@@AudioUniversity yes actually, ampless guitar rigs in Mono & Stereo. Would love to see a set up with say a Victory V4 Preamp Pedal (any preamp pedal) into say a Strymon Iridium amp/cab and IR and a bit about IRs would be fantastic 👍🏼
I’m baffled why you’d choose such plastic, cheap, low end plugins to use for reamping? 🤦🏻♂️ A real test would be to use something like an AXE-FX 3 or Kemper or Headrush, Quad Cortex or at least one of the Neural DSP plugins. I don’t get and I’m sure many just moved on to another video with a more realistic remap choice. It’s a shame because your DI content piece was solid.
Hello! Quick question about the active DI box. Around the 3:30 point, you were talking about using an active di box to be able to record a guitar signal AFTER the pre-amp section. Would it be possible to do this if i currently use pedals and the fx loop on my pre-amp? If so, where should the active Di box be placed within the pedal chain? Anybody can chime in! I usually just mic my amp, but i want to try different options. And i really dont want to spend $500 on one of those Torpedo load boxes, if you are familiar.
I have seen many Radial DIs fail after being dropped. The heavy transformer is soldered directly to the internal PCB, which is problematic when it gets dropped and the thin leads from the transformer snap off. Riveted designs like the IMP2 are much more rugged since the transformer is "floating" with long wires connecting the transformer leads to the rest of the circuit. And since it's riveted, that transformer won't budge :)
I use a Behringer Ultra-DI Series Passive DI box with ground lift when I need to plug in an acoustic with a K&K or other passive pickup. Doesn't have to be complicated or expensive to get the job done.
I have the Neve and have never looked back. It makes my basses sound sooo good and thick coming in and basically mix themselves and less post work. I have a BAE DI box which I also like as well. The Neve sounded best on your material as it rolled off the harsh highs that was somewhat present in your signal especially when you ran it through the amp sim. It filled out the tone.
I use a Radial JDI passive D.I. after an Electro Harmonix Platform compressor for my passive bass. The combination is amazing. For guitar, at the end of my pedalboard I have a Radial JDX Direct Drive which is an active direct box with amp simulation that is not IR based, but solid state electronic circuitry. It is the key to my sound. For our drummer's Roland TD27 electronic drums, which we setup with four outputs instead of one for better control at FOH, I use two Radial ProD2 stereo D.I. boxes. We send kick, snare, toms, and cymbals to the mixer separately. This works very well. All are exceptional devices with very warm and clean sound, quality craftsmanship, and durable, roadworthy design.
Thanks! @audiouniversity, I wondered when you speak about guitars for active DI boxes are you also including an acoustic guitar with a 9V battery? This is the video I need this month. We have some inexpensive DI boxes from Guitar Center, and I wondered if I should replace them with some Radial Passive DI boxes. We only have an acoustic guitar and upright piano on the DI boxes.
(3:20) "The tube amp people out there know: 90% of your tone comes from those PREAMP tubes." Please provide a source. As a long time "tube amp person," most of my sounds come from pedals pushing the power amp tubes: in my case, a pair of 6L6s. I know this because my amplifier has one 12AX7 it is not preamp tube, but a phase inverter. I set my amplifier around 6 where it's generally clean, and use several pedal. But even a clean boost or EQ will send my amp to overdrive. That's power amp overdrive. Furthermore, The whole reason why people like to record with small amplifiers is to overdrive the power amp tubes. Otherwise using a giant amplifier with 2 or 3 12AX7s would be all the rage, and probably is in the metal world. Also, the point of using a power attenuator after the speaker output is precisely to control the sound of power tubes. If you want to control the sound of the preamp tubes, the master volume does exactly that. Perhaps a discussion on this topic would be a cool video for you in the future.
No sources on that, just a hyperbolic statement. Thanks for watching! Great suggestion - but I think I'll need to do some more research before making a video on this subject.
I run a Fender Hotrod Deville 4x12. The thing is stupid loud with tons of headroom. I use an Ernie Ball volume pedal in my effects loop to attenuate the sound while running my preamp tubes hot. My power tubes are not running hot and the tone is great! That being said, I do want to get an attenuator so I can run it after my power tubes.
There have been a LOT of videos in the last few years on Guitar youtube about where the guitar tone comes from, and experiments (which can easily find on YT) point almost conclusively to the speakers as the most affective with regard to tone. I haven't seen any similar testing for bass. Some channels have done shootouts that show when the viewer knows the brand, they are biased, and when they don't, they can't really tell by tone what is being used.
I use the Countryman 85 for guitar and a SansAmp Bass Driver v2. The Bass Driver also works surprisingly well for guitar: I frequently use my bass effects chain -- which includes a DarkGlass Hyperluminal compressor & the SansAmp -- on acoustic guitars to great effect.
What if I plan to record a bass guitar with active pickups and an electric guitar with passive pickups….what are my options then? Aside from buying 2 different DI’s. Thanks!
I am new your channel. I am DJ/ audio engineer. I have lot questions like ask. I truly would like get better as audio engineer. I did go trade school for engineering. Also work company do a lot A.V work. mixer QSC ,Yamaha ,behringer x32 sound craft, etc.
I use an active schecter bass, but I've only ever used the passive DI's supplied from my church's audio team. However, I have a bass preamp/di (SansAmp) so I never worry about having a di out. Would the only reason to buy a passive Neve for my active bass be for recording because I've got the SansAmp for live purposes?
Hi Kyle i use a focusrite 8i6 and i have connected my guitar processor and keyboard line outputs to the line inputs at the back of my interface. Both my guitar processor and keyboard line outputs are unbalenced shall i use a DI box in this case to convert the unbalenced outout to balenced outputs
So, I watched this video a while ago, and went searching for a DI box. I wound up buying the Behringer DI Pro 8 channel rack mount . I have several keyboards,drum machines, and synths. I’m not a big Behringer fan, but it had fair reviews for the price. I’ve been getting some odd feedback sounds that I’ve traced back to usb connections from the synths that I had updated, or was using computer software associated with the keyboards. I just got it this week and haven’t got to fully explore it. Do you have any experience with this unit? And any suggestions?
