Direct Boxes getting hit by Phantom power?

Mad Tango · #1 05-16-2009, 08:18 AM

I have a Hartke VXL Attack DI that got Phantom power accidentally sent from the board and now it crackles. Now, I use a Radial JDI, which has an actual transformer, to buffer this DC power in the event that it ever gits hit again. DC can't crossover a transformer, because it has no magnetic field. I have heard, but do not know, that the Avalon U5 can be hurt by Phantom power as well. Players with this unit can give the low down if their U5 ever got hit by it for a while. I also heard that DI's that electronically output their signal (not by a transformer) should have some sort of capacitor circuit or someting to prevent this kind of damage. Lastly, can TBers warn about other units that might be effected by Phantom power. I am sure that nearly all the companies have addressed this issue, but just in case, give a shout. Thanks!

Lync · #2 05-23-2009, 08:26 PM

I run my Hartke off of phantom power. Did you have it plugged in to an AC source and then get hit?

Mad Tango · #3 05-25-2009, 05:44 PM

Yes, I did have it running off an A/C adapter at the time. Thanks for the info.

coreyfyfe · #4 05-25-2009, 05:57 PM

Glad I got a coutryman. It runs on a 9v or accepts phantom and automatically switches between the two. I've heard the same about the U5 but can't confirm, as there's nothing I could turn up through a google search.

VastDreamz · #5 09-28-2009, 12:25 PM

Would love to know the answer to that question. I currently use a Avalon U5. Can it be damaged by an accidental 48v from the mixing board?

seamonkey · #6 09-28-2009, 12:52 PM

What does Avalon say?

VastDreamz · #7 09-28-2009, 06:24 PM

i've read through my manuals and have been looking on here and internet topics all over the place.

i haven't found anything about the affects that phantom power could introduce.

anyone else have any info if accidental 48v phantom power could possibly destroy the Avalon U5?

Mark Reccord · #8 09-28-2009, 08:10 PM

Avalon says that the U5's output is DC-coupled which means there are no capacitors or transformers on the output. This certainly makes it possible that phantom could damage it, though it's entirely possible that they've designed it to withstand that.

Your best bet is to contact them and ask.