Mackie MDB-1A, Active Direct Box
The Mackie MDB-1A features an active box which is designed to connect a single instrument such as guitar, bass or keyboard to a microphone preamp for musicians and audio engineers in recording sessions, houses of worship and live stage applications. The Mackie MDB-1A can converts a high-impedance, mic level output via its balanced XLR 3-pin jack. A 1/4" thru jack that allows simultaneous connection to an amplifier or pedalboard.
The Mackie MDB-1A also has a -20 dB pad that reduces the input level to prevent distortion when using a high-gain source and the ground-lift switch inhibits hum caused by ground loops. In addition, the Mackie MDB-1A has a switches for polarity and a 120 Hz high-pass filter. The merge function of the Mackie MDB-1A allows the Thru jack to be used as a second, simultaneous input. Due to its active design, the Mackie MDB-1A can perform on a phantom power. A sturdy steel chassis enables confident use in the studio or on the road.
Mackie MDB-1A Main Features
- Connect an instrument such as a guitar, bass, or keyboard to a microphone preamp
- Converts a high-impedance, unbalanced 1/4" input to a low-impedance, balanced XLR mic-level output
- 1/4" thru jack for routing to an amplifier
- -20 dB pad prevents overloading when accepting signal from a loud source
- Ground-lift switch minimizes hum
- Active design operates on phantom power
Type | Active |
Input Connections | 1 x 1/4" TS unbalanced |
Output Connectors | 1 x 1/4" TS unbalanced 1 x XLR 3-pin balanced |
Input Impedance | 330 kOhms unbalanced |
Output Impedance | 150 Ohms balanced |
Impedance Ratio | 2200:1 |
Pad | -20 dB |
High-Pass Filter | 120 Hz |
Controls | Pad Ground-lift switch Merge Low-cut switch Polarity |
Frequency Response | 20 Hz to 20 kHz (±0.5 dB) |
Signal to Noise Ratio | 90 dB |
Dynamic Range | 130 dB |
Total Harmonic Distortion | 0.02% at 1 kHz |
Power Requirement | 48 VDC phantom power |
Current | <4 mA DC |
Construction Material | Heavy-gauge steel chassis |
Dimensions (H x W x D) | 1.5 x 3.4 x 5.8" / 38 x 86 x 147 mm |
Weight | 0.8 lb / 0.4 kg |