Any digital gremlins you might get from a recording will not come from a device such as a DI. You can try recording directly into the interface's line inputs; there might be a bit more noise but it won't break anything. And if the digital noise is still there, you'll at least 100% know it's not the DI causing it.
It could be caused by the USB cables themselves. Here's a video link to a synth user who used a USB adapter device that kills the ground wire inside the USB cable. He says it allowed him to remove all digital noise in his synth studio caused by the USB connections. ua-cam.com/video/0SVgmVokq1k/v-deo.htmlsi=NIBoUYisTLzwxxjU
Hello! I have a random question and concern... I'm brand new at recording and I just bought a xlr AT2020 condenser mic today and tried to record some things, (tin whistles, kalimba, u bass, voice, etc) just experimenting. Gain was set about 12 to 1 o'clock. I noticed every time I record something, the waveforms in all my tracks are SOOO small. Is this okay or will it affect sound quality??? I've watched other people record songs online and their waveforms are normal looking. This mic is "used: very good condition" from Amazon. Could it possibly be defective maybe? Thanks alot!
Be sure that you set the gain knob so that the signal meter in your software peaks at about -12dB when playing the sound into the microphone. That should help ensure that the recording is adequate level.
recording guitar and using the thru output on my ProDI passive box going into my focusrite doesnt sound the same as going direct from guitar to the interface. How can i get an unchanged signal into my interface while also having another output to go to my amp? I dont care how the amp signal sounds i just want a no-latency monitor from that side
@@AudioUniversity It's okay, I guess. I used it as like an "insurance" for my audio interfaces. I'm switching between Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd gen and Behringer UMC404HD for all my previous and recent recordings. However, my signal chain is like this now... Guitar - pedals - Boss Katana MkII 100 via line out - audio interface. Should I put the Behringer DI600P in between the Boss Katana and the audio interface? Or it's not needed?
Thanks for providing this information! I've been battling a ground loop noise in my new apartment and I think this will help fix the problem from my acoustic amp > audio interface?
It could help. Before spending money on a DI or isolation transformer, make sure your audio gear is connected to the same power circuit. If that doesn’t work, an isolation transformer may help.
@@AudioUniversity Thanks again for helping out! I have everything on the same circuit already but it still has the ground loop noise. I replaced all the cables as well in the connections. Think it's almost certain that I have to spend at this point :(
A DI box usually steps instrument or line level down to mic level while an inline preamp steps microphone level up to loud ne level. Check out this video: ua-cam.com/video/_xybjiuD9K0/v-deo.html
After going through all your UA-cam lessons, what will I be? An engineer like you? Or end up as a beginner or intermediate.. what's the level of knowledge I'm getting from you? Cause I'm finding things that are great to me..
I think you're already an engineer if you strive to optimize audio and audio systems. My hope is that you'll continuously grow your understanding of what that means and how to do it by watching my videos. Thanks for watching!
@@AudioUniversity I'm naive to Audio Engineering. You're my first professor.. can you guide me where I should begin.. I've learnt few of your audio lessons here and there.. I feel great.. thankyou for Audio University
Great video, I learned a lot. I have a question- If you're using a passive DI and you activate the +48V phantom power from the interface module whether by accident or otherwise, what will happen? will you damage the DI? Thanks
I've opened my Behringer DI400P and it seems to be an exact clone of the Whirlwind IMP 2 even down to the construction. No glued in transformers here. Behringer seem to be well known for making exact clones of things. I wouldn't knock it just for it's price compared to the IMP 2 as they seem to be identical. That being said they both probably suck compared to others on the market. The 1/4 inch output on my DI400P is terribly noisy compared to a cable on it's own. I suspect the IMP 2 would fair the same although it could just be that one of my cables is shot.
Well no r&d costs for behringer hehehehehe i love their guitar fx pedals, but they cheap out on construction so you always have to re house them which sucks.
I would always choose a hardwired option over wireless. But if running a cable isn’t an option, wireless will work well (assuming it’s a decent wireless system).
Hello, I'm interested in knowing if the TYPE 85 is working with a tube amplifier directly connected to a sound card in the home studio without connecting the speaker to the amplifier. Can the amplifier be damaged? Thank you Avi Mandalevy
Get the Samson MD1 Pro, it's a decent passive DI for the $$. I still think the Neve RNDI is a bit better, but sometimes if I use the MD1 Pro instead, I can get a louder signal before distortion in the mix, no idea why
Can someone help with this DI 'reamp' idea? Imagine this chain: [audio interface output] --> [Rupert Neve DI Box] --> [audio interface input] simply to add some color to the recorded audio track?
@@AudioUniversity Thank you! Loved the video. I suppose my question is more specifically about the Rupert Neve DI Box. Let's say I have a virtual instrument and I decided to sent it out from interface, into the Rupert Neve DI box for example, and then back into the audio interface. The goal is to experiment and see how the RNDI might change the signal of the virtual instrument. I'm curious of your opinion... is it worth the round trip? I'm curious if you would ever find yourself doing that in a project or would prefer to avoid the DA/AD conversion and just use a plugin instead. Thank you for your time!!! :)
Can you clarify how to plug in cables from the amp & guitar to the RNDI? I am very confused, I own a Marshall dsl 40cr for reference and only have a MIDI in, fx loop in/out, fs, audio in, emulated out, and loudspeakers options in the back of the amp. I am just completely lost, may you clarify it. I'd appreciate it, thank you!
@@AudioUniversity it seems that I should connect to the loudspeaker rather than emulate out? Sorry for being redundant, it’s a combo tube amp so I want to make sure I don’t ruin it by mistake.
