the signal conveniently
- The 600-ohm impedance offers enhanced conductivity
Features:
- Product of caline
- True bypass
- Anti-return pedal
Features:
- The 5-band eq produces dynamic and crisp sound effects
- Xlr and 1/4" outputs offer a smooth and reliable connection
- The 9v battery provides uninterrupted usage for a long time
Features:
- Stereo direct box for line level sources
- Ultra linear response from 30hz to 20khz
- Easy access front panel volume control
Features:
- Bi-directional impedance matching assists in maintaining the noise immunity level
- The 14 gauge steel construction helps provide durability for prolonged usage
- Xlr mic inputs offer a reliable connection with the compatible devices
Features:
- Passive direct box
- 1/4" in and through jacks
- Xlr output
Features:
- With jensen transformers
- Connectors: jack in, rca thru in, jack / rca thru and xlr in per channel
- High-cut switch: 10 khz
1. L.r. Baggs Venue Di Acoustic Guitar Preamp
Product Details:
The l.r. baggs venue di is a direct box that is musical sounding, extremely rugged and feature-packed. the l.r. baggs venue di will redefine the meaning of hi-fidelity stage di boxes. the venue di is designed with 100% discrete circuitry for the cleanest and sweetest sound possible and also features a transformer couple di for total ground loop elimination and a new chromatic tuner in an attractive and bulletproof foot pedal package. additional features include a 5-band eq with tunable low and hi mid bands, phase inversion, garrett null notch, precision vu meter for accurate gain adjustment, dc input for use without battery and a 4-segment battery check gauge. it has never been easier to get a great sounding plugged-in sound from your acoustic guitar than with the venue di.
Specifications:
Power Source | Battery |
Voltage | 9 V |
Number of Bands | 5 |
Indicator Type | LED |
Reviews:
I bought this used through Guitar Center to boost the output of my Eastman 815 acoustic-electric mandolin, which has an internal microphone but was too quiet. I'm a hobbyist but play in worship settings. I was able to EQ the output to sound like the natural mandolin tone and to boost the volume which was important to me, since, on occasion, I play outdoors or in a large church sanctuary. The tuner is a great asset, making clip-on tuners unnecessary. The tone boost gives the mandolin even more volume for those times when you want to play a solo. The unit runs on a 9V battery or a 9v DC adapter. I happened to own already own a 9v DC adapter, and it gave the unit much more power than the battery, which was great. I definitely recommend getting a 9v DC adapter. This was a good buy!Jamie
From the very first moment I plugged in both my Martin D42 guitar with it's Fishman pickup and my five string Stelling Banjo with the KAVANJO pickup system to their respective LR baggs Venue DI preamp's a smile lit up on my face. The sound, the controlled sound, the natural sound that came out of each device was absolutely wonderful. I would have to say that my banjo sounded incredibly smooth… And the guitar tone was the best I've ever gotten from my Martin D 42. It was a pleasure to listen as a strummed or finger picked each instrument. And you could tell that the audience was listening intently… There was no distortion whatsoever. And I've really just started using the device, and haven't fully dialed in the potential. I'd also read a lot about the tuner not being accurate… Well I have two Petersen tuners… Clamp-ons … one on each instrument and I double checked it with the baggs built-in tuner… And so far it has been spot on. The boost switch is fantastic and the mute couldn't be better. I am completely satisfied and delighted that I purchased one LR Baggs Venue DI for each instrument.
I've got 2 LR Baggs Para DI's and have been wanting to try out the Venue DI. I have a Taylor 814 V Deluxe, Taylor 614 and a Taylor 354. I always bring at least one of the 6 strings and the 12 string when I play. All 3 guitars have different tonal qualities, so I wanted separate DI's with EQing abilities for each. The Paras do very well, but I found the Venue to be quicker to dial in a great acoustic tone and it sounds more transparent to me. I love the boost function too!!! Very well built! Like others who have reviewed, the tuner is slow to respond at times and phantom power would have been nice – otherwise this is a 5-plus stars.
2. Behringer Di400p Ultra-Di Passive Di Box
Product Details:
Specifications:
dimensions | 3.5 x 12 x 6.6 cm |
Reviews:
I have complex effect chain loops feeding into a patcher where then I end up sinking to the mixer, patchers are known to introduce the ground loops hum. This piece of engineering completely lifted my earth and separated the two circuits hence entirely eliminating my hum. As usual Behringer amazes by its engineering value offering at this price range.Walid A.
I am the worship leader at a local church. I needed a direct box to plug my acoustic guitar into the sound board. I looked at various different models and decided that this one would do everything I needed it too. It has lived up to my expectations. I have never had a problem with this direct box. The only reason I gave it a 2.5 on features is because some of the more expensive models have equalization controls, multiple inputs, effects loop, et cetera. If you take care of all that with other equipment all you really need is this box. And at a price below most of the other models it definitely gets my recommendation.Guitar Guy-DT71n
3. Behringer Di100 Ultra Di Direct Box
Product Details:
Behringer active di-box – di100with the ultra-di di100, you can rest assured that your sound source will reach the console balanced and noise-free. the ultra-versatile di100 active di (direct injection) box gives you unparalleled functionality, durability and sound at a truly remarkable price. put the ultra-di di100 in your signal chain today and discover the authentic sound of your instrument. plug into the di100’s balanced ¼ " trs or xlr input, then send a signal to your console via the balanced xlr output. you can even plug your guitar or bass amp’s speaker output into the di100, which can handle ratings of up to 3,000 watts and still deliver a perfect signal. it also features a ¼ " link jack to send your signal to an on-stage amplifier. the di100 is equipped to handle “hot” signals, thanks to its switchable built-in attenuation pad for input levels of up to +50 db. also included is a superior ground-lift switch to eliminate ground loop issues. the di100 also features our highly-acclaimed ot-1 output transformer for the most pristine signal transfer. an essential tool for every stage and studio, the ultra-di di100 is wrapped in a rugged, road-proof aluminum case with stackable rubber corners – and delivers the exceptional sound your music deserves! find out how the ultra-affordable di100 can improve instantly your sound at your nearest behringer dealer – or get yours online today.
