ART ZDirect

The ART ZDirect is a single-channel passive direct box that converts an unbalanced instrument or line signal into a balanced output through a transformer, and it needs no power.

What it is

The ZDirect is a passive DI box with a 1/4 inch unbalanced input, an XLR balanced output, and a 1/4 inch thru jack that runs in parallel with the output. It has an aluminium case, switchable input attenuation, a switchable low-pass filter, a phase invert switch, and a ground lift. It requires no battery or phantom power. Retailer listings say the phase invert switch and the thru jack are features not normally found on a basic DI box. Some retailers list the unit under the ARTcessories name, which appears to be the same single-channel product. ART's 2-channel DUALZDirect is a separate product with its own specifications and reviews. Reviewers describe the ZDirect as an affordable box. I found no source giving a production date, a hardware revision history, or an independent laboratory measurement.

Specifications

Frequency response: 10 Hz to 50 kHz, plus or minus 0.5 dB at +4 dBu
THD: 0.01% typical at 1 kHz, +18 dBu; under 0.05% at 100 Hz, +18 dBu
Input: 1/4 inch TRS unbalanced, 50 kOhm input impedance
Output: XLR balanced, 600 Ohm output impedance
Thru jack: 1/4 inch TRS, in parallel with the output
Input attenuation: Switchable 0, -20, and -40 dB
Low-pass filter: Switchable, -3 dB at 30 kHz
Phase: Switchable normal or invert
Ground lift: Switchable; isolates input from chassis and output
Dimensions: 1.75 in H x 4.2 in W x 3.5 in D (44.5 x 107 x 89 mm)
Weight: 0.75 lb (0.34 kg)
Power: Passive; none required

How it's used

Musicians use the ZDirect to connect an electric guitar, bass, or other instrument directly to a mixer or audio interface's balanced input. Listings say it handles instrument, line, and speaker level signals. The thru jack lets an amplifier or pedal chain keep working while the mixer receives a feed. Retailers also note that the balanced output suits long cable runs.

Suggested usage

High-output sources
Use the -20 dB or -40 dB attenuation setting to reduce the risk of overdriving the input. A product FAQ on Equipboard says the pads are intended for high-output instruments and to prevent distortion.
Hum or ground loops
Try the ground lift switch. Listings describe it as separating the input and output grounds.
Phase problems when blending with a microphone
Flip the phase invert switch. One zZounds reviewer describes using it to combine a direct feed with a microphone.
Keeping an amplifier in the signal path
Use the thru jack to feed the amplifier while the box sends a balanced signal to the mixer.
Treble loss over long cables
The low-pass filter is a switchable -3 dB point at 30 kHz. The sources do not describe its effect on tone, so no tonal result is stated here.

What reviewers said

Thomann
Customer ratings average about 4.6 out of 5 across 132 ratings.
Opentip
Average rating of about 4.5 out of 5 from 13 reviews.
Sweetwater
Average rating of about 4 out of 5 from 11 reviews. One reviewer reports the box failed after about 10 days, though the excerpt is partly unclear.
Gearank
Reviewers say it sounds good, works as intended, and offers good value for its low price. Reliability is the main listed concern, with some reviewers worried about the protruding parts of the unit.
B&H Photo
Reviewers describe it as a useful, affordable spare box, while noting that higher-priced units are available.
zZounds
A user praises the quality of ART products and describes using the phase switch to blend a direct feed with a microphone. One review mentions a 30 Hz filter, which conflicts with the published 30 kHz figure.

What it is

Specifications

How it's used

Suggested usage

High-output sources

Hum or ground loops

Phase problems when blending with a microphone

Keeping an amplifier in the signal path

Treble loss over long cables

What reviewers said

Sources