Radial JDI

BFunk · #1 08-16-2006, 08:18 PM

I am considering getting a Radial JDI for live use. I like the idea of a simple, good sounding, transformer-based DI for those times when DI'ing out of my pre-amp just won't work, or I just want to bring a decent DI box. My biggest concern is using it with my passive basses. I have Gretsch BroadKaster, a 73 Precision, an Ovation Magnum I, a P/J fretless, and (soon) a Fender Roscoe Beck IV. I heard the JDI with a 60's Jazz on basstasters.com. I thought the sound was amazing. Can I expect the JDI to work as well with my basses?

Munjibunga · #2 08-16-2006, 09:10 PM

The JDI is about as good as it gets. It should do a great job of passing your signal without coloration. I also keep a J48 active box on hand for applications with passive instruments.

BFunk · #3 08-16-2006, 09:27 PM

So you prefer the J48 for passive instruments?

seanm · #4 08-17-2006, 12:04 AM

I was looking at the Radial JDI and sent an meail to Radial Eng about using the JDI with a passive P bass. Here is their reply:

Quote:

The J48 (active) would be recommended if you were in a situation where you were far from your amp like on a huge stage. The JDI (passive) would be a great choice for regular recording, rehearsal and gig situations where your signal does not have to travel as far.

I ended up getting the Radial PRO. It is also a passive DI but is simpler and was about one third the price of the JDI. I believe in a live setting, it would be hard to tell the difference between them. However, I have never A/Bed them, Caveat Emptor.

SteveC · #5 08-17-2006, 07:36 AM

I have a Radial JDI and use it with my passive and active basses. It sounds great with both. I thought about active, but like you, I was looking for a simple, good sounding DI.

This is it.

BFunk · #6 08-17-2006, 07:55 AM

Cool guys. Thanks for the 411.

Arthur U. Poon · #7 09-10-2006, 11:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteveC

I have a Radial JDI and use it with my passive and active basses. It sounds great with both. I thought about active, but like you, I was looking for a simple, good sounding DI.

This is it.

+1.

Jim Carr · #8 09-10-2006, 12:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteveC

I have a Radial JDI and use it with my passive and active basses. It sounds great with both. I thought about active, but like you, I was looking for a simple, good sounding DI.

This is it.

+1
countryman DIs are fine, too.

Munjibunga · #9 09-18-2006, 01:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jim Carr

+1
countryman DIs are fine, too.

Yes, I own three Type 85s, they are the industry standard, and as rider-friendly as it gets. The Radials are surely in the same league. As far as which would win after being run over by a truck, my money's on the Countryman for durability.

el_Kabong · #10 09-18-2006, 08:12 AM

If you want to save money you can buy the same transformer that is in the Radial direct from Jensen. They (Jensen) have the schematic on their website showing how to wire it up.