Specifications:
Reviews:
The Behringer DI600P does a simple task and does it well – turning an unbalanced signal into a balanced signal for use by a mixer. Not having to use phantom power to run it is a bonus for small mixers without this facility, and the ability to completely isolate the signal to avoid ground loops is a must. Its clean, transparent sound makes an honest representation through a modern PA system. Amp speaker input levels as well as instrument levels make this such a useful device to have in your gig bag, and the low price tag is the cherry on the icing. Wouldn't be without it!Graham M.
This is a 5/5 all day everyday for me. I've used one for regular live gigs over the last couple of years and have had no issues whatsoever. Used mainly for keyboards it has been hard wearing and built for purpose. I'm expanding a bit more in live performance and had no hesitation in buying 2 more. Great unit for the price.Mary M.
4. Zoom Ac-3 – Acoustic Creator
Product Details:
Fully functioning & in great shape. includes original box, which is a bit tattered. the ac-3 acoustic creator is an enhanced direct box with essential di features that help you achieve great tone no matter where you play. the ac-3 is equipped with an effects generator, stereo outputs, and a compressor. with these features plus the same high-quality preamp and 3-band eq as the ac-2, the ac-3 is an all-in-one acoustic toolkit that’s perfect for live performance and studio. with 16 source guitar presets, the ac-3 recovers the sonic characteristics of a variety of guitar types and body shapes. you can choose from dreadnought, upright bass, nylon strings, 12 string, and more. simply select your guitar of choice, then choose piezo or magnetic pickup. from there, the ac-3 is ready to reproduce and amplify your guitar’s tone with complete accuracy.
Specifications:
Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 20 kHz |
Number of Effects | 9 |
Sampling Frequency | 44.1 kHz |
Number of Bands | 3 |
Built-In Compressor | Yes |
Reviews:
I’ve been searching for multi effects/DI pedal to compliment my Weissenborn style acoustic guitar. My sound hole passive pickup does a great job except for a somewhat weak output. Enter The Zoom AC-3 to the rescue. Now I have output headroom to spare. Everything about it is top shelf. Extremely flexible effects (kudos to ZOOM for using knobs rather than menu driven). And, it’s build quality is terrific. Very solid unit. I’m very glad I decided to try the ZOOM AC-3. BTW, the AMS payment options are unbeatable!SC n NC
I needed a DI box that could also boost the signal to the PA for solos and the Zoom does that well; the stage tuner is helpful, though I still use headstock tuners from habit and have accidentally muted my guitar stepping on the tuner switch when I wanted the boost switch. Providing presets for guitar body style should be useful, but once an effect is chosen I'll likely stick with it and use the equalizer knobs instead. Rarely use reverb playing with other instruments through the PA. The anti-feedback function and lift button haven't been needed though that was a big problem with my old DI box. Not using batteries, but two AA ones probably wouldn't last long.Mike
Makes a 200 dollar guitar sound like a 1000 dollar guitar. Makes a 1000 dollar guitar sound like a 2000 dollar guitar and so forth. The tape delay and tremolo sound so lush and amazing. The other effects sound amazing too, but I love the tape delay. What is amazing about this pedal is that it gets your little nuances and fixes them by smoothing them over. It's hard to find this pedal under 300 dollars, but if you have to own just one pedal for an acoustic then this is the one.satu87121
5. Radial Engineering Prodi – Passive Direct Box
Product Details:
When you need a di, rely on the box the pros turn to the most! the prodi is the most affordable direct box made by radial, but it still incorporates the same tough-as-nails construction that makes radial the first-call di of engineers the world over. using 14-gauge steel welded i-beam construction, the prodi is virtually indestructible. that means you'll get years of trouble-free service – that's a lot of bang for the buck! a 15db pad reduces hot signals, keeping your input free of clipping. don't cut corners on a critical link in the chain – put radial's prodi to work for you!
Specifications:
Product Type | Unbalanced to balanced audio converter |
Frequency Response | 20 – 18500 Hz |
Product Material | 14 gauge steel |
Width | 2.8 in |
Depth | 4.3 in |
Height | 1.7 in |
Weight | 19.05 oz |
Connections | Unbalanced audio input – phone mono 6.5 mm Audio loop out – phone mono 6.5 mm Balanced audio output – XLRM |
Service & Support | 3 years |
Shipping Width | 3 in |
Shipping Depth | 6.5 in |
Shipping Height | 4 in |
Shipping Weight | 21.51 oz |
Reviews:
I recently purchased a Boss Blues Cube Artist which has quarter direct out. I learned quickly it generates a lot of noise when connecting it to the church PA system, which of course did not go over well with the congregation. I explained my situation to Kyle at Sweetwater and made the purchase at his recommendation. I could not be happier. The Radial works as advertised. Clear tone and no more noise! Thanks again Kyle!
