It doesn't happen so often, with all the gear that passes through my hands, that I think this time I'm holding something special. A DI box that does analog speaker emulation probably doesn't make you dream, but you might change your mind after seeing this test of the Palmer (palmer-germany.com) River ILM model!
Many thanks to Adam Hall (adamhall.com) for sending me this device free of charge.
Palmer River ILM demo
Photo album
What I liked about River ILM
- The sound
- Ease of use
- The three tones of the HP emulation
- 100% passive
- possible uses directly on an instrument, behind a pedalboard or behind an amp
What I didn't like
- Knobs a little difficult to turn (but at least they won't change position by themselves!)
Conclusion
For a mere 120€, the quality/price ratio of this Palmer DI box is incredible. If I hadn't received it as a gift, I'd buy it immediately. I wholeheartedly recommend its purchase.
It's hard not to be won over by this ultra-simple little device, which does what it's supposed to do: be a DI box with a built-in, disengageable analog HP emulator. Simply put: plug it in and it sounds great!
Whether plugged into a tube amp or a preamp like Peace Hill FX ODS, or just with an overdrive pedal in front, it sounds like a dream. The three tones Normal, Bright and Mellow are all usable.
In short, honestly, I think every guitarist should have a Palmer River ILM in their gear-it's an indispensable multi-function tool.
Until the next gear review, keep on playing the guitar,
Pierre Journel.
For more info:
Gear Reviews
Homestudio Chronicles
Recording Chronicles
