Behringer Ultra-DI Pro DI800v2 8-Channel Active Instrument Direct Box

The Behringer ULTRA-DI D800 is an 8-channel active direct injection (DI) box designed for musicians and sound professionals. DI boxes are crucial tools for connecting unbalanced instrument signals (like electric guitars, basses, keyboards) to balanced microphone inputs on mixing consoles or audio interfaces. This helps eliminate ground loops, hum, and signal loss, ensuring clean and pristine audio during live performances or recordings.

This review will explore the Behringer ULTRA-DI D800’s features, functionality, build quality, performance, and its position in the market to help you decide if it’s the right DI box for your needs.

The Behringer ULTRA-DI D800 boasts a straightforward design with eight independent channels. Each channel features:

• ¼-inch TS Input Jack: This accepts unbalanced instrument signals from various sources.
• Ground Lift Switch: Eliminates ground loops and hum caused by grounding discrepancies between equipment.
• Pad Switch: Attenuates the input signal by -20dB, accommodating instruments with hot outputs like active pickups.
• Mono/Stereo Toggle Switch: Selects between mono or stereo operation for keyboards or stereo instruments.
• Balanced XLR Output Jack: Sends the balanced, low-impedance signal to mixing consoles or audio interfaces.
• Phantom Power LED: Indicates the presence of 48V phantom power, which can be useful for powering condenser microphones through the DI box (applicable only on channels 1 and 2).

Build Quality and Design

The Behringer ULTRA-DI D800 features a metal chassis, providing a sturdy and roadworthy build. The control knobs and switches feel solid and responsive. While some users might prefer a more premium look and feel, the metal construction prioritizes durability at this price point. The compact size makes it easy to integrate into live setups or studio racks, and the lightweight design ensures portability.

Performance

The core function of a DI box is to convert unbalanced instrument signals to balanced microphone signals while maintaining fidelity. The ULTRA-DI D800 does this effectively. Users report clean and transparent audio with minimal coloration. The ground lift switch effectively eliminates ground loops, and the pad switch is helpful for instruments with hot outputs.

Who is the Behringer ULTRA-DI D800 For?

The Behringer ULTRA-DI D800 is a great choice for musicians and sound professionals on a budget who need a reliable and functional 8-channel DI box. It’s particularly well-suited for:

• Musicians: Guitarists, bassists, keyboardists, and other instrumentalists benefit from clean signal transmission to mixing consoles or audio interfaces.
• Live Sound Engineers: The compact size and ground lift capabilities make it ideal for live setups where space is limited and hum elimination is crucial.
• Project Studios: The affordable price makes it a good option for home recording studios where multiple instrument inputs might be needed.

Strengths

• Affordable Price: The ULTRA-DI D800 offers a significant price advantage compared to many other 8-channel DI boxes.
• Solid Build Quality: The metal chassis ensures durability for stage use and travel.
• Clean Audio Performance: The DI box effectively transmits instrument signals with minimal coloration.
• Ground Lift and Pad Switch: Essential features for eliminating ground loops and accommodating instruments with hot outputs.
• Multiple Applications: Suitable for live sound, recording studios, and various musical instruments.