Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $81

Budget/Beginner

$119

$300+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Palmer PAN 02 Active DI Box". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Palmer PAN 02 Active DI Box is a dynamic tool for any musician or audio engineer looking to maintain pristine sound quality during live performances or studio recordings. Renowned for its versatility, this DI box can be powered with either a 9V battery or 48V phantom power, offering flexibility for various setups. Its transformer-balanced output ensures a clean and noise-free signal, essential for achieving professional-grade audio.

The PAN 02 is designed with a high-impedance input, which allows it to handle a wide range of instruments, from acoustic guitars to keyboards, without altering their natural tone. The inclusion of a pad switch provides an additional layer of control, enabling attenuation of the input signal to prevent distortion from high-level sources. This makes it an ideal choice for both stage and studio environments.

Moreover, the PAN 02 features a floating ground circuit, allowing for a ground lift even during phantom power operation, which effectively eliminates unwanted hum and noise. Built to withstand the rigors of frequent use, its robust metal casing promises durability alongside a 5-year manufacturer's warranty, offering peace of mind to musicians who rely on their gear day in and day out.

Key Features:

  • 1 Channel
  • Operable with battery or phantom power
  • High-impedance input (up to 1 MOhm)
  • Pad switch (0 dB / -30 dB)
  • Symmetric XLR output
  • Transformer-balanced output
  • Floating ground circuit with ground lift
  • Input jack link
  • 5-year manufacturer's warranty

Owner's manual

Palmer PAN 02 Active DI Box User Manual

Product specs

Available since December 2005
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 is the primary function of the Palmer PAN 02 Active DI Box?

The Palmer PAN 02 Active DI Box converts unbalanced signals from instruments into balanced signals suitable for long cable runs to a mixing console, minimizing noise and interference.

Does the Palmer PAN 02 require external power to operate?

Yes, the Palmer PAN 02 Active DI Box can be powered by a battery, ensuring it functions independently of external power sources.

Can the Palmer PAN 02 handle high-output instruments?

Yes, the Palmer PAN 02 features a switchable pad, allowing it to handle high-output instruments without distortion.

Does the Palmer PAN 02 include a ground lift switch?

Yes, the Palmer PAN 02 Active DI Box includes a ground lift switch to help eliminate hum and ground loop noise.

Is the Palmer PAN 02 suitable for live performance settings?

Yes, the Palmer PAN 02 is designed for both studio and live performance environments, providing reliable signal conversion and noise reduction.

Kitharra TV

Kitharra TV

Palmer PAN 02 Active DI (Demo) | Kitharra

Video thumbnail for Palmer PAN 02 Active DI (Demo) | Kitharra by Kitharra TV

Palmer PAN 02 Active DI (Demo) | Kitharra

Kitharra TV

Kitharra TV

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent value for money for an entry-level DI box

  • Warm and clear tone enhances guitar and bass signals

  • Simplified design with essential features, no unnecessary buttons

  • Well-built and durable, designed to last

  • Comes with a 5-year warranty, ensuring reliability

  • Works well for reamping guitar tracks

  • Suitable for low tunings on bass and guitar

CONS

  • Not the clearest sound without additional processing

  • Entry-level quality, can't compete with higher-priced alternatives

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Palmer PAN 02 Active DI Box.

Comparisons

  • The Palmer PAN-02 is often compared to the Whirlwind IMP 2, with the former being favored for its active circuitry and affordability.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The PAN-02 is ideal for guitars and basses with passive pickups, providing better signal clarity and strength.

    Source
  • The PAN 02 is particularly beneficial for low-output devices, ensuring adequate signal strength for mixing and recording setups.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners of Palmer gear consistently report satisfaction, suggesting a reputation for reliability and quality among similar products.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the DI box's ability to resolve impedance mismatches, making it a versatile tool for various audio devices and setups.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Palmer DI boxes are noted for being budget-friendly, especially compared to high-end models like Countryman and RNDI, without compromising on essential features.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Palmer PAN 02 effectively boosts weak signals from devices like PO units, addressing impedance issues and improving signal clarity when connected to mixers.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Palmer Audio Tools – Ready at all times! – Test Report by Soundcheck – event.tech

adamhall.com

The Palmer PAN 02 Active DI Box impresses with its robust build and high input impedance, making it ideal for electric guitars. While the lack of a battery status indicator and the need for disassembly to replace the battery are drawbacks, its compatibility with both battery and phantom power provides flexibility. This DI box offers significant value for budget-conscious users seeking reliable performance, though those needing more premium features might look elsewhere. Overall, it's a solid choice for musicians prioritizing economy and functionality.

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Genre Usage

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