Passive DI Advantage

[keatz]

Hi, I've been brushing up on my recording game and I'm nearly ready to record a single for 1 band and an EP for another.
Im running a Focusrite 2i2 into Logic Pro X. The last pedal in my chain(which will be one of Two Notes C.A.B or Mozztronics BP-2, both) doesn't have a DI out, just 1/4". I have been pleased with my recorded tones going to the Scarlett without a DI, but i wonder what advantage I would get puting a decent Passive Transformer DI before the Focusrite interface? I know noise elimination is one, but my current method is actually quite good for noise already. What would the DI give me that the Scarlett already doesn't?
Thanks.

 

[ugly_bassplayer]

Hi, I've been brushing up on my recording game and I'm nearly ready to record a single for 1 band and an EP for another.
Im running a Focusrite 2i2 into Logic Pro X. The last pedal in my chain(which will be one of Two Notes C.A.B or Mozztronics BP-2, both) doesn't have a DI out, just 1/4". I have been pleased with my recorded tones going to the Scarlett without a DI, but i wonder what advantage I would get puting a decent Passive Transformer DI before the Focusrite interface? I know noise elimination is one, but my current method is actually quite good for noise already. What would the DI give me that the Scarlett already doesn't?
Thanks.

You like it. It works. Forward you go make music buddy!!

 

[Mushroo]

A DI would allow you to connect the 1/4" instrument signal from your bass to pro audio gear that is designed for microphone signals.

Your Scarlett 2i2 is designed to accept a 1/4" instrument signal so a DI box is not necessary.

That said, experimenting with different DI's might give you subtle variations in tone that your ear finds desirable.

 

[keatz]

Ok cool thanks, so there's no fancy impedance or level reasons for me to use a DI then, just tone?

 

[Mushroo]

Ok cool thanks, so there's no fancy impedance or level reasons for me to use a DI then, just tone?

I took a look at the Focusrite website and they say the 2i2's instrument inputs have 1.5MΩ impedance. That is perfectly appropriate for recording a bass guitar in my opinion.

 

[bassbrad]

While you might notice some nice sonic improvements from a premium passive DI like the Radial JDI there really is no need to spend that sort of money if you are getting good results already. OTOH and IMHO a solid passive DI should be in everyone's toolkit for that just in case situation, and it does not have to be an expensive or feature loaded one. You can very often find them in the $20-30 range especially on those mega sales events that happen so often.