Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance
with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8.
Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat
registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers)
that produce heat.
9.
Only use attachments/accessories specified by the
MDB Series Direct Boxes
manufacturer.
10.
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.
11.
This apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing, and
no object filled with liquids, such as vases or beer glasses, shall
be placed on the apparatus.
12.
This device complies with Part 5 of the FCC Rules. Operation is
subject to the following two conditions: () this device may not
cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
NOTE:
This equipment has been tested and found to comply
with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part
15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and
can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment o and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment
and the receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit dierent from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio / TV technician for help.
CAUTION:
Changes or modifications to this device not expressly
approved by LOUD Audio LLC could void the user's authority to
operate the equipment under FCC rules.
WARNING — To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock,
do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.
3.
This device complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set
forth for an uncontrolled environment. This device should be
installed and operated with minimum distance 20cm between
the radiator & your body.
4.
This apparatus does not exceed the Class A/Class B
(whichever is applicable) limits for radio noise emissions
from digital apparatus as set out in the radio interference
regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.
ATTENTION
— Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits
radioélectriques dépassant las limites applicables aux
appareils numériques de class A/de class B (selon le cas)
prescrites dans le réglement sur le brouillage radioélectrique
édicté par les ministere des communications du Canada.
5.
This device complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS
standard(s).
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
() this device may not cause interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference, including
interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d’Industrie
Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de licence.
L’exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes:
() l’appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et
(2) l’utilisateur de l’appareil doit accepter tout brouillage
radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est susceptible d’en
compromettre le fonctionnement.
6.
Exposure to extremely high noise levels may cause permanent
hearing loss. Individuals vary considerably in susceptibility to
noise-induced hearing loss, but nearly everyone will lose some
hearing if exposed to suciently intense noise for a period of
time. The U.S. Government’s Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) has specified the permissible noise
level exposures shown in the following chart.
According to OSHA, any exposure in excess of these
permissible limits could result in some hearing loss. To
ensure against potentially dangerous exposure to high sound
pressure levels, it is recommended that all persons exposed
to equipment capable of producing high sound pressure levels
use hearing protectors while the equipment is in operation.
Ear plugs or protectors in the ear canals or over the ears must
be worn when operating the equipment in order to prevent
permanent hearing loss if exposure is in excess of the limits set
forth here:
Duration, per
day in hours
890Duo in small club
692
495Subway Train
397
2100Very loud classical music
1.5102
1105Ryan screaming at Troy about deadlines
0.5 110
0.25 or less115Loudest parts at a rock concert
Sound Level dBA,
Slow Response
Typical Example
Correct disposal of this product: This symbol indicates that this product should not be disposed of with your household waste, according to the WEEE
directive (2012/19/EU) and your national law. This product should be handed over to an authorized collection site for recycling waste electrical and
electronic equipment (EEE). Improper handling of this type of waste could have a possible negative impact on the environment and human health due
to potentially hazardous substances that are generally associated with EEE. At the same time, your cooperation in the correct disposal of this product
will contribute to the eective usage of natural resources. For more information about where you can drop o your waste equipment for recycling, please
contact your local city oce, waste authority, or your household waste disposal service.
2
MDB Series Direct Boxes
Contents
Important Safety Instructions ........................................ 2
• Perfect for stereo sources like keyboards and media
players
• High-impedance 1/4" inputs with Thru outputs
• Balanced XLR outputs with Ground Lif
• Ultra-low noise and distortion
• -15dB pads ensure distortion-free performance when
connecting to high-output sources
• Built-Like-A-Tank™ construction
MDB-1A Active Direct Box
• Active circuitry oers higher headroom for ultra-low
noise and distortion-free performance
• High-impedance 1/4" input with Thru output
• Balanced XLR output with Ground Lif
• Low Cut and Polarity switches
• Merge switch allows connection of stereo sources which
are then summed to mono at the output, perfect for stereo
sources like keyboards and media players
• -20dB pad ensures distortion-free performance
when connecting to high-level sources
Afer this introduction, a getting started guide will help you
get things set up fast. The hookup diagrams show typical
setups.
An essential tool for every musician and engineer,
the MDB-1P Passive DI has everything you need to adapt
unbalanced, high-impedance audio to a balanced,
low-impedance output with minimal noise. Featuring a 1/4"
high-impedance input and thru with -15db pad and a balanced
XLR output with ground lif.
