From
Guitar Player, August 2003 issue
Pro Audio Report
BBE DI-100x and DI-1000
Being
a cagey studio guitarist isn't always about cooking up brilliant
guitar and amp combinations, slick effects, and facile mic positions.
Sometimes, a tune requires the snap and ka-ching of a clean, direct
guitar. Or your sonic tidal wave of layered guitars could use
a little clarity and/or attack. Or you may need a little more
punch from your drum machine, sound module, or sampler. In these
instances, a great direct box can make the difference between
a relatively anemic signal and a studly wallop. And if you can
put your hands on an astounding direct box, well, then you can
truly wield a little of that audio magic.
BBE's DI-100x ($199 street) and DI-1000 ($249 street)
direct boxes are astounding. Obviously, they're more
expensive than the semi-pro models typically employed by home-studio
users, but these suckers will be by your side for a long, long
time, and they offer features unmatched by bargain DIs.
For
example, each box is so tough and road-worthy
that I doubt a direct hit by a smart bomb would cause any damage.
Both models also include a no-slip, rubber pad that not only prevents
onstage "traveling", but also decouples any metal to
metal contact if you put the box atop an amp chassis, rack, or
mixer. Smart.
The
DI-100x adds a 15dB pad (for taming hot input signals) and a balanced
1/4" output (for interfacing with semi-pro gear), and the
DI-1000 piles on the classic Jensen JT-DB-E transformer (for impedance
matching and beefing up signals), passive/active operation, and
an additional 30dB pad (which makes it possible to take the output
of your favorite amp head, plug it into the 1000, and run it direct
to tape).
Best
of all, both models include a Sonic Maximizer circuit
that can be switched in or out. When active, the Maximizer can
de-mud (as well as bolster) low frequencies and add sparkle to
high frequencies. The knobs and switches on both boxes are extremely
sturdy.
Tested
with a Les Paul, a Strat, a semi-hollow Guild X-160, and a Martin
Alternative II acoustic/electric as well as a Korg Electribe ER-1
groove box and a piezo-equipped upright bass, each DI
did a fantastic job of translating input signals with punch and
clarity. The DI-1000’s Jensen transformer added
a very subtle low-mid presence added to an already excellent signal
– which is cool, but the slight increase in warmth might
not merit the additional $50 you’ll pay for the box. The
Sonic Maximizer is awesome. I used the Lo Contour to
add more "wood" to the Martin acoustic and some thud
to the Strat. Then I cranked the Process (read: Hi Contour) to
tag on an organic and articulate sheen to my Les Paul and X-160
timbres. Using both controls, I really pumped up the volume on
the Electribe, tuning in a fearsome ka-boom and crackling attack
to groove loops. And these are just a few of the timbral options
available.
Both
the DI-100x and DI-1000 are exceptional pro-audio helpmates that
present your direct signals in the best light possible,
and, if you need a little more shazzam, a few tweaks with the
Sonic Maximizer will bring a smile to your face. Guitarists
who are always looking for ways to make better tracks in their
home studios need to put one of these babies in their trick bag!
By
Michael Molenda, Editor in Chief, Guitar Player Magazine
BBE
DI-1000 features
•
Full Function BBE Sonic Maximizer for crystalline clarity and
definition
• Jensen JT-DB-EPC Transformer for warmth and presence
• Purely Passive or completely Active operation
• Switchable 0/15dB/30dB Pad Switch
• Ground lift switch
• Balanced XLR Output
• 1/4” Tip-Sleeve input and thru-put
• Military-spec circuit boards
• Extra-thick, extra-wide circuit board traces for unequaled
electron flow
• 1% metal film resistors throughout
• Solid 1/8” thick aluminum extrusion housing for
light weight and superb strength
• Made with pride in the USA
• 5 year warranty
BBE
DI-100x features
• Full Function BBE Sonic Maximizer for crystalline clarity
and definition
• 15dB Pad Switch
• Ground lift switch
• Electronically-balanced XLR output
• Impedance-balanced 1/4” Tip-Sleeve output
• Military-spec circuit boards
• Extra-thick, extra-wide circuit board traces for unequaled
electron flow
• 1% metal film resistors throughout
• Solid 1/8” thick aluminum extrusion housing for
light weight and superb strength
• Recessed switches to reduce the opportunities for damage
• No-slip full bottom pad to stop slippage and prevent ground
contamination through chassis to chassis contact
• Made with pride in the USA
• 5 year warranty
Learn more
about the BBE DI-1000 and DI-100x
