Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $185
Standard/Professional
$119
$300+
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Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "BSS Audio AR133 Active DI Box". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
When it comes to balancing durability with pristine sound quality, the BSS Audio AR133 Active DI Box stands out as a quintessential choice for musicians and audio professionals alike. Renowned for its legendary sound quality, especially on acoustic and bass guitars, the AR133 offers versatility that extends beyond traditional applications. Whether you're integrating it with keyboards, DJ consoles, or amplifier outputs, this DI box excels in converting unbalanced signals to balanced outputs, thanks to its dual input connectors – 1/4" jack sockets and an XLR socket.
The AR133 is designed with practicality in mind. Its arched casing allows for seamless cable management, running cables neatly from end to end. The unit features input attenuation settings of 0, -20, or -40dB, making it adaptable for various input levels, from instrument to amplifier. Additionally, a ground-lift switch provides an easy solution to pesky ground-loop issues.
Built to withstand the rigors of live performance, the AR133's rugged aluminum extrusion case, coupled with robust polyurethane end-cheeks, ensures it can endure the toughest conditions. Its automatic switch between phantom power and an internal 9V battery safeguards against power interruptions, ensuring uninterrupted performance.
Key Features:
- Enhanced audio path derived from the AR-116 reference standard
- Dual input connectors: 1/4" jack sockets and XLR socket
- Input attenuation: 0, -20, -40dB
- Ground-lift switch for ground-loop issues
- Powered by phantom power or internal 9V battery
- Rugged aluminum case with polyurethane end-cheeks for durability
Product specs
| Brand | BSS |
| Model | AR-133 Active DI Box |
| Finish | Blue |
| Year | 2010s |
| Categories | DI Boxes |
FAQs
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What type of power does the BSS Audio AR133 Active DI Box require?
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The BSS Audio AR133 can be powered by either +48V phantom power from a mixing console or an internal battery, with automatic switchover to battery if phantom power fails.
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Can the BSS Audio AR133 Active DI Box handle different input levels?
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Yes, the AR133 features switchable input attenuation, allowing it to handle guitar-type pickups at 0dB, line level signals at -20dB, and speaker feeds at -40dB.
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Is the BSS Audio AR133 suitable for long cable runs?
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Yes, the AR133 is designed to drive signals over long cable lengths without loss, making it ideal for live sound and studio applications.
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How does the BSS Audio AR133 Active DI Box handle unbalanced and balanced signals?
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The AR133 includes a parallel XLR input, which converts unbalanced outputs to balanced lines, ensuring signal integrity over long distances.
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Does the BSS Audio AR133 have a link output for amplifiers?
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Yes, the AR133 features a parallel Link Jack output, allowing you to feed amplifiers directly while simultaneously sending the signal to a mixing console.
Videos
Thom Wettstein
DI-Box Test - BSS-AR133 - RNDI - REDDI - Tonecraft 363
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about BSS Audio AR133 Active DI Box.
Features and functionality
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The BSS AR133 is praised for its proper galvanic isolation, a rare feature among active DI boxes.
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Some users find the power indicator light difficult to see in daylight conditions.
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Known for its stereo capabilities, the BSS AR133 is often considered for setups that require stereo input and output options, particularly in live performance settings.
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The AR133 is often used without reliance on built-in amp DIs due to its effective ground lift feature, resolving common noise issues.
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User experience
Comparisons
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Several users prefer Radial DI boxes over BSS, citing personal preference and reliability.
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It's acknowledged alongside Radial, Whirlwind, and Klark Teknik as a reliable choice, but some users mention Radial as having an edge in brand preference.
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Some users prefer the BSS AR133 over the built-in DI outputs on amps, citing less noise and better sound quality.
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Use cases and applications
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The AR133 is recognized for providing an optimal angle for miking guitar amps.
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While some users criticize its use in certain PSAV setups, it's noted that this is often due to incorrect application rather than a flaw in the DI itself.
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The BSS AR133 is frequently recommended for use with alternative, pop, rock, and indie acts, handling keyboards like Nords and Moogs, as well as acoustic guitars and strings.
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The BSS AR133 is favored for live use due to its durability and reliable performance in demanding environments, often not requiring a backup unit.
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The AR133 is specifically valued in venues that emphasize low decibels, aligning with trends of minimizing on-stage sound.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
For the February 1999 volume of the German music magazine "Gitarre & Bass" (Guitar and Bass), journalist Stephan Neumeier had the chance to analyze Clapton's equipment for the Pilgrim tour. According to Clapton's guitar tech Lee Dickson, Clapton used the Bss Audio Ar 133 Active Di Box for his acoustic guitar during the tour.
In Fender’s YouTube video Kevin Shields of My Bloody Valentine - Part 1: Obsession | Jazzmaster 60th Anniversary, a BSS Audio AR133 Active DI Box can be seen on the mixing desk at 0:07.
In this Instagram picture, Calum shows that he uses a Bss Audio Ar 133 Active Di Box
You can see two DI boxes in front of the table where Ben is running his signal direct into the house.
In an Instagram post captioned "Acoustic board," Peter Honoré is shown using the BSS Audio AR133 Active DI Box.
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 AR133 Active DI Box, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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