The mark I gave on features isn't negative, it's just that this box doesn't need any and does its one job very well. It runs off 48V phantom power from the desk, so no batteries required. There is also a 15dB cut if the signal you're giving the desk is too hot. Other than that it seems rugged, hard wearing, you can run all your effects through it prior to going to the desk and it handles it all perfectly. If for any reason I had to do a gig without my amp, or the house amp at a venue was broken or really bad, I'd be very confident that I'd get a great sound just by plugging into the J48 and going straight into the PA. The ground-lift button does exactly what it suggests — breaks the ground connection between input and output to avoid ground loop hums. Simpler boxes can achieve this simply by isolating pin 1 of the output XLR, but because this box relies on phantom power, and the XLR ground provides the return current path for this, a more sophisticated approach is required. There is a small transformer inside the DI box case, but this isn't the traditional output transformer. Instead, it forms part of the DC-DC power converter, and that is where the ground isolation is achieved. The converter runs at about 140kHz — higher than many — and although noise at such a high frequency could be a problem (if it should 'beat' with some other high-frequency signal to produce an audible side-tone), in practice I didn't notice any problems at all. More headroom. And more dynamic range. The J48 is the perfect companion for your guitars, basses, and high output line level instruments. Unlike typical active DI boxes, the J48 won’t overload when you play at maximum volume. Thanks to its unique switching power supply, the internal rail voltage can be raised to handle up to 9 volts. That means improved signal handling for virtually noise free operation. You’ll get natural tone and character, every single time. Features

The Radial JPC stereo computer DI was designed to overcome that problem, and it does so very well. I've been using it recently to interface my laptop with a sound system to play high-quality audio demonstrations during technical lectures, with great success. The Radial J48 is a Phantom Powered DI box that retains the naturaltone of the instrument whilst minimising noise distortion and ground loops. The J48 is powered exclusively by phantom power and retains a transparent response throughout the frequency spectrum. Like all radial products, its made super durable to handle constant use both in the studio and out on the road. Here's what Radial say about the J48This company has long held the same kind of reputation in the US and Canada as BSS, EMO and others have in the UK, and Radial DI boxes are the first port of call for many as a result. My only experience of them before now has been to see the solid-looking boxes displayed at trade shows, so I was keen to try them out for real. First Direct The DI box is a crucial but often-overlooked part of many signal chains - and, as we found out, it really is worth investing in quality. Neve RNDI: Looks wise, this is clearly the winner of the three. Like the BSS, it sounds very clear, even, and moderate in the lows.

However, it was pointed out to me recently that although my happy experiences were largely restricted to British manufacturers, other reputable manufacturers of DI boxes do exist, so perhaps I should broaden my horizons a bit! It was a fair point, and to that end I recently received a large box full of various 'DI solutions' from Canadian manufacturers Radial Engineering. The Radial J48 has been designed from the ground up to deliver the most natural tone. As a direct box manufacturer, we do not believe it is our task to alter the sound of your prized '1962 Fender Jazz Bass', but retain and transfer the true character of the instrument to the mixing console without adding distortion or introducing artifact. This design philosophy has gained a tremendous following from many of the world's most demanding musicians. The Radial J48 is used by artists as diverse as acoustic guitarist Tommy Emmanuel; super-star engineer Joe Chiccarelli; and one of the most successful bands of all time Fleetwood Mac. The Radial J48… the world's finest 48V phantom powered active direct box. Features Collection and delivery costs are included for the first 2 years in the event of an item becoming faulty Radial J48: It looks good, and also definitely feels sturdy enough. The sound is noticably warmer than the BSS, more analogue sounding. It sounds great, but definitely coloured.

Please note that this extended warranty is currently only available on products sold within the UK, EU or EEA, and is subject to the terms and conditions as detailed on the extended warranty certificate provided.