Detail 01
Merge switch
It turns the Thru jack into a second input for summing a stereo source to mono.
Product detailSKU #1500000189272
MackieMDB-1A Active Direct Box
1/4
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
MDB-1A is an active direct box for guitars and basses fitted with active pickups or preamps. Its 1/4-inch high-impedance input includes a thru connection and a -20 dB pad. Need to bring a stereo source down to one mono output? The Merge switch repurposes the Thru jack as a second input. The balanced XLR output offers polarity, low-cut, and ground-lift switches, and the unit runs on 48V phantom power. Increased headroom supports distortion-free operation.
Strong match
Who this is for
- Routing an active guitar or bass with active pickups or a preamp into a balanced XLR output.
- Summing a stereo source to mono through the Merge switch and second input.
- Systems that can provide 48V phantom power to the direct box.
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- Setups that cannot provide the 48V phantom power required to power the unit.
What matters in use
The specifications, translated
Catalog numbers tell only part of the story. These are the details most likely to change how this product feels, sounds, or fits into a setup.
Detail 02
-20 dB pad
The 1/4-inch input and thru connection include a -20 dB pad.
Detail 03
Balanced XLR controls
The XLR output has polarity, low-cut, and ground-lift switches.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01The MDB-1A is powered by 48V phantom power.
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
01Can the MDB-1A sum a stereo source to mono?
Yes. Its Merge switch turns the Thru jack into a second input for a mono output.
02What powers the MDB-1A?
It is powered by 48V phantom power.
03What output controls are available?
The balanced XLR output has polarity, low-cut, and ground-lift switches.
