Build your own boutique passive direct box.
Our popular DI box kit is back with expanded features and two transformer options. The FE2's studio-quality electronics are housed in an architectural aluminum enclosure that's rugged enough for the road.
The new FE2 features a through jack for patching to an amp or speaker and a switch for selecting between instrument or amp sources. The amp, or "SPKR," mode is great for recording old guitar and bass amps without line outputs.
The FE2's output section features a Neutrik XLR jack and ground lift switch for eliminating hum.
Transformer Options
We're proud to offer two USA-made transformer options: the FE-X1 wound for us and the legendary Cinemag CM-DBX.
The main difference between the transformers is their noise immunity. The sonic differences between them are very subtle, but when radio signals or other interference are present, the higher-priced transformers will exhibit less noise. Click on the "Audio" tab above to hear samples of each transformer.
| FE-X1 $60 |
CM-DBX $150 |
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| Sound | Clear, modern | Vintage, rounded |
| Made in the USA |
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| Mic output shield |
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| Mu-Metal Can |
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| Instrument input shield |
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Features
- Switch between instrument or amp input mode
- Thru jack for patching to amp or speaker
- Rugged, architectural aluminum enclosure
- Two transformer options, budget and boutique
- Ground lift switch to eliminate hum
| Input Impedance | ~200k/800k Ohms (depending on mic preamp) |
| Transformer Turns Ratio | 12:1 |
| Attenuation | 22dB/38dB (instrument/speaker input) |
Both transformer options for the FE2 are exceptionally transparent when compared with the original ("dry") signal, with subtle tonal differences.
Samples were taken by sending pre-recorded tracks from an Echo Layla 3G interface to the FE2 and then back into the Layla's mic inputs. The mic input gain was set the same for every transformer. The recorded files were then normalized to eliminate differences in volume.
Customer Reviews
Although I ordered the cheapest version, with the ferrite transformer, I experienced no issues whatsoever, and indeed the sound of direct guitar and bass sounds noticeably better than the results I usually get when using the instrument input on my Apollo Silver or my Twin-X. Building was a no brainer
This was a fun and extremely easy project. I had it built in about a half hour and it works like a charm. The output XLR included in the kit differed somewhat from what had been included when the instructions were written so the ground lift switch had to be connected a little differently and there was no need to use the machine screw and nut. You can't use it with this style of XLR. That is really minor, all things considered. The instructions are well written and illustrated and light years ahead of some other DIY kits out there. I will definitely be building more from DIYRE.
Great kits!!! We’ve enjoyed building them in our audio electronics class!!!
Works great. A little suseptible to interference. Just don’t place it next to other equipment and it’s fine.
The build was fast, easy and fun. This thing has a lovely sound. It's incredible what a simple circuit this is and what the Cinemag XFRMR can do for sound.
