Hosa DIB-490 - Pro-Conex Sidekick Active DI Box

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.

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.

Specifications

• Sub-Brand: Hosa Pro-Conex
• Series: Sidekick
• Model: DIB-490
• Circuit Type: Active (Transformerless Balancing)
• Channels: 2 (Stereo or Dual Mono)
• Inputs: 2 x 1/4″ TS (Unbalanced)
• Outputs: 2 x XLR3M (Balanced)
• Thru/Link: 2 x 1/4″ TS
• Power Source: 48V Phantom Power
• Input Pad: 0dB, -15dB, -30dB
• Switches: Ground Lift, Polarity Reverse, Pad