Topmusicanswers
The main use of a DI box is to help solve impedance discrepancy between a signal source and different studio electronics. In most of the cases, it's used for electric instruments that go directly into a mixing board. It's also for going straight into an audio interface or a mixer with guitar pedals.
- When should a DI box be used in a sound system?
- What is the purpose of using a DI box?
- Why is it necessary to use a DI box or an instrument input on an interface or console to record an electric guitar or electric bass?
- What is a DI box for recording?
When should a DI box be used in a sound system?
Mainly, it can be used to interface with older equipment that may not be wired to the AES standard of pin-1 ground, pin-2 positive, and pin-3 negative. This function can also be used for creative purposes when combining a microphone and a DI signal, to make the combined signal fit together more musically.
What is the purpose of using a DI box?
Direct boxes are often referred to as “DI” boxes. This stands for “Direct Injection” as their main purpose is to convert unbalanced and/or high impedance instrument signals into a format suitable for direct connection to a mixing console's mic input - without the use of a microphone.
Why is it necessary to use a DI box or an instrument input on an interface or console to record an electric guitar or electric bass?
The signals need to be at low-Z for recording and live purposes, thus the DI box ensures you get the right level signal for recording and the PA system. The DI Box also allows you to split your signal, sending 'Wet' and 'Dry' signals to different places, which is why it's such a useful bit of studio and stage gear.
What is a DI box for recording?
A DI box is essentially just a box for connecting instruments to a console or multitrack recorder. Its main function is to convert impedance, but realistically, DI boxes are also used for the following reasons: To isolate an instrument and remove noise bleed. To record a direct guitar signal for use in mixing.
