Hosa Pro-Conex Sidekick Active Direct Box – DIB-445

Professional-grade active direct box designed for seamless audio interface integration. The Hosa Pro-Conex Sidekick DIB-445 delivers clean, balanced XLR output from instrument-level signals, making it ideal for live performance and studio recording. Features transformer-isolated design to eliminate ground loop hum, variable input gain control for optimal signal levels, and a compact form factor for portable setups. Phantom power compatible and built to professional standards for reliable operation in demanding environments.

Professional Instrument Interface

Phantom Powered. The DIB-445 is the active model in the Hosa Pro-Conex Sidekick direct box series. Designed for environments that require longer cable runs without introducing noise or interference, the DIB-445 utilizes 48V phantom power to deliver an active, high-headroom signal path that preserves the transient response and natural sound of your source.

Optimized for Professional Audio. This single-channel unit is an ideal solution for routing high-impedance instrument signals in professional live sound and studio recording. Its active circuitry provides a high input impedance that prevents signal loading, ensuring your natural tone remains bright and clear. With a near-perfect flat frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz (±0.2dB), it offers pristine audio quality for both stage and DAW-based recording systems.

Essential Signal Management. Part of the rugged Pro-Conex assortment, the Sidekick DIB-445 is built for the stage and equipped with a comprehensive toolkit for troubleshooting. A selectable attenuation pad (0dB, -15dB, -30dB) allows you to tame hot signals, while the dedicated Ground Lift and Polarity Flip switches help eliminate AC hum and correct phase issues instantly.

Key Features

Active Circuitry: Powered by standard +48V phantom power from your mixer or audio interface for high headroom and low harmonic distortion.
Input Padding: Three-position switch (0dB, -15dB, -30dB) accommodates everything from low-output vintage instruments to high-output active electronics.
Streamlined Connectivity: Features one unbalanced 1/4” input, one balanced 1/4” thru output, and one balanced XLR output.
Phase & Noise Control: Dedicated Ground Lift and Polarity Flip switches allow for immediate correction of ground loops and signal cancellation.
Rugged Construction: Sturdy all-metal housing designed to withstand the most grueling touring conditions.

Ideal Applications

Electric Guitar & Bass: Provides a clean, hum-free feed to mixing consoles, especially over long cable distances.
Digital Signal Processing (DSP): Captures a high-fidelity, dry signal perfect for software amp modeling and plugins.
Keyboards & Synths: Handles high-output electronic instruments with superior transient response and flat frequency response.