Conversion of an unbalanced signal into a balanced signal - for direct connection to a mixing console
Adjustment of level and impedance
Direct loop through of the signal
Transmission of the original signal without sound distortion
Robust metal housing suitable for stage use
Grounding switch to avoid hum problems
Safety against electric shock
The dbx DI-1 is an active di-box for live productions and studio use. It converts unbalanced signals (2-pole - jack/ RCA) to balanced (3-pole - XLR) and adjusts the level as well as the impedance.
Adjustment is necessary to connect signals from high impedance sources/instruments (guitar, bass) directly to the microphone input of a mixer or audio interface. For high level instruments (keyboards), the input volume on the dbx DI-1 can be attenuated by -20 dB and -40 dB. This prevents overloads and distortion.
It works the other way around as well - line levels can be converted to high impedance signals, which is important for re-amping during recording, for example. In this case, a neutrally recorded guitar/bass signal is played back through an amplifier and recorded again.
Unbalanced cables have the disadvantage that performance and sound quality decrease from a length of approx. 6 m. Long cable runs also increase the likelihood of interference from hum loops and interference.
With the dbx DI-1, balanced signals can be transmitted over longer distances without loss or interference. To interrupt hum loops, the DI box has a grounding circuit (ground lift switch) with which the ground connection or the shielding can be disconnected from the input and output.
In addition, the dbx DI-1 offers the possibility to tap a signal without interrupting the actual signal chain. At concerts, for example, the original signal can be mixed with the microphone signal from the amplifier. The possibilities for signal processing are thus greater and the sound more powerful.
A useful side effect is the increased safety against electric shock by using a dbx DI box. It separates the circuits from each other, so that an instrument cable is not directly connected to the entire PA system.
A 9 volt battery or the phantom power of the mixing console is sufficient to power the dbx DI-1.