@@apostolosbakopoulos5225 tbh, I as long as the music is good, I don't really care if it's recorded on a Neve or on a radial. And I'm pretty sure, that if I wore a blind fold and hearing trough a song with a good headphones. I wouldn't be able to feel, if the DI used is a Neve or a cheap one. Sorry that I don't agree with you on that. But yeah, there's still shitty DIs out there where I could hear the difference.
@@beehype46and2 i feel a big difference with vinyl though digital seems to sound better in many respects. i also feel my fingers play differently with tubes over modelling. i agrree that if you dont hear it, it doesnt matter. i agree that good music matters. but i dont agree that i can feel anything close to the good feeling and sound of some kind of gear that is great feeling, with another kind that only does its job without any emotional excitement. learn more about psychoacoustics and you will understand more about what i am saying. but in the end, only if you feel good matters, not if you only hear more details. except of course when you work with monitors. i cant stand the sound of monitor speakers. i use only speakers that make me feel good when i enjoy music.
There probably will be a difference in the low end while recording bass. Quality transformers sound cleaner in the low end and there is a reason why they cost more. Lower distortion through the whole frequency range
So for a guitarist, let's say I have a Scarlett 2i2 (like all the novices out there). If I want to upgrade my setup, is it better to invest in a better audio interface (like apollo twin...) or to invest in an RNDI? Or both ?
Never heard of a DI box that can handle a signal /after/ going through an amp! That’s awesome. I might have to look into that. Does it matter what speaker you send the thru output to (to have the amp properly loaded, as you said)?
Connecting a keyboard to a mixer which type of cable should be used: instrument cable or just a regular 1/4” unbalanced speaker cable?? Also coming out of the lo impedance side (XLR) is that XLR than plugged into a stage box to connect to the mixer??
You can connect the XLR output directly to the mixer with an XLR cable. The signal is already balanced so it can travel a long distance with minimal noise. You can learn more about that here: ua-cam.com/video/rgfZb1pEIrU/v-deo.html From the hi impedance output on your keyboard, you should use a 1/4" instrument cable with a DI box, then connect the DI box to the mixer with an XLR cable. You can learn more about instrument cables vs speaker cables here: ua-cam.com/video/8ajX3oRD-cw/v-deo.html
QUESTION: if I have a Boss VE which is a vocal harmonizer and effect pedal for guitar, do i still need a DI? it has both xrl output for vocal and a jack for guitar? it also has 40v phantom and a booster. Need answer for a live performance
The XLR output won’t need a DI. If you plan to take the 1/4-inch jack out to the mixer, I’d recommend a DI for traveling that far. If the 1/4-inch jack will just go to your amp on stage, there is no need for a DI.
Hi! Excelent vídeos here! Congrats! If i have a output buffer before de di box or a guitar pedal with Low output impeadence (like 100hz) on the end of My signal chain... Could It be a good way to use only a passive DIs and avoid the "colouring problem" from active DIs?
I have a Whirlwind IMP 2 and an Aguilar Tone Hammer. Signal chain goes bass, DI, XLR out to sound board. The Whirlwind doesn’t have any background noise but I don’t have my own EQ. The Tone Hammer has lots of background noise, such that I can’t use it. Any idea why?
So I'm assuming my sansamp counts as an active DI but, let's say I'm a guitarist and most amp modelers don't have a Balanced XLR out, if I put a passive DI after a Strymon iridium, would that meet the "active" suggestion?
Your channel is awesome! Very good explanation, thank you for taking the time to make this great video! I have a question for you, could you please help me with this dilemma, i don't know the right way to connect my TWO JBL PartyBox 310 speakers. I want to connect a DJ mixer (Allen & Heath XONE:23) into my TWO JBL PartyBox 310. How should I connect my mixer into my speakers to have a stereo signal?? I have a very long distance between my mixer and my JBL PartyBox 310 speakers. If i connect XLR cables from the mixer main stereo output, into a DI Box (Radial ProAV2) and then connect an XLR cable from the DI Box into my JBL PartyBox 310 speakers into the AUX 3.5 mm input or into the daisy chain 3.5 mm audio input?? How should i connect my system, if i want a standard stereo sound and no lost in the signal quality?? Thank You very much for your help, I would greatly appreciate! Steve.
Which would you recommend for me? I have a Yamaha fsx5 and want an option to go into a venue’s sound board/FOH and not use my amp. Second if I want to use my amp Princeton reverb, would I want the DI between my acoustic guitar and amp? The guitar has onboard electronics. Thank you for your help.
Best way to get an amp sound and tone into a PA? We tried the di box and it had serious noise. Anyway to use the cab connection on the back of the amp to get into the pa
You don’t need a DI for that. You just need cables that connect the outs of the tape recorder (probably unbalanced RCA) to the inputs of the focusrite (probably 1/4” TS).
I just bought an active Palmer PAN 02 and a Passive Stereo Palmer PAN 04 DI, have you used them? what do you think of them. They are probably the cheapest I have ever seen. The active DI was 59 Euros and the Stereo passive 89 Euros.
would it be better to invest in a Rupert Neve DI if I already use Hi-Z on the apollo twin to record guitar? or do they produce similar results? Thank you for this and the re-amping video, they're very easy to follow.
I'm wondering the same myself. I'm also recording into an apollo twin and using a Neural Dsp guitar sim. Getting so much noise in the recording, it's intolerable. Have troubleshooted everything - standing at different positions, testing on another guitar, etc. Did you ever resolve your issue? Could use some tips.
In my ears they all sound the same. We tested some out for our church and came to the same conclusion that's why we have gone for the cheapest we could find: Behringer Di100 for mono and Behringer Di20 for stereo. Why spend 300 bucks if 20 will do the trick? In church most people don't even notice it if someone plays an incorrect note and just plays through. Of course we want it to sound the best. But if it's a case of the preacher having a wireless mic (instead of wired) vs some gitarist/keyboard sounding 2% better because of a better DI, I know where our money is going. Spend your money wisely kids.
