dbx
DBX DB12 Phantom Powered Active Direct Box
Best active direct box for professional stage and studio signal clarity.
The dbx DB12 Active Direct Box delivers exceptional audio performance and robust construction for professional applications. It features custom mu-metal-shielded transformers and high-quality Neutrik connectors to ensure signal integrity. This direct box includes a versatile pad switch for various signal levels, a polarity invert switch for phase control, and a ground lift switch to eliminate hum. Its durable cast metal chassis and stackable design offer reliability and convenience on stage or in the studio.
$163.90
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
12
/ 67
#12 in Direct Boxes
Price vs Category Average
-38%
Below average
Type
Active Direct Box
/ Active Direct Box
Who it's for
- Live sound engineers seeking a streamlined, battery-free setup
- Musicians needing pristine signal clarity for high-impedance instruments
- Touring professionals requiring gear that survives rugged road conditions
Who should skip it
- Users working with mixers lacking phantom power capabilities
- Budget-conscious hobbyists looking for an affordable, basic solution
- Performers using extremely hot signals without attenuation experience
Performance breakdown
Signal Integrity
Mu-metal shielding effectively eliminates electromagnetic interference for a pristine audio path.
Build Durability
Cast metal chassis withstands the rigors of constant touring and stage use.
Connectivity Reliability
Industry-standard Neutrik connectors ensure secure, noise-free cable seating every time.
Input Versatility
Three-stage pad switch handles everything from delicate instruments to high-output speakers.
Noise Floor
Active circuitry maintains an exceptionally quiet signal even at high gain.
Stage Utility
Stackable design and essential phase controls simplify complex live sound setups.
Key Specs
Type
Active Direct Box
Input Connector
1/4" TS Hi-Z
Input Impedance
1M Ohm (0dB pad), 47k Ohm (20dB pad), 47k Ohm (40dB pad)
Max Input Level
+50dBu (40dB pad)
Output Connector
XLR Male
Output Impedance
150 Ohm typical
Max Output Level
+8dBu into 600 Ohm
Frequency Response
30Hz to 20kHz, +0/-1dB
Features
- Exceptional audio performance with custom transformers
- High-quality Neutrik connectors for reliable connections
- Pad switch handles instrument, line, and speaker-level signals
- Polarity invert switch for phase control
- Ground lift switch eliminates hum and buzz
- Durable cast metal chassis for longevity
- Stackable design for convenient storage and transport
- Active direct box for clean signal transmission
What customers say
The DBX DB12 Phantom Powered Active Direct Box earns high praise for its exceptional reliability and superior sonic performance. Users consistently report that its build quality is tank-like, making it ideal for demanding live and studio use. The core appeal is its remarkable transparency; the unit translates instrument tone cleanly without adding noise or coloration, which is vital for bassists and guitarists. Professionals value the dependable phantom power operation and the effective ground lift switch for eliminating hum. Its high headroom ensures distortion free results even with active instruments. Reviewers frequently note that the DB12 delivers professional grade fidelity comparable to much more expensive DI boxes, establishing it as an excellent value.
Know before you buy
No, the DB12 is an active direct box that runs entirely on 48V phantom power provided by your mixing console or audio interface. You do not need batteries or an external power adapter.
Yes. The DB12 features a versatile pad switch that allows you to attenuate the signal by 20dB or 40dB, making it capable of handling instrument, line, and even speaker-level signals safely.
The custom mu-metal shielding protects the audio signal from electromagnetic interference, which helps maintain a clean, quiet signal path even in environments with high electrical noise.
The DB12 includes a ground lift switch specifically designed to break ground loops. Engaging this switch is the most effective way to eliminate hum and buzz caused by grounding issues between your gear.
Yes, it is built with a durable cast metal chassis designed to withstand the rigors of stage use. Its stackable design also makes it convenient to pack and transport multiple units securely.
The polarity invert switch is useful for correcting phase issues, particularly when you are using multiple microphones or inputs on the same source. It ensures your signals remain in phase, which prevents thin or hollow-sounding audio.
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