Countryman Type 85S Stereo Direct Box

SKU: CODT85S

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FAQ

What is the purpose of the Type 85S Stereo Direct Box?

The Type 85S Stereo Direct Box is designed to convert unbalanced audio signals into balanced ones. It's ideal for connecting a stereo audio source, such as a mixer or soundboard, to a balanced audio system like a power amplifier or speaker system.

What makes the Type 85S Stereo Direct Box stand out?

The Type 85S stands out due to its ability to eliminate hum, buzz, and RF interference from long XLR runs. It also has a unique feature that allows it to always isolate ground, even when running on phantom power, which helps get rid of hum and buzz caused by ground issues.

How does the Type 85S Stereo Direct Box operate?

The Type 85S automatically uses the 48 V phantom power provided by most mixing consoles. If there's no phantom power or if it's low, the Type 85S can run for about 130 hours on a single internal 9 V battery.

What kind of design does the Type 85S Stereo Direct Box have?

The Type 85S features a rugged design with indestructible connectors and switches. The internal electronics are molded in epoxy for full protection against electrical damage. Its casing is a single-piece extruded case with extra-thick walls.

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Countryman Type 85S Specifications

  • Frequency Response

    20Hz to 20kHz (+/- 1 dB)

  • Noise

    0.63 uVrms (-122 dBVrms) (Shorted Input, BW=22 HZ TO 20 KHZ)

  • Distortion

    THD (1kHz): < 0.018%
    IMD (10kHz/60Hz, 4:1): < 0.08%

  • Cross-Talk Rejection

    > 105 dB (20 Hz to 20 kHz)

  • Power Options

    48 V Phantom (1.6 mA)
    9 V Battery

  • Input Protection

    220Vrms and 20,000V static discharges

  • Transformer Isolation Voltage

    > 500 V from instrument ground to XLR output pin 1

  • Voltage Gain

    0dB pad: -10dB
    -15dB pad: -25dB
    -30dB pad: -40dB

  • RF Filtering

    Input: 250kHz low-pass filter
    Output: 30kHz low-pass filter

  • Maximum Input Level (1% THD)

    0dB pad: 5 Vpp
    -15dB pad: 28 Vpp
    -30dB pad: 158 Vpp
    (Equal to 800 Watts into 4 Ohms)

  • Input Resistance

    0dB pad: 10 MOhm
    -15, -30dB pad: 10 kOhm
    RCA and 1/8" inputs: 20 kOhms

  • Input Capacitance

    160 pF (equal to 2 ft of low-capacitance guitar cable)

  • Output Polarity

    Pin 2 positive (Note: the one-channel Type 85 is Pin 3 positive)

  • Dimensions

    6.25 x 4 x 2" (152 x 77 x 45mm)

  • Weight

    31.2 oz (0.88kg)

About Countryman Type 85S

Take your audio performance to the next level with the Type 85S Stereo Direct Box, a two-channel version of the iconic Type 85 FET direct box. Designed for a broad spectrum of stereo or dual-channel applications, this high-quality, professional-grade device boasts a multitude of input connector options, an expansive dynamic range, and three pad settings.

Experience the robust transformer isolation of the Type 85S, expertly engineered to eradicate hum, buzz, and RF interference from lengthy XLR runs, ensuring a cleaner, more accurate sound. Each channel of the Type 85S is crafted with hand-selected, top-tier discrete components integrated into a single-ended Class A circuit, reminiscent of a classic tube microphone preamp. This innovative design results in an exceptionally smooth, sweet sound.

The Type 85S stands out in the market with its unique ability to always isolate ground, even when running on phantom power, effectively eliminating hum and buzz caused by ground issues. This feature, coupled with its simplicity and reliability, makes the Type 85S a must-have for any serious audio professional.

The Type 85S is designed for seamless operation. It automatically utilizes 48 V phantom power provided by most mixing consoles. In the absence of phantom power, or if the phantom power is low, the Type 85S can operate for approximately 130 hours on a single internal 9 V battery. The device is designed to power the unit by providing phantom power to Channel A only.

The Type 85S is devoid of roll-off switches or effects, allowing you to make artistic decisions about the frequency content of a sound source at the mixing location, where you can hear the results and make adjustments with ease.

Countryman's obsession with direct boxes is evident in the Type 85S. Every element of the device, from inspecting aluminum extrusions for nicks to browsing switch datasheets, is meticulously crafted for superior performance. The Type 85S, like all Countryman Direct Boxes, is built to withstand the rigors of life on the road and in the studio.

The Type 85S features indestructible connectors and switches, recessed into a single-piece extruded case with extra-thick walls. The internal electronics are molded in epoxy, providing full protection against electrical damage. The input can withstand 220 VAC and static spikes up to 20,000 V, making the Type 85S a durable, reliable choice for all your audio needs.

Countryman Type 85S Features

  • Pure, elegant circuit design
  • 1/4", RCA, and 1/8" input connectors
  • Exceptional signal-handling capacity
  • Rock-solid transformer isolation
  • Ultra-low interchannel cross-talk

Key Features

  • Professional-grade two-channel FET direct box for superior audio conversion
  • Advanced transformer isolation eliminates hum, buzz, and RF interference
  • Hand-selected components in a Class A circuit for smooth, sweet sound
  • Ground isolation feature for clean audio, even with phantom power
  • Versatile connectivity with 1/4", 1/8" mini, RCA inputs, and XLR outputs
  • Rugged design with indestructible casing and epoxy-molded internals

What's in the box:

  • Type 85S Stereo Direct Box
  • Countryman 5 Year Limited Warranty