Opportunity ! I'm selling this pair of TAB V357 "Anpassungsverstärker" (impedance converter, balancing amplifier) - in other words: two fully discrete, active DI Boxes made by TAB/Telefunken for german broadcasting. Developed to connect high impedance sources with professional studio gear. Because of its high input impedance (>/= 1MOhm), the V357 is perfect for guitar or bass, but thanks to its 2 channel design and adjustable amplifcation also suited for synths and other stereo sources.
These modules come from a german radio station (Deutschlandfunk). Visually in good condition, some scratches on one module (see pics), technically fully working, just tested. The rack is already wired, you only need to replace the Tuchel/Cinch connectors to your needs. One channel was temporary fitted with Neutrik XLR/TRS connectors, i'll leave them there, you may want to replace them. Needs a 24 Volt PSU, i recommend using a good one like the TAB/Telefunken N324 (often sold at ebay germany). Each module has two channels - a possible application could be to use two channels for Hi-Z inputs (Guitar, Bass), and the other two for synth(s).
Subjectively:
I've compared the V357 with the UA Apollo DI input and an Ampeg SVT tube DI - the V357 beat them both easily. Basses sound dry, fat yet detailed, and even a Moog synth sounds even punchier and more "analog" through this thing, you have to hear it ! Can be tested locally (Germany, 15377 Märkische Höhe).
Addendum: i also don't need a mic-preamp after the V357, although it says 20db of gain, the output is just right when going into the Apollo.
Specifications:
Frequency Range: 40 Hz - 15 KHz (3dB roll-off from 15KHz to 30Khz = negligible) Input impedance: greater than/equals 1 MOhm Amplification per channel: 0 - 20 dB Output level (floating, balanced): +6dBm, max. +12dBm Output Impedance: less than/equals 40 Ohm Supply Voltage: 24V
