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mooseherman « Solid DI with a mostly transparent sound »
Published on 10/25/10 at 14:43This is an analog DI box, one of the most transparent I've found that isn't boutique or really expensive in general. It works equally well for live and studio situations, due to this transparency. There are the standard features that come with most DIs. Obviously the box has an input connection (1/4") and an XLR output. There's also a 1/4" output that is also pretty typical overall. There's also a ground switch that one can flip to prevent noise, which is a common problem with these types of DIs. There are no effects on this DI box and it can't be racked.
UTILIZATION
This pedal couldn't be easier to use, just plug the instrument in the box, run the XLR cable to the pre-amp (whether it be studio or mixing board), and if you still need to amplify the signal, run it through an amp from the Hi-Z output. There's no need for a manual, assuming you've used a DI box before.
SOUND QUALITY
This is a pretty transparent console. Granted, it's not the most transparent, and what little coloring it does add to the mix is rather bland and uninspiring. However, most DI signals in the studio tend to be souped up with effects, compression, EQs, and the like. Plus, I tend to use it as a blend with an amped signal, which more often than not tends to dominate the mix. Thus, I feel like it can be a fine addition regardless of its tone. But let's be clear, it doesn't sound as good as most more expensive DIs do, even the transparent ones.
OVERALL OPINION
If you need a cheap DI that isn't noisy and doesn't color the sound, this is a fine choice. It's not the best but it's the cheapest one that is any good. In fact it's usually good enough for most instances. It's got a decent transparent sound and usually can remove all ground noise with the flick of a switch. I have used a lot of DIs and never really had to complain about any of them, but this was cheaper than all of the rest. Therefore I have a lot of respect for it.
UTILIZATION
This pedal couldn't be easier to use, just plug the instrument in the box, run the XLR cable to the pre-amp (whether it be studio or mixing board), and if you still need to amplify the signal, run it through an amp from the Hi-Z output. There's no need for a manual, assuming you've used a DI box before.
SOUND QUALITY
This is a pretty transparent console. Granted, it's not the most transparent, and what little coloring it does add to the mix is rather bland and uninspiring. However, most DI signals in the studio tend to be souped up with effects, compression, EQs, and the like. Plus, I tend to use it as a blend with an amped signal, which more often than not tends to dominate the mix. Thus, I feel like it can be a fine addition regardless of its tone. But let's be clear, it doesn't sound as good as most more expensive DIs do, even the transparent ones.
OVERALL OPINION
If you need a cheap DI that isn't noisy and doesn't color the sound, this is a fine choice. It's not the best but it's the cheapest one that is any good. In fact it's usually good enough for most instances. It's got a decent transparent sound and usually can remove all ground noise with the flick of a switch. I have used a lot of DIs and never really had to complain about any of them, but this was cheaper than all of the rest. Therefore I have a lot of respect for it.