Radial JDI MK3 Passive Direct Box

Feature:
It has a lot of features - frankly more than I see myself needing to use. I don't use stereo outs, and I don't really feel compelled to use the -30dB speaker pad. However, this DI is fully featured enough that I feel confident I could use it in nearly every live scenario, and I would recommend it to keyboard players as well.

Quality:
This box is a brick house. Unless it ends up under our van's tires somehow, I'm certain it'll continue to perform at this level.

Value:
Yes, this product is a little expensive, especially for something that most players don't think they need. But I think of it as insurance - you don't have to worry about your tone getting fouled up by something outside your control (barring a sound guy who's completely out of his depth.) I considered the JDI expensive until I actually used it at shows. Now I realize what a big value it is.

Desirability:
DI boxes typically aren't the sort of thing anybody but a soundguy will notice on stage. However, I do have to admit this thing looks pretty cool. I like the green and orange - gives me a "military issue" vibe.

Sound:
This DI has been a total game-changer for live performances. In the past I've had to make do with the house DI box at shows and the like. It did the trick alright, I suppose. However, since investing in this DI, I've had a huge jump in people complimenting me on my sound. I don't have to worry about my cab being suited to the room, or about a mediocre DI neutering my tone. It's been a great solution for my bass, and several of the sound guys I've worked with have expressed admiration for its performance as well.

Ease of Use:
Everything's easily labeled. Insert it before your amp, plug and play. Since it's passive, you don't even have to worry about power.

Support:
I haven't needed support on this product, but I've met a couple folks from Radial, and they seem courteous, adept, and friendly. Three year limited warranty, which is nice - though with how durable this thing is, I'd be surprised if I needed it.

Overall:
The only DI box I see myself replacing this with costs $700. So, I'm fairly sure I will never be replacing this. It has everything I need, it sounds great, and it certainly doesn't take up much space in my rig. If this got stolen, I would replace it shortly after swearing vengeance.