Strymon
Strymon PCH Active DI with Headphone Amp
Best professional DI for pedalboard users needing high-fidelity monitoring.
The Strymon PCH is a versatile 2-channel active DI box that also functions as a stereo headphone amplifier. It's designed to provide high-fidelity monitoring and performance, whether on a pedalboard or as part of a larger rig. The unit internally converts 9V DC power to 24V processing, virtually eliminating signal clipping. It offers flexible connectivity options, including switchable Mic-/Line-level operation, defeatable Ground Lift, and Sum or Stereo use of the 1/4-inch Thru connections. Its ultra-low THD ensures transparent sound, and the robust chassis is built for demanding use. The Strymon PCH is an ultra-premium stereo active direct interface featuring a console-quality headphone amplifier. It ensures your pedalboard's sound remains unchanged while passing through, and the integrated headphone amp allows for direct monitoring. Designed for sonic transparency and virtually unclippable performance, it's ideal for connecting unbalanced outputs to PA systems, recording interfaces, or flat response speakers. Whether used for pedalboards, keyboard rigs, or synth setups, the PCH offers a bulletproof solution for transparent stereo direct interfacing with local monitoring capabilities.
$279.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
52
/ 67
#52 in Direct Boxes
Price vs Category Average
+5%
Above average
Type
Active
/ Active
Who it's for
- Studio engineers prioritizing transparent and faithful signal reproduction
- Gigging musicians needing silent practice or quick stage monitoring
- Touring players demanding reliable, pedalboard-friendly hardware
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious players seeking affordable utility solutions
- Minimalists wanting to avoid extra power supply requirements
- Tone-shapers requiring built-in EQ or cabinet simulation
Performance breakdown
Sonic Transparency
Ultra-low THD ensures your signal remains pristine and completely uncolored.
Headphone Monitoring
Console-quality amplification provides professional-grade clarity for direct monitoring.
Headroom Capacity
Internal 24V conversion virtually eliminates clipping for worry-free performance.
Build Durability
Rugged chassis construction is built to withstand the rigors of touring.
Connectivity Versatility
Flexible routing options handle complex pedalboard and synth rig setups easily.
Signal Integrity
Custom transformer-based galvanic isolation keeps your signal path noise-free.
Key Specs
Type
Active
Channels
2
Ground Lift
Yes
Inputs
2 x 1/4"
Outputs
2 x XLR (main), 2 x 1/4" (thru), 1 x 1/4" (headphones)
Power Source
9V DC power supply (sold separately)
Manufacturer Part Number
Z120-PCH
Runs on 9VDC, internally converted to 24V
Features
- 2-channel multimode DI with stereo headphone amplifier for versatile monitoring
- Onboard console-quality headphone amplifier for monitoring or practice
- Supports stereo, dual-mono, and summable thru-output configurations
- Balanced 3-pin XLR outputs for high-quality connection to PA systems and interfaces
- Switchable Mic-/Line-level operation and defeatable Ground/Lift
- Ultra-low THD for transparent, uncolored sound
- High-durability construction for reliable touring and travel use
- Onboard power sufficient for high-impedance headphones
- Galvanic isolation via custom transformer for signal integrity
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Strymon PCH for its exceptional sound quality, delivering pristine and transparent audio reproduction. Users frequently highlight its robust build, noting the device feels incredibly solid and reliable for both studio and live applications. The combination of a high fidelity DI and a powerful headphone amplifier in a compact, durable package makes it a highly regarded tool for musicians seeking uncompromising performance and lasting dependability.
Know before you buy
Yes. The integrated console-quality headphone amplifier allows you to monitor your signal directly from the unit, making it an excellent tool for silent practice or checking your tone before sending it to the main output.
No. The PCH is designed for ultra-low total harmonic distortion (THD) and sonic transparency, ensuring that your signal remains uncolored and faithful to your original source.
By converting your 9V DC input to 24V internally, the PCH provides significantly more headroom. This virtually eliminates signal clipping, even when dealing with high-output instruments or line-level signals.
Yes, the XLR outputs feature switchable Mic/Line level operation, allowing you to match the output level to the requirements of your mixing console or recording interface.
The Thru outputs are highly flexible and can be configured for stereo, dual-mono, or summed operation, allowing you to route your signal to amplifiers or other gear exactly how your rig requires.
The PCH requires a standard 9V DC power supply. Because it uses internal voltage conversion, it is compatible with most standard pedalboard power supplies, though the supply is sold separately.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.