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Shop Direct Boxes and DIs at Sweetwater


A direct box's utility may be simple, but it can have a profound impact on your sound. You see, a direct box converts an unbalanced signal to a balanced one, letting you drive an instrument signal long distances to a soundboard or mixing console without introducing extra noise. Many direct boxes include additional features as well, including +48v phantom power, signal splits, and more


Passive vs. Active Direct Boxes: Which Is Right for Me?


How do you choose direct boxes for your specific needs? Sweetwater carries two types of DI (direct injection) boxes: passive and active. A passive direct box uses a transformer to convert the signal, whereas an active direct box has an active preamp built into the circuitry. Because of this, active DI boxes commonly require phantom power or a nine-volt battery to pass signal. Simply put, active boxes require a power supply, while passive ones don't.


Here's a quick way to choose whether a passive or active direct box is right for you: if you're using an active signal source (such as a keyboard, an active bass, or an acoustic guitar with an active pickup), go for a passive box. If your signal source is passive or low-output (as are many electric guitars and basses), an active box is probably your best choice. Therefore, all you need to remember is the rule of opposites. An active source needs a passive direct box, while a passive source needs an active direct box.


Direct Box FAQs


How many inputs and outputs should my direct box have?


Consider your source when choosing a direct box. If you're using an instrument source with stereo outputs — common on keyboards, drum machines, and more — be sure your DI has stereo inputs and outputs to match. For traditional guitar and bass signals, a mono-in/mono-out direct box will serve you just fine.


Do passive direct boxes color my sound?


Top-notch passive direct boxes typically feature a large transformer with high-quality shielding and an outer casing that maintains isolation from outside interference. Some direct boxes, such as the Telefunken TDP-1, Warm Audio WA-DI-P, and Acme Audio Motown DI, are chosen specifically for their custom Carnhill or Cinemag transformers, which can add a pleasing coloration to a direct guitar or bass signal.


What other benefits do active direct boxes offer?


Quality active direct boxes feature circuitry with high headroom that helps avoid clipping from very high signal levels. Some active DIs also feature active output controls to give you increased control of the signal sent to your audio interface or live mixing console.


Looking for More Input on Your Next Direct Box Purchase? Call Sweetwater!


If you have questions about the best direct box for your audio set up, you're always just a call away from our Sweetwater Sales Engineers. We can provide you with all the details you need in order to make an informed purchase and quickly find the ideal direct box for you.


For more information on direct boxes, see the following buying guides and shootouts:

"The Great Direct Box Comparison with Audio Samples" | inSync
"Warm Audio Direct Boxes Overview and Demo" (VIDEO) | inSync
"Radial JDX Direct Drive Active Direct Box Review" (VIDEO) | inSync
"Should I Use a Direct Box or the Instrument Input on My Audio Interface?" | inSync

Why shop Direct Boxes at Sweetwater.com?


With a massive selection of Direct Boxes, free shipping, a free 2-year warranty, 24/7 access to award-winning support - and more - Sweetwater gives you more than any other retailer! If you have any questions about Direct Boxes, make sure to give your personal Sales Engineer a call at (800) 222-4700.

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