Behringer DI4800A Professional 4 Channel Active DI-Box

1. Introduction

The Behringer DI4800A is a professional 4-channel active direct injection (DI) box and signal splitter designed for studio and live applications. It converts unbalanced, high-impedance instrument signals into balanced, low-impedance signals suitable for direct connection to mixing consoles, audio interfaces, or other professional audio equipment. Featuring 4 independent channels, each with XLR combi inputs, gain control, pad switches, and ground lift, the DI4800A also provides 8 transformer-isolated XLR outputs for flexible signal routing. Its robust construction ensures reliable performance in demanding environments.

This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation of your DI4800A. Please read it thoroughly before use and retain it for future reference.

2. Important Safety Instructions

• Read these instructions.
• Keep these instructions.
• Heed all warnings.
• Follow all instructions.
• Do not use this apparatus near water.
• Clean only with dry cloth.
• Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
• Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
• Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
• Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
• Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
• Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
• Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

3. Setup

3.1 Unpacking

Carefully unpack your DI4800A and inspect it for any signs of damage that may have occurred during transit. If any damage is found, contact your dealer immediately. Retain the original packing materials for future shipping or storage.

3.2 Placement and Rack Mounting

The DI4800A is designed for standard 19-inch rack mounting. Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit to prevent overheating. Avoid placing the unit near strong electromagnetic fields or sources of excessive heat.

3.3 Connections

Before making any connections, ensure the DI4800A and all connected equipment are powered off. Use high-quality balanced XLR cables for outputs and instrument cables for inputs to ensure optimal signal integrity.

Figure 3.3.1: Overall view of the Behringer DI4800A, showing the front panel with inputs and outputs, and the top casing.

• Inputs (INPUT 1-4): Connect your instruments (guitars, keyboards, etc.) or line-level sources to these XLR combi inputs. These inputs accept both XLR and 1/4" TRS/TS connectors.
• Outputs (OUTPUT 1-4): These are the balanced XLR outputs for each channel. Connect these to the microphone inputs of your mixing console or audio interface.
• Power: Connect the supplied power adapter to the power input on the rear of the unit.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Powering On/Off

After all connections are made, connect the power adapter to a suitable power outlet. The "POWER" indicator LED on the front panel will illuminate. To power off, simply disconnect the power adapter.

4.2 Front Panel Controls and Indicators

Figure 4.2.1: Detailed view of the Behringer DI4800A front panel, highlighting individual channel controls and indicators.

• INPUT (XLR Combi): Accepts balanced XLR or unbalanced 1/4" TS/TRS inputs.
• OUTPUT (XLR): Balanced XLR output for connection to a mixer or audio interface.
• LIFT/GND Switch: This switch disconnects the ground connection between the input and output, which can help eliminate hum and ground loop noise. Set to "LIFT" if you experience hum.
• -20dB Pad Switch: Engages a -20dB attenuation pad. Use this when connecting high-output sources (e.g., active pickups, line-level signals) to prevent input clipping.
• +6dB/+12dB Boost Switches: These switches provide additional gain for low-level signals. Use +6dB for a moderate boost, or +12dB for a stronger boost. Engage only one at a time.
• GAIN Control: Adjusts the input gain for each channel. Set this to achieve an optimal signal level without clipping.
• POWER LED: Illuminates when the unit is powered on.

4.3 Typical Usage

The DI4800A is versatile for various applications:

1. Instrument to Mixer: Connect an electric guitar, bass, or keyboard directly to the DI4800A's input. Connect the DI4800A's output to an XLR input on your mixing console. Adjust the GAIN and use the PAD or BOOST switches as needed to achieve a healthy signal level.
2. Signal Splitting: Use the multiple outputs to send the same signal to different destinations, for example, one output to a front-of-house mixer and another to a stage monitor mixer.
3. Eliminating Hum: If you encounter hum or buzz, try engaging the LIFT/GND switch.

5. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Clean the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: If storing the unit for an extended period, disconnect it from power and store it in a cool, dry place, preferably in its original packaging.
• Servicing: All servicing should be performed by qualified service personnel. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.

6. Troubleshooting

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information and terms and conditions, please refer to the official Behringer website or contact your local Behringer distributor. Technical support and service inquiries can also be directed through the official Behringer support channels.

Online Support: Visit www.behringer.com/support for FAQs, software downloads, and contact information.