I agree. I think the Neve DI is best for recording with guitar amps, like I said in the video. Although, it is probably worth spending a little extra for construction and noise isolation even if tone isn't that different. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this, edewaal97!
Whatever you have, treat it like gold. In many environments, you may not have a spare and ordering something new for the PA system may take an act of congress. I've said on the other DI video I prefer active all the way for live. One big caveat with active is the phantom power POP if you forget to mute when connecting the XLR. I've rarely had the opportunity to pick the gear that I'm using so it's great when the better brands are available but almost anything is manageable. Radials look like they could be thrown off a building, very well constructed. Radials (all of them) also sound great. Would love to try anything Neve... DO NOT like Rapco or Hosa, they both fall apart and have glued transformers, crap connectors, etc. Whirlwind is better but still passive and the controls and jacks are not protected in any way. These things sit on the floor and musicians can be very enthusiastic people so run the risk of being trampled, kicked, mutilated, violated, and even hydrated. On the lower cost end, I like the Di 100, own one and have used many in a variety of applications. The Di 100 is decently rugged but on the edge of being too bright, gain way down. It has two 20dB (wired in series) pads so can be connected to amps up to I think 5KW (a terrifying proposition, can't imagine using that) and also includes the ground lift. The pads are nice if the musician wants to swap instruments, he can just punch both and switch without killing the input channel which is good for unattended rehearsals or if he's troubleshooting all 43 guitar pedals.... It will also run on a 9v (with power switch) or phantom (bypasses the power switch) though I'm not a huge fan of how the battery installs or the 9v connector, both are fragile. The Di 100 works great when you need to go from some (usually consumer grade) unbalanced gear in a video room back to the FOH console a long cable distance away. The one Di 20 I've been around was poorly constructed and kind of flaky. I don't recall which switch, but one of them caused issues. The connectors all point up so are at risk from enthusiastic feet. Seems like I also recall something off about phantom powering; like only 1 channel can take power because it will hum if both channels are supplied; don't recall exactly. Also not wild on the sound.
I like þe On-Stage DB500 paſſive DI. Built like a tank and very cheap! For an active DI, I uſe a Tech-21 Q-Strip. Þat may be overkill for ſome folks, but many DIs þat have way leſs features þan þe Q-Strip coſt þe ſame amount of money, or even more. Þe Q-Strip is a no brainer when you take þat into account. Þe parametric EQ & LPF/HPF ſwitches are really uſeful to adjuſt your ſound in a live ſituation where þe acouſtics/ſpeaker ſyſtems can vary dramatically.
I just found my favourite UA-cam Channel. I'm relearning most of the stuff I learnt in College over 20 years ago so thank you for that 👍🏼
Glad to hear that, Andrew! Thanks! Let me know if there are any topics you’d like to see covered in future videos.
@@AudioUniversity yes actually, ampless guitar rigs in Mono & Stereo. Would love to see a set up with say a Victory V4 Preamp Pedal (any preamp pedal) into say a Strymon Iridium amp/cab and IR and a bit about IRs would be fantastic 👍🏼
I’m baffled why you’d choose such plastic, cheap, low end plugins to use for reamping? 🤦🏻♂️
A real test would be to use something like an AXE-FX 3 or Kemper or Headrush, Quad Cortex or at least one of the Neural DSP plugins.
I don’t get and I’m sure many just moved on to another video with a more realistic remap choice.
It’s a shame because your DI content piece was solid.
Hello! Quick question about the active DI box. Around the 3:30 point, you were talking about using an active di box to be able to record a guitar signal AFTER the pre-amp section.
Would it be possible to do this if i currently use pedals and the fx loop on my pre-amp? If so, where should the active Di box be placed within the pedal chain? Anybody can chime in!
I usually just mic my amp, but i want to try different options. And i really dont want to spend $500 on one of those Torpedo load boxes, if you are familiar.
So what is the best active DI for under $90?
For an active DI under $90, I would probably go with this Radial SB-1: imp.i114863.net/RykQo2
@@AudioUniversity thanks
Those flat switches (like the one on the IMP2) go bad very quickly if you use them in a live environment. Pushbutton or flip switches are more rugged.
Wow, you are really good at explaining things! Clear speech, intelligent pace. You speak to us at eye-level, not talking down to us. So good. Thanks.
I have seen many Radial DIs fail after being dropped. The heavy transformer is soldered directly to the internal PCB, which is problematic when it gets dropped and the thin leads from the transformer snap off. Riveted designs like the IMP2 are much more rugged since the transformer is "floating" with long wires connecting the transformer leads to the rest of the circuit. And since it's riveted, that transformer won't budge :)
Thanks for this video. Really helpful. No bullshit talk just useful information we all need! Thanks!
I use a Behringer Ultra-DI Series Passive DI box with ground lift when I need to plug in an acoustic with a K&K or other passive pickup. Doesn't have to be complicated or expensive to get the job done.
I used the DI20 and it's incredibly noisy. Tried a few to make sure it's not the unit, and all of them sound the same.
Which one specifically??
I have the Neve and have never looked back. It makes my basses sound sooo good and thick coming in and basically mix themselves and less post work. I have a BAE DI box which I also like as well. The Neve sounded best on your material as it rolled off the harsh highs that was somewhat present in your signal especially when you ran it through the amp sim. It filled out the tone.
Hrmm. I noticed no difference.. Listened to on Yamaha HS5s. Closed my eyes, and couldn't tell a difference.
Same, and am using a stereo/sub setup on the PC
I use a Radial JDI passive D.I. after an Electro Harmonix Platform compressor for my passive bass. The combination is amazing.
For guitar, at the end of my pedalboard I have a Radial JDX Direct Drive which is an active direct box with amp simulation that is not IR based, but solid state electronic circuitry. It is the key to my sound.
