Passive Direct Box

Z direct

Overview

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 Zdirects 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 two systems, thereby reducing hum and ground-loop noise.

What further sets the Zdirect apart from other “DI” boxes are its extended features and versatility. We 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 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 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, D.J., and virtually any PA application. It’s full feature set, rugged construction, and high-end specifications make the Zdirect the obvious choice.

Features

• Fully passive, high performance transformer design. No battery required.

• Converts 50k ohm inputs into 600 ohm balanced outputs

• Switchable input attenuation (0, -20, -40 dB) Switchable low pass filter

• Switchable phase invert

• Switchable ground lift (fully isolates inputs from chassis and outputs)

• XLR connectors for balanced outputs

• Rugged extruded aluminum case

Specifications

• Frequency Response10Hz -50kHz, +/-.5dB @ +4dBu

• Total Harmonic Distortion.01% Typical @ 1kHz, +18dBu, <.05% @ 100Hz, +18dBu

• Input Connections¼ – inch TRS unbalanced, 50k Ω

• Output ConnectionsXLR male balanced, 600 Ω

• Output PhaseSwitchable, Normal/Invert

• Ground LiftSwitchable, fully isolates inputs from chassis and output

• Input AttenuationSwitchable, (0dB, -20dB, -40dB)

• Filter Type / ResponseSwitchable, Low Pass, -3dB @30kHz

• Dimensions1.75″H x 4.2″D x 3.5″W (44.5mm x 107mm x 89mm)

• Weight0.75 lbs (0.35 kg)