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Average Price: $750

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Description

When precision and versatility are paramount, the Radial JDV MK5 Super DI Direct Box stands out as a quintessential tool for musicians and studio engineers alike. Designed by Radial Engineering, this two-channel discrete class-A active direct box is a powerhouse for bass and acoustic instruments, yet equally adept at handling a variety of signals. Its hallmark zero-negative feedback topology is complemented by a host of innovative features tailored for the discerning sound professional.

The JDV MK5 features dual switchable inputs, each with its own volume control, signal presence, and overload LEDs — ensuring that you maintain optimal levels at all times. With a fully variable high-pass filter, you can effortlessly tame excessive low-end resonance, making it ideal for live performances and studio recordings. The channel-one balanced input also supports 48V phantom power, allowing you to seamlessly integrate microphones into your setup.

Whether you're switching between instruments or looking to isolate a sound, the front panel AB select and optional JR2 remote control give you the flexibility to mute outputs or toggle between inputs with ease. For those looking to maximize their sound quality, the JDV MK5 offers a line level drive option for direct recording, Drag control load correction for magnetic pickups, and a 10 Mohm option to optimize piezo tone. Plus, it’s conveniently rack-mountable, making it perfect for touring professionals.

Key Features:

  • Two-channel discrete class-A active direct box
  • Zero-negative feedback topology
  • Dual switchable inputs with individual volume controls
  • Signal presence and overload LEDs
  • Fully variable high-pass filter for low-end control
  • Channel-one balanced input with 48V phantom power
  • AB select and optional JR2 remote control for input switching
  • Line level drive option for direct recording
  • Drag control load correction for magnetic pickups
  • 10 Mohm option for maximizing piezo tone
  • Rack-mountable design for touring adaptability

Owner's manual

Radial JDV MK5 Super DI Direct Box User Manual

Product specs

Brand Radial
Model JDV MK5 2 Channel Super Direct Box
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Categories DI Boxes

FAQs

What are the main features of the Radial JDV MK5 Super DI Direct Box?

The Radial JDV MK5 offers two channels, a microphone input, and a high-performance Class-A circuit. It provides a clean, transparent signal path ideal for studio and live applications, with variable input impedance and drag control for optimal instrument matching.

Is the Radial JDV MK5 suitable for both active and passive instruments?

Yes, the Radial JDV MK5 is designed to accommodate both active and passive instruments, offering adjustable input impedance to ensure the best sound quality and signal integrity for a variety of sources.

Does the Radial JDV MK5 require external power to operate?

Yes, the Radial JDV MK5 requires external power, as it is not phantom-powered. It comes with a power adapter to ensure optimal performance and reliability in both studio and live settings.

How does the Radial JDV MK5 handle signal noise?

The Radial JDV MK5 features a Class-A circuit design that minimizes noise and distortion, providing a clean and transparent signal path. Its advanced filtering and grounding options further reduce unwanted noise and interference.

Can the Radial JDV MK5 be used for recording and live performances?

Absolutely, the Radial JDV MK5 is versatile enough for both recording and live performances, offering high-quality sound and robust build quality to withstand the demands of both environments.

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Radial Engineering JDV Mk 5 Pro Direct Box

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Radial Engineering JDV Mk 5 Pro Direct Box

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Reviews

Critic Reviews

Ty Ford Audio and Video: Radial JDV MK5 (VERY) Active Direct Box

tyfordaudiovideo.blogspot.com

The Radial JDV MK5 Super DI Direct Box is a robust and versatile piece of gear, featuring high-quality build and impressive functionality. Its dual-channel Class A circuitry offers excellent sound quality, with features like variable high-pass filters and the unique DRAG control for precise tonal adjustment. The JDV MK5 shines in its ability to accommodate various instruments and configurations, making it a reliable centerpiece for both studio and live setups. However, a minor flaw was noted with a noise issue, which Radial has since addressed with a design fix. Overall, it's a solid investment for serious musicians seeking a high-performance DI box.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

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paujones64

The best direct box for touring bass players

The Radial JDV is my favorite direct box for bass guitars. What I love is that it has 2 inputs that work great for different kinds of inputs. One is great for magnetic pickups and has a variable gain knob and a high-pass filter to roll off unneeded high frequencies. The other input can be switched from mic to line, can have the resistance changed, and also has a HPF. This is great for using it with a mic on an upright bass or acoustic bass, and the other with a magnetic pickup bass. I used an Alembic one one input and a passive/lower output bass on the other, and I can match the gain levels going out to FoH (and back into my in-ears.). The JDV also features a tuner out, for continuous tuning on either channel, and a thru jack for sending out to a stage amp. It also works with a Radial JR-2 foot switch so I can mute and change channels with 2 different pedals. It uses a TRS cable to support both functions with 1 cable.

From Gear Setup

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Billy Sheehan uses Radial JDV MK5 Super DI Direct Box

Billy Sheehan

Guitarist, Bassist

UFO

...
Verified via Radialeng

"My Radial JDV direct box is crystal clear and easily configures to the most elaborate set-ups. I love it and use it every day!"

See how Tony Levin uses Radial JDV MK5 Super DI Direct Box

Tony Levin

Bassist

King Crimson

...
Verified via Radialeng

"I have found that with the Radial JDI direct box, my bass comes through extremely clean, very quiet, and with a smooth transparent low end. I use my Radial DI for everything."

See how Butch Walker uses Radial JDV MK5 Super DI Direct Box

Butch Walker

Guitarist, Singer

Train

...
Verified via Radialeng

On Radial's website, Walker was listed as a user of Radial JDV MK5.

See how Aesop Rock uses Radial JDV MK5 Super DI Direct Box

Aesop Rock

Rapper, Music Producer

The Weathermen

...
Verified via EMusician

The next step for Bavitz is recording his bass lines, which he does with “an old Fender P” into a Radial JDV Super DI through a Mackie Onyx 1640 16-channel mixer. After laying down his rhythm section, Bavitz spends the rest of the time writing lyrics to match his loops.

See how Dan Rothchild uses Radial JDV MK5 Super DI Direct Box

Dan Rothchild

Singer, Bassist

Heart

...
Verified via Radial Engineering

Dan Rothchild uses the Radial JDV MK5 Super DI Direct Box, as confirmed by Radial Engineering. Rothchild states, "The Radial JDV lifts the veil, and gives you just the wide-open sound of the instrument itself - with focus, clarity, and headroom. In a big PA, the difference is a revelation. In the studio, it is equally stellar. Ever since I plugged in, I haven't used anything else."

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 JDV MK5 Super DI Direct Box, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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paujones64

paujones64

Gear IQ 295

1 alternative for Radial JDV MK5 Super DI Direct Box, curated by the Equipboard community.

Radial JDI

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cheaper alternative

The JDI is the smaller, single channel, Jensen transformer equipped DI from Radial that also sounds great, is passive (no power required), and costs about half what a JDV costs.

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Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    kkolar
    kkolar

    Gear IQ 120856