Direct Box Question

[jackajesusfreak]

Now that I have the Gain vs Volume scenario better understood, I have a question concerning a direct box connection.

Unlike my Gallien-Krueger, the Trace Elliot does not have the xlr line out, just the 1/4".

Now I understand the concept of a direct box as it gives the option to convert the 1/4" line out, into an xlr so one can go into the system, which is what we use on Tuesdays.

My question is, does it matter which type or level of direct box you get as long as it has 1/4" Female on one end, and xlr male on the other? I see some boxes for 30 bucks and some for 300???

Jack

[tearalong]

Not sure about your amp but my EA Micro has a DI out that is just a 1/4 sockets but its a balanced/stereo socket operating at the right level so all I need is a 1/4 to XLR adaptor cable, not a separate DI box

[M0ses]

Give us more info on your amp.
And yeah, you can buy a $30 DI but you get what you pay for. It definitely can make a big difference.

[Rick Auricchio]

The 1/4" output of the Trace might be at line level. You'll have to read the manual to be sure.

Most direct boxes expect their 1/4" input signal to be at instrument level, which is much lower than line level. Feeding a line-level signal into some DIs will cause them to distort. Others are fine.

So you'll need to know what level comes out of the Trace's 1/4" jack before choosing a DI.

[jackajesusfreak]

Originally Posted by Rick Auricchio

The 1/4" output of the Trace might be at line level. You'll have to read the manual to be sure.

Most direct boxes expect their 1/4" input signal to be at instrument level, which is much lower than line level. Feeding a line-level signal into some DIs will cause them to distort. Others are fine.

So you'll need to know what level comes out of the Trace's 1/4" jack before choosing a DI.

I've got a combo Trace Elliot Commando 12. 100 watts 12" speaker. The only manual I can find so far just gives the different control settings for different preferred sounds; Classic Trace, Jazz, Funk etc. No other info available. Any suggestions where to go to find one?

[Gearhead17]

I highly suggest the Radial JDI box for around $180. It's built like a tank, uses the same circuitry as some of the best direct boxes out there and will make a "good" soundmen smile every time. The Radial PRO DI boxes (mainly green with white lettering) are around $80 and sound good too.

If it's a line level signal on the Trace, there usually is a pad or something on the direct box that allows you to decrease the signal to the board.

[jackajesusfreak]

I located the manual and I am printing it out. As soon as I see some pertinent info that might help decide which DI I need I will post it.
Jack

[jackajesusfreak]

Originally Posted by jackajesusfreak

I located the manual and I am printing it out. As soon as I see some pertinent info that might help decide which DI I need I will post it.
Jack

This stinks! When I click on Commando 12 it brings up the manual for Commando 10. I've emailed Trace Elliot.