Hosa Pro-Conex Sidekick Active Stereo Direct Box – DIB-490

The Hosa Pro-Conex Sidekick Active Stereo Direct Box converts unbalanced line-level signals to balanced XLR outputs with pristine audio clarity. Ideal for connecting keyboards, mixers, and audio interfaces to professional mixing consoles or amplifiers. Features active circuitry for consistent signal strength, professional-grade construction, and reliable connectivity. Perfect for live sound reinforcement, studio recording, and touring musicians who demand quality audio conversion without compromise.

Phantom Powered. Dual Channel. The DIB-490 is the active stereo model in the Hosa Pro-Conex Sidekick direct box series. Designed to streamline the connection of stereo instruments and high-impedance sources to a DAW or mixing console, the DIB-490 utilizes 48V Phantom Power to deliver an active, high-headroom signal path that preserves the transient response and frequency content of your source.

Optimized for Stereo Sources. This dual-channel unit is the ideal solution for stereo keyboards, synthesizers, and drum machines, or for connecting two separate mono instruments (like a bass and guitar) through a single box. Unlike passive DIs that can load down high-impedance signals, the Sidekick’s active buffering presents a high input impedance to your instrument, ensuring the natural tone remains bright and clear.

Essential Signal Management. As part of the rugged Pro-Conex sub-brand, the Sidekick DIB-490 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 line-level signals, while the dedicated Ground Lift and Polarity Flip switches help eliminate hum and correct phase issues instantly.

Key Features

Stereo Operation: Dual-channel design handles two separate instruments or a single stereo source in one compact chassis.
Active Circuitry: Powered by standard 48V Phantom Power for high headroom and consistent performance (no batteries required).
Input Padding: Three-position switch (0dB, -15dB, -30dB) accommodates everything from low-output vintage guitars to high-output active synthesizers.
Thru-Put Connectivity: Features two 1/4″ Thru outputs for sending the unprocessed signal to stage amps while feeding the PA.
Phase & Noise Control: Dedicated Ground Lift and Polarity Flip switches allow for immediate correction of hum loops and phase cancellation.

Ideal Applications

Stereo Keyboards & Synths: Captures the full stereo image of patches without loading down the output, keeping the top-end crisp.
Laptop & Interfaces: The perfect interface for connecting audio interfaces running backing tracks or virtual instruments to the main PA.
Dual Instrument Setup: Use Channel 1 for Bass and Channel 2 for Acoustic Guitar to save pedalboard space and reduce cable clutter.
DJ Equipment & Samplers: Handles high-output stereo signals from DJ mixers or grooveboxes with plenty of headroom.