Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (74)
$79.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (11)
$98.00
Amazon
4.8 (567)
$79.00
Reverb
5.0 (5)
$77.99 New
$25.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (27)
$98.00
zZounds
5.0 (3)
$98.00
B&H
4.8 (18)
$79.00

Average Price: $79

Budget/Beginner

$119

$300+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Whirlwind IMP 2 Unbalanced to Balanced Audio Converter". 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

The Whirlwind IMP 2 is a versatile and durable direct box that seamlessly converts line or instrument level unbalanced signals to low-impedance, mic-level balanced signals. Ideal for both live sound and studio recording environments, the IMP 2 ensures that your audio signals make it from stage to mixer or interface without a hitch.

Built with Whirlwind's renowned TRHL transformer, this unit is designed for reliability and longevity. The transformer is riveted, not glued, to the chassis, offering robust performance that can withstand the rigors of the road. The IMP 2 also features a ground lift switch, effectively isolating hum and buzz, making it a dependable choice for clear and clean audio.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring musician, the Whirlwind IMP 2 offers the quality you need in an economical package. Its road-tough metal enclosure and portable design make it a trusted companion for any gig or recording session.

Key Features:

  • 1/4" parallel wired in/out jacks
  • XLR output
  • Ground Lift switch to help isolate hum and buzz
  • Road-tough metal enclosure
  • Portable design
  • Uses Whirlwind's TRHL transformer that's riveted, not glued, to the chassis

Product specs

Type Passive DI
Channels 1
Ground Lift Yes
Inputs 1 x 1/4"
Outputs 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4" thru

FAQs

What is the primary function of the Whirlwind IMP 2 Direct Box?

The Whirlwind IMP 2 Direct Box is designed to convert unbalanced instrument signals to balanced signals, reducing noise and interference over long cable runs, making it ideal for live and studio settings.

Does the Whirlwind IMP 2 Direct Box require any power source?

No, the Whirlwind IMP 2 is a passive direct box, meaning it does not require any external power source or batteries to operate.

Can the Whirlwind IMP 2 Direct Box be used with both electric guitars and keyboards?

Yes, the Whirlwind IMP 2 is versatile and can be used with a variety of instruments, including electric guitars and keyboards, to balance their signals for better sound quality.

What type of connectors does the Whirlwind IMP 2 Direct Box have?

The Whirlwind IMP 2 features a 1/4" input, a 1/4" thru output, and an XLR output, allowing for easy connection to both instruments and mixing consoles.

Does the Whirlwind IMP 2 Direct Box have a ground lift switch?

Yes, the Whirlwind IMP 2 includes a ground lift switch to help eliminate unwanted hum and ground loop noise in audio signals.

JBA University

JBA University

Whirlwind IMP 2 & IMP-JT Direct Box Overviews

Video thumbnail for Whirlwind IMP 2 & IMP-JT Direct Box Overviews by JBA University

Whirlwind IMP 2 & IMP-JT Direct Box Overviews

JBA University

JBA University

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptionally rugged and durable; withstands heavy use and adverse conditions

  • Delivers clear and balanced signal for various instruments

  • Solves hum and impedance mismatch issues effectively

  • No need for external power source; passive operation

  • Compact size; easily fits inside instrument cases

  • Reliable performance in gigging and live sound settings

  • Simple to connect and use; minimal setup required

  • Great value for the price; cost-effective solution

  • Industry standard; trusted by professionals and venues

  • Enables use of XLR inputs for instruments with high-Z outputs

CONS

  • Lacks additional features like preamp, tuner, or sound-shaping controls

  • No battery or active components; may not suit all preferences

  • Limited to basic functionalities of a passive DI box

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Weyes Blood uses Whirlwind IMP 2 Unbalanced to Balanced Audio Converter

Weyes Blood

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via The Editorial Magazine

In one of the pictures, Natalie is using an IMP2 direct box to match the impedance of the Ibanez AD-80 that follows in her signal chain

See how Marty Stuart uses Whirlwind IMP 2 Unbalanced to Balanced Audio Converter

Marty Stuart

Guitarist

Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives

...
Verified via YouTube

At 14:23 in the video titled "Rig Rundown: Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives" by Premier Guitar on YouTube, Marty Stuart's engineer, Mick Conley, is seen showcasing Marty’s pedalboard. The Whirlwind IMP 2 Unbalanced to Balanced Audio Converter is visibly located at the top left of the screen.

See how Ivan Julian uses Whirlwind IMP 2 Unbalanced to Balanced Audio Converter

Ivan Julian

Guitarist

Richard Hell & The Voidoids

...
Verified via YouTube

At 31:35 in the video "Ivan Julian shows us his eclectic collection at Super Giraffe Sound" by EarthQuakerDevices on YouTube, a pair of Whirlwind IMP 2 Unbalanced to Balanced Audio Converters can be seen in Ivan Julian's control room.

See how Nick Krill uses Whirlwind IMP 2 Unbalanced to Balanced Audio Converter

Nick Krill

Guitarist

The Spinto Band

...
Verified via Photo

Nick has a direct box as part of his pedal gear.

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 Whirlwind IMP 2 Unbalanced to Balanced Audio Converter, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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joaoribeiro

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