MDB-2P Stereo Passive Direct Box
MDB Series Direct Boxes
Great for stereo sources like keyboards and synthesizers,
the MDB-2P is an essential tool for electronic musicians, live
sound venues, and recording studios. The MDB-2P Stereo
Passive DI features dual 1/4" high-impedance inputs with
Thru outputs and -15db pads, and dual low-impedance
XLR outputs with ground lif.
MDB-1A Active Direct Box
Great for active instruments like guitars and basses with
active pickups and preamps, the MDB-1A Active DI features
increased headroom and distortion-free operation.
Featuring a 1/4” high-impedance input and thru with -20db
pad plus a Merge switch that turns the Thru jack into a second
input, perfect for summing a stereo source to a mono output.
This icon marks information that is critically
important or unique to the MDB Series Direct Boxes.
For your own good, read and remember them.
There’s an illustration of a microscope, so,
of course, you’re going to get more detailed
information when you see this little guy.
There are explanations of features and practical tips listed here.
It’s a good idea to pay attention to text displayed
next to a note icon, as this icon draws
attention to certain features and functions relating
to the usage of the MDB Series Direct Boxes.
Getting Started
The following steps will help you set up your MDB Series
Direct Box quickly.
1. Turn down all level knobs on all connected gear.
2. Connect an instrument to the input jack with a /4"
instrument cable.
3. Connect a cable from the outputs of the MDB Series
Direct Box to the inputs of a mixer.
4. Connect cables from the thru to an instrument amplifier
or other source.
The balanced XLR output features switches for Polarity,
Low Cut, and Ground Lif. For maximum convenience, the
MDB-1A is powered by 48v phantom power.
5. Turn the mixer and/or amplifier on.
6. Be sure that the volume of the input is the same as it
would be during normal use.
7. Slowly bring up the level knob of the mixer to
a comfortable listening level.
Things to Remember
• Never listen to loud music for prolonged periods.
Please see the Safety Instructions on page 2 for information on hearing protection.
• Save the shipping boxes and packing materials! You may need them someday. Besides, your hamster
will love playing in them and jumping out at you unexpectedly. Remember to pretend like you
are surprised!
• Save your sales receipt in a safe place.
4
MDB Series Direct Boxes
Hookup Diagrams
INPUT
PAD
Owner’s Manual
0 dB
-15 dB
THRU
48V
OUTPUT
GROUND
LIFT
MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE
The MDB-1P is a convenient direct box for musicians – especially bass players – to add to the chain.
Let’s look at the front panel connections first. Start by simply connecting your instrument to the MDB-1P
input jack. And end by simply connecting a cable from the thru jack to your amplifier’s input jack.
Front panel connections made!
The rear panel connection is as straighforward as the front panel connections. Here we connected
an XLR cable from the MDB-1P output jack to a mixer’s input jack.
That was our part. The next part is up to you... the audience is waiting!
Note: While we used a Mackie ProFX12v2 mixer in this example, you could connect the output of the MDB-1P
to the input jack of an audio interface instead. The Mackie Big Knob Studio and Studio+ come to mind!
Typical MDB-1P Setup
Owner’s Manual
5
Hookup Diagrams
LEFTRIGHT
MDB Series Direct Boxes
RIGHT OUTPUTLEFT OUTPUT
GROUND
LIFT
MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE
PADPAD
0 dB
-15 dB
48V
INPUT
THRU
0 dB
-15 dB
The MDB-2P direct box works great for musicians with stereo instruments. In this example, we connected
a synthesizer to the MDB-2P lef and right input jacks. The thru jacks are then connected to the keyboard
amplifier’s input jacks.
Unlike the other MDB Series Direct Boxes, the rear panel of the MDB-2P has dual L/R output jacks for
connecting XLR cables between the MDB-2P and a mixer’s input jacks.
Your fantastic fans await your memserizing music and tasteful tunes. Time to stop reading...
Note: While we used a Mackie ProFX12v2 mixer in this example, you could connect the outputs of the MDB-2P
to the input jacks of an audio interface instead. The Mackie Big Knob Studio and Studio+ come to mind!
Typical MDB-2P Setup
6
MDB Series Direct Boxes
Hookup Diagrams
Owner’s Manual
on
112
volume channel
gain treble middle bass volume
input
bass
2
full
standby
TDSK
off
half
power
reverb mastergain treble middle
180°
OUTPUTPOLARITY LOW CUT
0°
INPUT
ON
OFF
GROUND
OFF
ON
MERGEPAD
LIFT
POWER
-20 dB
0 dB
THRU
48V
MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE
Here we connected a six-string guitar to the input jack of the MDB-1A. The thru jack is then connected to
an amplifer, BUT... you have options! If the merge switch is turned on, the thru jack works as a second input
which works great for stereo instruments such as synthesizers and other media players.
