Samson MLI1 Quick Start Manual Download Page 1

MLI1 Mono Isolation Box

Quick Start Guide

Callouts

1. 

INPUT Jack – XLR - 1/4” combo input jack for connecting line level signals. The MLI1 can 
accept balanced and unbalanced connections.

2. 

OUTPUT Jacks – Balanced XLR and 1/4” outputs for connecting to a PA system, mixer or 
recording interface. The outputs are wired in parallel so you should use only one OUT jack at a 
time. The MLI1 outputs can be balanced or unbalanced connections.

3. 

GROUND LIFT – When the switch is in the LIFT position, the input ground (shield) is 
disconnected between the INPUT and OUTPUT jacks. When the switch is in the GROUND 
position, the ground is connected through the INPUT and OUTPUT jacks.

If you have two pieces of equipment in a sound system connected to ground through different 
AC mains, it can cause a ground loop, which is an annoying 50 Hz or 60 Hz (depending on your 
location) hum noise. When the Ground Lift switch on the MLI1 is set to the LIFT position, it breaks 
the ground connection between the input and output audio jacks, thereby isolating the output from 
the input and removing the hum from an audio signal path. Since both pieces of equipment are still 
grounded to the AC mains, they are still safe to use.

The Ground Lift Switch

The Samson MLI1 is a line-level passive isolation box designed to remove 
hum and buzz caused by ground loops, or convert unbalanced to balanced 
signals. The premium circuitry with a flat frequency response from 10 
Hz – 35 kHz (±0.2dB) and durable, roadworthy construction providing 
high-quality signal connection solutions for live, broadcast and studio 
applications. 
The MLI1 transformer delivers an extended, flat frequency response and 
ultra-low distortion. The Ground Lift switch isolates the ground from the 
Input and Output connections which eliminates hum caused by ground 
loops.
If you have any questions or comments regarding the MLI1 Passive 
Isolation Box  or any other products from Samson, do not hesitate to 
contact us at 

[email protected].

With proper care and maintenance, your MLI1 Passive Isolation Box  will 
operate trouble-free for many years. Should your MLI1 Passive Isolation 
Box  ever require servicing, a Return Authorization (RA) number must 
be obtained before shipping your unit to Samson. Without this number, 
the unit will not be accepted. Please visit 

www.samsontech.com/ra for an 

RA number prior to shipping your unit. Please retain the original packing 
materials and, if possible, return the unit in its original carton. If your MLI1 
Passive Isolation Box  was purchased outside of the United States, contact 
your local distributor.

Introduction

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