My church's worship director leads with a $1800 Martin with a built in Fisherman active pickup but the tone was just ok in the system. Then we bought this. What came out of the house speakers was very close to the natural sound standing beside the Martin while they play. Dead silent too. I really don't see any reason to get a more expensive DI. If you need a DI for your acoustic that runs on a 9 volt battery you need to get this passive DI. It's worth every cent.ManDude
Very solid DI. I traded in a Radial J48 Active for this at GC because I needed a passive DI for video work when at times I am not using a mixer. You cannot go wrong with this DI. Yes it does not have a Jensen transformer but I'll bet you would be hard pressed to tell the difference sound wise. Because I'm a pro audio geek I took the case apart and checked out the construction. It was very well laid out with first class parts.AV Guy Dan K
6. Radial Jdi Passive Direct Box
Product Details:
The world s finest passive direct box, the radial jdi, brings unprecedented sonic transparency and simplicity allowing the artist to be free of hassle and focused in on their music. pure sound of the instrument the radial jdi is a passive direct box designed to handle extreme signal levels without distortion of any kind. at the heart, the radial jdi employs the world class jensen jt-db-epc audio transformer delivering a smooth, warm sounding bessel curve, reminiscent of the finest vintage gear. ruler flat from 10hz to 40khz and with virtually zero phase deviation, the jdi delivers the natural, pure sound of the instrument without artifact. by its no-power passive design, the radial jdi performs both high-to-low impedance conversion and signal balancing over a magnetic bridge that passes signal while rejecting stray dc voltage. this makes the jdi particularly adept at eliminating hum and buzz caused by ground loops. jdi with electric bass the jdi is often selected for high output bass guitars. it is able to handle huge signal levels without distortion or artifact. on stage it sends the pure sound of the bass to the pa with minimal loading. in studio, it is perfect for recording direct. jdi with acoustic guitar most acoustic guitars have built-in preamps that can be peaky. the jdi naturally smoothes out the transients for a warmer tone. and because the jdi is able to handle huge transients, it will not distort. this makes the jdi a great direct box for acoustic guitars. jdi with keyboards today's digital keyboards are not only very dynamic, some like digital pianos have a tremendously wide frequency response. the radial jdi is able to withstand excessive signal levels at all frequencies without introducing distortion or phase shift.
Specifications:
Case Material | Steel |
Output | XLR |
Input Impedance | 140k ohms |
Finish | Powder coat |
Length | 5" |
Reviews:
Overall: Recently purchased another keyboard, and was going to purchase another Radial Pro-D2 which I had been using for over a year, love that box! But, I decided to purchase the JDI Stereo. I did a test with the two and yes the JDI Stereo had a slightly better sound, it was subtle, but it was noticeable in the lower and upper registers of the keyboard (88 keys). Radial products are not cheap, but there is no doubting the quality of these units.Reginald
I decided on buying the JDI Radial over other high quality direct boxes. I made my choice on other reviews and demo's that I could find. Sweetwater's direct comparison of high end direct boxes is what convinced me that this is the box to get. The sound you get is crazy scary. I use the JDI passive direct box for my active Sting Ray Sterling by Music Man. Amazing quality and sound!Flash With No Cash
7. Behringer Gi100 Ultra-G Di Box
Product Details:
Whether you?? re laying down tracks in the studio, or laying down the truth on stage c you need the amazing ultra-g gi100 di (direct injection) box to get your guitar sound to the console with full dynamics and power c and in absolutely pristine condition. the gi100 active di box gives you all the full-rockin?? glory of your favorite guitar running through a cranked 4 x 12 cabinet c at a fraction of the weight and floor space!
Reviews:
You have several options when not using a standard guitar amp. My particular use-case was that I wanted to plug into a computer interface, not have a shrill and weak sound while using distortion, and be able to record without having to crank my amp to maximum settings to get a good tone. If you try to use a distortion or other boost directly into the computer, you will probably get a shrill, high-frequency saturated sound; essentially you need a real guitar speaker to attenuate certain frequencies and give you that "balls," thick sound. This DI box was the solution for me. You can achieve a similar result with several "pod" like devices on the market, but I prefer using discrete pedals of my choosing, which isn't always easy or possible with multi effects units. With this, I can just run my typical setup to the unit instead of a regular amp, and still have a great sound. My main need was the cab sim and not the general DI functionality, but I can tell a major difference now when using a distortion pedal directly into the computer. It still isn't the same as miking an amp, but I feel it gives me a lot more versatility in my home studio, and I'm quite happy recording guitar tracks with this. Prior to using this device, I would scrap any guitar track I recorded that was not a miked amp. I now feel that I can get an album quality recording (yet still indy, not necessarily polished) with no amp. It can also be used to just plug into your band's PA system, but I haven't experimented with that so I can't comment. I am confident, however, that it would work just fine in that application. This would also be a great item for a keyboard player needing to plug into a house PA. The build quality on the outside seems excellent. The four rubber legs also help setting the unit down without slamming it. I'm very happy with the purchase, and with this price, you can't go wrong.Mirakus
