Applied Research & Technology At Juno Download

Audio interface with transformer isolated XLR microphone level output

Review: The AV Direct is the ideal input solution for any application where stereo iPods, laptop computers, consumer DVD players, consumer Hi-Fi equipment or video machines have to be connected to a single XLR microphone level input. Unlike standard gender bender cables or DI boxes, the AV Direct can accept virtually any input connection and output level (including amplified speaker outputs) and offers remote level control, ideal for setting the volume of your component at the source, rather than in and AV room, audio closet or installation rack.

The AV Direct has stereo RCA, 1/8" and 1/4" TRS line level inputs, as well as a 1/4" and bare wire pressure clip speaker level inputs. A switchable 4.8 kHz high cut filter, ground lift and variable level control allow the AV Direct to effectively filter out any extraneous unwanted noise while offering variable volume control at source. The speaker level inputs are heavily padded and transformer isolated from the XLR output, allowing amplified speaker level (up to 100W @ 8 Ohms) to be tapped off, and sent to a microphone level input. A 20Hz to 20 kHz frequency response ensures the AV Direct will function seamlessly with any high quality audio source.

removes electrical hum from audio equipment

Review: ARTcessories are taking the audio world by storm and quickly becoming a popular brand with musicians, DJs and studio engineers everywhere around the world. You will discover a robust line of useful tools which include a complete range of direct boxes, headphone amps, small mixers, mic cable combiner/splitters and much more. ARTcessories are designed to deliver affordable solutions for a multitude of audio needs for any size project.

Hum in an audio system is often caused by loop effects which act like antennas. These loops can easily pick up a 60 Hz (or higher harmonics) hum transmitted by electrical wiring. Typically, these loops are connected via grounds, more commonly called 'ground loops'. The safest way to eliminate unwanted noise is with the CleanBOX II.

Some examples of Ground Loops:

The power ground of a synthesizer, connected to the signal ground of the synth, into a mixer's ground, then into a mixer's power ground.
The signal ground of a send effect (reverb, delay) into a mixer, and the connecting power grounds of the mixer and the unit.
The power ground of a guitar amplifier, connected to a signal processor which has a second guitar amplifier on the other channel, and then the second guitar amp's power ground.

The CleanBOX II easily removes ground loops without any signal degradation.

2-channel level converter, comes with UK version external power supply

Review: The CLEANBoxPro provides 2 channels of unbalanced to balanced level conversion and 2 channels of balanced to unbalanced level conversion in a rugged, compact, and portable unit. Balanced lines offer increased immunity to external electrical noise, such as hum. Since a balanced system minimizes induced noise, it is the preferred method of connecting audio gear, especially when long lengths of cable are used.

One section of the CLEANBoxPro converts 2 channels of consumer-level unbalanced input signals into 2 channels of pro line-level balanced output signals. It has 2 RCA jack inputs and a stereo mini-phone jack input connected in parallel. The balanced output feeds 2 XLR male jacks.

The other section of the CLEANBoxPro converts 2 channels of line-level balanced input signals into 2 channels of consumer unbalanced output signals. It has 2 XLR female input jacks. The unbalanced output feeds 2 RCA jacks and a stereo mini-phone jack connected in parallel.

Each section has stereo level controls to optimize signal levels. An LED indicator lights when power is applied.

The CLEANBoxPro can be an invaluable tool in application areas including: home or professional recording studios, live sound, PA, permanent installs, DJ, AV, consumer Hi-Fi, podcasting and broadcasting. The CLEANBoxPro can be used with: mixers, audio processors, laptop computers, computer sound cards, CD/DVD players, video gaming machines, MP3 player/recorders, powered monitors and digital audio workstations.

Passive audio interface

Review: The DTI (Dual Transformer/Isolater) is a high quality totally passive audio interface that uses a pair of high performance transformers to totally separate input and output signal grounds, thereby isolating two systems and reducing hum and ground-loop noise. The DTI's audio transformers have an extremely flat and wide frequency response and can handle high signal levels while maintaining an isolated balanced output. This gives the DTI a very clean and neutral sound with a wide variety of signal sources. The transformers are wound for 1:1 unity gain and are designed to be used with impedances from 600 Ohms to 100k Ohms.

