The BEHRINGER ULTRA-DI DI20 is a professional active 2-channel DI-box/splitter designed to connect various sound sources to a mixing console. It allows for the direct connection of instruments (keyboards, for example) that don't have balanced outputs, as well as guitars, to a mixing console, addressing impedance mismatches and ensuring a clean signal. The device can be powered by phantom power or a 9 V battery, offering flexibility in different setups.
Function Description
The ULTRA-DI DI20 serves multiple functions:
- DI-box (Direct Injection Box): It converts unbalanced, high-impedance signals from instruments into balanced, low-impedance signals suitable for direct connection to a mixing console's microphone inputs. This helps to prevent signal degradation over long cable runs and reduces noise.
- Splitter: The device can split a single input signal into two outputs. For example, the CH.1 IN input can be split to CH.1 OUT and CH.2 OUT, allowing the signal to be sent to two different destinations simultaneously, such as a mixing console and an amplifier.
- Active Design: Being an active DI-box, it requires power (phantom or battery) to operate. Active DI-boxes typically offer a flatter frequency response and higher input impedance compared to passive DI-boxes, making them suitable for a wider range of instruments and applications.
- 2-Channel Operation: The DI20 features two independent channels, each with its own input and output, allowing for the processing of two separate signals simultaneously.
Important Technical Specifications
- Frequency Response: 10 Hz to 70 kHz (-3 dB). This wide frequency response ensures that the full range of an instrument's sound is captured and transmitted accurately.
- Noise: < 100 dBu. A low noise floor is crucial for maintaining signal integrity and preventing unwanted hiss or hum.
- Distortion: < 0.014% (1 kHz, 0 dBu in). Low distortion ensures that the original sound of the instrument is preserved without coloration.
- Input Resistance: > 250 kΩ. High input resistance is important for instruments with passive pickups, preventing loading effects that can alter their tone.
- Connection Impedance: > 600 Ω.
- Input: 1/4" mono jack.
- Output: XLR balanced. The use of balanced XLR outputs provides excellent noise rejection over long cable runs.
- Max. Input Level: +12/+32/+52 dBu. This indicates the maximum signal level the device can handle before clipping, with different values corresponding to the attenuation settings.
- Phantom Power: 18 V DC to 48 V DC. The device can draw power from the mixing console's phantom power supply, eliminating the need for batteries in many setups.
- Battery Power: 9 V 6LR61. Provides an alternative power source when phantom power is unavailable.
- Dimensions: 6" (150 mm) x 5" (130 mm) x 2 3/8" (60 mm). Compact size for portability and easy integration into a rig.
- Weight: approx. 650 g. Lightweight design for convenience.
Usage Features
The ULTRA-DI DI20 offers several features for versatile use:
- ATTENUATION Switch: This switch allows you to select between 0 dB, 20 dB, and 40 dB of attenuation. This is crucial for matching the input level of your instrument to the DI-box, preventing clipping with high-output sources and ensuring an optimal signal-to-noise ratio. For instance, a guitar amplifier's speaker output (solid state) might require 20 or 40 dB of attenuation, while a microphone or a guitar might use less.
- MODE Switch: This switch selects the operating modes of the DI20. In the 2-CH mode, two independent signals can be connected to channels 1 and 2 respectively. In LINK mode, the DI-box functions as a splitter, where the channel 1 input signal is split into two balanced signals (at outputs 1 and 2) and an unbalanced signal at CH.1 OUT. This is useful for sending the signal to both a mixer and an amplifier simultaneously.
- GROUND/LIFT Switch: This switch helps to eliminate hum and ground loop noise. When set to LIFT, it disconnects the ground connection between the input and output, which can be effective in breaking ground loops.
- BATTERY Switch: This switch activates the battery-powered mode. It's important to set it to OFF when using phantom power to conserve battery life. The LED indicator will light up briefly when switching to OFF, but this does not necessarily mean the battery is dead. For battery operation, only a commercial 9 V battery of the 6LR61 type should be used.
- Balanced XLR Connectors: The outputs use balanced XLR connectors, which are standard for professional audio connections. Pin 1 is ground/shield, pin 2 is hot (+ve), and pin 3 is cold (-ve). For unbalanced use, pin 1 and pin 3 should be bridged.
- Unbalanced 1/4" TS and Balanced 1/4" TRS Connectors: The inputs and link outputs utilize 1/4" jack connectors. TS (Tip-Sleeve) connectors are unbalanced, with the tip carrying the signal and the sleeve being ground/shield. TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) connectors are balanced, with the tip for hot (+ve), the ring for cold (-ve), and the sleeve for ground/shield. For connection of balanced and unbalanced plugs, ring and sleeve have to be bridged at the stereo plug.
Maintenance Features
- Battery Compartment: To access the battery compartment, simply loosen the screw on the rear of the device. This allows for easy replacement of the 9 V battery when needed.
- Phantom Power Option: The ability to use phantom power from a mixing console reduces reliance on batteries, minimizing the need for battery replacement and ensuring continuous operation during live performances or studio sessions.
- Robust Design: BEHRINGER products are generally known for their sturdy construction, designed to withstand the rigors of professional use. This contributes to the device's longevity and reliability.
- Warranty: BEHRINGER provides a warranty for its products, which typically covers defects in materials and workmanship. Users should register their product online to ensure full warranty benefits. The warranty terms specify conditions for repair or replacement, including proper usage and maintenance. It's important to note that damages caused by improper handling or failure to operate the unit in compliance with instructions are generally not covered.
- Software/Firmware Updates: While not explicitly mentioned for this specific device, BEHRINGER often provides software and firmware updates for its products. Users are encouraged to check the BEHRINGER website for the latest information and downloads.
- Cleaning: Regular cleaning of the device, especially the connectors, can help maintain optimal performance and prevent issues caused by dust or debris.
The ULTRA-DI DI20 is a versatile and essential tool for musicians, sound engineers, and producers, offering reliable signal conversion and splitting capabilities in a compact and durable package.
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