Pro: + Easy to use: put a 9V battery in, plug your signal chain into it, output to audio interface. + Cabinet emulation is pretty good. Nothing to write home about but it definitely reduced the harshness of my overdriven black metal tone, making it much easier to work with in a mix. + Small and rigged. Metal case with rubberised feet mean it is most definitely usable for gigging. + Ground lift button got rid of humming that I had, BIG bonus! + Pad buttons help if your signal is excessively loud by reducing the level to prevent clipping (small LED to show if any clipping is occuring). Generally useful for active guitars among other uses. – Cabinet emulation is okay, nothing special and most certainly isn't as good as mic'ing up a speaker cabinet (though it's practically silent, so late night recordings can be done with ease). However, for the price and practicality this unit provides I don't see this as significant enough a negative to remove even a single star.desolator121
I am pleasantly surprised with this DI box. The only fault I have with it is the fact that you have to keep 9 volt batteries handy. Batteries do seem to have a long life in this thing, but it would be much nicer if you could just plug this thing in with a standard 9 volt barrel plug (like effects pedals). Most importantly it really does sound pretty good. I'm using mine with a Fender champion 600. Out of the amplifier's output to the Behringer DI, out of the DI to internal speaker (speaker level through the DI) and out of the XLR on the DI straight to the board. The only thing that is keeping the little Fender Champion 600's from creating massive tone is the small speaker and this solves that issue in a very big way. The sound I get is huge, warm, glassy, and very clear note definition. And my stage rig is unbelievably small now. It all fits very easily in the trunk of my car, and that's including 2 guitars. I recommend this DI for every guitar player.YadaYadaYada
8. Radial Hdi Studio Grade Direct Box
Product Details:
The radial hdi is a studio-quality direct box designed to create exceptional recordings with any instrument, utilizing premium jensen transformers and a unique color control that provides a familiar-sounding sonic palette to experiment with. despite the complex circuitry housed within the unit, the hdi has an elegant set of controls that allows the musician or engineer to dial up a record-ready sound with a minimal amount of tweaking required. the level control drives the inputs of the hdi with instant visual feedback from the responsive front panel meter, while the color knob provides seamless blending between an ultra-clean tone and amp-style distortion and saturation, so you can add just the right amount of character and grit to your instrument. a smooth opto compressor can be engaged to control the peaks of the input signal, and a high-pass filter clears up any excessive low frequencies added by the color control. lastly, a presence control accentuates the highs and high-mids, providing the ability to cut through the mix with results that are sure to impress. with its gunmetal anodized 1/2" thick milled front panel and distinctive styling reminiscent of classic outboard studio equipment, the hdi is sure to turn heads in any recording space. a custom output meter provides a level check at a glance, with oversized chrome knobs for precise adjustments and easy tweaking on-the-fly. the hdi is a stunning standalone unit, but it also comes complete with mounting hardware to install in standard 19" equipment racks. one or two hdi's can be installed side-by-side in a 2ru rack space, and like all radial products, they are built with rugged components and designed to easily withstand the rigors of concert touring.
Specifications:
Number of Knobs | 3 |
Connector Type | 3.5 mm |
Material | Gunmetal |
Output Interface | XLR |
Thickness | 1/2" |
9. Mackie Mdb-1p Passive Direct Box
Product Details:
The mackie mdb-1p is a passive direct box designed to connect a single instrument such as a guitar, bass, or keyboard to a microphone preamp for musicians and audio engineers in recording sessions, houses of worship, and live stage applications. it converts a high-impedance, instrument-level signal via its 1/4" ts unbalanced input to a low-impedance, mic-level output via its balanced xlr 3-pin jack. a 1/4" thru jack allows simultaneous connection to an amplifier or pedalboard. a -15 db pad reduces the input level to prevent distortion when using a high-gain source, and the ground-lift switch inhibits hum caused by ground loops. due to its passive design, the mdb-1p requires no batteries or power supply. a sturdy steel chassis enables confident use in the studio or on the road.
Specifications:
Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 20 kHz |
Output Type | XLR |
Input Impedance | 140 k Ohms |
Output Impedance | 400 Ohms |
Dimensions | L 1.5" x W 3.4" x D 5.8" |
Reviews:
Purchased this or my home studio, it is well built, very sturdy and works great. Good value for the price.Richard R.
Like all Mackie products I've used, this is another piece of workhorse gear. Purchase for a stereo feed of my keyboards to FOH for our worship team. Was originally going to get a Radial, but at half the price, I took the chance. I was not disappointed. Nice, clean and quiet. Very happy with this purchase.Kevin
10. Pyle Pro Pdc21 1/4'' Instrument To Balanced & Unbalanced Direct Box
Product Details:
Convert the output of unbalanced devices. professional power a direct box, or di box, provides the facility for the direct insertion of an audio signal into a mixer or recorder. the pdc21 offers a variety of di solutions for live sound and recording applications. you can connect all kinds of audio signals like guitars, keyboards, outboard signal processors and even high-powered speaker output from an amplifier. this unit enables you to tap off the signal from a guitar or bass guitar and pass the signal from the para output to the on stage amplifier without affecting the original sound. this can eliminate the need for mixing the guitar amplifier, which in many cases is preferable, especially with bass guitar.
