dbx DI1 - Active Direct Box

dbx DI1 - 1-channel active direct box with 0/−20/−40 dB pads, ground lift, and connected PA compatibility

The dbx DI1 is a compact and rugged active DI box that converts unbalanced signals from instruments and line sources (guitar, bass, keyboards, modules, recorders) to a balanced XLR output ready for console or interface, reducing noise and loss on long runs. It features level and impedance matching , a 0/−20/−40 dB pad switch to accommodate hot signals, and Ground Lift to eliminate ground loop hum. It is powered by phantom power ( +18 to +48 V DC ) or 9 V battery , with independent LEDs indicating the active mode. Plus, its compatibility with HARMAN Connected PA (ioSYS™) speeds commissioning with compatible systems.

The front panel offers 1/4" TS and unbalanced XLR inputs (automatic selection), and the rear panel has a balanced XLR output to the mixer and a TS “Link” connector that passes the input signal in parallel to feed, for example, an amp on stage. With a response of 10 Hz–70 kHz , THD < 0.005% and output noise < −100 dB (unweighted), the DI1 maintains the character of your instrument on tour, in the studio or in installation.

Main features

• Active and compact : high-quality balanced conversion for long runs without noise.
• 0/−20/−40 dB pads to adapt from passive pickups to amplifier/line outputs.
• Switchable Ground Lift to break ground loops.
• Front inputs : TS 1/4" and XLR (unbalanced).
• Rear outputs : Balanced XLR to console and unbalanced TS “Link” (parallel signal pass-through).
• Dual power supply : +18…+48 V phantom or 9 V battery , with battery LED and phantom LED .
• Connected PA (ioSYS™) : “CPA” position on the selector for automatic identification and configuration in compatible HARMAN ecosystem.
• Audio care : 20 Hz–20 kHz flat within ±0.5 dB (bandwidth 10 Hz–70 kHz, +0/−3 dB), THD < 0.005% , Output noise < −100 dB .
• Heavy duty metal construction for intensive use.

Product benefits

• Clean and consistent signal : balanced output with high noise immunity and minimal tone loss.
• True versatility : switchable pads and Link TS allow for scenarios from “pure” DI to amp + PA split.
• Instant integration : Bright LEDs, Ground Lift and Connected PA compatibility streamline operation.
• Mobility and reliability : powered by phantom or 9V; road-ready metal chassis.

Use cases

• Bass and guitar : consistent direct pickup at FOH/studio while maintaining the connection to your amp via the “Link”.
• Keyboards and modules : level and impedance matching for long, noise-free table runs.
• AV installation : clean adaptation of consumer sources to professional balanced inputs.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does it always need a battery? No. If your mixer/processor supplies phantom power within the +18 to +48 V range , select 48V/CPA and the DI1 will not consume any battery power.
• What does the attenuation switch do? It reduces the input signal by −20 or −40 dB to prevent clipping on "hot" outputs.
• Does the "Link" connector sum signals? No. It's a parallel input path to send the same signal to another device (e.g., an amplifier).

Description for projects

dbx DI1 Active DI Box ; Front 1/4" TS and unbalanced XLR inputs; rear balanced XLR output (pin 2 hot) and unbalanced TS “Link” (parallel pass-through); switchable 0/−20/−40 dB pad ; Ground Lift ; input impedance > 250 kΩ ; max. input level +12 dBu (0 dB), +32 dBu (−20 dB), +52 dBu (−40 dB); output impedance > 600 Ω ; performance: 10 Hz–70 kHz response (+0/−3 dB), THD < 0.005 % @ 1 kHz/0 dBu, output noise < −100 dB (unweighted); +18…+48 V DC phantom power or 9 V battery (Battery/48V/CPA switch with LEDs); Connected PA compatibility (ioSYS™); dimensions (without legs) 10 × 10.2 × 4.5 cm (W × D × H); weight approx. 0.40 kg ; metal chassis.