I may have decided to try adding a RNDI-S active DI box (from somewhere easy to make a return) to my OB-6 in my studio just to see what happens to the sound. I don't need it per se, as my Clarett4pre USB line inputs are objectively "good". There is no guitar in this situation and never will be - just the synth.
These are the units I've been researching, with the goal of getting something NOT totally transparent but also not adding distortion. I specifically would appreciate something that slightly and pleasantly "rounds" the more aggressive top-end of the synth without losing its character. Yes, and EQ+saturation in the DAW can do that, but from what I've heard online, it's not quite the same... though I'd definitely make that direct comparison before keeping any DI!
Top alternative: Radial JDI stereo (passive).
Next: Countryman 85S (active).
Not considered due to price: things more expensive than the RNDI-S.
The price of the RNDI-S demands that 1) I hear a difference, and 2) think that that difference is an improvement and not just an alternative.
Is anyone else using DI boxes with synths, especially as an enhancement rather than a necessity (e.g., live touring)? Which synths and which DIs?
I started using a DI with my synths to fix ground loop issues, but I was surprised at how much it improved the sound! I'm using a Countryman 85S, and it's really transparent, but it seems to tighten up the low end a bit. It's definitely made a difference in my recordings.