BSS Audio AR-133 - 1-Channel Active Microphone and Instrument Direct Injection Box

The BSS Audio AR-133 is a versatile and reliable 1-channel active direct injection (DI) box designed for professional audio applications, offering superior sound quality and robust construction. Known for its exceptional performance, the AR-133 is a go-to choice for musicians, audio engineers, and live sound technicians who require high-quality signal conversion and impedance matching across a wide range of instruments and audio sources. The AR-133 features both 1/4" jack and XLR input connectors, allowing it to easily convert unbalanced signals to balanced outputs, making it ideal for use with guitars, keyboards, DJ consoles, amplifier outputs, and other electronic sources.

One of the key features of the AR-133 is its ability to operate seamlessly using either phantom power from a mixing console or its internal 9V battery. The unit automatically switches to battery power if phantom power is interrupted, ensuring uninterrupted operation during performances or recording sessions. The AR-133 also includes switchable input attenuation, with 0dB for guitar pickups, -20dB for line-level signals, and -40dB for speaker feeds, making it suitable for a variety of input sources. Additionally, a ground-lift switch is provided to quickly resolve ground-loop issues, delivering clean, noise-free audio.

Housed in a rugged aluminum extrusion case with durable polyurethane end-cheeks, the AR-133 is built to withstand the rigors of live performance and touring. Its distinctive arched design allows for neat cable management, with cables able to run back underneath the unit, reducing clutter on stage or in the studio. The AR-133's enhanced audio path, based on the renowned AR-116, delivers legendary sound quality, particularly for acoustic and bass guitars. Furthermore, the AR-133 can function as an active balancing device, driving signals over long cable lengths without signal degradation, making it an essential tool in any audio professional's kit.

Features

• 1-channel active DI box for professional audio applications.
• Compatible with both 1/4" jack and XLR input connectors for versatile signal conversion.
• Converts unbalanced signals to balanced outputs for improved sound quality.
• Operates on phantom power or internal 9V battery with automatic switchover for uninterrupted use.
• Switchable input attenuation: 0dB for guitar pickups, -20dB for line-level signals, and -40dB for speaker feeds.
• Ground-lift switch for eliminating ground-loop issues and reducing noise.
• Rugged aluminum extrusion case with polyurethane end-cheeks for durability and distinctive design.
• Arched case design allows for neat cable management.
• Enhanced audio path delivers superior sound quality, especially for acoustic and bass guitars.
• Functions as an active balancing device for driving signals over long cable lengths without loss.

Specifications

Input Section

• Input Impedance:
  • 1M Ohm (pad at 0dB)
  • 47k Ohm (pad at -20dB)
  • 47k Ohm (pad at -40dB)
• Max Input Level:
  • +9dBu (pad at 0dB)
  • +29dBu (pad at -20dB)
  • +49dBu (pad at -40dB)
• Connectors: Two Parallel 1/4" jack connectors and a parallel XLR connector (unbalanced)
  • Jack: Tip Hot (+ve) Sleeve Ground
  • XLR: Pin 2 Hot (+ve) Pin1 & 3 Ground

Output Section

• Output: Transformer Balanced
• Maximum Output Level: +8dBu into 600 Ohms or greater
• Connector: XLR3-32 or equivalent

System Performance

• Distortion (THD): < 0.005% at 1kHz, 0dBu output
• Noise: <-105dB unweighted, 22Hz-22kHz, rms
• Frequency Response: 30Hz to 20kHz, +0dB/-1dB

General

• Main/Standby: 9 volt PP3 type, battery preferably alkaline.
• Current Drain:
  • On phantom, less than 7.5mA
  • On battery, less than 2mA
• Phantom Power: +20 volts DC to +48 volts DC
• Weight: 650 gms, excluding batteries.
• Dimensions: 2.3 x 4.9 x 5.6 inches