The rear panel of the MDB-1A is exactly the same as the MDB-1P except with two additional switches. Like the
MDB-1P, we connected a single XLR cable from the MDB-1A output jack to a mixer’s input jack.
Listen to the sound to determine if the polarity switch should be at 0˚ or 180˚ and if the low cut switch should
be turned on or lef o.
Note: While we used a Mackie ProFX12v2 mixer in this example, you could connect the output of the MDB-1A
to the input jack of an audio interface instead. The Mackie Big Knob Studio and Studio+ come to mind!
Typical MDB-1A Setup
Owner’s Manual
7
MDB Series DIrect Boxes: Front Panel Features
SLEEVE
TIPSLEEVE
SLEEVE
123
0 dB
-15 dB
INPUT
MDB-1P Front Panel
1. Input Jacks
MDB Series Direct Boxes
The signal output from an instrument (active
or passive) may be connected to this unbalanced
line-level 1/4” input by means of a shielded instrument
cable. This includes guitar, bass, keyboard, media
players and more.
They are wired as follows, according to standards
specified by the AES (Audio Engineering Society):
PAD
THRU
3. Pad Switch
Put this switch in the down position to reduce
the input signal by 15 dB and compensate for higher
output sources. This attenuation is suited for use with
instruments that have active electronics or high-output
pickups.
It is a 20 dB pad on the MDB-1A and the
switch is reversed from the MDB-1P and
MDB-2P; –20 dB in the up position, 0 dB
when the switch is down.
12
OFF
ON
INPUT
POWER
MERGEPA D
34
-20 dB
0 dB
THRU
Unbalanced 1/4" Input Connector
Tip – Positive (+ or hot)
Sleeve – Shield (ground)
TIP
Unbalanced 1/4" Connectors
NEVER connect the output of an amplifier
directly to an MDB Series Direct Box’s input
jack. This could damage the input circuitry
and we wouldn’t want that now, would we?
LEFTRIGHT
1
PADPAD
0 dB
-15 dB
MDB-2P Front Panel
INPUT
2
THRU
0 dB
-15 dB
MDB-1A Front Panel
4. Merge Switch [MDB-1A]
When the Merge switch is in the OFF position
TIP
(switch up), the Thru jack works as normal
(see #2 description, bottom-lef).
When the Merge switch is in the ON position (switch
down), the Thru jack works as an additional input.
It will be summed with the main input to create a mono
output source. This is a perfect solution for stereo
sources like keyboards and media players.
Additionally, the associated LED will illuminate
when merge is on.
MBS On / O Switches
The rare and highly sought afer MBS–FNMA and
MBS–GNMA Direct Boxes come with switches to turn
33
o your mind, body and soul when any (or all) of them
need it. When will you know? Oh, you’ll know. When it’s
there, simply flip the switch to o and when you’re
feeling good again, go ahead and flip the switch back
to the on (up) position.
2. Thru Jacks
The Thru jack may be connected to the input
of an instrument amplifier or instrument-level
parallel eects device (such as an FX device chain,
processors, or tuner). This output is unaected
by the MDB Series Direct Box’s circuitry.
8
MDB Series Direct Boxes
MIND
INPUT
ON
OFF
BODY
PAD
ON
OFF
0 dB
-15 dB
MBS-FNMA & GNMA
SOUL
THRU
ON
OFF
1
SHIELD
MDB Series DIrect Boxes: Rear Panel Features
56
OUTPUT
MDB-1P Rear Panel
5. XLR Output Jacks
These XLR connectors provide a balanced line-level
signal that is designed to connect to the inputs of a
mixer or audio interface.
They are wired as follows, according to standards
specified by the AES (Audio Engineering Society):
Balanced XLR Output Connector
Pin 1 – Shield (ground)
Pin 2 – Positive (+ or hot)
Pin 3 – Negative (– or cold)
GROUND
LIFT
Owner’s Manual
7. Low Cut Switch [MDB-1A]
When on, the low-cut switch (ofen referred to as a
high-pass filter) cuts bass frequencies below 120 Hz.
We recommend that you use low-cut on every
microphone application except kick drum, bass guitar,
or bassy synth patches. These aside, there isn’t much
down there that you want to hear, and filtering it
out makes the low stu you do want much more crisp
and tasty. Not only that, but low-cut can help reduce
the possibility of feedback in live situations, and it
helps to conserve amplifier power.
