STAGE BUG SB-5

The Radial Stage Bug SB-5 is a compact stereo direct box designed to accommodate laptop computers, tablets and other consumer audio products when amplifying the signal through a PA system.

The passive design begins with an integrated input cable that connects from the headphone out via a flexible 1.5m (5'''') cable that is terminated with a standard 3.5mm (1/8") stereo connector. The cable is secured via a clamping strain relief and is wrapped using the sidewinder cleat for easy storage. This of course eliminates having to locate a cable making it easier to deploy in fast paced work environments. Inside, the unbalanced stereo signal is sent to a pair of custom wound transformers which balances the signals for long cable runs - upwards to 100 meters (300''''), without noise. Transformers further benefit by isolating the computer from the PA system to help eliminate hum and buzz caused by ground loops. This is augmented with a ground lift switch to further reduce ground contamination.

A choice of output connectors is available including a stereo set of ¼" TRS jacks for full stereo operation or an XLR out that automatically sums the left-right program material to mono. This can save valuable channels on the PA system and makes setup easier in situations where full stereo reproduction is not required. A -15dB input pad may be engaged to reduce sensitivity and enable extra high output sources to be connected without distortion.

These features combine to make the SB-5 the perfect tool-kit DI for the AV technician, media manager or traveling musician equipped with a computer.

• Stereo direct box for laptop computer
• Integral 1.5m cable with sidewinder cleat
• Transformer isolation eliminates noise
• Plug & play easy to use – no power required

CONNECTING TO THE PA SYSTEM
Before making connections, always turn audio levels down or the PA off. This will help eliminate turn-on transients that can damage more sensitive components like tweeters. Unwrap the SB-5’s cable from the Sidewinder cable cleat and connect the 3.5mm (1/8”) mini TRS connector to the stereo output on your mobile device. For best results ensure the volume level of the device is turned up so that you get maximum signal to noise.For stereo operation, connect the left and right ¼” TRS balanced outputs from the SB-5 to two mic inputs on the PA system. In most cases you will find that using a pair of ¼” TRS to XLR-M adaptor cables to be the best choice. The SB-5’s output is mic level and therefore should be connected to a microphone input. Set the two PAN controls on the mixer hard left and hard right for full stereo performance. Adjust the level to suitIn many instances, a mono or single channel audio works perfectly well. An example is in a venue where the PA system is feeding a wide audience. Stereo signals are often impossible to enjoy unless seated in the center of the room. The SB-5 is equipped with an auto-merge function that sums the left and right inputs to mono and delivers the signal at the XLR. A standard XLR to XLR mic cable is of course used in this case

USING THE GROUND LIFT
Sometimes when connecting your device to the PA via the SB-5 direct box you can
encounter noise like hum and buzz caused by ground loops. Computers are particularly troublesome. If you encounter noise after connecting try using the ground LIFT switch. The SB-5 outputs are transformer isolated and pushing in the LIFT switch disconnects the audio ground between the SB-5 input and the PA system. This breaks the ground loop and eliminates the ground loop noise.

USING THE PAD TO PREVENT DISTORTION
High output devices like laptops and MP3 players can sometimes overload certain pieces of equipment and cause distortion. The SB-5 is equipped with a -15dB PAD that can be inserted to reduce the input sensitivity and reduce distortion. If you encounter distortion, try reducing the source output level. If this does not solve the problem, simply depress the pad. It is important to note that the sound quality from a mobile device will often deteriorate as the battery runs low. To get the best audio from your mobile devices ensure the batteries are fully charged or powered with an AC adaptor.

DESK MOUNT BRACKET
An optional desk-mount L-bracket is available for permanent installations where the SB-5 may need to be affixed to a desk top, podium, AV cart or inside a 19” rack. Simply remove the SB-5’s cable cleat and attach the L-bracket. The symmetrical design can be used to flush-mount with the top surface or back-mounted if need be.