Get A DI Relied On By Countless Pros With The Radial Engineering J48 Phantom Powered Active Direct Box

The Radial J48 has been designed from the ground up to deliver the most natural tone. As a direct box manufacturer, we do not believe it is our task to alter the sound of your prized '1962 Fender Jazz Bass', but retain and transfer the true character of the instrument to the mixing console without adding distortion or introducing artifact. This design philosophy has gained a tremendous following from many of the world's most demanding musicians.

Using only 48V phantom power, the Radial J48 is an active direct box that produces an exceptionally linear response that extends from 20Hz up to well above 40kHz. Low distortion of all types is achieved via a unique digital switching power supply that raises the internal operating rail voltage for added headroom and improved signal handling. The results are truly amazing. The J48 delivers an ideal even-order harmonic cascade and a sonic performance that outperforms DIs costing several hundreds more.

And like all Radial products, the J48 is both feature-rich for studio and made tough to handle the road. This includes a -15dB input pad to tame extra loud signals, 180° polarity reverse for feedback control on stage and a ground lift to help reduce hum & buzz caused by ground loops. Special features include a merge function that elegantly mixes left-right signals to mono without phase cancellation. To minimize resonant feedback with acoustic instruments, the J48 is also equipped with an 80Hz high-pass filter (low-cut). When engaged, this also increases headroom by eliminating unneeded bass frequencies.

Radial's innovative book-end design protects switches and connectors from abuse while the internal I-beam construction eliminates stress on the PC board. This serves to reduce solder joints from going 'cold' and delivers trouble-free performance for years. A full-bottom no-slip pad provides mechanical and electrical isolation while providing plenty of 'stay-put' for rockin' stages!


SPECIFICATIONS
  • Ultra low distortion of all types
  • Exceptional headroom & dynamic range
  • Retains instrument's natural sound 
  • Powered by 48V phantom
  • Audio circuit type: Proprietary analog circuit with low-noise op-amp
  • Frequency response: 20Hz ~ 20kHz
  • Dynamic range: 109dB
  • Noise floor: -99dB below 0dBu
  • Equivalent input noise: -103dBu
  • Maximum input: +10dBu
  • Phase deviation: +10º at 20Hz | 0º at 1kHz | -1º at 20kHz
  • Total harmonic distortion: 0.002% @ -5dBu
  • Inter-modulation distortion: 0.003% @ -3dBu
  • Input impedance: 220k Ohms - ¼" input
  • Output impedance: 600 Ohms - XLR output
  • Input connectors: Dual 1/4" in and thru jacks
  • Input pad: -15dB
  • Polarity: 180º signal polarity reverse switch
  • High pass filter (HPF): -3dB @ 80Hz
  • Ground lift: Disconnects pin-1 at XLR output
  • XLR output: Follows AES standard (pin-2 hot)
  • Power: 48V phantom - proprietary digital switching
  • Construction: 14 gauge steel chassis and outer shell
  • Finish: Durable powder coat
  • Size: 3.3" x 5.0" x 2" (84 x 127 x 48mm)
  • Weight: 1.55 lb (720 g)
  • FCC approval: Complies with section 15 of the FCC Rules
  • Conditions: For use in dry locations only between 5°C and 40°C
  • Warranty: Radial 3-year, transferable

Manufacturer: Radial Engineering
Model: J48
SKU: I165067-N-6-WHXE
UPC: 676101034079

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Since 1958, Chuck Levin’s Washington Music Center has been the trusted destination for musicians and audio professionals across Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Family-owned and operated, our legendary music store delivers Everything in Music®—from instruments and recording gear to pro audio, rentals, and repair services.

Our team of musicians and industry experts lives and breathes gear, helping you build the perfect setup for your next performance, studio session, or installation. As an authorized dealer for top brands, we also offer our award-winning CHUCKSCLUSIVE line—exclusive, limited-edition instruments and collaborations recognized with the NAMM Top 100 Dealer Innovation Award for redefining what a music retail experience can be.

Chuck Levin’s isn’t just a store—it’s a community built by players, engineers, and creators who share a lifelong passion for sound. Stop by our legendary Wheaton, MD showroom or contact us anytime for expert advice, product questions, or the best possible deal on your next piece of gear.


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Chuck Levin's Washington Music Center

Wheaton, MD, United States
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