Rupert Neve Designs RNDI-S | 8-way DI Box

The RNDI-8 offers eight independent channels of the RNDI Active Transformer Direct Interface in a 19″ unit with only 1 RU, providing a direct feed for electric guitar and bass, synthesizer, keyboard, piezo pickup or any other instrument level source.
The discrete Class A circuit topology is based on custom-built transformers by Mr. Rupert Neve, resulting in outstanding sonic performance and an extremely natural sound from 5 Hz to well beyond 90 kHz.
Each channel can handle input levels of up to +21 dBu (+31 dBu with the pad engaged), and the low impedance, transformer-coupled output can drive long lines with minimal loss.
The robust steel construction of the housing is designed for long-lasting use on stage and in the studio.

Transformer + discrete FET: The best of both worlds
The characteristic sound of the RNDI-8 comes from the specially developed transformers and the discrete Class A FET input amplifiers.
The carefully developed combination of these two elements is the key to the unique precision, sound and response of the RNDI-8.

The eight specially developed transformers
The RNDI-8’s specially wound output transformers provide isolation and add musical overtones and spatial depth to the sound.
The low-impedance, transformer-balanced outputs are ideal for long cable runs, and performance is consistent regardless of the connected equipment.
This is important for both live and studio environments where the unamplified signal can travel up to 30 meters or more before reaching an amplifier.

Class-A, discrete FET input amplifiers
The RNDI-8’s Class-A, discrete FET input amplifiers are powered by 48 V phantom power and offer a high-impedance input of over 2 MOhm, ensuring consistent performance with a wide range of instruments.
The Class A design eliminates crossover distortion that can otherwise be added to the signal and introduce unwanted odd higher order harmonics.
In the RNDI-8, the overtone content is derived from the octave (2nd order) and the fifth above the octave (3rd order) relative to the fundamental.
These musically relevant overtones, which are present in subtle amounts, enhance the richness of the original signal and sound very musical.
In addition, the discrete design of the RNDI-8 means that there are no ICs or digital components that could have a negative effect on the sound.

Big headroom, big bandwidth
The RNDI-8 has a uniquely wide bandwidth with a frequency response that extends from 5 Hz to over 90 kHz.
But the measurements are only part of the equation: combine this extended bandwidth with the overtone enhancement of the output transducer and the result is an absolutely massive low-end that delivers an unparalleled sense of depth.
All this is done without compromising the midrange or top end brilliance that defines the instrument.
The maximum input level is a whopping +21 dBu, allowing the RNDI-8 to handle not only instruments but also professional line-level sources such as interfaces and drum machines.
And with the additional -10 dB pad, this increases to +31 dBu – more than enough for the most powerful DJ mixers.
This makes the RNDI-8 incredibly versatile and enhances the sound of almost any connected instrument or source.

Two different ground lift options
Most DIs have a ground lift switch on the output, and the RNDI-8 offers this standard DI ‘lift’ option via eight individual ‘Pin 1 Isolate’ switches on the rear panel.
Activating this switch normally eliminates common sources of hum in the signal path.
However, the RNDI-8 also features eight front panel ground lift switches that isolate each channel’s circuit ground from chassis ground, providing another helpful option for detecting and eliminating unwanted hum interference.