I'd like to lend some thoughts, but if you can be a little more specific as to the potential uses of the DB...

will it double as a stage DI for live gigs, or only in studio?
what sort of preamps will you be using on the signal in the input chain?
what is your recording input? (DAW, Portable Digi Studio, Multitrack tape?)
for guitar or bass?

not that it makes a HUGE difference in DirectBox pros and cons, but some additional info would help a lot of the minds here at R.O. provide you with a helpful answer...

keep us posted

it is only for studio use. My setup is an analog fostex 1" 24trk. Board is Tascam M2600, it will be mostly for bass and to use for reamping (or sending to guitar fx)

Is there some direct box I really should avoid?

in that case, my suggestion would probably be
Whirlwind IMP2 Standard.
on the low end of worthy.

if you want to go a bit more up the scale, Rolls is a brand worth considering. some of their stuff is solid.

don't let me be the only opinion you get though
best of luck

Adrian

Hi
I don't think that cheap = good period.
For passive stuff we use Radial JDIs......not cheap.
I have found the active DIs by EWI are acceptable...they will run on an internal 9volt if you don't have phantom......about 50 bucks.
cheers
Roly