Radial JDI & SansAmp BDDI v2. How to use them?

[Syl_Funky_bass]

Hi Guys,

Noob questions time:

I've just received a brand new Radial JDI for a ridiculously low price.

I only play active 5 string basses and occasionally synth bass (Novation BSII, Sub 37).

I also recently acquired a SansAmp BDDI which I'm very happy with.
Other than these two devices I don't have own any other DI box.

Since I bought a SansAmp I didn't plan to buy a Radial JDI anymore so my first question would be how can it be useful to me considering my current setup? I'm thinking that the Radial JDI could be useful for my synth (live).

More noob questions:

1. I of course have an idea of what a DI box is used for but I've never had the feeling to have perfectly understood its functioning and use. I would like once and for all to have a complete and clear explanation of all the uses of a good passive DI box such as the Radial JDI (especially for a (active)bass/synth bass player).

2. How does the it compare to the SansAmp BDDI and is there any added value to owning one if I already have a SansAmp. Also, combining the Radial JDI with a SansAmp BDDI would be pointless right?

3. Last question is pretty much related to to the previous ones: soundwise what difference is there really between a Radially JDI and any other commonly used passive DI boxes for live performance?
I would say that 90% of the time I come on stage here in Belgium I'm given one of these sturdy BSS AR133 DI boxes with rubber on the sides. With a Radial JDI and/or SansAmp is it OK for me from the bow on to always tell PA companies when I get on stage that I will use one of my DI boxes (because they would presumably/undoubtedly be better?)

4. Last question concerns studio work: how do you use and compare DI boxes in the studio. Why is it important, what difference does it make?

Thank you very much in advance.

 

[Frank Tuesday]

A direct box converts an unbalanced, instrument level signal into a balanced mic level signal. This is done for two reasons. 1)Balanced cables pick up less noise. 2) Easy to connect to mixing board as it can be treated like any other mic input.

If you want a complete explanation, go read an article or watch a youtube video. There are hundreds of available resources that will explain it to you. A Direct Box can be in-DI-spensible - Support - Whirlwind


The JDI and BDDI are very different. The JDI is a direct box, but the BDDI is an effect pedal (amp emulation) with a built in direct box. Their DI function is the same, but the BDDI has the FX on the front end. If you want to use the BDDI's FX, then the two will sound nothing alike.

Passive DIs are all fundamentally the same. Better ones have better transformers, connectors, and a sturdier case. They all have a 1/4" input jack , a 1/4" output jack, a transformer, an XLR output jack and a ground lift switch. Some may include a pad for loud sources. Sound companies may use your DI, or they may want to use their own gear which they know is in good working condition. Fewer unknowns for them makes their life easier. If you're using the BDDI as a preamp, they'll probably be willing to take that signal, but I wouldn't argue with them over JDI vs AR133.

DI boxes may or may not be useful in the studio. Studios tend to have less noise to be picked up by cables, but it depends on many factors. The engineer knows the room and equipment, if they don't use a DI it's because they know it is unnecessary for their studio. But even if unnecessary, some will use a DI anyway out of habit.

 

[Syl_Funky_bass]

A direct box converts an unbalanced, instrument level signal into a balanced mic level signal. This is done for two reasons. 1)Balanced cables pick up less noise. 2) Easy to connect to mixing board as it can be treated like any other mic input.

If you want a complete explanation, go read an article or watch a youtube video. There are hundreds of available resources that will explain it to you. A Direct Box can be in-DI-spensible - Support - Whirlwind


The JDI and BDDI are very different. The JDI is a direct box, but the BDDI is an effect pedal (amp emulation) with a built in direct box. Their DI function is the same, but the BDDI has the FX on the front end. If you want to use the BDDI's FX, then the two will sound nothing alike.

Passive DIs are all fundamentally the same. Better ones have better transformers, connectors, and a sturdier case. They all have a 1/4" input jack , a 1/4" output jack, a transformer, an XLR output jack and a ground lift switch. Some may include a pad for loud sources. Sound companies may use your DI, or they may want to use their own gear which they know is in good working condition. Fewer unknowns for them makes their life easier. If you're using the BDDI as a preamp, they'll probably be willing to take that signal, but I wouldn't argue with them over JDI vs AR133.

DI boxes may or may not be useful in the studio. Studios tend to have less noise to be picked up by cables, but it depends on many factors. The engineer knows the room and equipment, if they don't use a DI it's because they know it is unnecessary for their studio. But even if unnecessary, some will use a DI anyway out of habit.

Thanks a lot, man! Exactly the kind of advice I was looking for.