Do I need a DI?

[funkysurfer]

I am pluggin my active & passive basses into a Zoom MRS4 recorder. From there I adjust the input sensitivity so there's no clipping. Does this give me a clean usable signal, or should I use a proper DI?

Also, I plan on buying a GK 700/1001RB amp. Would I need a DI for that to when running out to a PA or will the onboard DI be acceptable?

Thanks,
FS

 

[thewanderer24]

first question:
Are you happy with the sound you are getting? If yes, then you don't need a DI. If you are not, you should consider one.

2nd question: I don't know that particular head, but I am sure if it comes with a DI built in, it would be good enough for any live situation where you want to run it into a PA. If you get a really picky sound man, he almost certainly will have his own DI he wants you to use anyway.

 

[tplyons]

I can only answer the 2nd question.

The onboard GK DI is one of the cleanest sounding DI's out there IMO. Only thing better is a Countryman Model 85, and those are the bees knees IMO.

 

[KarateKid25]

First question can only be answered by you... Is the sound clean? If not then get a DI. Don't bother though if your getting the GK.
I've got/had both of those heads and the DI is good.