Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .
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Reviews
Price
Average Price: $43
Budget/Beginner
$119
$300+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Art ZDirect". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Discover the ART ZDirect, your go-to solution for connecting instrument, line, or speaker-level signals to any mixer or balanced input. This passive direct box is engineered to provide a high-quality, isolated balanced low impedance output, ideal for both studio and live environments. Its high-performance audio isolation transformer ensures an extremely flat and wide frequency response, handling high signal levels with ease.
Designed for versatility, the ZDirect features a switchable lowpass filter that cuts out high-frequency interference, making it perfect for reducing radio frequency noise and digital artifacts in a variety of settings. Whether you're interfacing a computer DAW with monitors or isolating signals in a live sound system, the ZDirect delivers consistently clean and neutral sound.
Its rugged, compact aluminum case is built to withstand the rigors of any gig, while the array of switches—including phase inversion and ground lift—offer additional flexibility and noise reduction. With input attenuator switches and an input thru jack, the ZDirect is ready to tackle any audio challenge, from complex studio setups to simple PA applications.
Key Features:
- High-quality passive interface with audio isolation transformer
- Converts high impedance 1/4" input to balanced low impedance output
- Switchable lowpass filter for high-frequency interference reduction
- Phase inversion and ground lift switches for noise management
- Input attenuator switches for handling diverse signal levels
- Compact, durable aluminum chassis for long-lasting performance
Owner's manual
Art ZDirect User ManualProduct specs
| Type | Passive DI |
| Channels | 1 |
| Pads | -20dB, -40dB |
| Polarity Switch | Yes |
| Ground Lift | Yes |
| Inputs | 1 x 1/4" |
| Outputs | 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4" (thru) |
| Height | 1.75" |
| Width | 4.2" |
| Depth | 3.5" |
| Weight | 0.75 lbs. |
FAQs
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What is the primary function of the ART ZDirect passive DI box?
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The ART ZDirect converts high-impedance instrument signals to low-impedance, balanced signals suitable for mixing consoles, ensuring clear audio transmission with minimal noise.
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Does the ART ZDirect require an external power source?
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No, the ART ZDirect is a passive direct box and does not require any external power source to operate.
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How does the ground lift feature on the ART ZDirect help in live sound situations?
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The ground lift switch on the ART ZDirect helps eliminate hum and ground loop issues by disconnecting the ground connection between the input and output, ensuring clean audio.
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Can the ART ZDirect handle high-output instruments without distortion?
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Yes, the ART ZDirect includes -20dB and -40dB pad switches to accommodate high-output instruments, preventing distortion and ensuring optimal sound quality.
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What types of inputs and outputs does the ART ZDirect offer?
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The ART ZDirect features a 1/4" input, an XLR output, and a 1/4" thru output, making it versatile for various audio setups.
Videos
patthesoundguy
Sound Tech How-To Repair a direct box, ARTcessories Zdirect
Reviews
PROS
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Provides clean, noise-free signal with effective hum and ground loop reduction
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Rugged, durable metal construction suitable for heavy use
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Offers more features than other passive DI boxes in its price range
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Built-in pads effectively manage high signal levels
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Works well with both active and passive instruments
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Compact and portable without needing external power
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Excellent value for money considering quality and feature set
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Reliable and long-lasting with some users reporting over five years of use
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Easy to use with intuitive controls and quick setup
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Versatile with phase switch, ground lift, and noise filter for varied needs
CONS
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May cause significant signal drop with keyboards
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Certain parts, like buttons and jacks, could be prone to wear over time
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Not the most rugged option for extensive live touring
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Possible loose connections on PCB affecting long-term reliability
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Art ZDirect.
Features and functionality
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The ART ZDirect DI box can convert high-impedance signals to low-impedance, preventing audio quality loss and potential damage when connecting guitars to mic inputs.
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The ART ZDirect has a 50kohm input impedance, which may not be ideal for guitars with passive pickups; owners recommend seeking higher impedance for optimal tone.
Source
Use cases and applications
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Utilizing a DI box like the ART ZDirect allows for the connection of multiple instruments to a single-input interface, accommodating additional musicians without upgrading the interface.
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It's noted that the ART ZDirect is not suitable for re-amping; users recommend a re-amp box for converting line level to instrument level signals.
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User experience
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Users note that splitting headphone outputs on the Scarlett Solo results in reduced volume, requiring higher gain settings for comfortable listening levels.
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Users reported significant volume drop and tone alteration when using the ART ZDirect with passive pickups, leading to undesirable overdriven and "farty/flabby" sounds.
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Setup and maintenance
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Proper re-amping requires routing the USB interface's line output into the DI's XLR input, then using the 1/4" output to connect to pedals.
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Genre Usage
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