The name of the ART DTI reflects its core function, with "DTI" standing for "Dual Transformer/Isolator". This passive, amplifier-less audio interface uses two transformers to isolate the grounding of the input and output signals, and this isolation helps prevent hum loops and noise interference that can arise in typical studio, recording, and performance environments. To accommodate various setups, the ART DTI offers three types of connections - XLR, 6.35mm jack, and RCA - available for both stereo inputs and outputs.
The ART DTI's audio transformers have an extremely flat and wide frequency response and can handle high signal levels while maintaining an isolated balanced output, which gives the DTI a very clean and neutral sound with a wide variety of signal sources. These transformers can handle impedances ranging from 600 ohms to 100 kOhms without introducing any loss or gain in level, making the ART DTI highly versatile. With balanced XLR sockets and jack sockets that can accommodate both balanced and unbalanced signals, the interface ensures a consistent, high-quality sound, while its compact, black anodised all-aluminium housing is both durable and visually appealing. And at just over 300g, it is also easy to transport.
Thanks to its versatile connection options, the ART DTI is a valuable tool for a variety of audio setups. Home recording enthusiasts, for example, can easily connect different equipment to their DAW without experiencing hum loops that affect recording or monitoring quality. The DTI can also provide isolation on long cable runs in a fixed installation, such as in project studios, while bands performing on different stages and connecting their gear to various setups can count on the ART DTI for a quick and compact noise reduction solution. DJs connecting their mobile setups to existing PA systems can in turn enjoy peace of mind, knowing that the DTI will maintain optimum sound quality for their sets.
The acronym ART stands for "Applied Research and Technology". The aim of the company, founded in 1984, has been to redefine the performance-versus-price barrier in a series of innovative audio products, designed with the needs of the musician in mind. Their large portfolio caters for both the studio and the stage, and has 35 years of experience in the field. Their product range includes digital interfaces and mixers, rack mixers, amplifiers, and monitor speakers, as well as headphone amplifiers, power conditioners, patch bays, and also "intelligent" graphic equalisers, tube preamps, compressors, and of course microphones.
The ART DTI can be used in many different audio systems. It can eliminate humming and ground-loop noises, particularly those around 50Hz, when connecting a computer-based digital audio workstation to monitor speakers. The device is placed between the signal outputs of the audio interface or monitor controller and the audio inputs of the monitor speakers. Anyone who has long cable runs in their home or studio and has encountered unwanted noise from a ground loop will appreciate the enhanced signal clarity provided by the ART DTI. What is more, it ensures safe isolation between audio interfaces and signal sources with their own power supply, making it an excellent choice for mobile setups.
A ground loop occurs when two or more electronic devices or circuits, powered by separate power supplies with different ground potentials (voltages), are interconnected in a way that allows current to flow through the ground connections, forming a continuous loop. This loop allows unwanted equalising currents (current attempting to balance the voltage difference between grounds) to flow between devices, causing noise or interference, especially in audio or signal systems. To prevent this, techniques like galvanic isolation are used. Galvanic isolation refers to the use of non-conductive elements for power and signal coupling, which prevents this equalisation of potential. Transformers, for example, achieve this through inductive coupling, effectively eliminating unwanted hum.