What further sets the DTI apart from other lesser isolation boxes is its connection versatility, with XLR, 1/4" phone, and RCA type phono connections on all inputs and outputs. This allows it to easily fit into virtually any audio system and be the clean patch point between all types of systems.

Whether you need an interface between a computer based audio workstation and your monitor system, isolation on long cable runs in a fixed installation, isolation of a signal source from your recording equipment, or in many cases, just a safer connection between two audio systems, the DTI can accommodate.

The compact black anodized all aluminum case and it's passive design allow the DTI to provide years of trouble free service in Live Sound, Permanent/Fixed Install, DJ, and virtually any PA application. Its full feature set, rugged construction, and high-end specifications make the DTI the obvious choice.

Dual re-amping direct box

Review: The Dual RDB is the ideal interface solution for any application where stereo or dual line level signals from recording interfaces, computers, mixers, iPods, consumer audio or video machines need to be connected to XLR microphone or 1/4" instrument level inputs.

The unit has 2 x high quality isolation transformers that prevent ground loops when connecting various systems together.

The Dual RDB accepts 1/4" TRS and XLR line level inputs and outputs mic or instrument levels. The Dual RDB's variable level controls allow volume control to be set at the source rather than in the studio, AV room, audio closet or installation rack. A 20Hz to 20 kHz frequency response ensures the Dual RDB will function transparently with any high quality audio source.

Dual channel active direct box, comes with super quality battery

Review: The DUALXDirect provides 2 x independent high quality active interfaces that let you connect instrument, line, or speaker level signals to a mixer or other balanced inputs. Each of the high impedance 1/4" and XLR inputs (provided via combo jacks) are buffered and converted by very low noise active electronics into an isolated, balanced, low impedance signal output. The DUALXDirect has an extremely flat and wide frequency response and can handle high signal levels. This gives the DUALXDirect a very clean and neutral sound with a wide variety of signal sources and over long signal runs in high noise environments.

The input attenuator switches allow for a wide range of signal levels and the input Thru jacks allow for tapping off of your signal chain. The ground lift switches let you totally separate the input and output signal grounds, when appropriate, to isolate 2 systems, thereby reducing hum and ground-loop noise.

The DUALXDirect's active circuitry is powered by phantom voltage from the output connections or by an internal 9V battery, when external power is not available. When powered by a battery, it draws less than 7.5 mA which should provide more than 100 hours of operation with a new battery (alkaline recommended). If phantom power is available, then the DUALXDirect will automatically draw its power from the external source. The power on/off switch lights more dimly when the unit is running off of the battery, lights more brightly when it is running off of phantom power, and is off when the unit is inactive.

The compact black-anodized all aluminum case and it's active design allow the DUALXDirect to provide years of trouble free service in live sound, permanent/fixed install, DJ, and virtually any PA application. It's full feature set, rugged construction, and high-end specifications make the DUALXDirect the obvious choice.

The Art ARTcessories DUALXDirect features

Fully active design
Phantom voltage or 9V battery powered
Converts high-impedance balanced / unbalanced inputs into 600 Ohm balanced outputs
Switchable input attenuation (0, -30 dB)
Switchable ground lift
1/4" TRS / XLR combo connector inputs
XLR connectors for balanced outputs
Rugged extruded aluminum case
Frequency Response: 10 Hz - 100 kHz, i 0.5 dB @ +0 dBu
THD: <.05% (typical)
Dynamic Range: >100 dB (typical)
Channel Separation: > 80 dB (typical)
Maximum Input Level: +4, +34 dBu
Maximum Output Level: +6 dBu (battery powered), +14 dBu (phantom powered)
Input Connections: 1/4" TRS XLR female balanced / unbalanced (2), 470k Ohm
Thru Connections: 1/4" TRS (2)
Output Connections: XLR male balanced (2), <600 Ohm
Input Attenuation: Switchable, (0, -30 dB)
Power Requirements: 9V @ 7.5 mA (battery, alkaline recommended), 18 - 48V DC @ 6.4 mA (phantom power per channel)
Dimensions (DWH mm): 99 x 117 x 47
Weight: 0.38kg

2 x passive interfaces let you connect instrument, line or speaker level signals to a mixer or other balanced inputs

Review: The DUALZDirect provides 2 x independent high quality totally passive interfaces that let you connect instrument, line, or speaker level signals to a mixer or other balanced inputs through high performance audio isolation transformers. Each of the high impedance single-ended 1/4" inputs is converted by a transformer into an isolated, balanced, low impedance signal output. The DUALZDirect's audio transformers have an extremely flat and wide frequency response and can handle high signal levels. This gives the DUALZDirect a very clean and neutral sound with a wide variety of signal sources and over long signal runs in high noise environments.

