The Ebtech Line Level Shifter is designed to increase or decrease signal voltage (-10dBV and +4dBu) without adding noise. The Line Level Shifter also converts back and forth between balanced (+4dBu) and unbalanced (-10dBV) signals automatically. The Line Level Shifter also contains Ebtechs' Hum Eliminator technology to break ground loops that cause AC hum.
What's converting between –10dBV and +4dBu all about?
Most consumer music gear has –10dBV inputs/outputs, while most pro gear has +4dBu inputs/outputs (which is 11dB greater or 3.5 times louder). Additionally, the –10dBV signal lines are unbalanced and are susceptible to picking noise, whereas the pro gear lines are generally balanced and more immune to picking up noise.
Incorrectly matching the signal levels between gear can result in volumes that are too low, having to turn up the gain and increase the noise floor. It also limits the range of volume control between all inputs, which makes it difficult to get a good mix and can potentially overload the –10dBV inputs. The Line Level Shifter converts between unbalanced and balanced lines as needed and always converts between –10dBV and +4dBu.
The Line Level Shifter also eliminates hum, just like the EBTECH Hum Eliminator. The difference is that the Line Level ShifterTM always steps up or down your signal. Below are more specific applications for the Line Level Shifter.
DJ Mixers
Most DJ mixer main outs are unbalanced –10dBV RCA and most power amps have balanced +4dBu inputs. When going from a –10dBV DJ mixer to a +4dBu power amp, over 2/3rd's of the amp's volume is lost. That turns a 600-watt amp down to 175 watts. Many DJs prefer the feature set of a particular –10dBV unit and the few DJ mixers that have +4dBu outputs can cost much more than a –10dBV DJ mixer. Use a Line Level Shifter to get all of the lost power back and get rid of hum at the same time!
Mixers/Recording
Almost everyone hooks up a –10dBV, unbalanced output from a consumer CD player, DAT, Minidisc, etc., to an otherwise high performance system. You will get a better signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) using the Line Level Shifter rather than by turning up the mixer’s input gain. You can also balance the lines at the same time.
Getting the best noise floor means adding the least amount of active gain. Recording with unbalanced -10dBV outputs (keyboards, effects units, drum machines, computers, etc.) often require a lot of active gain. Use the Line Level Shifter to run these units up to balanced +4dBu and provide the best mix you can get.
Some high-end mixers only have +4dBu inputs. When –10dBV equipment is hooked up to these inputs, use a Line Level ShifterTM to get a better signal level.
Tape return levels are often mismatched with the mixer. They either overload the mixer’s input or don't drive it loud enough. The Line Level Shifter works both ways, either stepping the signal up or down.
Keyboards/Samplers/Synth
Most keyboards, samplers, and synthesizers have 1/4 in. unbalanced -10dBV outputs. The Line Level Shifter converts these outputs to +4dBu for use with a +4dBu mixer or other +4dBu device without losing volume.
Balancing the outputs can help make long signal runs hum and noise free.
Computer Sound Cards
Most sound cards have unbalanced -10dBV inputs/outputs. A Line Level Shifter allows the sound card to work with a +4dBu device and eliminates hum at the same time.
Even balanced sound cards have tremendous susceptibility to ground loops because of the computer's power supply.If you hear a buzz, use a Hum Eliminator.
Broadcasting
Broadcasters frequently need to hook up a consumer –10dBV output CD player, DAT, etc. to a balanced +4dBu input. The Line Level ShifterTM allows this to be done without losing volume and eliminates hum at the same time.
Audio/Video
The audio inputs on most video camcorders are unbalanced –10dBV. When running a sound mix from a +4dBu output to the camera, use a Line Level Shifter to ensure its input is not overloaded and the signal is not distorted.
Use a Line Level Shifter when running the audio feed from a –10dBV VCR/DVD to a +4dBu sound system to get the best possible signal quality.
Technical Info
Converts back and forth between 10dBV and +4dBu
Converts automatically back and forth between balanced and unbalanced lines at either end
1/4 in. TRS "smart" jacks (tip, ring, sleeve) inputs and outputs.
Built-in Hum Eliminator technology eliminates AC hum / 60Hz buzz and noise
Automatically translates signal voltages to match differences in ground potentials, avoiding clipping
Completely passive design with audiophile quality components assures the best possible noise and distortion performance
Frequency response 10Hz to 40kHz plus or minus 1dB into 10kOhm load
Distortion less than 0.002% THD @ 1kHz
Crosstalk better than 97dB
Maximum source impedance 1kOhm. Minimum load impedance 10kOhm
Available in 2 channel box or 8 channel single space rack versions
2 Year manufacturer's warranty. Ebtech quality and reliability.
Made in the U.S.A. 
Call for 4 equal payments on most orders over $395. Installment plans available only by phone. 
