- Description
- Applications
- Features
- FAQ
- Specs
Ultra-compact DI
The design begins with standard ¼ instrument input with a thru-put to feed your tuner or your on-stage amp. The ultra-quiet active circuit at once converts the signal from high to low impedance to reduce susceptibility to noise. The signal is then buffered and balanced for long cable runs to the PA system. 48 volt phantom provides the power, so the SB-1 does not require batteries or external supply to make it work. You simply plug in and you are ready to go!
Acoustic guitar live
The StageBug SB-1 is plug & play easy to use. Connect and it automatically converts your Hi-z instrument signal to lo-Z and balances it for long runs.
Recording bass direct
Record your bass direct using the StageBug SB-1. This improves the tone and reduces noise by properly matching the impedance of the instrument.
Adding an amp or tuner
Use the SB1 thru output to feed your on-stage amplifier. For fun, add pedals after the SB-1 to color your tone on-stage while leaving the PA signal clean.
- Active direct box for acoustic and passive bass
- Ultra compact to fit in your guitar case
- Plug & play easy to use feature set
- 48V phantom powered, no batteries needed!
Why use a DI for recording?
Converting the unbalanced high impedance signal from the instrument to a balanced low impedance signal for the recording console helps reduce electromagnetic noise induction, enables you to run longer cables and properly matches the input impedance for a better sound.
How does the StageBug SB-1 compare to the Radial J48?
Both employ similar audio paths. Where they differ is that the J48 is designed for professional touring where noise problems due to the power systems can cause havoc. Also, on a concert stage a DI box must provide greater flexibility particularly during hectic setups. The J48 employs a more advanced power supply that enables the ground to be lifted without losing phantom power, a high-pass filter to eliminate resonance and a stereo-to-mono merge function.
How does the StageBug SB-1 compare to the ProDI?
The ProDI is passive while the StageBug is (of course) active. Sonically, this is like comparing a dynamic mic with a condenser. Condenser mics have more reach. The benefit to the ProDI is the expensive transformer that it has inside. This helps eliminate ground loops that may be present on larger stages, particularly when combining an instrument with a stage amplifier.
Why select the StageBug SB-1 over another DI?
The StageBug SB-1 is super compact to fit in a guitar case, is road-ready tough and sounds amazing! This makes it a perfect DI for someone who plays weekend coffee shops and does not want to send their guitar signal through a cheap sounding direct box.
What do I do if the PA system does not have phantom power?
This is unlikely. If the PA system does not have phantom power, it is probably over 40 years old!
Can I use a battery to power the StageBug SB-1?
No. The StageBug SB-1 only works with 48 volt phantom power.
Why is there no power on-off switch on the StageBug SB-1?
Turing on or off an active direct box can cause a huge pop in the PA system. It is much safer to simply leave it on. As soon as you disconnect it after the show, it will automatically turn off.
Can I connect a piezo transducer to the StageBug SB-1?
Yes, but you will likely get better results using the StageBug SB-4. This DI is optimized with a very high input impedance to smooth out and extend the low frequency performance of a piezo transducer.
Does the SB-1 accept a stereo input and merge the signal to mono?
Yes, The SB-1 is equipped with an auto-merge feature that will combine the left and right outputs of a keyboard or another stereo device. Simply connect the left and right outputs of your device to the Input and Tuner jacks.
- Audio circuit type: Active Buffer with Phase Splitter
- Number of channels: 1
- Frequency response: 20Hz to 20KHz
- Dynamic range: >100dB
- Gain: +1.3dBu/+4.4dB
- Clip Level: +3.3dBu/+12.3dBu
- Total harmonic distortion: <0.006%
- Intermodulation Distortion: <0.01%
- Phase Deviation: 25/12° Maximum
- Input Impedance: 800K/23K
- Output Impedance: 330 Ohms
- Equivalent Input Noise: -101dBu
- Noise: -97dBu
- Maximum Input: +2dBu/+8dBu
- Features
- Input pad, 180° polarity reverse, Ground lift
- Input Connectors: 1/4"
- Output Connectors: XLR
- General
- Construction: 16 gauge steel chassis & outer shell
- Size (L x W x D): 4.5" x 1,85" x 1.35" (114mm x 47mm x 34mm)
- Weight: 0.55 lbs (250 grams)
- Shipping size (L x W x D): 8" x 5" x 3" (203mm x 127mm x 76mm)
- Shipping weight: 0.8 lbs (365 grams)
- Power: 48V phantom power, 5mA
- Conditions: For use in dry locations only between 5°C and 40°C
- Warranty: Radial 3-year, transferable