The input attenuator switches allow for a wide range of signal levels and the input Thru jacks allows for tapping off of your signal chain. The ground lift switches let you totally separate the input and output signal grounds, when appropriate, to isolate 2 x systems, thereby reducing hum and ground-loop noise.

What further sets the DUALZDirect apart from other DI boxes are its extended features and versatility. Art have added switchable low pass filters that cut out all very high frequency interference. These Bessel filters on the outputs are placed out of the audio range and are primarily intended to reduce radio frequency interference before it gets into the main system. The filters are also very effective in reducing any digital computer noise artifacts when using the DUALZDirect as an interface between a computer-based audio workstation and your monitors. The pase invert switches, while not normally included with your run of the mill DI box, have been added to allow you to switch signal polarity right at the source. This feature is especially handy when you are combining a direct tap with a microphone feed in the mix.

The compact black-anodized all aluminum case and it's passive design allow the DUALZDirect to provide years of trouble free service in live sound, permanent/fixed Install, DJ, and virtually any PA application. It's full feature set, rugged construction, and high-end specifications make the DUALZDirect the obvious choice.

USB MIDI cable connects any MIDI device, including musical instruments, controllers and sound modules, to USB port

Review: The ART MConnect USB MIDI Cable provides an easy way to directly connect any MIDI device, including musical instruments, controllers and sound modules, to your computer's USB port for convenient use with audio workstation software for music production, recording or sequencing without any extra equipment. The MConnect supports up to sixteen channels in and out. Indicators simplify troubleshooting incoming and outgoing MIDI data. No special drivers are required, just plug and play with your Windows PC or Mac.

Simply plug the MIDI input or output connector (whichever is appropriate) into your device and the USB connector into your computer. That's all there is to it. The first time you connect your MConnect to your computer, all the necessary drivers will be automatically installed and the cable will then be ready to use. The MConnect may be used with any software that supports USB MIDI devices.

Microphone amplifier with phantom power

Review: Sometimes you need to connect a low-impedance or condenser microphone to something which does not support it, such as a high-impedance mixer input, a PC sound card, a powered speaker or possibly an instrument amp. Situations like this call for a mic preamp like the MicroMIX to act as an interface. Simplicity and economy are important factors. A level control and a simple overload indicator such as a Clip LED will also help you to keep the signal clean.

Studio mixer with 8 x inputs with effects loop

Review: The ART MX822 8-Channel Stereo Rackmount Mixer is a versatile 8 x input mixer for studio, live sound or installation applications. Each input accepts a mono or stereo signal and provides independent level, pan and effects send controls. Channel One includes a switchable mic/line source select and the XLR mic connector provides switchable phantom power.

Multiple MX822s may be chained for additional inputs using common 1/4" TRS cables. External effects processors can be linked in and mixed with independent level controls. A front panel headphone jack with separate level control allows independent monitoring.

Miniature headphone mixer

Review: A performer needs to hear him/herself through headphones exclusively or mixed with the output of a mixer, CD player, tape deck, or other stereo line level source. Only the mic signal, however, should be going to the main mixer.

Connect the MyMONITOR between the mic and line source, and the mixer. The mic and line monitor levels can then be adjusted for mix and volume through the headphones. Only the mic signal will go to the board. And since the MyMONITOR can be AC or battery powered, the unit can be used on a large stage or wherever there is no AC outlet nearby. Dynamic or condenser mics can be used since phantom power would come through the mic thru jack from the mixer or other source.

16-channel XLR balanced patch bay

Review: The ART P16 XLR Balanced Patch Bay. Ideal for any live PA rack, studio rack or fixed installation where easy access to XLR inputs are required, the P16 brings all rear-mounted XLR inputs from various devices to one, convenient single space rackmountable location. The P16 saves wear and tear on the connectors of expensive audio equipment by bringing all commonly used connections to the external patch bay.

All-steel chassis, black anodized finish and secure, high-quality XLR connections front and back with internal connections made via PCB wiring ensure long term reliability from the passive ART P-16 balanced XLR rackmount patch bay.

