If you’re a pro audio engineer, there are some names you just hear over and over again. Telefunken is definitely one of those names. Now, the stalwart brand has released two different DI boxes, each in mono and stereo configurations. The TD-1 and TD-2 are the passive models, requiring no external power to run. The TDA-1 and TDA-2, on the other hand, are powered to give you a little extra tonal juicing.
The TD models feature printed circuit boards assembled by hand with through-hole components, ensuring security and reliability in all their connection points. They also boast a frequency range of 10 Hz to 40 kHz. The TDA models feature the aforementioned hand-assembled circuit boards, but give you a frequency range of 20 Hz to 70 kHz, and what is more, utilize discrete class-A FET circuitry, which helps you achieve a tone with clear, far-ranging headroom and a warmly saturated character.
Both DI boxes provide -15 dB pads, 1/4" pass-through jacks (making them especially handy in the studio), and, perhaps most importantly, top-shelf components such as OEP/Carnhill transformers, and WIMA and Nichicon capacitors. Whether you choose to take an active or passive approach to your direct injections, you can be confident in the solid design build and tonal heft of these Telefunken boxes. Indeed, if you’re a Telecaster-playing funk guitarist and you need a DI box, well, the pun hardly needs to be restated.