Specifications:
Length | 5.5 in |
Height | 1.9 in |
Width | 3.65 in |
Weight | 0.95 lb |
Reviews:
This is a basic no frills DI box. Nothing fancy here, but gets the job done well. I have bought many Pyle products and never had any issues. I know sometimes they get a bad rep because quality control will let a dud through every once in awhile. As for me, I have been lucky, I own several of these DI boxes and never once had an issue. Since they are so cheap I have extra just in case one was to malfunction. You can't build one of these for less than 10 dollars so what do you have to lose.Greg
The Pyle parent company, SoundAround USA (http://www.soundaroundusa.com/) knows that thousands, if not tens of thousands, of the recent version of this direct box are totally unusable out of the box. I recently ordered four of them… and all four were defective. I sought four replacements from the retailer… and all four replacements they sent me had the same defect. I appealed to the SoundAround company itself, clearly explaining the 100% defect, and they sent me four more replacements… and all four of them had the SAME DEFECT. If you look through some of the dissatisfied reviews here, you'll see exactly what the problem is: units manufactured in China (says "Made in China" in big print across the side) have loose/sloppy attenuator switches. There is no way to tighten them up, and solid contact inside is impossible to achieve. So there is either a noisy signal or no signal at all. Let this be your warning – this direct box is bad news. I have two older ones that work fine, but the newer ones are absolute junk! It's a shame the company chooses to pretend they aren't fully aware of what is going on, (and possibly illegal).thirty3na3rd3
This product, Pyle-Pro PDC21 Instrument To Balanced and Unbalanced audio lines, is the third one that I use as an interface between my Behringer MX-1604A mixer output to a Ham Radio transceiver Yaesu, Kenwood, or Icom microphone input, via a Heil CC-1 XLR Y-BAL Cable or generic cable. In this type of configuration, the Pyle-Pro PDC21, as an interface box, ensures impedance matching and hum reduction, with it's Ground Loop Lift circuitry. It's a cheap way to achieve excellent audio transfer.thundergod4u2
11. Radial Stagebug Sb-2 Passive Direct Box
Product Details:
The radial stage bug sb-2 passive is a high-performance direct box made for players who are on the move made to fit inside of a guitar case, the sb-2 is ultra-compact yet is feature-packed to ensure great performance on any stage. the compact design begins with a " input and a thru-put to feed the on-stage amp. this connects to the custom-made eclipse et-db3 transformer which performs the impedance matching and balances the signal. when using extra high output instruments, a -15db pad can be inserted into the signal path. this enables the sb-2 to be used with active basses and digital pianos that often tend to overload the input side of the interface. an innovative stereo-to-mono merge function provides a convenient way to connect stereo keyboards and computers without having to reset the source for mono operation, saving time and input channels on the pa. the sb-2 output features an xlr wired to the aes standard with pin-2 hot. once connected, the sb-2 delivers a smooth warm sound reminiscent of older vintage gear. the transformer also helps eliminate the hum and buzz caused by ground loops by isolating the input from the output. this is augmented with a ground lift switch that lifts pin-1 on the xlr for quiet, professional results.
Specifications:
Output Type | XLR |
Transformer Type | ET-DB3 |
Maximum Input | +20 dB |
Input Size | 1/4" |
Frequency Response | 20 Hz to 20 kHz |
Reviews:
As above, very solid construction and does not take up too much room in your case. Crystal clear functionality
I bought this box for instruments at open mic nights. It’s really well built and everything that has gone into it has sounded better than going straight into a desk. The pad and phase reversal switches are useful additions. It’s tiny and fits easily into a guitar case. It will also last. I know you can get active DI boxes a lot cheaper than this but it’s worth spending the extra.
12. Warm Audio Direct Box Passive Di
Product Details:
The warm direct box passive is designed for use with electric instruments with active pickups such as basses and guitars as well as line-level instruments. the design is based around renowned electrical components such as the custom-wound cinemag transformer at its core. with its rugged extruded aluminum enclosure, its rugged metal switches, and pad knob it will provide a warm tone over long cable runs as well as durability on the road. on the front of the unit, you'll find a 1/4" input and an amp/instrument toggle switch. this toggle switch selects between line-level and instrument-level settings so you can use the box with either your high-impedance instruments (guitars and such) or line-level keyboards. now you can feed your amp on stage and send mic-level signal to the house mixer at the same time. on the rear, you'll see an xlr output and a variable pad knob that lets you attenuate your signal between -3 and -30 db, giving you another useful gain-stage. you can switch the pad out entirely with the engage toggle switch. this is the passive model, which is better suited for balancing the signal of instruments with active electronics such as electric guitars geared towards heavy metal and many electric basses. however, the di box sports a frequency range of 20 hz to 70 khz at ±0.5 db, so it can still handle passive instruments with a range that eclipses many other di boxes. passive di boxes do not require power to operate.
Specifications:
Chassis Material | Aluminum |
Frequency Range | 20 Hz – 70 kHz |
Knob Material | Metal |
Output | XLR |
Color | Black |
Reviews:
My Warm Audio Passive Direct Boxes (i purchased 8 of them) are a perfect solution for running four stereo guitar processors directly into my digital mixer with correct impedence and no noise. Like all Warm Audio equipment I've owned, these are solidly built, and being passive there are no power supplies to deal with. They have fixed or variable input choices,and also polarity switching. They work well, sound great. I like them.
Would highly recommendsidewalk_soup
13. Bss Ar 133 Active Direct Box
Product Details:
The ar-133 active di box from bss audio uses an enhanced version of the same audio path as the ar-116, now regarded by many people as a reference standard. the sound quality is legendary, particularly on acoustic and bass guitars. numerous applications can be satisfied by the ar-133. for example, as well as the traditional guitar use, the ar-133 can be used with keyboards, dj consoles, amplifier outputs, and other electronic sources. an additional bonus is the ability to use the ar-133 as an active balancing device. input connectors are both 1/4" jack sockets and an xlr socket, the latter meaning that the ar-133 can be used to convert unbalanced signals to a balanced output on xlrs throughout. the arched case allows cables to run back underneath the unit from the end for neat cable management. input attenuation is 0, -20 or -40db, making the box suitable for instrument, line or amplifier levels on inputs. on the output side, a ground-lift switch is provided for quick solutions to ground-loop problems. the bss ar-133 includes phantom power and battery supplies as standard. should the phantom power from the console fail or be accidentally switched off, the ar-133 automatically switches over to the internal 9v battery providing uninterrupted use. this unit is housed in a rugged aluminum extrusion case, with robust polyurethane end-cheeks which give the ar-133 a very distinctive look.
Specifications:
Material | Aluminium |
Voltage | 9 V |
Connector Type | XLR |
Dimensions | 2.3" x 4.9" x 5.6" |
Frequency Response | 30 Hz to 20 kHz |
Reviews:
Well worth evey penny. Does exactly what it should, and nothing else.