Another way to consider low-cut’s function
is that it actually adds flexibility during live
performances. With the addition of low-cut,
you can safely use low equalization on vocals. Many
times, bass shelving EQ can really benefit voices.
Trouble is, adding low EQ also boosts stage rumble,
mic handling clunks and breath pops from way-down
low. Applying low-cut removes all those problems,
so you can add low EQ without blowing the woofers.
3
COLD
2
HOT
1
3
2
SHIELD
COLD
HOT
Balanced XLR Connectors
6. Ground Lif Switch
The ground lif separates the chassis ground from
the signal ground at the balanced output jacks. The
default position is ground. You may attempt to remedy
system ground loop hum by moving the switch to lif.
556
5678
180°
0°
OUTPUTPOLARITY LOW CUT
MDB-1A Rear Panel
ON
OFF
GROUND
LIFT
8. Polarity Switch [MDB-1A]
When this switch is up, it reverses the polarity of the
signal by 180˚.
There is no right or wrong setting for this switch.
Listen to the overall blend with the rest of the system
and select the switch position that gives you the best
sound for your audience. In fact, your system may vary
when positioned dierently and in alternate venues.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with the position of the
polarity switch.
RIGHT OUTPUTLEFT OUTPUT
MDB-2P Rear Panel
GROUND
LIFT
Owner’s Manual
9
Appendix A: Service Information
If you think your MDB Series Direct Box has a problem,
please check out the following troubleshooting tips and do your
best to confirm the problem. Visit the Support section of our
website (www.mackie.com/support) where you will find lots of
useful information such as FAQs and other documentation. You
may find the answer to the problem without having to part with
your MDB Series Direct Box.
MDB Series Direct Boxes
Troubleshooting
No sound
• Is the level knob for the input source turned all the way
down? Verify that all the volume controls in the system
are properly adjusted. Look at the level meter to ensure
that the mixer is receiving a signal.
• Is the signal source working? Make sure the connecting
cables are in good repair and securely connected at both
ends. Make sure the output level control on the mixing
console is turned up suciently.
Repair
For warranty service, refer to the warranty information
on page 14.
Non-warranty service is available at a factory-authorized
service center. To locate the nearest service center, visit
www.mackie.com/support/service-locator. Service for
MDB Series Direct Boxes living outside the United States may be
obtained through local dealers or distributors.
If you do not have access to our website, please call our Tech
Support department at 1-800-898-3211 (normal business hours,
Pacific Time), to explain the problem. They will tell you where
the nearest factory-authorized service center is located in your
area.
• Make sure the mixer does not have a mute on or a
processor loop engaged. If you find something like this,
make sure the level is turned down before disengaging
the oending switch.
Poor sound
• Is it loud and distorted? Make sure that you’re not
overdriving a stage in the signal chain. Verify that
all level controls are set properly.
• Be sure all connections are secure.
Hum
• Whenever possible, plug all the audio equipment’s line
cords into outlets which share a common ground.
The distance between the outlets and the common
ground should be as short as possible.
Please write the serial numbers here for future reference
(i.e., insurance claims, tech support, return authorization,
make dad proud, etc.)
Purchased at:
Date of purchase:
10
MDB Series Direct Boxes
Appendix B: Technical Information
MDB Series Direct Box Specifications
Owner’s Manual
Audio Performance
Frequency Response 20 Hz – 20 kHz , ±0.5 dB [MDB-1A]
20 Hz – 20 kHz , ±0.2 dB [MDB-1P • MDB-2P]
Signal-to-Noise Ratio 90 dB [MDB-1A]
Dynamic Range 130 dB [MDB-1A]
128 dB [MDB-1P • MDB-2P]
Total Harmonic Distortion 0.02% THDF @1 kHz [MDB-1A]
0.002% from 1000 Hz [MDB-1P • MDB-2P]
Pad –20 dB [MDB-1A]
–15 dB [MDB-1P • MDB-2P]
Input / Output
Input Type Female 1/4" Unbalanced
Input Impedance 330 k unbalanced [MDB-1A]
140 k unbalanced [MDB-1P • MDB-2P]
Impedance Ratio (Input to Output) 350:1 [MDB-1P • MDB-2P]
Output Type Male XLR Balanced
1/4" Unbalanced (Thru)
Output Impedance 150
400 unbalanced [MDB-1P • MDB-2P]
balanced [MDB-1A]
Power
Input Type 48 V Phantom [MDB-1A]
Current Draw <4.0mA DC [MDB-1A]
Display LEDs
Front Merge on/o [MDB-1A]
Physical Properties
Height: 1.5 in / 38 mm
Width: 3.4 in / 86 mm
Depth: 5.8 in / 147 mm
Weight: 0.8 lb / 0.4 kg
Disclaimer
Since we are always striving to make our products better by incorporating new
and improved materials, components, and manufacturing methods, we reserve
the right to change these specifications at any time without notice.
