Switchcraft
Switchcraft #318 Mini AudioStix Laptop Direct Box
★★★★★
XLR
Transform Laptop Audio with the Switchcraft 318 Mini AudioStix Direct BoxConnect your laptop or MP3 player to a PA system with the Switchcraft #318 Mini AudioStix. This 1-channel passive direct box features a 3.5mm stereo mini input and a mono XLR output. It includes transformer isolation and a g...
$82.98*
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jul 14, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.
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Overview
Transform Laptop Audio with the Switchcraft 318 Mini AudioStix Direct Box
Connect your laptop or MP3 player to a PA system with the Switchcraft #318 Mini AudioStix. This 1-channel passive direct box features a 3.5mm stereo mini input and a mono XLR output. It includes transformer isolation and a ground lift switch to eliminate hum and buzz. With a volume control, you can easily adjust the output level for crystal-clear sound.
Specifications:
- Brand: Switchcraft
- Model: #318
- Input: 3.5mm (1/8" Mini) Stereo
- Output: Balanced, Mono, Mic-Level XLR
- Isolation: Transformer Isolation
- Features: Volume Control, Ground Lift Switch
- Housing: All Metal
- Output Level: -23dB (Mic Level)
Key Features
1/8" TRS-M to XLR-M Audio Connect With Volume Control
Transfmer Isolation
Ground Lift
Specifications
Input Connector
1/8" TRS-M
Output Connector
XLR-M
Controls
Volume Control
Features
Transformer Isolation, Ground Lift
Pros & Cons
👍 Pros
- The Mini AudioStix Laptop Direct Box includes transformer isolation to help eliminate ground hum.
- It features a ground lift switch to further assist in resolving noise issues in audio setups.
- This direct box provides a volume control, offering immediate attenuation of the audio signal.
- It converts a 1/8" TRS-M input to an XLR-M output, making it ideal for connecting laptops to professional audio equipment.
- The compact size of the direct box allows for easy portability and integration into various setups.
👎 Cons
- The direct box is designed specifically for 1/8" TRS-M inputs, limiting its compatibility with other connector types.
- It provides only basic functionality for laptop-to-XLR conversion, without advanced audio processing features.
- The volume control is likely a passive attenuator and may not offer signal boosting capabilities for low-level inputs.
- As a direct box, it typically converts unbalanced signals to balanced but does not include preamplification.
- The product does not specify whether it supports stereo or mono operation, potentially affecting some setups.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of input does this direct box accept?
This direct box is designed to accept a 1/8" TRS-M audio input, which is common for laptops and other portable devices.
Does the Switchcraft #318 help with buzzing or humming noises?
Yes, it includes both transformer isolation and a ground lift switch, which are features designed to help eliminate unwanted ground hum and noise in audio signals.
Can I connect a microphone directly to this device?
This product is designed to connect a 1/8" TRS-M output (like from a laptop) to an XLR-M input, not to connect a microphone.
Does this device require batteries or external power?
The product features do not mention batteries or external power, suggesting it is a passive direct box that does not require external power to operate.
What is the purpose of the volume control on this direct box?
The volume control allows for attenuation of the audio signal, which can be useful for matching levels between your laptop and the receiving professional audio equipment.
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