For our drummer's Roland TD27 electronic drums, which we setup with four outputs instead of one for better control at FOH, I use two Radial ProD2 stereo D.I. boxes. We send kick, snare, toms, and cymbals to the mixer separately. This works very well.
All are exceptional devices with very warm and clean sound, quality craftsmanship, and durable, roadworthy design.
Right now the Radial Pro DI that you showed new for $114.95 is now $129.99. Everything has gone up way too fast in just a couple of months.
BUT YOU ENJOYED YOUR STIMULUS CHECK RIGHT???????????????????????¿¿¿¿¿¿¿?????¿¿¿¿¿¿????
@@trteeerryfse-wy2ww I don't get or want any money from the government.
@@powerseostrategy good for you 😂
Yes, the price didn't rise but they change the price 😆
Biden…
Thanks! @audiouniversity, I wondered when you speak about guitars for active DI boxes are you also including an acoustic guitar with a 9V battery? This is the video I need this month. We have some inexpensive DI boxes from Guitar Center, and I wondered if I should replace them with some Radial Passive DI boxes. We only have an acoustic guitar and upright piano on the DI boxes.
Yes. I would usually choose a passive DI for an acoustic-electric guitar with an active pickup.
(3:20) "The tube amp people out there know: 90% of your tone comes from those PREAMP tubes."
Please provide a source.
As a long time "tube amp person," most of my sounds come from pedals pushing the power amp tubes: in my case, a pair of 6L6s. I know this because my amplifier has one 12AX7 it is not preamp tube, but a phase inverter.
I set my amplifier around 6 where it's generally clean, and use several pedal. But even a clean boost or EQ will send my amp to overdrive. That's power amp overdrive. Furthermore, The whole reason why people like to record with small amplifiers is to overdrive the power amp tubes. Otherwise using a giant amplifier with 2 or 3 12AX7s would be all the rage, and probably is in the metal world.
Also, the point of using a power attenuator after the speaker output is precisely to control the sound of power tubes. If you want to control the sound of the preamp tubes, the master volume does exactly that.
Perhaps a discussion on this topic would be a cool video for you in the future.
No sources on that, just a hyperbolic statement. Thanks for watching! Great suggestion - but I think I'll need to do some more research before making a video on this subject.
I run a Fender Hotrod Deville 4x12. The thing is stupid loud with tons of headroom. I use an Ernie Ball volume pedal in my effects loop to attenuate the sound while running my preamp tubes hot. My power tubes are not running hot and the tone is great! That being said, I do want to get an attenuator so I can run it after my power tubes.
There have been a LOT of videos in the last few years on Guitar youtube about where the guitar tone comes from, and experiments (which can easily find on YT) point almost conclusively to the speakers as the most affective with regard to tone. I haven't seen any similar testing for bass. Some channels have done shootouts that show when the viewer knows the brand, they are biased, and when they don't, they can't really tell by tone what is being used.
Thank you for making this series of videos and linking them so smoothly, I appreciate the information and demonstrations.
This is extremely informative, thank you so much!
I use the Countryman 85 for guitar and a SansAmp Bass Driver v2. The Bass Driver also works surprisingly well for guitar: I frequently use my bass effects chain -- which includes a DarkGlass Hyperluminal compressor & the SansAmp -- on acoustic guitars to great effect.
What if I plan to record a bass guitar with active pickups and an electric guitar with passive pickups….what are my options then? Aside from buying 2 different DI’s. Thanks!
It’s not a strict rule - either one will work.
I am new your channel. I am DJ/ audio engineer. I have lot questions like ask. I truly would like get better as audio engineer. I did go trade school for engineering. Also work company do a lot A.V work. mixer QSC ,Yamaha ,behringer x32 sound craft, etc.
I use an active schecter bass, but I've only ever used the passive DI's supplied from my church's audio team. However, I have a bass preamp/di (SansAmp) so I never worry about having a di out. Would the only reason to buy a passive Neve for my active bass be for recording because I've got the SansAmp for live purposes?
Neve is active but can handle everything. Active or passive bass does not matter with the RNDI.
If you’ve got a SansAmp, it is fulfilling a similar function.
Hi Kyle i use a focusrite 8i6 and i have connected my guitar processor and keyboard line outputs to the line inputs at the back of my interface. Both my guitar processor and keyboard line outputs are unbalenced shall i use a DI box in this case to convert the unbalenced outout to balenced outputs
If the cable run is longer than 15' or so, I'd recommend a DI box. Most DI boxes output a mic level signal.
@@AudioUniversity Thank you for the reply
So, I watched this video a while ago, and went searching for a DI box. I wound up buying the Behringer DI Pro 8 channel rack mount .
I have several keyboards,drum machines, and synths. I’m not a big Behringer fan, but it had fair reviews for the price.
I’ve been getting some odd feedback sounds that I’ve traced back to usb connections from the synths that I had updated, or was using computer software associated with the keyboards. I just got it this week and haven’t got to fully explore it.
Do you have any experience with this unit? And any suggestions?
What does the noise sound like?
Any digital gremlins you might get from a recording will not come from a device such as a DI. You can try recording directly into the interface's line inputs; there might be a bit more noise but it won't break anything. And if the digital noise is still there, you'll at least 100% know it's not the DI causing it.
It could be caused by the USB cables themselves. Here's a video link to a synth user who used a USB adapter device that kills the ground wire inside the USB cable. He says it allowed him to remove all digital noise in his synth studio caused by the USB connections.
ua-cam.com/video/0SVgmVokq1k/v-deo.htmlsi=NIBoUYisTLzwxxjU
The majority of people will not be able to tell the difference between those sounds.
Hello! I have a random question and concern... I'm brand new at recording and I just bought a xlr AT2020 condenser mic today and tried to record some things, (tin whistles, kalimba, u bass, voice, etc) just experimenting. Gain was set about 12 to 1 o'clock. I noticed every time I record something, the waveforms in all my tracks are SOOO small. Is this okay or will it affect sound quality??? I've watched other people record songs online and their waveforms are normal looking. This mic is "used: very good condition" from Amazon. Could it possibly be defective maybe? Thanks alot!
