New Music Gear Monday: Radial BT-Pro Bluetooth Direct Box
Radial Engineering makes a grand variety of useful direct boxes, and just about the time you think they’ve thought of everything, they come up with something new. One of the company’s more unique DIs is the new BT-Pro, a unique Bluetooth direct box that converts a wireless audio signal into an analog stereo balanced line.
This allows you to connect your phone or iPad directly to a PA or recording device without having to resort to an assortment of patch cables.
The BT-Pro is built to be bullet-proof just like all other Radial DIs, as it’s made from 14 gauge steel with an l-beam frame that hangs over the controls to keep them out of harms way.
It uses the latest Bluetooth wireless A2DP interface over 2.0 EDR (Enhanced Data Rate) for higher speed transmission to deliver optimal audio quality, with reception out to 60 feet. This standard employs a 16-bit wireless compressed format with the actual bit rate determined by the transmission source material.
There are two balanced XLR outputs that feature isolation transformers to eliminate any buzz or hum, an output control, plus a built-in headphone amp for troubleshooting using a standard 3.5mm mini TRS output connector.
There’s also a stereo-to-mono switch that sums the input for dual-mono operation, as well as two side-mounted switches that insert the isolation transformers into the signal path. This is supplemented by a ground lift switch for the XLRs to help further eliminate any ground loops. The unit is powered via a USB connector.
The Radial Engineering BT-Pro sells for a reasonable $229.99, and like most Radial gear, will probably last a lifetime. Find out more on the dedicated BT-Pro web page.
