@a344ae77 apparently the sound isn't very clear when you use the instrument inputs.

the circuitry is probably a bit more sophisticated in DI boxes that cost a few hundred dollars.

active DI boxes have a buffer amplifier to change the impedance and also lets you split the signal between an amp and the audio interface. when recording, it's usually a good idea to have a recording of the clean guitar signal in case you want to use an amp sim on it. 

 @a344ae77 also, the quality of the components can affect the sound quality in various ways.