The “Running Man” figure is a registered trademark of LOUD Audio, LLC.
All other brand names mentioned are trademarks or registered trademarks
of their respective holders, and are hereby acknowledged.
We don’t take warnings lightly and neither should you. If you stare at the Direct
Box too long, you might start seeing cute little creatures that you want to bring
home with you. We implore you to not place this by your bedside or you’ll want
to cuddle. Definitely don’t water it like a Chia™ Pet, waiting for chia sprouts to
grow on its head. No sprouts will grow and you will have ruined a perfectly good
Direct Box... and broken the warranty. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!
Owner’s Manual
11
MDB-1P Passive Direct Box Dimensions
WEIGHT
0.8 lb
0.4 kg
3.4 in
86 mm
5.8 in / 147 mm
MDB Series Direct Boxes
1.5 in
38 mm
MDB-2P Stereo Passive Direct Box Dimensions
WEIGHT
0.8 lb
0.4 kg
86 mm
1.5 in
38 mm
5.8 in / 147 mm
3.4 in
12
MDB-1A Active Direct Box Dimensions
WEIGHT
0.8 lb
0.4 kg
MDB Series Direct Boxes
3.4 in
86 mm
1.5 in
38 mm
5.8 in / 147 mm
MDB-1P Passive Direct Box Block Diagram
Owner’s Manual
INPUT
PHONE JACK
THRU
PHONE JACK
15dB PAD
MDB-2P Stereo Passive Direct Box Block Diagram
INPUT
PHONE JACK
LEFT
15dB PAD
23
23
XLR OUT
1
XLR OUT
1
5
5
6
4
GND LIFT
6
4
GND LIFT
THRU
PHONE JACK
INPUT
PHONE JACK
RIGHT
THRU
PHONE JACK
MDB-1A Active Direct Box Block Diagram
INPUT
15dB PAD
23
XLR OUT
1
2
3
1
GND LIFT
PHONE JACK
THRU
PHONE JACK
MERGE
-20dB PAD
LOW CUT
ACTIVE
BALANCED DRIVER
PHASE 180°
XLR OUT
1
5
23
Owner’s Manual
6
4
GND
13
Limited Warranty
Please keep your sales receipt in a safe place.
This Limited Product Warranty (“Product Warranty”) is provided by LOUD Audio, LLC (“LOUD”) and is applicable to products
purchased in the United States or Canada through a LOUD-authorized reseller or dealer. The Product Warranty will not extend
to anyone other than the original purchaser of the product (hereinafer, “Customer,” “you” or “your”).
For products purchased outside the U.S. or Canada, please visit www.mackie.com to find contact information for your local
distributor, and information on any warranty coverage provided by the distributor in your local market.
MDB Series Direct Boxes
LOUD warrants to Customer that the product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use
during the Warranty Period. If the product fails to conform to the warranty then LOUD or its authorized service representative
will at its option, either repair or replace any such nonconforming product, provided that Customer gives notice of the noncompliance within the Warranty Period to the Company at: www.mackie.com or by calling LOUD technical support
at 1.800.898.3211 (toll-free in the U.S. and Canada) during normal business hours Pacific Time, excluding weekends
or LOUD holidays. Please retain the original dated sales receipt as evidence of the date of purchase. You will need it
to obtain any warranty service.
For full terms and conditions, as well as the specific duration of the Warranty for this product, please visit www.mackie.com.
The Product Warranty, together with your invoice or receipt, and the terms and conditions located at www.mackie.com constitutes the entire agreement, and supersedes any and all prior agreements between LOUD and Customer related
to the subject matter hereof. No amendment, modification or waiver of any of the provisions of this Product Warranty
will be valid unless set forth in a written instrument signed by the party to be bound thereby.
14
Need help with the MDB Series Direct Box?
• Visit www.mackie.com/support to find: FAQs, manuals, addendums, and other documents.
• Email us at: www.mackie.com/support-contact
• Telephone 1-800-898-3211 to speak with one of our splendid technical support chaps
(Monday through Friday, normal business hours, Pacific Time).
MDB Series Direct Boxes
16220 Wood-Red Road NE
Woodinville, WA 98072 • USA
Phone: 425.487.4333
Toll-free: 800.898.3211
Fax: 425.487.4337
www.mackie.com
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