Best DI box made. Extremely versatile for use as an active or passive device.ACE
14. Art Zdirect Professional Passive Direct Box
Product Details:
Art z directthe art zdirect is a high quality totally passive interface that lets you connect instrument, line, or speaker level signals to a mixer or other balanced input thru a high performance audio isolation transformer. the high impedance single-ended 1/4 input is on the art zdirect converted by the transformer into an isolated balanced low impedance signal source. the art zdirect's audio transformer has an extremely flat and wide frequency response and can handle high signal levels while still maintaining an isolated balanced low impedance output. this gives the art zdirect a very clean and neutral sound with a wide variety of signal sources and over long signal runs in high noise environments.what further sets the art zdirect apart from other "di" boxes are its extended features and versatility. a switchable low pass filter cuts out all very high frequency interference. the filter is also very effective in reducing any digital computer noise artifacts when using the art zdirect as an interface between a computer based audio workstation and your monitors. the phase invert switch, while not normally included with your run of the mill d.i. box, has been added to allow you to switch signal polarity right at the source. this feature is especially handy when you are combining a direct tap with a microphone feed in the mix.the compact black anodized all aluminum case and it's passive design allow the art zdirect to provide years of trouble free service in live sound, permanent/fixed install, d.j., and virtually any pa application. it's full feature set, rugged construction, and high-end specifications make the art zdirect the obvious choice.
Specifications:
Connector Type | XLR |
Frequency Response | 10Hz -50kHz |
Dimensions | 1.75" x 4.2" x 3.5" |
Output Phase | Switchable |
Weight | 0.75 lbs |
Reviews:
I've had great experience with many ART products (preamps, passive mixers, re-amping boxes) and found them to be very reliable and worthwhile on the whole. The same cannot be said of this direct box. I opened them (I ordered 2) and compared them side by side with a Radial PROD2. The Radial was crisp and clear as I expected, the ART boxes sounded fuzzy and introduced errant noise. I wish all direct boxes were created equal but they absolutely aren't. In my experience, this direct box is unusable.Brian
Our church has gone through quite a few high end and high priced direct boxes. I needed to replace 2 10 year old units that failed recently. Seeing the price of these thought I would take a chance on them. I am not disappointed. Extra features not found on most and very quite running. They appear very durable.Jordanrctm
I have the version of this DI box that has dual inputs and outputs. Its the best value on the market. I own a recording and rehearsal studio and have been using this for about 4 months since the date of this review and its worked like a charm. Simple to use just plug in your unbalanced source and it converts to balanced with no coloration at all, sounds beautiful especially on keyboards. The build quality is terrific it has a nice weight to it and is rock solid, I would definitely buy a couple more.Joey
15. Caline Pedal Preamp Di Box For Acoustic Guitar Effects Pedal True Bypass With Aluminum Alloy Housing Cp-40
Product Details:
Cp-40 is a pre-amp and di box for acoustic guitars and acoustic situations, makes the sound of the guitar more focused, melodious, bright, and mellow control feedback and add eq (treble and bass) adjustable volume by the input knob. there is no sonic boom when you amplified sound product dimensions: 4.7(l)*3.7(w)*1.5(h) inch, product weight: 0.5kgs mini size, space-saving and portable for guitarists carry. with aluminum alloy shell, durable and stable cp-40 di box for acoustic guitars cp-40 is a preamp and d.i. box for acoustic guitars. when using this d.i. box, you must use the input knob of this d.i. box in order to avoid overloading your acoustic guitar e.q. if overload occurs, please reduce the volume. turn on the anti feedback foot switch, and adjust the anti feedback knob to avoid volume feedback. turn on treble boost foot switch, to increase the brightness of the tone. features: true bypass power requirement: 9v dc center negative current consumption: 50ma product dimensions: 11.9×9.4×3.8cm weight: 0.5kgs package included: 1 x guitar effect pedal 1 x battery cable suggestions: 1. di is that you should use longer cable and grounding. 2. suggest that use the cannon, guarantee that the signal will not be attenuated and ensure the clearness of the signal and the dynamic effect of the sound. 3. at the same time the cannon grounding will prevent the low noise caused by the grounding problem of some instrument.
Specifications:
Product Dimensions | 1.5 x 4.69 x 3.7 inches |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Color Name | Cream-colored |
Musical Style | Acoustic |
Voltage | 9 Volts |
16. Lr Baggs Para Acoustic Di Guitar Preamp
Product Details:
The para di is the award winning preamp/direct box that fits right into your string pocket and gives you a 5-band eq with tunable notch and midrange. whether on stage or in a recording studio the para di brings out the best in any pickup. as a musician, you are an artist…a communicator. the notes, chords, rhythms, and melodies you play on your instrument need to be heard loud and clear by your audience. whether your focus is getting the best tone from your instrument on stage or in the studio – l.r. baggs products can help you sound great. they've spent 20 years developing the best sounding pickups and preamps on the planet. this is the sound you've heard from players like vince gill, pete townsend, doyle dykes, eric johnson, phil keaggy, earl klugh, alison krauss, lenny kravitz, kathy mattea, natalie merchant, jean luc ponty, james taylor, and countless other talented players around the world. so…are you ready to find the right gear to take your tone to the next level? their electronics are the product of 20 years of relentless improvement and the quest for perfection. their quality has been recognized with great reviews and numerous awards. they have also garnered a well deserved reputation as the most advanced and best sounding circuitry for pickups on the planet. they are magic. you can be assured that you will sound your absolute best when you use any l.r. baggs preamp. the acoustic guitar magazine players' choice award winner the para acoustic d.i. is a studio quality direct box combined with a feature packed, state-of-the-art preamp and equalizer. l.r. baggs' proprietary quasi-passive eq circuitry is totally transparent and allows control over voicing without sacrificing tone – a big advance over conventional equalizers. it brings out the best in any pickup and will make you sound better. the para acoustic d.i. is quickly becoming a key component in the acoustic setups of both professional and amateur musicians alike.
