Best DI Box for Acoustic Guitar Live and Recording

Acoustic guitar DI boxes address the unique challenges of amplifying piezo pickups and magnetic soundhole pickups. Quality acoustic DIs reduce the harsh, quacky character that plagues amplified acoustics while providing balanced output for PA systems. The right DI transforms acoustic guitar from problematic to professional.

Best Professional Acoustic DI Boxes

The LR Baggs Para Acoustic DI ($199) provides the acoustic standard with 5-band EQ. The design specifically addresses piezo pickup characteristics.

The Radial PZ-Pre ($299) offers comprehensive acoustic preamp/DI. The phase adjustment and notch filter solve common feedback problems.

The Fishman Platinum Pro EQ ($299) delivers premium acoustic amplification. The extensive tone controls address diverse acoustic needs.

Best Mid-Range Acoustic DI Boxes

The LR Baggs Venue DI ($349) provides full-featured acoustic control. The tuner, boost, and comprehensive EQ suit performing guitarists.

The Radial Tonebone PZ-DI ($249) offers orchestral instrument optimization. The design addresses violin, cello, and acoustic bass alongside guitar.

Best Budget Acoustic DI Boxes

The Fishman Aura Spectrum DI ($249) delivers imaging technology for natural tone. The presets model various acoustic guitar body types.

The Tech 21 Acoustic Fly Rig ($199) provides comprehensive acoustic processing. The compact design includes reverb and boost.

The Behringer ADI21 ($29) offers basic acoustic DI affordably. The simple design provides entry-level improvement.

Piezo Pickup Considerations

High input impedance preserves piezo bass response. Standard DIs may thin out piezo pickup sound.

Notch filters address feedback frequencies. The targeted reduction enables higher stage volume.

Phase control helps with feedback and blend applications. The adjustment optimizes pickup interaction with microphones.

Tone Shaping Features

EQ sections address pickup character issues. The ability to cut harsh frequencies improves amplified tone.

Compression evens out dynamic variations. Acoustic guitar benefits from gentle dynamics control.

Reverb/effects add dimension to direct sound. The processing supplements natural acoustic resonance.

Live Performance Needs

Tuner integration simplifies stage setup. The built-in feature eliminates separate tuner pedals.

Mute/boost functions enable professional performance. The controls address practical stage needs.

Ground lift eliminates venue electrical noise. The essential feature addresses common problems.

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All acoustic DI boxes are available at Guitar Center, Musician’s Friend, and Amazon.