Be sure that you set the gain knob so that the signal meter in your software peaks at about -12dB when playing the sound into the microphone. That should help ensure that the recording is adequate level.
If i use dimarzio pick up evolution and then i have routing of pedal board and preamb strymon iridium ..so should i use passive or active DI box?
recording guitar and using the thru output on my ProDI passive box going into my focusrite doesnt sound the same as going direct from guitar to the interface. How can i get an unchanged signal into my interface while also having another output to go to my amp? I dont care how the amp signal sounds i just want a no-latency monitor from that side
A fellow Reaper user! I love it. Great job here.
Thanks, Michael!
No sound comparison on Behringer? I have the Behringer UTRA DI DI600P passive. Is this okay?
I haven’t used it. How do you like it?
@@AudioUniversity It's okay, I guess. I used it as like an "insurance" for my audio interfaces. I'm switching between Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd gen and Behringer UMC404HD for all my previous and recent recordings.
However, my signal chain is like this now...
Guitar - pedals - Boss Katana MkII 100 via line out - audio interface.
Should I put the Behringer DI600P in between the Boss Katana and the audio interface? Or it's not needed?
Thanks for providing this information! I've been battling a ground loop noise in my new apartment and I think this will help fix the problem from my acoustic amp > audio interface?
It could help. Before spending money on a DI or isolation transformer, make sure your audio gear is connected to the same power circuit. If that doesn’t work, an isolation transformer may help.
@@AudioUniversity Thanks again for helping out! I have everything on the same circuit already but it still has the ground loop noise. I replaced all the cables as well in the connections. Think it's almost certain that I have to spend at this point :(
I hope you find a solution!
Is electro classical/acoustic guitar powered by 9V battery the active source?
Yes
Great info and explanation of the differences; thank you for taking the time to make the video!
Glad to help, Mike!
Maybe Im too drunk to taste the Chicken but i couldn't hear a difference between the DI's
Sir What Is The Difference Between DI Box & Inline Mic Preamp Like (Triton Fethead Or SE Electronic Dynamite DM1)?
A DI box usually steps instrument or line level down to mic level while an inline preamp steps microphone level up to loud ne level.
Check out this video: ua-cam.com/video/_xybjiuD9K0/v-deo.html
After going through all your UA-cam lessons, what will I be? An engineer like you? Or end up as a beginner or intermediate.. what's the level of knowledge I'm getting from you? Cause I'm finding things that are great to me..
I think you're already an engineer if you strive to optimize audio and audio systems. My hope is that you'll continuously grow your understanding of what that means and how to do it by watching my videos. Thanks for watching!
@@AudioUniversity I'm naive to Audio Engineering. You're my first professor.. can you guide me where I should begin.. I've learnt few of your audio lessons here and there.. I feel great.. thankyou for Audio University
Great video, I learned a lot. I have a question- If you're using a passive DI and you activate the +48V phantom power from the interface module whether by accident or otherwise, what will happen? will you damage the DI? Thanks
I've opened my Behringer DI400P and it seems to be an exact clone of the Whirlwind IMP 2 even down to the construction. No glued in transformers here. Behringer seem to be well known for making exact clones of things. I wouldn't knock it just for it's price compared to the IMP 2 as they seem to be identical. That being said they both probably suck compared to others on the market. The 1/4 inch output on my DI400P is terribly noisy compared to a cable on it's own. I suspect the IMP 2 would fair the same although it could just be that one of my cables is shot.
Well no r&d costs for behringer hehehehehe i love their guitar fx pedals, but they cheap out on construction so you always have to re house them which sucks.
What do you think of using a wireless transmitter compared to a DI box?
I would always choose a hardwired option over wireless. But if running a cable isn’t an option, wireless will work well (assuming it’s a decent wireless system).
Is there any particular reason that active DI boxes are seen as better for passive inputs like guitars?
For me, they all sound bad in this video. Sorry 😢
Hello, I'm interested in knowing if the TYPE 85 is working with a tube amplifier directly connected to a sound card in the home studio without connecting the speaker to the amplifier. Can the amplifier be damaged? Thank you Avi Mandalevy
Any thoughts on the Samsons? Like the MD1?
I have not used one of these. Let me know if you get one and recommend it!
Get the Samson MD1 Pro, it's a decent passive DI for the $$. I still think the Neve RNDI is a bit better, but sometimes if I use the MD1 Pro instead, I can get a louder signal before distortion in the mix, no idea why
Can someone help with this DI 'reamp' idea? Imagine this chain: [audio interface output] --> [Rupert Neve DI Box] --> [audio interface input] simply to add some color to the recorded audio track?
Check out this video: ua-cam.com/video/SjzmD7rDk-M/v-deo.html
@@AudioUniversity Thank you! Loved the video. I suppose my question is more specifically about the Rupert Neve DI Box.
Let's say I have a virtual instrument and I decided to sent it out from interface, into the Rupert Neve DI box for example, and then back into the audio interface.
The goal is to experiment and see how the RNDI might change the signal of the virtual instrument.
I'm curious of your opinion... is it worth the round trip? I'm curious if you would ever find yourself doing that in a project or would prefer to avoid the DA/AD conversion and just use a plugin instead.
Thank you for your time!!! :)
Will you make a video comparing Reamp boxes?
Can you clarify how to plug in cables from the amp & guitar to the RNDI? I am very confused, I own a Marshall dsl 40cr for reference and only have a MIDI in, fx loop in/out, fs, audio in, emulated out, and loudspeakers options in the back of the amp. I am just completely lost, may you clarify it. I'd appreciate it, thank you!
Check out this video: ua-cam.com/video/HiBxuaG3cN0/v-deo.html
@@AudioUniversity it seems that I should connect to the loudspeaker rather than emulate out? Sorry for being redundant, it’s a combo tube amp so I want to make sure I don’t ruin it by mistake.
neve all the way! rupert lives on! but both of the other two are good enough. 1neve 2radial 3whirlwind
I agree! Thanks for watching.
