ART AV Direct - Multi-Input Audio/Video Direct Box
The AV Direct from ART is a direct box with a very specific purpose. It is the ideal solution for any situation where stereo iPods, notebook computers, consumer DVD players HiFi 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 a component at the source, rather than in an AV room, audio closet or installation rack.
The AV Direct has stereo RCA, 1/8-inch and 1/4-inch TRS line level inputs, as well as a 1/4-inch and bare wire pressure clip speaker level inputs. A switchable high-cut filter and ground lift allow the AV Direct to effectively filter out any extraneous noise.
The speaker level inputs are heavily padded and transformer isolated from the XLR output, allowing amplified speaker level (up to 100 watts @ 8Ω) to be tapped off, and sent to a microphone level input. A 20Hz to 20kHz frequency response ensures the AV Direct will function seamlessly with any high quality audio source.
- Multi-input audio/video passive direct box
- Transformer isolated XLR microphone level output
- Stereo RCA, 1/8" and 1/4" TRS line level inputs
- Mono 1/4" and pressure clip speaker level inputs
- Variable level control
- Switchable low-pass filter
- Ground lift switch
- Balanced 150Ω output
| Type | Passive |
| Input Connections |
2 x RCA phono 1 x 1/4" TRS phone 1 x 1/8" stereo mini 1 x 1/4" TS phone Speaker Level 2 x Pressure Clip Speaker Level |
| Output Connectors | 1 x XLR |
| Input Level | Not specified by manufacturer |
| Output Level | Not specified by manufacturer |
| Controls |
1 x Rotary Control Level Pad 1 x Ground Lift Switch 1 x Filter I/O |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz to 20kHz |
| Noise | Not specified by manufacturer |
| Power | Not applicable |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 4.6 x 4.7 x 1.75" (117 x 119 x 45mm) |
| Weight | 1.3 lbs (0.6 kg) |
| Specialties | Switchable 4.8kHz high-cut filter |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 7 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Easy to use (6)
- Good audio (3)
- Versatile (3)
Cons
Best Uses
- Outdoor events / games (3)
- Performances (3)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Power user (3)
- Primary use:
- Business (3)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (4)
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 7 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-7
Pros
- Easy To Use
Cons
Best Uses
- Summing stereo to mono
Comments about ART AV Direct - Multi-Input Audio/Video Direct Box:
I have 2 of these direct boxes. One is used to sum the stereo output from my iPod into a mono input on the mixing board, and the other is sum the stereo output from a keyboard. It's a nice tool to sum stereo to mono, and avoid any phase cancellation that you would get by just using a Y-cable. If you're running in mono anyway - it's great for the money. Minimal coloration of the audio. Lots of input options - 1/8", 1/4", RCA or even an input from a speaker source! Quite versatile - a keeper in my collection.
- Primary use:
- Personal
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Low noise
- Reliable Performance
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about ART AV Direct - Multi-Input Audio/Video Direct Box:
We have several of these little gems around campus and I shelve a couple extra for impromptu presentation rigs. They take nearly any input source and convert it mono XLR. You can even connect multiple sources with different connectors at once if you have volume control at the sources or work to the common denominator at the direct box. These are built VERY solidly and inject very little noise. They offer HUGE bang-for-the-buck.
- Primary use:
- Business
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Build Quality
- Ground Lift
- Multitude of Inputs
- Volume Control
Cons
- None
Best Uses
- Patching into house sound
Comments about ART AV Direct - Multi-Input Audio/Video Direct Box:
I manage the AV department at a Resort Hotel. These boxes work great to patch any type of audio source into our house sound system. I made a kit that has 1/4" to 1/4" cable, 1/8" to 1/8" cable, stereo RCA cables, as well as an XLR cable. This allows me to connect virtually any output source into our house system via a balanced XLR cable.
- Primary use:
- Business
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easy To Configure
- Easy To Use
- Reliable Performance
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about ART AV Direct - Multi-Input Audio/Video Direct Box:
We used the AV Direct for a permeant installation of a computer and it works flawlessly! I'd recommend it to anyone of my clients
- Primary use:
- Business
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Events
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
Comments about ART AV Direct - Multi-Input Audio/Video Direct Box:
Takes just about any input including speaker leads and converts them to a mic level output - the gain control knob is extremely useful.
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Versatile
Cons
- Bulky/Heavy
Best Uses
- Events
- Lectures
- Performances
- Powerpoint or Keynote
Comments about ART AV Direct - Multi-Input Audio/Video Direct Box:
I use this to connect my remote controlled mp3 player to sound systems for my shows. I love using the 1/8 inch connection, it's much simpler and an easier cable to carry than the 1/8 to RCA. And the summing of the stereo channels to mono seems to be flawless with this DI. It is the perfect companion for anyone who presents shows or lectures using an iPod, computer, or just about any stereo input source to mono Canon XLR inputs. It's a little bit bigger and bulkier than the comparable Ross, but for the difference in price the rugged construction and input options far outweighed the convenience of the smaller size.
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Easy To Use
- Professional Functions
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Events
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about ART AV Direct - Multi-Input Audio/Video Direct Box:
I use the AV Direct at a church to patch in "iPods" and CD players to the mixer via one of its channels. I specifically chose this product by ART because of its automatic summing of stereo to mono, and the volume/level control on the unit itself. The level control makes it extremely effective either back in the sound booth, or on the stage by allowing the musicians, worship leader, etc. to patch in their "ipods" from the stage- this works great for previewing and learning new songs, or a easy way for a musician to sing to a backing track.
The key here though is to properly train anyone who will be using the unit, (and have some kind of SOP) as you don't want someone connecting a "ipod" at full volume with the AV direct "full up", and hitting play!
Displaying reviews 1-7
Cables
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- Original: $15.99
- Save: $1.60
- Price: $14.39
Adapters
- Price: $159.95
Cable Management
- Price: $5.49
What's in the Box
- Ninety (90) Day Warranty
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