Specifications:
Number of EQ Band | 5 |
Power Output | 9V |
Output Size | 1/4" |
Sensitivity | 24 dB |
Phantom Power | Up to 48V |
Reviews:
Well you know how some people are when it comes to amplifiers on stage for church worship services. They don't want them because they think everyone will start cranking up and jockeying for sound. So I bought this direct box. Its amazing! You will like it a lot. I plug my acoustic guitar straight in and then send it to the house speakers. We have a Presonus 32.4.1 AI mixer in the new building. My favorite thing about this is the eq settings. I can dial in a sweet tone, my settings are bass at 2oclock, mids at 2 o'clock and presence and highs at 1 o'clock. Gain at 12 and volume at 3. This box is really all you need. I don't like tinny trebly sounding acoustic guitars. The bass and mids are wonderful for balancing out some highs and giving the guitar a "fullness". This box sounds very realistic. It is a very good representation of how the guitar sounds unplugged. I have a B Band pickup under the saddle so i have never had any frequency issues. I don't use the notch. I also use a TC electronic arena reverb pedal. Make sure you send the acoustic into the Para DI first and then to the reverb pedal or else it don't sound good. You can do this by getting an effects send return 1/4" cable and using the FX jack on the DI. Nice feature!! I will say i think this box sounded better on the old analog mixing board at our church, but I'm sure we can tweak it to the Presonus. Our church just moved from a 14,000 sq ft building into a 30,000 sq. ft. new building and new sound system so the room is playing into effect also. You need to keep this in mind. The old room had 12 ft. tile ceilings. The new building has 40 ft. ceilings. I think it sounds good coming out the house but it still sounds a bit digital in my headphones. Especially the b and e strings. That has more to do with the digital mixer though i think.guitarguy1981
If you've ever faced the problems of booming (or too thin) bass, acoustic feedback, "quacking," nasal sounding treble, or clicking picks, you will welcome this marvelous box. On my very first gig with the Baggs, I told the sound man to set the board flat and let me handle the EQ. With just a little experimentation and adjustment, I was able to boost the bass to the point where it was full but not booming, eliminate quacking and feedback, and balance the sound on my Taylor GS7 across the musical spectrum from low to high. When the sound man called down from the booth that he could hear my picks clicking on the strings, a few tweaks of the mid-high and presence knobs dialed that right out, without sacrificing volume or clarity on the treble strings. Admittedly, it's a bit tricky to master the somewhat complex settings on this sophisticated device, and the minimal instructions provided by Baggs don't help as much as one would wish. But there are some helpful videos on YouTube, and with a little experimentation you can get this box under control. I love the sound that it lets me get out of my guitar, and can't imagine that your experience would be any different. It's also extremely rugged — built like a tank, in fact — and should stand up to a lot of on-stage use. I can't imagine ever plugging in without it.marconelli
The best DI for acoustic guitar I've ever used. I bought one of these little gems at a local music store for almost ten years ago and it's like brand new. Quiet. Clean. I have a Tascam DP24 and there is ZERO hum or hiss in the signal. Onstage, I darned well won't use anything else for my Guild J series. The control over feedback in a live setting is incredible. I can notch out any hint of feedback with just a tiny alteration of the sweep knob. If my strings are a little old, I can dial in some crispness. The control in the lower mid to low high end is most sensitive–and very impressive. Most DI's give you a flat signal all across the spectrum which is okay for bass guitar or keys, but somehow this little guy gives me a certain springiness in the mid's, about 800 Hz to around 1.5 KHz. I frickin' love it. It turn my acoustic into a lead instrument that doesn't get lost in the mix.Michelle
17. Radial Trim-Two Stereo Di With Level Control
Product Details:
Passive stereo direct box with level control the trim-two is a passive stereo direct box designed for use with laptop computers and other consumer playback devices, eliminating hum and buzz from ground loops while providing an easy-access level control for quick adjustments on stage. a noise-free interface for your audio devices the trim-two allows you to connect any playback device and interface it with balanced pro audio equipment without signal loss or hum and buzz from ground loops. it features two transformers which isolate and balance the audio output from your source device, eliminating noise and allowing you to use long cable runs without signal degradation. a handy mono sum switch makes it easy to reduce the output channel count or send the same signal to two destinations at once, and an accessible level control gives you the ability to adjust levels in an instant. multiple input connector types make it easy to hook up any consumer line level playback source, from laptops & smartphones to dj equipment. the completely passive design means that you never have to worry about powering the trim-two, making it truly plug & play. using the trim-two in a keyboard setup use your laptop as a sound source with the trim-two connected to control the volume and send a balanced signal to the pa system. using the trim-two with a dj setup simplify your dj setup using a pc to play sound files and the trim-two to balance the signal. the handy volume control makes it easy to manage. using the trim-two with a tablet play your sound files using the trim-two by connecting it from the headphone output to the 3.5mm input. use the variable level control to trim the level and avoid distortion.
