Mackie MDB 1A

The Mackie MDB 1A is an active direct box designed to connect a single instrument such as a guitar, bass, or keyboard to a microphone preamp for musicians and audio engineers in recording sessions, houses of worship, and live stage applications. It converts a high-impedance, instrument-level signal via its 1/4″ TS unbalanced input to a low-impedance, mic-level output via its balanced XLR 3-pin jack. A 1/4″ thru jack allows simultaneous connection to an amplifier or pedalboard.

A -20 dB pad reduces the input level to prevent distortion when using a high-gain source, and the ground-lift switch inhibits hum caused by ground loops. Additionally, there are switches for polarity and a 120 Hz high-pass filter. The Merge function allows the Thru jack to be used as a second, simultaneous input. Due to its active design, the MDB-1A operates on phantom power. A sturdy steel chassis enables confident use in the studio or on the road.

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