3-channel personal mixer

Review: How do you connect a CD player, a synthesizer and the line output from a bass amp to a tape deck? Use a simple stereo mixer. The PowerMIX III can accept either mono or stereo signals and mixes them down to stereo or identical L/R mono signals.

Additionally, the PowerMIX III provides a headphone output with its own level control.

Usage:

1. Plug the AC adapter into the 12V DC input on the PowerMIX III and plug the other end into a 120V AC wall socket.

2. Plug your stereo signal sources into the separate L/R Inputs on channels 1 to 3. Mono sources can be plugged into the Left Input on any channel. It is not recommended that you connect 2 mono sources to any one channel.

The specifications:

Maximum gain: +27 dB
Input impedance: 10k Ohms
Maximum input level: +30 dB
Maximum output level: +13 dB
Output Impedance: 100 Ohms
Total harmonic distortion: > 0.005%
Adapter: included
Power: 12V DC
Dimensions: 143mm x 92mm x 45mm
Weight: 590g.

2-channel microphone preamplifier

Review: The ART Pro MPA II is an affordable high performance microphone preamp.

The ART Pro MPA II can be configured for dual mono or stereo operation with selectable mid/side mic support, summing the adjacent channel, to decode left/right signals.

Each microphone input circuit, with selectable 48V phantom power, features variable input impedance which can radically vary the overall performance of any high quality dynamic or ribbon microphone.

The Pro MPA II can operate at either a low or high plate voltage on the 2 integrated hand-selected 12AX7 tubes for wider variation of preamp tone and performance. Large back-lit analog VU output meters display output levels while multi-colored LED arrays show tube gain.

Housed in a standard 2U space rack-mountable steel chassis, with CNC routed black anodized aluminum face panel, the Pro MPA II is designed to deliver years of reliable operation in the studio, production facility, or on the road for live sound reinforcement.

2 x channel Vactrol-based compressor/leveling amplifier

Review: The Pro VLA II is a tube driven Vactrol-based compressor/leveling amplifier designed to excel in any professional audio environment. Superior performance and an incredible tone makes the Pro VLA II and indispensable tool for tracking, mixing, mastering, dynamic control of live sound sources or for use in broadcast audio.

Capable of delivering a far more musical natural sounding and sonically transparent compression than competitive units in its class, the Pro VLA II uses an Opto-electronic circuit rather than the more typical design VCA driven level detection circuit. This VCA-less design coupled with a 12AT7 vacuum tube in the gain stage makes the Pro-VLA II the ideal dynamic control device for critical audio applications.

Exceptional signal integrity with extremely low noise and low distortion is achieved in the Pro VLA II by utilizing a transformerless design throughout.

Unlike typical compression units that use Voltage Controlled Amplifiers (VCA's) to handle level detection, the Pro VLA II's Opto-electronic design allows a far more transparent and musical sounding compression without sounding aggressive or un-natural. This Vactrol based optical electronic circuitry is the basic component of the classic highly sought after compressors of past.

The Vactrol design allows the Pro VLA II to react to audio signal in much the same way the eye naturally adjusts to fluctuations in light levels, smoothly, quietly and almost imperceptibly.

The Pro VLA II is a soft knee leveling amplifier by design. Although capable of providing dramatic compression effects, the Pro VLA II was designed to excel in any application where transparent, expressively musical dynamics control is desired.

Large highly visible backlit analog VU meters accurately display input and output levels while extremely fast 10-segment LED's display gain reduction. For added functionality, the LED's display either average level for mastering & mixing applications or peak hold for monitoring individual sources when tracking audio.

XLR and 1/4" TRS balanced inputs and outputs are provided to ensure the Pro VLA II can connect with any audio source or hardware. A +4 dBu/-10 dBu mode switch optimizes the Pro VLA II I/O for either consumer or professional equipment.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQsuplGBGVc

The specifications:

Dynamic range: > 100 dB (20-20KHz)
Total harmonic distortion: <0.1% (typical)
Equivalent input noise: @ +4 dBu: -99dBu (''A'' weighted)/@ -10 dBV: -107dBu (''A'' weighted)
Frequency response: 10-100000Hz (+/- 0.5 dB)
Input impedance: 10000 Ohms
Maximum attenuation: 30 dB
Maximum input level: +20 dBu (in +4 dBu mode)/+10 dBV (in -10dBV mode)
Maximum output level: +20 dB max
Attack time: 0.25msec. to 50msec. variable
Release time: Variable 150ms to 3s
Slope: Variable 2:1 to 20:1
Dimensions: 3.5" x 19" x 9.2" (8.9cm x 48.3cm x 23.3cm)
Weight: 10.5lbs (4.76kg).

