Art USB DI

ART USB DI: A "DI" Approach Applied to Digital Audio

The ART USB DI follows the spirit of direct boxes: providing a clean, reliable connection suitable for long distances while simplifying integration into a mixing setup. Here, the principle is applied to audio coming from a computer via USB to obtain a balanced XLR output usable as a line source on a console. Its compact format and "plug-and-play" philosophy make it a tool designed for situations where essentials matter: delivering a stable signal, controlling the level, and keeping a headphone monitoring solution within reach.

Who Is This USB DI Interface For?

The ART USB DI is particularly suited for musicians who launch backing tracks, clicks, or sequences from a computer, DJs and performers who want to feed a balanced XLR line input, as well as for conference, audiovisual, streaming uses where a clean and easy-to-wire audio output is needed. It is also a practical solution in the studio for quick headphone monitoring or powering an analog chain from a USB source without multiplying adapters.

Key Features and Strengths in Use

Switchable Isolation: More Peace of Mind Onstage and at the Desk

Transformer-isolated outputs (switchable) are a major advantage when the computer and the sound system do not share the same power supply or grounding. In practice, this helps reduce hum and unwanted noise that can appear in complex setups (racks, power strips, lighting, video, etc.).

Front Panel Control and Immediate Monitoring

The front panel volume control allows quick adjustment of the level going to the console or amplification without navigating system menus. The front headphone output facilitates on-site signal checking: verifying levels, monitoring content, or ensuring playback is correct before sending to broadcast.

Conversion and Sampling Rate Compatibility

The ART USB DI supports sampling rates from 32 kHz to 48 kHz (including 44.1 kHz), covering common music and voice applications. It aims for stable and coherent reproduction for simple configurations where a directly usable balanced XLR output is desired, with a dynamic range rated at 96 dB (A-weighted) and a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz.

Technical specifications

Rackable	No	Type	Box
Category	audio converter

Model	ART USB DI	Frequency response	20 Hz to 20 kHz (±1 dB)
Converter type	analog	THD	less than 0.020% (typical)
Sampling rate	32 kHz to 48 kHz	Dynamic range	96 dB typical, "A" weighting
Output isolation	transformer, switchable	Supported sampling rates	32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz
Volume control	front panel	Headphone output	150 mW per channel maximum
Headphone output location	front panel	Power supply	USB
Input connections	USB 2.0	Power consumption	500 mA maximum
Output connections	balanced XLR and 3.5 mm mini-jack headphone output	Dimensions	47.5 mm x 117 mm x 108 mm
Maximum output level	+7.5 dBu (balanced line)	Weight	0.86 kg with packaging