Direct Box with Compressor?

[agreatheight]

So I had a thread asking for ideas for compressors and then I realized that I needed a DI as well - does anyone make an all in one solution, comp + DI in one box? If so, how much is it and is it worth it?

Thanks in advance!

[shoegazebass]

The Aphex Punch factory has a DI...never tried it myself but I heard it's just allright.

[gillento]

The Retrospec Squeezebox had this feature.

Good luck finding a used one (plus the necessary cash).

[Marcus Willett]

Originally Posted by agreatheight

does anyone make an all in one solution, comp + DI in one box? If so, how much is it and is it worth it?

The Fishman Platinum Pro is exactly what you describe. Mine was $169 new and it's a handy little box to have.

[4Mal]

Originally Posted by shoegazebass

The Aphex Punch factory has a DI...never tried it myself but I heard it's just allright.

I did some tracking with that a year ago and it worked way better than you would expect for an $80 box. I'm not selling my Radial DI anytime soon but Aphex is much better than just allright.

[agreatheight]

Originally Posted by 4Mal

I did some tracking with that a year ago and it worked way better than you would expect for an $80 box. I'm not selling my Radial DI anytime soon but Aphex is much better than just allright.

I should have mentioned that I'll just be using it for live work. I joined a cover band and we bring our own PA. I have an Avalon U5 for my studio pursuits I but don't want to take a 500 dollar box out to sketchy dive bars. So I want a little bit of transparent compression, just to tighten stuff up a little, and a clean DI signal. Will the Aphex handle that?

Thanks much.

[EricF]

Transparent compression and a DI...Punch Factory is both.

[SteveC]

I have to 2nd the Fishman Platinum Pro Bass unit. Compressor, EQ, pre/post DI, tuner out, etc. Inexpensive and sounds really good for acoustic, upright and electric.

[agreatheight]

It looks like the GC by me has both the Aphex Punch Factory and the Fishman Pro in stock - yeah, my jaw was on the floor, too, hahaha! I am going to pick one of them up today to use on my gig tonight. Obviously, the Punch Factory is cheaper so I think I may start with that one to see how it works unless someone here pushes me toward the Fishman. I have no problem spending extra money! Hmmm... I should had a poll...

Let me know what you think!

[Marcus Willett]

Depends on what you want. If all you want is a compressor with a DI, then the Aphex would probably work for you. The Fishman is more, but also comes with a very bass-friendly 5 band EQ, and a high-pass filter which can help to tighten up your sound.

[agreatheight]

Yeah, I just want a transparent comp with a clean DI, so I am leaning toward the Aphex and saving a buck or two...

[bassman1185]

Just to muddy the waters a bit more, there is also the ART TubePAC. Preamp, compressor and DI all in one, and with tubes to boot for about $120. I've never tried one, but I've read a lot of pretty positive reviews on them.