newb question, here, but i figure this is the section to ask

  • Thread starter Thread starter nashunbooking
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nashunbooking

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Active and Passive direct box, no real idea what it means, I am sure it has something to do with being powered.

which is better?


I am trying to figure out how to plug my guitar in my computer and use an amp emulator program such as Amplitude...which is the program I have. I have been told that plugging in directly through my E-MU 1212 will give me a really shitty sound when trying to record.

I was told to get a DI box and that would eliminate the problem. If I buy the EMU audiocok, is that a DI box, or will I still need a DI box after purchasing that. DO I really need the audiodock? is there a cheaper way to get all of the features that offers? I am not looking to spend more than $100 if possible and the audiodock is $300.
 
In simplest terms, active is a preamp, it gives you a boost and a little more control.
 
With all due respect; a "passive" direct box employs a transformer and requires no external power source. An "active" direct box is transformerless and requires external power to run the impedance matching [differential] circuit.

There are active direct boxes [TAB-funkenwerk V-71; Avalon Design U-5; and a host of others] that will not only serve to convert the signal from "hi impedance/instrument level" to a "balanced low impedance" signal... but will also amplify the signal from the -40 "microphone level" signal one usually associates with a direct box to a +4 "professional line level" signal.

You can build an excellent "passive" DI for under $100 USD using a Jensen JT-DB-E transformer [in my world one of the best sounding]... you don't have to add the "-10 pad"; "lo-pass filter"; etc. unless your really feel like it. Radial makes one that is commercially available with a Jensen Transformer for about double what it'll cost you to build one at home.

I have no idea what an "EMU audiocok" might be... but the name seems fairly descriptive.

Best of luck with all you do.
 
Fletcher said:
I have no idea what an "EMU audiocok" might be... but the name seems fairly descriptive.

Best of luck with all you do.
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Sometimes this forum brings me joy.
 
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