I agree, but I think in a full mix, you wouldn't hear the difference.
@@beehype46and2 it is all about feel. you may not hear the difference but if you feel it it matters
@@apostolosbakopoulos5225 tbh, I as long as the music is good, I don't really care if it's recorded on a Neve or on a radial. And I'm pretty sure, that if I wore a blind fold and hearing trough a song with a good headphones. I wouldn't be able to feel, if the DI used is a Neve or a cheap one. Sorry that I don't agree with you on that. But yeah, there's still shitty DIs out there where I could hear the difference.
@@beehype46and2 i feel a big difference with vinyl though digital seems to sound better in many respects. i also feel my fingers play differently with tubes over modelling. i agrree that if you dont hear it, it doesnt matter. i agree that good music matters. but i dont agree that i can feel anything close to the good feeling and sound of some kind of gear that is great feeling, with another kind that only does its job without any emotional excitement. learn more about psychoacoustics and you will understand more about what i am saying. but in the end, only if you feel good matters, not if you only hear more details. except of course when you work with monitors. i cant stand the sound of monitor speakers. i use only speakers that make me feel good when i enjoy music.
Since there isn’t an audible difference between them, get the cheapest one that works for your situation.
There probably will be a difference in the low end while recording bass. Quality transformers sound cleaner in the low end and there is a reason why they cost more. Lower distortion through the whole frequency range
So for a guitarist, let's say I have a Scarlett 2i2 (like all the novices out there). If I want to upgrade my setup, is it better to invest in a better audio interface (like apollo twin...) or to invest in an RNDI? Or both ?
Never heard of a DI box that can handle a signal /after/ going through an amp! That’s awesome. I might have to look into that. Does it matter what speaker you send the thru output to (to have the amp properly loaded, as you said)?
Connecting a keyboard to a mixer which type of cable should be used: instrument cable or just a regular 1/4” unbalanced speaker cable?? Also coming out of the lo impedance side (XLR) is that XLR than plugged into a stage box to connect to the mixer??
You can connect the XLR output directly to the mixer with an XLR cable. The signal is already balanced so it can travel a long distance with minimal noise. You can learn more about that here: ua-cam.com/video/rgfZb1pEIrU/v-deo.html
From the hi impedance output on your keyboard, you should use a 1/4" instrument cable with a DI box, then connect the DI box to the mixer with an XLR cable. You can learn more about instrument cables vs speaker cables here: ua-cam.com/video/8ajX3oRD-cw/v-deo.html
By the way, thanks for watching!
QUESTION: if I have a Boss VE which is a vocal harmonizer and effect pedal for guitar, do i still need a DI? it has both xrl output for vocal and a jack for guitar? it also has 40v phantom and a booster. Need answer for a live performance
The XLR output won’t need a DI. If you plan to take the 1/4-inch jack out to the mixer, I’d recommend a DI for traveling that far. If the 1/4-inch jack will just go to your amp on stage, there is no need for a DI.
@@AudioUniversity Awesome! thank you so much for the help man!
Probs sily question, but if i ran guitar in to pedal board would i still run active di or passive into mixer ?
Cheers
You could use either. I’d go with passive in this case.
@AudioUniversity thanks for the reply ^.^
Hi! Excelent vídeos here! Congrats! If i have a output buffer before de di box or a guitar pedal with Low output impeadence (like 100hz) on the end of My signal chain...
Could It be a good way to use only a passive DIs and avoid the "colouring problem" from active DIs?
It's a shame the RNDI is active :(
How about when my guitar pickups are passive but I run it through a pedalboard can I use passive DI since pedals in itself somehow boosts the signal?
JDI also does that speaker thing.
tudo igual,.. vai no mais barato.
So can I use active pickups on the $300 DI?
You can use any of these DIs with active pickups.
I have a Whirlwind IMP 2 and an Aguilar Tone Hammer. Signal chain goes bass, DI, XLR out to sound board. The Whirlwind doesn’t have any background noise but I don’t have my own EQ. The Tone Hammer has lots of background noise, such that I can’t use it. Any idea why?
Should I look for a passive DI box for an acoustic guitar?
Амплитюб убил всё, с ним уже неважно, через что записываться.
0:33. "I'd urge you to spend just a little bit more" Proceeds to recommend a product that more than twice the price
So I'm assuming my sansamp counts as an active DI but, let's say I'm a guitarist and most amp modelers don't have a Balanced XLR out, if I put a passive DI after a Strymon iridium, would that meet the "active" suggestion?
Can I use active DI box with guitar pedalboards?
Yes
@@AudioUniversity So the Phantom power doesn't damage my pedals? Thats my fear.
No. The phantom power only reaches the output of the DI to power the DI.
Your channel is awesome! Very good explanation, thank you for taking the time to make this great video! I have a question for you, could you please help me with this dilemma, i don't know the right way to connect my TWO JBL PartyBox 310 speakers. I want to connect a DJ mixer (Allen & Heath XONE:23) into my TWO JBL PartyBox 310. How should I connect my mixer into my speakers to have a stereo signal?? I have a very long distance between my mixer and my JBL PartyBox 310 speakers. If i connect XLR cables from the mixer main stereo output, into a DI Box (Radial ProAV2) and then connect an XLR cable from the DI Box into my JBL PartyBox 310 speakers into the AUX 3.5 mm input or into the daisy chain 3.5 mm audio input?? How should i connect my system, if i want a standard stereo sound and no lost in the signal quality?? Thank You very much for your help, I would greatly appreciate! Steve.
Di use for audio live program,connect to audio out and mixer input connect write bro
Which would you recommend for me? I have a Yamaha fsx5 and want an option to go into a venue’s sound board/FOH and not use my amp.
