What Is A DI Box (Direct Box)? | When & How To Use One

Do you need a DI box? A DI box (or direct box) is one of the most essential tools in audio production. In this video you'll learn what a DI box does and when you need one. I've included some audio demonstrations so you can compare the sound quality when recording with and without a DI box.
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Whirlwind IMP 2 Passive Direct Box
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Radial ProDI Passive Direct Box
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Countryman Type 85 Active Direct Box
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BSS AR-133 Active Direct Box
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[@riff1964]

I wish People would stop talking about high and low impedance signals, I think that is confusing to non-professionals. “Signals” do not have Impedance, which is a property of the hardware. Impedance is “resistance to alternating current” (our signal is a very weak alternating current). it is much more correct to talk about signal level and high & low impedance sources or outputs and inputs. The presenter correctly says that the DI box is a [unity] transformer which isolates two circuits with different impedance levels. Remember we know that an alternating current (ie. Our signal ) will pass through a transformer.

[@JayHelmus763]

This video is actually secretly an instructional video for how to make instructional videos. Straight to the point, well explained, no fluff. Bravo sir, well done.

[@manueltg1]

While is a subtle difference by using a DI box the real reason for them to exist is to eliminate the noise catchup effect in high impedance cable runs, so if your purpose is to clarify or enhance the quality of the sound DI is not the tool but equalizers, compressors and filters.

[@vasst4506]

As a student of audio engineering, your channel is a true blessing. You've helped me improve in both knowledge and practical skill. Thank you so much for what you do!

[@prestonwrouse7266]

I'm confused why would you compare a clean sound with a dirty sound when you're doing high and low frequencies

[@easyabc1404]

I can't tell the difference on my two little tv speakers... And even if, the difference is not that real. I'm just a guy with a bass and a big Peavey amp TNT 15 inches. Made in USA around year 2000 and quality garanteed... Have some pedals. Now i need a D I ?????????? What's next????

[@JD-kf2nz]

Dude your videos are GOLD. I've been watching this channel on and off since it was very young, and I am not surprised at all but so thankful and glad for you that you're now over 100k subs.

[@alexworman]

You've explained the cause of why I've always taken issue with how a guitar plugged directed into an interface sounds. Apparently it had to do with impedance. Didn't even know that was a thing

[@unkolawdio]

Yes,,I know,,,,not here,,,thank you tho

[@XIIMonkeysMusicGroup]

Why all my effects rigs I build active DI boxes into them!

[@WrvrUgoThrUR]

The rare KZbin video where the guy gets right to the point. No intro before, no sponsor before, not telling me to like and subscribe .0004 nanoseconds into the vid, no snark just CONTENT. Bravo, good sir, Bravo!!!!!

[@ajsmith4181]

Why can’t more instructional videos be like this….brilliant mate. Thank you.

[@Slurkz]

Excelent video. Next level basics. So well explained, with proof. Thanks a lot! 💜

[@pbk380]

Just watched this video and really like the way you explain the use of the DI box. I have been considering using a DI box in my audio circuit to a very expensive Amature radio, you have convinced me it could be a help with audio quality.

[@grandrapids57]

I never knew such a thing existed. As usual, we have here excellent teaching and selection of subject matter.

[@randomgeocacher]

Connecting phones/computers: Radial Pro AV2 (stereo DI box) I keep in my bag as a rarely used problem solver but when I need it, it delivers! Usually you can connect monitor/line outs directly into camera line/mic combo inputs and you’ll get excellent or at least usable sound. Some equipment you get really noisy audio even over short cables, you put that DI box in between, and you’ll mount your XLR input box, and suddenly the audio is pristine. So really great thing to have in the bag if you don’t know equipment at the venue or if any weird / unexpected connection request may emerge.

[@mrratskins]

This is an excellent video because it explains the "why" as well as the "how". Superb.

[@christopherharv]

Man these videos are such a blessing, thank you. Would love to hear you get into ground loops. I'm just a guitarist who is trying to make his own awesome music, but I realize I need to understand deeper electrical things.

[@frontcentermusician]

Nice video. Direct and to the point. That's all you need!

[@stowe07]

Thank you for making my life easier here. Endless blogs were confusing the hell out of me. This made it simple.