The BSS AR-133 is a professional active DI box built for stage and studio use, converting unbalanced instrument, line or amplifier signals to a balanced XLR output. Long regarded as a reference-standard direct box, it is a mainstay for touring engineers, venues and hire companies who need clean, reliable signal conversion for guitars, keyboards, DJ consoles and other electronic sources.
Type
Active DI
Single channel
Attenuation
0 / -20 / -40 dB
Switchable pad
Power
48V or 9V PP3
Phantom or battery
Output
Balanced XLR
Ground-lift switch
Fail-safe powering
The AR-133 runs on 48V phantom power from the console. If phantom power fails or is accidentally switched off, the unit automatically switches over to the internal 9V PP3 battery for uninterrupted operation – a practical safeguard for live work.
Features
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Active circuitry using an enhanced version of the acclaimed AR-116 audio path
Active circuitry using an enhanced version of the acclaimed AR-116 audio path
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Phantom power with automatic switch-over to internal 9V battery
Phantom power with automatic switch-over to internal 9V battery
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Switchable input attenuation: 0, -20 or -40 dB for instrument, line or amp levels
Switchable input attenuation: 0, -20 or -40 dB for instrument, line or amp levels
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Ground-lift switch for quick resolution of ground-loop hum
Ground-lift switch for quick resolution of ground-loop hum
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Dual 1/4″ jack inputs plus XLR input for unbalanced-to-balanced conversion
Dual 1/4″ jack inputs plus XLR input for unbalanced-to-balanced conversion
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Balanced XLR output throughout the signal path
Balanced XLR output throughout the signal path
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Rugged aluminium extrusion case with polyurethane end-cheeks
Rugged aluminium extrusion case with polyurethane end-cheeks
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Arched case profile routes cables neatly underneath from the end
Arched case profile routes cables neatly underneath from the end
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Can also be used as an active balancing device
Can also be used as an active balancing device
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Suited to acoustic and bass guitars, keyboards, DJ consoles and amp outputs
Suited to acoustic and bass guitars, keyboards, DJ consoles and amp outputs
Specifications
| Type | Active direct injection (DI) box, single channel |
| Inputs | 2 x 1/4″ jack, 1 x XLR |
| Output | Balanced XLR (male) |
| Input attenuation | 0, -20 or -40 dB, switchable |
| Powering | 48V phantom power or internal 9V PP3 battery (auto switch-over) |
| Ground lift | Switchable |
| Construction | Aluminium extrusion case with polyurethane end-cheeks |











