Radial Engineering has introduced the ProDI, a passive direct box that has been designed specifically for musicians and sound companies that do not have the budget to spend $200 on a direct box.

According to Radial President, Peter Janis: “Since we introduced the Radial JDI back in 1996, customers have asked us to produce a more affordable passive direct box so that home studios, small sound companies and community centers can enjoy some of the benefits of using a JDI. The Radial JDI is very special in that it employs a $100 Jensen Audio Transformer as the ‘engine’ that performs the impedance conversion and the isolation. We searched high and low to find a more affordable alternative, but no matter how hard we looked, the quality was never close. The Jensen is truly perfect! This left us with only one choice: to have a custom-made transformer built to our specifications.”

The Radial ProDI features standard hi-Z input and thru-put 1/4″ connectors, -15dB input pad and ground-lift switch. The balanced output is 600 Ohm to interface with professional snake systems and consoles. All switches are recessed in a protective zone to shield against damage from the road.

Linear from 20Hz to 18kHz, the ProDI features low harmonic distortion and virtually zero phase distortion in the critical bass and mid zone, making it ideal for performance venues and studio work according to the company. Because of the transformer isolation, problems such as hum and buzz caused by ground loops are eliminated, making it very easy and hassle-free to use.

The ProDI measures in at a mere 2 3/4″ x 4 1/4″, making it easy to fit in a guitar or bass case for the travelling musician.

Retail price is $99 US.

For more information, visit the Radial site.