Whirlwind EDB1

The Whirlwind EDB1 is a single-channel, passive direct box, capable of converting a high impedance, unbalanced signal from a 1/4" connection into a low impedance, balanced signal through an xlr connection, which is commonly used with microphones. The EDB1 also has a pad switch, which can lower the output signal by -20 db and -40 db. This is useful for hot input signals, such as headphone connections, but I find the pad to be too extreme, and I would love to have a -10 db option. Also, the pad switch is a little hard to see, and it is easy to accidentally toggle it during a live show setup, which can cause problems with the house receiving a lower than expected signal level. This passive direct box, like most, also contains a ground/lift switch that can help eliminate feedback hum. All of these features are pretty standard on a passive direct box, but the Whirlwind is an industry standard, and it is very rugged and does it's job. The box that I own is very worn, but it if hefty, and feels very solid. The sound quality is absolutely perfect, there are no artifacts, no hissing, no additional noise, and no loss of clarity.

However, I have had a few problems getting the direct box to work on stage. Twice, I tried using the Whirlwind EDB1 for a quick live show setup, only to find out the box did not seem to work. I was unable to recreate the problem, and I suspect it might've just been a bad cable or an unplugged connection.

Overall, if you need a basic direct box (who doesn't?), and you can find this item cheap, it is worth purchasing. I may have had some odd problems with this box, but I suspect my problems stem from other factors.

I've been using this direct box for just a month or so now. I bought it for use at my church where I play my acoustic guitar through the PA system with no effects whatsoever. I had been going straight in through the board but needed a DI for a traveling artist who required we have one for him to perform. So I bought it thinking I would use it for myself on a regular basis anyway. This unit is passive so it does not increase the volume noticeable, but the sound is more focused than before using it, and I think I lose less of the transient highs and upper mids of my 1970's Martin acoustic dreadnought guitar when using it. Best of all it eliminates any hum or noise at maximum volume on the mixer without adding any harshness so I can effectually play louder than before, which is good when I'm trying to keep up with a grand piano.
It has 1/4" in and through jacks, an XLR output, a pad switch for connection to "hot" signal sources, and a ground lift switch to help isolate hum and buzz. I haven't yet needed the pad or ground lift switch so I can't comment on those functions. I can definitely say that the exterior contruction is rugged, being a metal case, which is a no brainer considering they DIs spend most of their time laying on the floor when they can be stomped on, have equipment dropped on, etc.
The packaging included the information below:
Impedance Ratio (input to output): 133:1
Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz ±1dB
Level Change: -20dB (input to output, pad switch set to zero dB)
Pad: 3 position, provides 0dB, -20dB, -40dB additional attenuation

I like the simplicity of it, its quietness. It does the job. I bought it because the price was great and I trust whirlwind more than Behringer or some of the other brands in the same price range as this unit (under $40). Unless I fork out the money for a SansAmp acoustic preamp, I doubt I'll have to upgrade this unit anytime, and hopefully it will last a long time. If this one was stolen or damaged (through no fault of the manufacturer) I would probably just go buy the same unit all over again.