Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $176
Standard/Professional
$119
$300+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 6 merchants for "BSS Audio AR-133". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Meet the BSS AR-133, a versatile and rugged direct box that's built to enhance your musical experience. This active DI box is an upgraded version of the AR-116, a model held in high esteem in the music community for its superior sound quality. The AR-133 is especially revered for its performance with acoustic and bass guitars. However, its capabilities extend far beyond that, catering to a variety of applications. It can be seamlessly integrated with keyboards, DJ consoles, amplifier outputs, and other electronic sources.
What sets the AR-133 apart is its ability to function as an active balancing device. It makes use of both 1/4" jack sockets and an XLR socket, allowing it to convert unbalanced signals into a balanced output on XLRs. This feature ensures that your sound is always at its best, regardless of the source. The AR-133 also offers practicality in design, with an arched case that allows for neat cable management.
Input attenuation is 0, -20, or -40dB, making the AR-133 adaptable to instrument, line, or amplifier levels on inputs. On the output side, a ground-lift switch ensures quick solutions to ground-loop problems. The AR-133 is also equipped with phantom power and battery supplies as standard. In case the phantom power from the console fails or is accidentally switched off, the AR-133 will automatically switch over to the internal 9V battery, ensuring uninterrupted use.
Key Features:
- Enhanced version of the AR-116 audio path for superior sound quality
- Dual input connectors (1/4" jack sockets and XLR socket) for versatile use
- Active balancing device for converting unbalanced signals to balanced output
- Input attenuation of 0, -20, or -40dB for adaptability
- Ground-lift switch for resolving ground-loop problems
- Phantom power and battery supplies as standard for uninterrupted use
- Rugged construction with aluminum extrusion case and robust polyurethane end-cheeks for durability
Owner's manual
BSS Audio AR-133 User ManualProduct specs
| Multi-Channel Unit | No |
| Channels | 1 |
| Active / Passive | Active |
| 19" | No |
| Pad switchable | Yes |
| Gnd/Lift switchable | Yes |
| Powered by battery | Yes |
| Speaker Simulation | No |
FAQs
-
What power options are available for the BSS Audio AR-133 Active DI Box?
-
The BSS Audio AR-133 can be powered by either an internal battery or external phantom power, providing flexibility for different recording and live performance scenarios.
-
Does the BSS Audio AR-133 have a pad switch?
-
Yes, the BSS Audio AR-133 features a switchable pad, allowing you to attenuate the input signal and prevent distortion when handling high output sources.
-
Can the BSS Audio AR-133 be used with both instruments and microphones?
-
Yes, the BSS Audio AR-133 is designed to work with both instruments and microphones, making it a versatile choice for various audio applications.
-
Is the BSS Audio AR-133 equipped with a ground lift switch?
-
Yes, the BSS Audio AR-133 includes a ground lift switch to help eliminate ground loop hum and noise issues in your audio signal.
-
How many channels does the BSS Audio AR-133 support?
-
The BSS Audio AR-133 is a single-channel active direct box, ideal for processing one instrument or microphone at a time.
Videos
Audio University
What Is A DI Box (Direct Box)? | When & How To Use One
Reviews
PROS
-
Clear and transparent sound without coloration
-
Extremely durable with robust rubber sides
-
Neutrik connectors ensure reliable connectivity
-
Effective at eliminating ground loop hum with ground lift switch
-
Versatile with 20dB and 40dB pads for different input levels
-
Ideal for high-demand environments like theaters and live gigs
-
Excellent construction quality, withstands heavy use and abuse
-
Easy stacking design, perfect for organizing multiple units
-
Cost-effective compared to similar high-end DI boxes
CONS
-
Plain design, not visually appealing
-
Lacks a dedicated battery holder in the compartment
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about BSS Audio AR-133.
Build quality
-
Known for their robust construction, these DI boxes have reportedly survived over a decade on the road without failing.
Source -
Toggle switches on the AR-133 are preferred over push buttons for their visibility and ease of use, especially in dimly lit environments.
Source -
The AR-133's design was reportedly copied by Behringer, indicating its strong reputation and solid build quality.
Source
Features and functionality
-
One of the few active DI boxes offering proper galvanic isolation, enhancing its functionality for certain professional applications.
Source -
Includes both TS and XLR inputs, an XLR output, and a TS link out, allowing for versatile connectivity options.
Source -
The BSS Audio AR-133 offers a broader padding range, making it versatile for handling different input levels without distortion.
Source
Comparisons
-
Some users prefer Radial or Countryman over BSS due to personal preferences and past failures, though others favor BSS for durability.
Source -
The AR-133 is noted for its bulkiness, which could be a disadvantage if transporting multiple units in limited space.
Source -
The BSS AR-133 is often referred to as an industry-standard, catch-all DI, indicating its strong reputation among professionals.
Source
User experience
-
The power light can be challenging to see in daylight, which has been a minor inconvenience for some users.
Source
Use cases and applications
-
Often used for protecting CAT5 snakes in recording setups, showcasing its adaptability in unconventional applications.
Source -
In Portugal, the AR-133 is considered a standard choice in venues, suggesting strong regional preference and reliability in professional settings.
Source -
Some users prefer stereo DI boxes like the Klark Teknik DN200 for versatility and cost-effectiveness over multiple single-channel units.
Source
4.5 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 5 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
Jonny Greenwood's setup for "Electric Counterpoint" at Barbican in 2014 included two BSS Audio AR-133 units, as evidenced by an image showing his equipment configuration, which also featured a MacBook Pro 13” and a Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 USB interface.
Used for The King of Limbs: Live from the Basement, as observed by The King of Gear in this still from the movie.
A photo of Colin and his Ampeg SVT Classic Bass Head from The King of Limbs From The Basement. Note the BSS Audio AR-133 Active DI Box on top of the head.
This was seen during the Faraway stables show. Diorama saw Daniel use more acoustic guitars which he then used live. This di box allowed him to control and balance them in his rig.
Because of his stereo ES-335 setup he runs the signal from the acoustic pickup in the body of his guitar into this DI box and forward on.
Album Usage
The BSS Audio AR-133 has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use BSS Audio AR-133, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
More BSS Audio Direct Boxes
Accessories & Related Items
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Direct Boxes
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
rodo1984Gear IQ 101
-