Skip to main content

Get next-day shipping for $20* -  
See details & shipping cut-off dates

Play Video
48-Month Financing*
API API

API 505-DI 500 Series Direct Input

Q&A SKU #L83893000000000
595.0 $595.00
Or
12.40 $12.40/mo. with 48 months financing*
Limited time Learn more
More ways to pay:
Lease-to-own with Progressive Leasing. Learn more
Loyalty Points Icon
Loyalty Points Icon
Earn 4,760 reward points
($47.60 in credit)
Earn 4,760 reward pts.
($47.60 in credit)
Inventory Msg Check Mark Inventory Msg Exclamation In Checkout Promo Inventory Msg Download Icon
In Stock & Ready to Ship
Most orders placed before 3 p.m. ET ship same day (except weekends and holidays).
  • Free Shipping
  • Flexible Financing
  • Lowest Price
Product Warranties Icon Product Warranties Icon

Gold Coverage Protection

Protect your gear

Chevron Right Icon
Overview

Eliminates the need to use a standard direct box.

Like the console-based API 205L, the 505-DI is specifically designed to accept a guitar, bass or keyboard direct input while minimizing any loading effect on Hi-Z instrument pickups. Additionally, the 505-DI's Gain Control is used to normalize an instrument's input level, up to a +4 dBu output level. API's unique TONE control reduces potential low end "mud" in the signal, while turning on the BRIGHT switch adds additional clarity if desired. The various combinations of TONE and BRIGHT controls can eliminate the need for any EQ on the instrument while recording, keeping the signal path short and pure.

This minimal signal path eliminates the need to use a standard direct box, which many times still requires a mic input, equalizer, and a fader to get the signal to a recordable level. The 505-DI is capable of boosting any instrument to a hefty line level without additional amplifiers. Use of the 100K / 400K LOAD switch allows the tone of the pickup to be altered slightly, alternately brightening or darkening the high frequency content. When inserting an instrument with an internal preamp or a line level instrument such as a sampler or a keyboard, the 505-DI offers a 20 dB PAD switch to drop the level without loading, thereby retaining the integrity of the incoming signal.

Features

  • Wide Range Gain Control with 55dB of gain
  • Front Panel Hi-Z Input
  • Front Panel Thru routing
  • TONE Control helps customize your sound
  • BRIGHT Switch boosts clarity and presence
  • 10 segment LED VU meter for monitoring output level
  • Peak Output LED Indicator
  • 20 dB pad switch
  • 100K / 400K Switchable Load
  • Traditional API fully discrete circuit design
  • Uses the famous API 2520 and 2510 Op-Amps

Go direct with your guitar, bass or keyboard with more power and less noise. Order today.

Q&A

Questions & Answers

Do you have questions about this product?

Shop with a Friend
Free Shipping
  • Free Standard Ground shipping (48 contiguous states, some overweight and Used/Vintage items excluded).
  • Orders placed before 3 p.m. ET usually ship the same business day.
Learn More
2-Year Free Warranty on Guitars

Every guitar or bass you purchase from Musician's Friend (electric or acoustic, New or Open Box) includes two years of protection from manufacturer defects.

Contact Us for Details
We're Here for You

Our Gear Advisers are available to guide you through your entire shopping experience. Call or Chat for expert advice and to hear the latest deals.

Contact Us
Proactive Advisor Support Chat