The HZ51x is a DI for the 500-series/51x Alliance that adds an instrument input to any 500-series/51x microphone preamp. It uses the Hi-Z plugin format to offer four different tonal options through four individual 1/4″ inputs. Only one input can be used at a time. The Hi-Z DI plugins are the same as found on the ClassicAPI 312DI, and are available through ClassicAPI.

Images courtesy of Whistle Rock Audio

Notable Features:

• Adds DI capability to any mic preamp
• Four HI-Z plugin options:
  • HiZ-TX1: Uses a Jensen or Cinemag transformer
  • HiZ-TX2: Pikatron transformer
  • HiZ-FET1: FET DI
  • HiZ-IC1: Based around an OPA2604 opamp
• Can run on either +/-16v (500-series) or +/-24v (51x Alliance)
• Output pad
• DI bypass switch (mic input selector)

Price:

• $120 for the basic kit
• $35 for faceplate from Front Panel Express
• $58 for all four Hi-Z plugin kits
• $52 for Cinemag transformer for the HiZ-TX1 plugin

More info:

• More about the DI (including its suspenseful debut) here.
• Preorders taken here.