I stand by what I said. A direct box converts unbalanced line-levels
to a balanced mic-level output. That is its job. Look up the Jensen
JT-DB-E transformer; it has 12:1 turns ratio. Active direct boxes do
essentially the same thing. High input impedance, ATTENUATION, low
output impedance. And while they may work backwards, they typically
don't work WELL backwards unless designed to do so. Active direct
boxes do not work backwards, period.
Yes, there are line interfaces that balance and unbalance line-level
signals; typically to provide interface between nominally +4dBu
balanced and -10 dBu unbalanced connections. And yes, there are
preamplifier/direct box combinations (like the Avalon U5) that offer a
line-level preamplified output and also a mic-level "direct box" output.
As mentioned, MOTM outputs are unbalanced and substantially higher
than normal "pro" line-level outputs. No problem for most pro gear
with line-level inputs. But if you attenuate it to take it into
something like a guitar stomp box, then you must amplify the signal
coming out of the stomp box to come back into the MOTM. There are
"reamping" type of boxes out there which is sort of in line with this
subject, but again they're made to deal with pro audio gear, not MOTM
signal levels.
For lots more on this general subject read up on the Jensen
Transformer and Rane website; highly recommended reading.
Ivan
--- In motm@yahoogroups.com, ivancu@... wrote:
>
> Don't use a direct box. Most direct boxes will take a line-level input
> and attenuate it to mic level. You WANT a high-level line input going
> to the MOTM.
>
> A balanced signal can drive an unbalanced input just fine, although you
> might have some signal loss depending on the balanced output topology.
> It should be minimal and not cause any problems though.
>
> Ivan
>