Transformer for color DI?

[plunderpot1]

Hello kind folks!

I have a question about transformers in passive direct boxes.

I have the Radial JDI with the Jensen transfomer that I use for acoustic guitar when playing live. It's amazingly transparent and clear, but I was curious about trying a different transformer to intentionally color the sound in a way that I'd like for this application, namely softening the highs and tightening the lows.

As most transformers designated for DI use tend towards transparency, are there any that would get me towards the coloring I'm after? I hope this isn't an absolutely ridiculous question (please go easy on my newb-ness!), but I wanted to ask.

Thanks and happy holidays to all!

Best,

J

 

[Guest]

Does you guitar have tone controls?

 

[sonicmook56]

I once listened to a Jensen and a Cinamag DI xfmr playing a Les Paul threw a Neve 88R board pre and thought that the Cinamag was a bit more "round" sounding.

 

[rotation]

I made Bo Hansen's DI (Bo is our member) with OEP transformer and the sound was nice warm and rounded. Exactly what i wanted. Specially bass changed to "better". This could be what you are looking for.
Design is active and people seem to like very much. There is schematic at Bo's site:
http://web.telia.com/~u31617586/
And documents for making it at Recproaudio:
http://www.recproaudio.com/diy_pro_audio/active_di.htm

Btw, when you have transformer for the DI you could also try Hamptone's HJFP. Not the whole preamp, only one gain module. Part cost for this module is less than 10 bucks and you don't even need a pcb.

Another option is tube based DI. It costs more and is more complicated. But it would be a kind of "ultimate" solution. Check G9.

Good luck!

 

[Gus]

Wavebourn the distortion a transformer and the circuit driving it can add is different that a tone control IMO.

 

[Guest]

[quote author="Gus"]Wavebourn the distortion a transformer and the circuit driving it can add is different that a tone control IMO.[/quote]

Do you mean stray inductances and capacitances?

I don't understand how acoustic instruments can benefit from any non-linear distortions...

 

[Kamel]

since guitar became electroacoustic device, it is possible to color the electric part, isn't it? :wink:

 

[plunderpot1]

Thanks for the replies and suggestions!

Wavebourn, I've been curious about looking into a transformer's impact on the tone, its color. I love the simplicity and ease of use of a passive DI, and would rather not add other elements to the signal chain if I don't have to. I have used a variety of preamps and DIs, and will do these if necessary, but it seemed that looking into various transformers was worth a shot as well.

Thinking in terms of the studio, for the sound I'm looking for, I'd rather plug my guitar into the Neve than the Pendulum.

Thanks again! Any more suggestions or info is welcome! :thumb:

J

 

[Guest]

J, I would rather prefer to remove any audible non-linear distortions from acoustic instruments, but I can't understand how an additional transformer in signal path can do that. Most probably you like class A stages in Neve's signal path that add very small amount of audible distortions, much less than some other consoles do even if they add less measurable distortions. Measurable VS audible, this is the key.

 

[plunderpot1]

Wavebourn, I appreciate your information, but I think you're misunderstanding my goals here:

I'm interested in seeing if there are any transformers for DI that color the sound in a pleasing way. The DI I have already excels at transparency, but artistically I'd like something different for this application. Seeing as how the choice of input and output transformers on various pieces of gear can impact their sound, I'm curious if anyone has had any similar experience with transformers used for DI.

Again, this is for my use, playing live, in the band I'm part of - it may not be someone else's cup of tea, but I'd like to see what I can find.

Anyone else have other experiences?

Best to you! :thumb:

J

 

[CJ]

if you want the nickel mush sound you have to saturate, not easy with a git output level, especially an acoustic.

maybe try a Beyer mic input if you can find the right ratio.

choosing a xfmr for color is easy.

just get the smallest nickel core you can get and you will be in hog heaven.
if you want more mush, just add one part DC to three parts AC.

if the curie temp on the anneal hasn't drifted.

no wait, its my brain that drifted so whatever.

If you are looking to take off the brittle high end of the acoustic, then maybe check out Neil's setup when he is pacing around the stage with his harmonica holder stuck to his face.,

"Oh to live on...
"Sugar Mountain..with the Barkers and the color TV,...

get me?

A nice Martin or Gibson helps, also.

Preferably from the late 40's to early 50's but not nylon, those classical guitars wear out after 30 yrs if you play the, which I don't, but a frien of mine caught Segovia's attention at a show by yawning during the middle of the song, so if you play acoustic, please don't bore me like Andre.

:idea:

Now I see why you want some spice.



:thumb:

 

[plunderpot1]

Thanks CJ - perfect info. I appreciate it! Sometimes it's nice to have another tonal option.


:guinness: :guinness:

J

 

[CJ]

Of course. Thats the point that the people on the other side of the glass sometimes miss. They want perfection, where as the musicians want controlled chaos. Never the twain...

Abby Road was full of stuff. So the guys were banging on anything that would make a new hit single.

Look at Brian Jones. Just in a few years he jumped on the harpsichord, hurdy gurdy, sitar, slide and harp, anyway to make a new sound, thats what the creative musician wants.