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L.R. Baggs Para DI, Venue DI, and Session DI

 

A comparative look at three tried-and-true analog preamps.

 
January 7, 2026
 
 

As one of the leading makers of amplification gear for acoustic instruments, L.R. Baggs was one of the first to offer multifunction solutions that combined preamp, EQ, and DI functions. The company’s Para DI, Venue DI, and Session DI have all been around for several years, but many players still wonder which one is right for their needs. In this video, Peghead Nation’s Teja Gerken discusses the differences and plays through each unit.

Also check out our previous demos of the Para DI Limited Gold Edition, and Session DI!

L.R. Baggs Para DI

  • Single-channel preamp/EQ/Direct Box for acoustic-electric instruments
  • ¼-inch input 
  • Adjustable gain for both passive and active pickups
  • XLR DI output 
  • ¼-inch Amp output
  • ¼-inch TRS effect send and return
  • 5-band EQ with tunable mids and notch filter
  • Phase inversion
  • Metal enclosure
  • Powered by a nine-volt battery or 48-volt phantom power
  • $229

L.R. Baggs Venue DI

  • Single-channel preamp/EQ/Direct Box for acoustic-electric instruments
  • ¼-inch input 
  • Adjustable gain for both passive and active pickups
  • XLR DI output 
  • ¼-inch Amp output
  • ¼-inch effect send and return
  • 5-band EQ with tunable low and high mids 
  • Tunable notch filter
  • Phase inversion
  • Built-in chromatic tuner with foot switch and mute function
  • Boost foot switch
  • Metal enclosure
  • Powered by a nine-volt battery or external nine-volt power.
  • $329

L.R. Baggs Session DI

  • Single-channel preamp/EQ/Direct Box for acoustic-electric instruments
  • ¼-inch input 
  • Adjustable gain for both passive and active pickups
  • XLR DI output 
  • ¼-inch Amp output
  • Phase inversion
  • Saturate control
  • Compression EQ
  • Metal enclosure
  • Powered by a nine-volt battery or 48-volt phantom power
  • $279

lrbaggs.com

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    ● Courses
    ● Live Workshops
    ● Instructors
    ● Sample Lessons
    ● Notation Guide
    ● For Beginners
 
 
    ● Vintage Vault
    ● New Gear
    ● Fine Lutherie
 
 
    ● Workshops
    ● Advice
    ● Repertoire
 
 
    ● Recordings
    ● Events
    ● Breaking News
 
 
    ● In The Studio
    ● Live Onstage
    ● Backroom
 
 
    ● New Products
    ● Inside Look
    ● Performances
    ● Partner Pages
 
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© Copyright 2026 PegheadNation.com