Specifications:
Weight | 2.05 lb |
Reviews:
I replaced a basic attenuator with this Stereo DI and have had great results in dropping from Line Level down to Mic Level. The level knob is such a great addition! As typical with Radial Engineering, this is super high-quality and have no hesitation highly recommending this!Williams
Sound: Seems good clean flat sound Features: Lots of input and thru output configurations. All metal construction case, and an adjustable pot at the source. Ease of Use: Plug and Play Quality: Build like a tank Value: Can't place a value on reliability. Manufacturer Support: No Problems from this Di and my other Radial jdi duplex. The Wow Factor: Another tool that makes my job easier, solid tank construction, name you can trust, and an easy going price… why not Overall: Looking for a Di with a pair of rca inputs, stereo/mono line outs, for hooking up iPhones, and stuff. My speakers back panel consists of 1 adjustable pot mic in, 1 line in, a thru out and a master pot, this Di allows to be able to use the mic and line in at the same time with separate level controls, also turning Di pot all the way ccw allows you to cut signal completely, you can disconnect inputs without affecting speakers. 1/4, 3.5mm are a bonus.Keoki
18. Monoprice, Sound Block Passive Direct Box With Ground Lift And Attenuator
Product Details:
Throw the sound block in a bag, trunk, or anywhere cable and misc. audio supplies are stored. the heavy-duty construction and passive electronics make the sound block nearly indestructible. this direct interface is extremely versatile as a lo to hi-z transformer for electric instruments and devices to xlr mic inputs or as lo-hi-z to use a microphone with a guitar amp (not recommended only because guitar amps make terrible pas). high level outputs from active instruments and even speaker outputs are not a problem when using the -20 or -40 db attenuator switch. the sound block is a very easy to use passive device. simply plug your 1/4 output from a guitar or electric piano, plug an xlr cable into your mixers channel input, and youre done. a ground lift is provided for use in older buildings with janky wiring or if circuits are different from stage to where the sound system is located.
Specifications:
Material | Steel |
Gauge | 14 AWG |
Dimensions | 5.3" x 3.2" x 2.1" |
Weight | 1 lb |
Color | Black |
Reviews:
Nice box for the price. When running pink noise frequency specs, I found that in the -20Db pad position, there is a significant roll off of low frequencies, similar to a good ?low cut filter?. All frequencies were relatively flat in the 0Db and -40Db position. Other than this, the construction is good and does the job as expected, especially for the price.John
The XLR output made my guitar sound strange. The ground lift did little to eliminate noise. I tried a different brand DI box and ground lift removed most (if not all) noise. The XLR audio sounded better too. Because the reviews for this product are high, I can only assume I have a defective unit. I will return this product for a refund.M.
Picked up this DI Box out of desperation as our studio box broke. Definitely amazed by the build quality and functionality. You can't compare this with Radial or any other massive brand but this will get the job done right. Pros: – Cost – Works as expected – Attenuation switch – Ground Lift Cons: – Does not make my coffee Not much of a con but more wishful thinking. This little box is definitely worth getting a couple when in a pinch.D.Y.W.
19. Passive Di Direct Box 1/4" Instrument To Balanced & Unbalanced Xlr
Product Details:
Convert your hi-z 1/4" signal to lo-z xlr. you do not need a battery or phantom power for this direct box. great for keyboardists, acoustic & electric guitarists, bassists, and other instrumentalists needing to plug into the snake on stage. please be sure to read the description thoroughly to make sure that this is the item you want before making a purchasing decision. please be aware that slight variations in color may be due to differences in lighting and computer monitor resolutions. boxes or apos. an adult signature will be required. please be sure to have available help on hand to assist you with moving the item to the desired location in or outside of your home. you can request a refund if you are dissatisfied for any reason with your product. only factory defects are accepted as a reason for a return. the item and package should be in original and perfect condition.
Specifications:
Product Dimensions | 6.5 x 2 x 3.5 inches |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Color Name | Black |
Compatible Devices | Guitar, Keyboard |
Connector Type | XLR |
Reviews:
Hard to fault an audio fx that's under $20! It works great for my purpose as I wanted a di box for my pedalboard to capture clean tone before fx processing. Slim enough to mount under the board (pedaltrain terra) after removing the runner feet. There's a little bit of drop in volume when a/b'ing – but, nothing concerning and it doesn't appear to color my tone. Going to order another to keep in gig bag as a way to go ampless if needed.zer0_coo1
Bass. Keyboards. All sound great. Great for stage and studio recording!!keyzandstringz
Needed another one of these as a band actually burned out the transformer in one of mine. This is pretty much the same as the Pyle, Sound Boy, and many other passive direct boxes. It gets the job done. 2 steps of attenuation and a ground lift in a very durable package is pretty much all you get.gregs_electronics
20. Radial Jdi Duplex – Stereo Passive Direct Box
Product Details:
Only used this a few times. learned later about, and ended up getting, the keylargo instead as i'm a keyboardist. my jdi duplex, functionally, is in perfect shape. everything sounds good though this. a small piece of paint got scratched off the logo somehow. other than that, this thing is in near-new condition. swiss army knife of di boxes. got it because you can run 2 keyboards (or 4 mono tracks) in stereo using the sum feature. ground switch is a lifesaver on gigs. radial builds tanks and makes great stuff. priced as is.
Specifications:
Weight | 3.2 lb |
Reviews:
Best di box ever. It sounds awesome.byhyeo-0
Still trying to get used to the fact that Im not using a microphone on the cabluiraccugli0
I purchased this unit because its a great way to hook up laptop audio to convention center sound systems that have ground loop problems. Guess what?? It worked! As well its a great box for cleanly separating a single stereo audio signal into two separate monitor setups in a studio environment. Bottom line for passive DI solutions, Radial it king!454deluxe
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