3-channel microphone mono mixer, with UK version power supply

Review: You need to add 3 x mics to a mixer, which only has one available channel. Just insert a ProMIX between the mics and the mixer. Each mic channel on the ProMIX has both phantom power and low-frequency cut selectable via DIP switches plus a level control. The balanced XLR line output can be connected to a mic input on the mixer and headphones or a powered monitor can be connected to the phone/aux output. And if AC power is not available, the ProMIX runs on batteries as well.

2-way mic splitter

Review: The ProSplit provides one direct output and one transformer isolated output from a single microphone. Applications include sending the direct output to the main or front-of-house mixer, with the second isolated output being sent to a monitor or recording mixer. The direct output passes phantom power from the main mixer to the microphone for use with condenser microphones.

The ProSplit includes a ground-lift switch on the isolated output to reduce noise due to ground loops between connected equipment. For versatility the ProSplit also features an attenuator pad switch on the input that can be used to alternately connect a preamplified (line-level) signal to the 2 microphone-level ProSplit outputs.

Microphone controller

Review: Use the SPLITComPro to split or combine balanced low impedance microphone signals.

As a splitter: the SPLITComPro provides one direct-coupled output and one isolated output from a single microphone. Applications include sending the direct output to the main or FOH mixer, and the second isolated output to a monitor or recording mixer. The main mic output passes phantom power from the main mixer to the amin mic input for use with condenser microphones. The Phantom power is blocked from passing to the isolated mic output.

Aa a combiner: The SPLITComPro provides one output from 2 microphone inputs. The phase switch can be used to invert the relative phase of the isolated mic input. Applications include dual micing of percussion instruments, choirs, and instrument amplifiers. The Phantom power passes through each output to their respective input, (main to main, isolated to isolated), however the phantom power is blocked from passing between the main and isolated signal paths. Only the audio passes between the main and isolated signal paths (it is present on all inputs and outputs).

USB guitar cable connects any electric guitar (or other electrified musical instrument with a mono phono jack) to USB port

Review: The ART TConnect USB Guitar Cable provides an easy way to directly connect any electric guitar (or other electrified musical instrument with a mono phone jack) to your computer's USB port for convenient recording without any extra equipment. The output of the TConnect is a studio quality 16bit, 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz digital audio signal. No special drivers are required, just plug and play with your Windows PC or Mac.

Simply plug the 1/4" TS plug into your guitar and the USB connector into your computer. That's all there is to it. The first time you connect your TConnect to your computer, all the necessary drivers will be automatically installed and the cable will then be ready to use. The TConnect may be used with any recording software that supports USB audio devices.

Professional Tube microphone preamplifier

Review: The ART Tube MP Original Microphone Preamp is the world's most popular external tube microphone preamp. Whether you are working with a digital computer or analog recording system, the Tube MP's TEC award-nominated design will allow you to obtain professional recording studio results. The hybrid design of the Tube MP allows it to add warmth and fatness to a signal while maintaining exceptionally low-noise and high quality.

Its primary application is to be used with a microphone. However it's also an exceptional direct box, impedance matching, amplifying and improving the sound of any instrument plugged into it.

Variable voiced tube mic/instrument preamplifier

Review: Whether you're working with a computer, hard disk or digital multi-track recorder, the Tube MP's TEC award nominated design will allow you to obtain professional results at an affordable price.

The ART preamps offer warm tone, useful features and are innovatively designed. ART's line of Tube MP products add presence, clarity and fullness to any signal and is exceptionally low-noise. The ART Tube MP Studio V3 features V3 Technology (Variable Valve Voicing), which provides optimized reference points to begin the recording process. The V3 delivers a wide variety of settings designed for various microphones and DI inputs, including guitars, basses, keyboards, synths, electronic drums and much more. Don't settle for a copy-cat look-alike.

Go with the real thing, the Tube MP by ART.

