Retaining its unmistakable fire-engine-red livery, the A-Designs Reddi standalone all-tube DI box has been updated with the released of the rackmount Reddi V2 – a dual-mono-channel, 19-inch, 2U model.

‘The number of Reddis in use on stages and in studios all over the world is nothing short of staggering,’ says A-Designs Audio President, Peter Montessi. ‘Quite simply, there is no better sounding way to convert an instrument, or line level signal, to XLR. And the new Reddi V2 faithfully brings the exact same warmth, transparency and clean, airy high end to the rack, with the added benefit of featuring two separate 6N1P tube-driven mono channels for stereo devices.’

The gain structure of the Reddi V2 has been engineered to avoid compromise in sound quality. Inspired by the sound of the Ampeg B-15 tube bass amp, its 6N1P-driven amplifier feeds signal directly into a hefty custom output transformer by Cinemag. An extremely wide frequency range (20Hz to 60kHz) prevents in-band phase shift, maintaining a linear response extending below the audible bass range.

The Reddi V2’s distinctive red steel chassis sports two front-panel Neutrik XLR/quarter-inch combo input jacks, two balanced XLR outputs and two quarter-inch Thru-puts, for sending signal to a bass amp – useful for not only live applications, and also for simultaneously recording direct and miked amp tracks in the studio.

A 0-16dB Level control and red LED power indicator complete the front panel controls, while the back panel contains a heavy-duty toggle switch for ground lift, along with the IEC power outlet.

‘The Reddi V2’s all-tube circuitry will enhance the character of any electrified instrument that runs through it – not just bass – but stereo keyboards,’ Montessi adds. ‘Plug the pickup of an acoustic guitar through Reddi V2 to add depth and fullness to its tone. Capture and improve all the richness and life of an electric piano or analogue synthesiser. Warm up sterile sounding digital keyboards or drum machines by strapping a Reddi V2 across their outputs for stereo. The uses are endless.’

Shipping now, the Reddi V2 carries a list price of US$1,295.