Hosa Pro-Conex Sidekick Passive Active Box - DIB-445
Phantom Powered. Precision Engineered. The DIB-445 is the active model in the Hosa Pro-Conex Sidekick direct box series. Designed to convert high-impedance unbalanced signals into low-impedance balanced lines, the DIB-445 utilizes 48V Phantom Power to deliver an active, high-headroom signal path that is essential for driving long cable runs without frequency loss or introduced noise.
Transparent Signal Integrity. The Sidekick series is engineered for transparency. With a near-perfect flat frequency response (20Hz–20kHz ±0.2dB) and Total Harmonic Distortion (THD+N) of less than 0.005%, it ensures that the natural character of your instrument reaches the console unaltered. The ultra-low noise floor (-95dBu) makes it an ideal choice for critical recording environments and DAW integration.
Essential Signal Management. As part of the rugged Pro-Conex sub-brand, the Sidekick DIB-445 is built for the stage and equipped with a comprehensive toolkit for troubleshooting. A selectable attenuation pad (0dB, -15dB, -30dB) allows you to interface with hot line-level sources, while the dedicated Ground Lift and Polarity Flip switches provide instant solutions for hum loops and phase cancellation issues.
Key Features
- Active Circuitry: Powered by standard 48V Phantom Power to provide high input impedance buffering for passive guitars and basses.
- Pristine Audio Specs: Delivers < 0.005% THD+N and a -95dBu noise floor for reference-grade signal clarity.
- Input Padding: Three-position switch (0dB, -15dB, -30dB) accommodates a wide range of source levels from vintage pickups to active keyboards.
- Thru-Put Connectivity: Features a 1/4" Thru output for sending the unprocessed signal to a stage amplifier.
- Phase & Noise Control: Dedicated Ground Lift and Polarity Flip switches allow for immediate correction of ground loops and phase issues.
Ideal Applications
- Acoustic Guitars: The high input impedance prevents the "quack" and thinness often associated with passive piezo pickups.
- Passive Bass Guitars: Preserves the full low-end punch and top-end clarity without loading down the pickups.
- Studio Recording: Delivers a pristine, low-noise direct signal perfect for re-amping or amp modeling plugins.
- Vintage Instruments: The active buffering boosts low-level signals from vintage keyboards or guitars without adding noise.
Technical Specifications
Series: Sidekick
Model: DIB-445
Circuit Type: Active (Transformerless Balancing)
Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz (±0.2dB)
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD+N): < 0.005% @ 1kHz
Noise Level: -95dBu (A-weighted)
Inputs: 1 x 1/4" TS (Unbalanced)
Outputs: 1 x XLR3M (Balanced)
Power Source: 48V Phantom Power
Switches: Ground Lift, Polarity Reverse, Pad