Tube preamp and optical compressor, can be used as a mic/line preamp or as a DI (direct) box

Review: The Tube MP/C (PreAmplifier/Compressor) is a multi-purpose tool for audio engineering and recording. 2 x independent circuits featuring a tube-based analog preamplifier and a VCA-less compressor with optical gain reduction control are housed in one, convenient desk-top chassis. Used as a mic/line preamp or as a DI (direct) box, the Tube MP/C is designed to work seamlessly with any recording, sound-reinforcement, or electronic instrument setup. ART's Tube MP/C circuitry is a hybrid design utilizing the latest, most advanced, solid-state and tube technology.

The preamplifier's active balanced solid-state input provides extremely low noise and excellent common mode rejection. The 14" high impedance input prevents loading of any connected device making the Tube MP/C perfect for DI or line level applications. The preamplifier's second stage 12AX7a tube runs on a regulated DC voltage providing an additional 20 dB of gain.

The compression circuit features a VCA-less design and utilizes optical electronics (Vactrol) coupled with a 12AX7a vacuum tube gain stage for superior musical performance.

The specificaiton of the Tube MP/C:

CMMR: > 60 dB @ max gain
Equivalent input noise: -128dBu typical (A wtd., shorted XLR balanced input, gain @ max)
Frequency response: 30Hz - 60 kHz +/- 1 dB balanced output, 20 Hz - 60 kHz +/- 1dB 1/4" output
Input impedance: 1M Ohms 1/4" input, 5K Ohms XLR input
Input/output connections: input: XLR balanced or 1/4" balanced. Output: 1/4" unbalanced XLR balanced, transformer isolated
Maximum gain: +80 dB (balanced in-out, +64 dB (unbalanced input, balanced output)
Maximum input level unbalanced (Inst): +15 dBu, balancd (mic): +10 dBu
Maximum output level: +19 dBu (line mode)
Output impedance: XLR: <600 Ohms, 1/4": <300 Ohms
Low cut filter: -3 dB @ 70 Hz, 6 dB/Octave
Phantom power: switch selectable, +48V DC, filtered, current limited
Chassis type: all aluminum black anodized with integral rubber sides
Power requirements: 9V AC @ 1000mA (external)
Attack time: <1 ms (limit), 20 ms (comp.)
Release time: 150ms (fast), 20ms - 3s Program dependant (Auto)
Total harmonic distortion: <0.1% @ max gain
Tube type: hand selected 12AX7a
Compressor slope: 2:1 (comp.)/11:1 (limit)
Dimensions: 44.5mm H x 150mm W x 165mm D
Weight: 1.32kg
Notes: 0 dBu = 0.775V rms.

Project Series 2-channel preamplifier/computer interface with 2 x XLR cables

Review: The USB Dual Pre is a full-featured high quality dual portable preamplifier and computer interface packed into a compact rugged case.

It is designed to work over a wide variety of applications from remote field recording to desktop/studio tracking. Each of the 2 low noise input channels has up to 48 dB of clean gain with signal present and clip LED indicators. Inputs can be either XLR balanced or 1/4" TRS. Each of the 1/4" TRS outputs is buffered low impedance balanced.

The USB Dual Pre is powered via the USB bus. An internal 9V battery, or optional external 12V power supply (or any combination of USB, battery & power supply) can be used depending on application. When running powered by battery alone, you should expect in excess of 50 hours of operation with phantom power off. Battery life will drop to approximately 20 hours (depending on microphone) when phantom powering is engaged (still enough time to get through an average session).

The built-in low noise +48V phantom power supply allows you to power up to 2 microphones as well as the preamplifier when running from any power sources including the USB bus.

For monitoring, a 1/8" TRS mini headphone jack with level and monitor mix controls on the rear allow for latency free local monitoring of the inputs while recording as well as playback monitoring of the USB bus. The monitor mix is also routed to the 1/4" TRS balanced outputs. This lets you use the 1/4" outputs as either preamplifier outputs or as the monitor feed to your powered monitors.

The USB interface is fully compliant with the USB 1.1 specification and uses USB adaptive mode for playback and USB asynchronous mode for record. It will work with the USB audio device drivers built into Windows 98SE/ME/2000/XP/Vista and Apple OS9.1/OSX computers with native USB support. No special drivers are needed.

