DBX dB12 Active Direct Box

Get A Durable And Great Sounding DI With The DBX dB12 Active Direct Box

At DBX, when they do something, they do it right. So when they decided to create our new direct injection boxes, they didn't settle for the same old tired approach to direct box design. With the DBX name on the line, how could they? One look at their new dB10 Passive and dB12 Active direct boxes will tell you that these are clearly different. With their bullet-proof construction, and extraordinary audio performance to rival their looks, finally there's a direct box worthy of the dbx name.

Utilizing custom dbx mu-metal-shielded audio transformers, high-quality Neutrik connectors, and low-noise circuitry preserves the sonic integrity and true characteristics of the signal source. Both boxes include a pad switch that accommodates instrument, line and even speaker level signals. Take even more control of your sound by utilizing the polarity invert switch to set the phase relationship between the direct and mic'd sound.

As a professional, you don't have time for interference, so they've included a ground lift switch to solve potential hum and buzz problems due to ground loops. And between the combined shielding of the cast metal chassis and the custom-wound transformer, you can be doubly assured of a clean signal free from interference. All of this sits atop a solid, stable footprint, that will keep the box from being dragged around the stage, and the unique contoured underside allows secure stacking of multiple units.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Premium Performance
• Rugged Design
• Stackable Chassis with Durable Rubber Foot
• Gold-plated Neutrik XLR Connector
• Premium Chrome Toggle Switches
• Hi-Z 1/4" Input Jack
• Parallel 1/4" Thru Jack
• Transformer Isolated
• Premium Shielded Custom dbx Transformer
• Balanced XLR Lo-Z Output
• 3-Way 0/20/40 dB Pad Switch
• Flat/High-Cut Filter Switch
• Output Polarity Invert Switch
• Ground Lift Switch
• Phantom Powered
• Green LED Phantom Power Indicator
• +48V Phantom Operation
• Low-Noise Active Circuitry
• Input: 1 instrument/line/speaker level
• Input Connectors: 1/4" jack
• Input Type: Unbalanced, RF filtered
• Insert Impedance: 150k Ohm typical
• Max Input: +20dBu (0dB pad); +40dBu (20dB pad); +60dBu (40dB pad)
• Output: (Thru) 1 parallel from input jack, 1/4" Unbalanced, RF filtered
• Output Connectors: XLR male balanced
• Output Impedance: 150k Ohm typical
• Max Output: 0dBu
• Transformer: Custom DBX mu-metal-shielded
• Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz, +/-2.5dB
• Noise: -105dB unweighted, 22kHz BW
• THD: <0.01%, 20Hz to 20kHz BW; 0.005%, 1kHz

We are Chuck Levin's Washington Music Center

Since 1958, Chuck Levin’s Washington Music Center has been the trusted destination for musicians and audio professionals across Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Family-owned and operated, our legendary music store delivers Everything in Music®—from instruments and recording gear to pro audio, rentals, and repair services.

Our team of musicians and industry experts lives and breathes gear, helping you build the perfect setup for your next performance, studio session, or installation. As an authorized dealer for top brands, we also offer our award-winning CHUCKSCLUSIVE line—exclusive, limited-edition instruments and collaborations recognized with the NAMM Top 100 Dealer Innovation Award for redefining what a music retail experience can be.

Chuck Levin’s isn’t just a store—it’s a community built by players, engineers, and creators who share a lifelong passion for sound. Stop by our legendary Wheaton, MD showroom or contact us anytime for expert advice, product questions, or the best possible deal on your next piece of gear.