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Average Price: $260
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$119
$300+
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Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Radial Engineering J48 MK2 48V Phantom Power Active Direct Box". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Introducing the Radial Engineering J48 MK2 48V Phantom Power Active Direct Box, a revolutionary tool for capturing the true essence of your instrument's signal. Powered by 48V phantom power, the J48 MK2 uses an innovative switching power supply to deliver peak 9V transients without distortion. This results in a DI box that offers exceptionally low noise, minimal intermodulation distortion, and superior dynamics compared to other units.
The J48 MK2 is a product of meticulous design, optimized to work within the current limits of standard phantom power, while ensuring maximum headroom. Its custom circuitry delivers incredibly low distortion and a frequency response that outperforms most DIs, capturing the full detail of your instrument's tone.
The J48 MK2 comes equipped with features designed for the practical musician. The ground lift switch eliminates hum from ground loops, and an 80Hz high-pass filter removes low-end rumble for clean, clear sound. A -15dB pad allows for extra gain, and the innovative merge function mixes two inputs to mono, perfect for combining signals from active and passive pickups.
Constructed for the demands of live touring, the J48 MK2 embodies the robust durability Radial products are known for. Its 14-gauge steel I-beam frame and welded construction offer exceptional resilience, making it an ideal companion for both studio recording and stage performances.
Key Features:
- Powered by 48V phantom power
- Unique switching power supply for peak 9V transients without distortion
- Exceptionally low noise, minimal intermodulation distortion
- Ground lift switch and 80Hz high-pass filter for noise reduction
- -15dB pad for extra gain
- Merge function to combine signals from two inputs
- Rugged construction for live touring demands
Owner's manual
Radial Engineering J48 MK2 48V Phantom Power Active Direct Box User ManualProduct specs
| Type | Active DI |
| Channels | 1 |
| Pads | -15dB |
| Polarity Switch | Yes |
| Ground Lift | Yes |
| Inputs | 1 x 1/4" |
| Outputs | 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4" thru |
| Power Source | 48V Phantom Power |
| Height | 2" |
| Depth | 5" |
| Width | 3.3" |
| Weight | 1.55 lbs. |
FAQs
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Does the Radial J48 MK2 require an external power source?
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The Radial J48 MK2 operates on 48V phantom power, eliminating the need for batteries or an external power supply.
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What are the input and output options on the Radial J48 MK2?
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The Radial J48 MK2 features a 1/4" input, an XLR output, and a 1/4" thru output for versatile connectivity in various setups.
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Is the Radial J48 MK2 suitable for high-output instruments?
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Yes, the Radial J48 MK2 includes a -15dB pad, making it suitable for handling high-output instruments without distortion.
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Does the Radial J48 MK2 offer any noise reduction features?
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The Radial J48 MK2 includes a ground lift switch to help eliminate hum and noise from ground loops in your audio signal.
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What makes the Radial J48 MK2 different from passive DI boxes?
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As an active DI box, the Radial J48 MK2 provides a wider frequency response and greater sensitivity, ideal for capturing detailed audio signals.
Videos
SpectreSoundStudios
Do you need a Direct Box? - Test Results!
Reviews
PROS
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Significantly enhances sound quality, even with high-end preamps and software
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Provides a neutral tone with no discernible coloration
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Handles both active and passive pickups with ease
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Built like a tank; highly durable for stage and studio use
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Eliminates unwanted noise, offering crystal clear signal
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Features ground lift, polarity reverse, and -15dB pad for versatility
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Requires no batteries; powered via 48V phantom power
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Effective for both live performance and studio recording
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Substantial headroom, preventing clipping from dynamic signals
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Compact design, easy to transport and integrate into setups
CONS
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Some users report initial units with buzzing issues
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Higher price compared to some passive DIs
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Phantom power LED may not function consistently
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 12 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
Parker’s pedals are divided between three boards. The first has a Roland GR-55 synth running into a Yamaha mixer routed to a Radial J48 DI box.
Alex Turner utilized the Radial Engineering J48 MK2 48V Phantom Power Active Direct Box during the Humbug tour, as evidenced by the provided photograph.
In this video, John Petrucci's guitar tech, Maddi Schieferstein, gives a rundown of the guitar rig that was used during Dream Theater's 2014 "Along for the Ride" tour. The Radial J48 can be seen at 1:50.
The Radial J48 Active Direct Box can be seen on Frank's pedalboard towards the end of this gear rundown video.
In an Instagram post, Dallon Weekes is associated with the Radial Engineering J48 MK2 48V Phantom Power Active Direct Box, described as a "secret weapon" used extensively in the recording of the iDKHOW album.
At 1:43 , Ezra's pedalboard is visible. On the left is the Radical J48. An explanation of his signal chain is included below:
http://postimg.org/image/ye7bd8sdd/ (Not super highh quality, but clear enough)
Album Usage
The Radial Engineering J48 MK2 48V Phantom Power Active Direct Box 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 Radial Engineering J48 MK2 48V Phantom Power Active Direct Box, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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