Samson MDA1 Mono Active Direct Box

Samson MDA1 Mono Active Direct Box

Samson MDA1 is a single-channel active direct box that converts a high-impedance unbalanced instrument or line-level signal to a balanced low-impedance XLR output. Its 1 MΩ input is particularly suitable for guitars and basses with passive pickups, which can lose high-frequency detail when connected to an input with insufficient impedance.

The 1/4-inch TS Input accepts the source, while the parallel Thru jack keeps a stage amplifier or monitor connected to the same signal. A balanced XLR output feeds a microphone input on a mixing console, audio interface, recorder, or stage box over a low-impedance balanced cable.

The MDA1 can run from 48 V phantom power through the XLR connection or from one 9 V battery. When phantom power is present, the circuit selects it and disconnects the battery. Removing the cable from the Input turns off the battery circuit so the cell is not drained while the DI box is idle.

A 0 dB/-15 dB pad provides headroom for higher-level sources. Ground Lift disconnects XLR pin 1 when a ground loop introduces hum. The electronics are protected by a 14-gauge steel chassis. A 9 V battery is required when phantom power is unavailable and is not included.

Main Features

• Active circuit with a 1 MΩ input suits passive guitar and bass pickups.
• Parallel Thru output keeps a stage amplifier or monitor connected to the source.
• Runs from 48 V phantom power or one 9 V battery.
• Selectable 0 dB/-15 dB pad accommodates higher input levels.
• Ground Lift helps address hum caused by a ground loop.

Technical Specifications

• Type: mono active direct box
• Frequency response: 18 Hz to 35 kHz, -3 dB
• Maximum input: +2 dBu with a 9 V battery
• Gain: +4.8 dB
• Dynamic range: 105 dB at the balanced output
• Noise floor: -98 dB with the pad off
• Total harmonic distortion: less than 0.05% from 18 Hz to 35 kHz
• Input impedance: 1 MΩ
• Output impedance: 200 Ω
• Input pad: 0 dB/-15 dB
• Connections: 1/4-inch TS Input and Thru, balanced 3-pin XLR output
• Power: 48 V phantom power or one 9 V battery
• Construction: 14-gauge steel chassis
• Dimensions: 127 × 86 × 50 mm
• Product weight: 611 g

What’s Included

• Samson MDA1 mono active direct box

Who Is It For

The MDA1 is intended for guitarists, bassists, studios, and live sound technicians who need to send a high-impedance instrument signal to a console over a longer balanced XLR cable without loading down passive pickups. Before use, either 48 V phantom power must be available or a 9 V battery must be installed.

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