Behringer DI100 Ultra-DI Active Instrument Direct Box

The Behringer DI100 Ultra-DI is a single-channel active direct box built to convert high-impedance, unbalanced instrument signals into low-impedance, balanced signals suitable for mixing consoles, audio interfaces, and recording equipment. At its core is an input-buffering amplifier powered by a 9V battery, which ensures the signal is actively driven through the conversion process rather than passively transformed. This active design is particularly advantageous for instruments with passive pickups, such as electric guitars and basses, where signal strength can be weak over long cable runs. The DI100 accepts both 1/4-inch TS instrument-level and speaker-level inputs, with a rated capacity of up to 3,000 watts for direct amplifier tapping.

Practical features include a switchable input attenuation pad that lets you match the DI box's input sensitivity to the source signal, preventing distortion from hot outputs like active bass guitars, keyboards, or amplifier sends. The ground lift switch addresses one of the most common live sound problems by breaking ground loops that cause audible hum. The XLR balanced output connects directly to any standard mixing console or snake input. While the DI100 is battery-powered only and does not accept phantom power, its straightforward design and low price make it a practical workhorse for gigging musicians, small venues, houses of worship, and home studios that need reliable signal conversion without a large investment.