When you consider the price, you won't find a better direct box. The previous reviewer is comparing it to a box over 2 times the cost. This is not an apple to apples comparison review. I also disagree that the passive circuitry lacks the "air" presence in that of active boxes. I would prefer to call it the "swell or tightness of the bottom end." This box holds that tightness without limitations or swell like other passive boxes in its class. This box is extremely durable and reliable. I have many of them and not having an LED has never been a problem in diagnosing an in-line issue. You can purchase this direct box with confidence in knowing you are getting quality and reliability whether it is for live or recorded sound.

The Whirlwind Director does the job but lacks some nice features available in the BOSS DI-1.

1. Rocker switches on the Director are easily bumped and changed. This can be a problem when live and accidentally changing from line/inst settings.

2. The passive circuitry just does not provide the "air" present in active boxes.

3. Since the Director is passive it does not have an LED to indicate it is available for use. Just one more variable to diagnose in setup situations.