BSS AR-133 DI box
- Brand new in original box
- Full BSS manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- BSSAR133
Description
BSS AR-133 DI Box
The BSS AR-133 is a compact passive DI box engineered for studio professionals and home-recording engineers who demand transparent signal conversion without coloration. Its rugged aluminium extrusion case with polyurethane end-cheeks feels substantial in hand, and the arched design allows cables to route underneath for efficient cable management in crowded racks or multitrack setups.
Signal Handling & Impedance Control
Three selectable input attenuation settings—0, -20, and -40dB—allow the AR-133 to accommodate everything from line-level synthesizers and audio interfaces to hot instrument outputs and amplifier re-amping chains. Input impedance automatically switches between 1 MΩ (at 0dB pad) and 47 kΩ (at -20dB or -40dB pad), ensuring optimal matching across a wide range of source impedances. Maximum input capability reaches +49dBu at the -40dB setting, while the ground-lift switch eliminates hum when balanced and unbalanced sources are mixed in the same system.
Audio Performance & Reliability
Distortion measures below 0.005% THD at 1kHz, and noise floor sits at -105dB unweighted (22Hz–22kHz), delivering pristine signal integrity essential for recording and mixing sessions. Dual power options—+48V phantom power (with acceptance from +20V to +48V) and 9V battery backup—ensure the unit operates reliably whether phantom is available at your console or interface; the circuit automatically switches to battery if phantom power fails.
Key Features
- Input connectors: 1/4" jack and XLR socket (unbalanced)
- Output via XLR connector (transformer balanced)
- Parallel link output 1/4" jack for feeding to other equipment
- Three-position input attenuation: 0, -20, or -40dB
- Input impedance: 1 MΩ (pad at 0dB), 47 kΩ (pad at -20dB or -40dB)
- Maximum input: +9dBu (0dB), +29dBu (-20dB), +49dBu (-40dB)
- Maximum output: +8dBu into 600 Ohms or greater
- Phantom power supply from +20V to +48V; 9V battery backup with automatic switchover
- Ground-lift switch for hum elimination
- Distortion: <0.005% THD at 1kHz, 0dBu output
- Noise: <-105dB unweighted, 22Hz–22kHz
- Frequency response: 30Hz to 20kHz, +0dB/–1dB
The BSS AR-133 combines professional-grade audio performance, flexible impedance matching, and bulletproof construction in a package small enough to integrate anywhere in your recording chain.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The BSS AR-133 is a transparent passive DI designed for studio and session work, delivering pristine signal conversion with distortion below 0.005% THD and a -105dB noise floor for clean recording and mixing. Its three selectable input pads and automatic impedance switching adapt to any line-level or instrument source without sonic compromise, making it ideal for tracking keyboards, synths, drum machines, or mixing live feeds into your DAW. Choose it when you need bulletproof signal integrity, zero-latency conversion, and the flexibility to handle hot outputs without driving into the preamp.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Live Performance
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Touring
- ✓ Gigging
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What sources can the AR-133 handle, and will it get loud hot signals without distorting?
The AR-133 accepts unbalanced 1/4" and XLR sources and maxes out at +49dBu input at the -40dB pad setting, making it suitable for everything from line-level keyboards to cranked guitar amplifier outputs. Three selectable attenuation pads (0, -20, -40dB) and automatic impedance switching ensure optimal matching and clean gain structure across a wide range of source levels without distortion.
Does it need phantom power, and what happens if the mains phantom fails?
The AR-133 runs on +48V phantom power from your mixer or preamp (accepts +20V to +48V), but includes a 9V battery backup that automatically engages if phantom power drops, ensuring continuous operation on the road or in the studio.
How does the ground-lift switch help eliminate hum?
The ground-lift switch disconnects pin 1 (shield) from the balanced output connector, breaking ground loops that form when balanced and unbalanced sources share the same system. Flip it on if you hear a 50/60Hz hum when mixing balanced and unbalanced gear together.
What are the dimensions and weight, and will it fit in a crowded pedalboard or rack?
The AR-133 is designed as a compact, arched unit with an aluminum extrusion case and polyurethane end-cheeks; the arched design allows cables to route underneath for efficient cable management on crowded stages and tight racks. Specific dimensions and weight are not provided in the available product data.
How does the AR-133 compare to other passive DIs like the Radial Pro48 or Countryman Type 85?
The AR-133 delivers professional-grade specs—distortion below 0.005% THD and -105dB noise floor—with three selectable pads, automatic impedance switching, and dual-power redundancy (phantom plus 9V battery backup). It competes directly with the Radial Pro48 and Countryman Type 85 in the transparent, road-ready passive DI category and is priced as a budget-friendly entry point into that tier.
Similar Gear
Complete the Rig
Gear that pairs well with this.
✨ For You
Based on what you've been looking at.