USB microphone cable connects any dynamic microphone to USB port for recording

Review: The ART XConnect USB Microphone Cable provides an easy way to directly connect any dynamic microphone to your computer's USB port for convenient recording without any extra equipment. The output of the XConnect is a studio quality 16bit, 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz digital audio signal. No special drivers are required, just plug and play with your Windows PC or Mac.

Simply plug the XLR connector into your microphone and the USB connector into your computer. That's all there is to it. The first time you connect your XConnect to your computer, all the necessary drivers will be automatically installed and the cable will then be ready to use. The XConnect may be used with any recording software that supports USB audio devices.

Active interface for connecting instrument, line, or speaker level signals to any balanced input, comes with super quality battery

Review: The Xdirect is a high quality interface that lets you connect instrument, line, or speaker level signals to a mixer or other balanced input. The high impedance single-ended 1/4" and XLR inputs are buffered and converted, by very low noise active electronics, into an isolated balanced low impedance signal source. The Xdirect has an extremely flat and wide frequency response and can handle high signal levels while still maintaining an isolated balanced low impedance output. This gives the Xdirect a very clean and neutral sound with a wide variety of signal sources and over long signal runs in high noise environments.

The input attenuator switches allow for a wide range of signal levels and the input link jack allows for tapping off of your signal chain. The ground lift switch lets you totally separate the input and output signal grounds, when appropriate, to isolate 2 systems, thereby reducing hum and ground-loop noise.

What further sets the Xdirect apart from other Active DI boxes are its extended features and versatility. ART have added a switchable low pass filter that cuts out all very high frequency interference. This bessel filter on the input is placed out of the audio range and is primarily intended to reduce radio frequency interference before it gets into the main system. The filter is also very effective in reducing any digital computer noise artifacts when using the Xdirect as an interface between a computer based audio workstation and your monitors.

A phase invert switch, while not normally included with your run of the mill D.I. box, has been added to allow you to switch signal polarity right at the source. This feature is especially handy when you are combining a direct tap with a microphone feed in the mix.

The Xdirects active circuitry is powered by an internal 9V battery, when external power is not available. In this mode it draws 3.5 ma which should give you more than 250 hours of operation off of a new battery. If phantom power is available, then the Xdirect will automatically draw its power from the external source. The battery on/off switch lights dim when the unit is running off of the battery, lights brightly when it is running off of phantom power, and is off when the unit is inactive.

The compact black anodized all aluminum case and it's flexible power design allow the Xdirect to provide years of trouble free service in live sound, permanent/fixed install, DJ, and virtually any PA application. It's full feature set, rugged construction, and high-end specifications make the Xdirect the obvious choice whenever you have to interface high impedance sources with a low noise balanced system.

Passive interface lets you connect instrument, line, or speaker level signals to a mixer or other balanced input thru an audio isolation transformer

Review: The Zdirect is a high quality totally passive interface that lets you connect instrument, line, or speaker level signals to a mixer or other balanced input thru a high performance audio isolation transformer. The high impedance single-ended 1/4" input is converted by the transformer into an isolated balanced low impedance signal source. The Zdirect's audio transformer has an extremely flat and wide frequency response and can handle high signal levels while still maintaining an isolated balanced low impedance output. This gives the Zdirect a very clean and neutral sound with a wide variety of signal sources and over long signal runs in high noise environments.

The input attenuator switches allow for a wide range of signal levels and the input thru jack allows for tapping off of your signal chain. The ground lift switch lets you totally separate the input and output signal grounds, when appropriate, to isolate 2 systems, thereby reducing hum and ground-loop noise.

What further sets the Zdirect apart from other DI boxes are its extended features and versatility. ART have added a switchable low pass filter that cuts out all very high frequency interference. This Bessel filter on the output is placed out of the audio range and is primarily intended to reduce radio frequency interference before it gets into the main system. The filter is also very effective in reducing any digital computer noise artifacts when using the Zdirect as an interface between a computer-based audio workstation and your monitors. The phase invert switch, while not normally included with your run of the mill DI box, has been added to allow you to switch signal polarity right at the source. This feature is especially handy when you are combining a direct tap with a microphone feed in the mix.

The compact black anodized all aluminum case and it's passive design allow the Zdirect to provide years of trouble free service in Live Sound, Permanent/Fixed Install, DJ, and virtually any PA application. It's full feature set, rugged construction, and high-end specifications make the Zdirect the obvious choice.