The VTDB-2B is an AC-powered direct box with a single 12AX7 tube and a Jensen JT-DB-E transformer in the audio circuit. In addition to typical direct-inject functions, the unit can be used for warming up synthesizers and alleviating digital harshness on any recorded signal.

Operating at a higher-than-normal level of impedance, the VTDB-2B delivers a strong low-impedance signal. This extra headroom means that a performer can play with a wide dynamic range without overloading the system or creating distortion. The high-impedance output signal also gets an extra boost from the 12AX7 tube. It acts like a pre-preamplifier, adding noticeable clarity to the sound. The boost switch increases the low-impedance output by 15dB, which is useful when the input signal is a little weak or when that extra punch is required.

A buffered loop through output can be used as a line driver (at unity gain) for long cable runs or multiple stomp box layouts. A boost switch selects -20 dB or -4 dB at the XLR output, and a ground lift switch unearths pin 1. It comes with a 1/4" phone input and balanced XLR output along with a loop-through 1/4" phone output. The VTDB-2B must be plugged into an AC outlet rather than using battery or phantom power from a mixing board.

Mono tube direct box

• Acoustic Guitar

The extremely high impedance of the Tube Direct insures a perfect match with every pickup to provide a warmer, more natural sound-both live and in the studio

• Electric Guitar

Provides a clear, warm sound that retains all of the guitar's natural brilliance and harmonics for creating a viable direct sound with or without additional signal processing

Warms up the sound of the synthesizer and provides an ideal interface for the variety of synthesizer output levels and impedances

The clarity and sheen of digital and hard disk recording can sometimes seem a little harsh or more brittle than desired. Use of the Tube Direct can often mitigate this problem at several points in the recording chain, including mixdown

Ground lift switch eliminates typical ground loop problems

XLR balanced output