Second if I want to use my amp Princeton reverb, would I want the DI between my acoustic guitar and amp? The guitar has onboard electronics.
Thank you for your help.
A Fishman Soundbox mini has a DI output on the back and sounds great…maybe $300 something new with a lifetime warranty if bought brand new
Best way to get an amp sound and tone into a PA? We tried the di box and it had serious noise. Anyway to use the cab connection on the back of the amp to get into the pa
This video is just what i needed right now, thanks!
Glad to hear that, Jaime! Thanks for watching.
good
Why no Samson products?
Great! Which one too choose when I want to connect an old fostex multitrack tape recorder to focusrite?
You don’t need a DI for that. You just need cables that connect the outs of the tape recorder (probably unbalanced RCA) to the inputs of the focusrite (probably 1/4” TS).
Love your vids , cheers man 👍
Thanks, AAAX!
What if you plan on using passive and active bass guitars which D.I do you use
Tbh active DI boxes are never the wrong choice imo. But passive DI are fine for pretty much anything as long as you're going through a PA.
@@patrickhlavinka6364 Thank you for answering my question
I just bought an active Palmer PAN 02 and a Passive Stereo Palmer PAN 04 DI, have you used them? what do you think of them. They are probably the cheapest I have ever seen. The active DI was 59 Euros and the Stereo passive 89 Euros.
How about you with Palmer DI ? Sounds really great for electric guitar?
I have a few of those Di's, and every one of them eventually failed and had to get the soldering iron out
Best vids ever!
Thanks for watching, bronxbull!
would it be better to invest in a Rupert Neve DI if I already use Hi-Z on the apollo twin to record guitar? or do they produce similar results? Thank you for this and the re-amping video, they're very easy to follow.
I'm wondering the same myself. I'm also recording into an apollo twin and using a Neural Dsp guitar sim. Getting so much noise in the recording, it's intolerable. Have troubleshooted everything - standing at different positions, testing on another guitar, etc. Did you ever resolve your issue? Could use some tips.
@@adriandavismusic Did you try using a different cable maybe?
Would you use a di box for a electric drumset?
I do because when i record with my interface i hear a big Buzz noise coming from the Input it also makes my drums sound more brighter
Thank you
Thanks for watching, Daniel!
Thank you . As all ways great info without a ton of product hype. The best audio info channel in my mind. thanks again.
Wow! Thanks, Tyrone! I really appreciate that.
neve !!!!!
Also, they all sound the same.
I think they all sound very very similar as well. Thanks for watching!
In my ears they all sound the same. We tested some out for our church and came to the same conclusion that's why we have gone for the cheapest we could find: Behringer Di100 for mono and Behringer Di20 for stereo. Why spend 300 bucks if 20 will do the trick? In church most people don't even notice it if someone plays an incorrect note and just plays through. Of course we want it to sound the best. But if it's a case of the preacher having a wireless mic (instead of wired) vs some gitarist/keyboard sounding 2% better because of a better DI, I know where our money is going.
Spend your money wisely kids.
I agree. I think the Neve DI is best for recording with guitar amps, like I said in the video. Although, it is probably worth spending a little extra for construction and noise isolation even if tone isn't that different. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this, edewaal97!
Whatever you have, treat it like gold. In many environments, you may not have a spare and ordering something new for the PA system may take an act of congress.
I've said on the other DI video I prefer active all the way for live. One big caveat with active is the phantom power POP if you forget to mute when connecting the XLR. I've rarely had the opportunity to pick the gear that I'm using so it's great when the better brands are available but almost anything is manageable. Radials look like they could be thrown off a building, very well constructed. Radials (all of them) also sound great. Would love to try anything Neve... DO NOT like Rapco or Hosa, they both fall apart and have glued transformers, crap connectors, etc. Whirlwind is better but still passive and the controls and jacks are not protected in any way. These things sit on the floor and musicians can be very enthusiastic people so run the risk of being trampled, kicked, mutilated, violated, and even hydrated.
On the lower cost end, I like the Di 100, own one and have used many in a variety of applications. The Di 100 is decently rugged but on the edge of being too bright, gain way down. It has two 20dB (wired in series) pads so can be connected to amps up to I think 5KW (a terrifying proposition, can't imagine using that) and also includes the ground lift. The pads are nice if the musician wants to swap instruments, he can just punch both and switch without killing the input channel which is good for unattended rehearsals or if he's troubleshooting all 43 guitar pedals.... It will also run on a 9v (with power switch) or phantom (bypasses the power switch) though I'm not a huge fan of how the battery installs or the 9v connector, both are fragile. The Di 100 works great when you need to go from some (usually consumer grade) unbalanced gear in a video room back to the FOH console a long cable distance away.
The one Di 20 I've been around was poorly constructed and kind of flaky. I don't recall which switch, but one of them caused issues. The connectors all point up so are at risk from enthusiastic feet. Seems like I also recall something off about phantom powering; like only 1 channel can take power because it will hum if both channels are supplied; don't recall exactly. Also not wild on the sound.
90% of sound comes from preamp? Wtf.... Bulshido
So im guessing the rupert neve is also great for live pa use?
Yes. It’s rugged and sounds great.
@@AudioUniversity thank you, i have active speakers and no mixer so i can just hook it right into the xlr input?
I like þe On-Stage DB500 paſſive DI. Built like a tank and very cheap!
For an active DI, I uſe a Tech-21 Q-Strip. Þat may be overkill for ſome folks, but many DIs þat have way leſs features þan þe Q-Strip coſt þe ſame amount of money, or even more. Þe Q-Strip is a no brainer when you take þat into account. Þe parametric EQ & LPF/HPF ſwitches are really uſeful to adjuſt your ſound in a live ſituation where þe acouſtics/ſpeaker ſyſtems can vary dramatically.
Can i plug my pedalboard to a di then to a soundcard to get a better sound for recording?
Yes, you can! Be sure to use the microphone input on your soundcard.