The BSS AR-133 is a reference-standard active direct box, ubiquitous on professional stages and in recording studios worldwide. Known for its legendary transparency and "tank-like" durability, it utilizes an enhanced version of the audio path found in the classic AR-116 to deliver pristine, low-noise signal conversion.
Its distinctive arched aluminum chassis is protected by robust polyurethane end-cheeks, a design that allows cables to be routed neatly underneath the unit for a tidy setup. The AR-133 is highly versatile, featuring dual 1/4" jack and XLR inputs, allowing it to function both as a traditional DI and an active balancing device for keyboards, DJ consoles, or amplifier outputs.
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Technical Specifications:
Circuitry: Active FET-input design with transformer-balanced output.
Frequency Response: 30Hz – 20kHz (+0dB/-1dB).
Input Impedance: 1 MΩ (pad at 0dB) for high-fidelity instrument capture.
Max Output: +8dBu into 600 Ohms or greater.
Power: 48V phantom power or 9V battery with automatic fail-safe switchover.
Dynamic Range: Ultra-low noise floor (< -105dB unweighted).
Key Performance Controls:
Three-Position Pad: Selectable attenuation (0dB, -20dB, or -40dB) to handle everything from guitar pickups to high-powered speaker feeds.
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Ground Lift: Dedicated switch to safely decouple the ground and eliminate hum caused by ground loops.
Status LED: Continuous illumination for phantom power and a pulse-flash every two seconds when running on battery.
Parallel Link: Secondary 1/4" jack to send a direct signal to a backline amplifier while simultaneously feeding the console.