The Radial StageBug SB-2 Passive is a high-performance direct box made for players who are on the move! Made to fit inside of a guitar case, the SB-2 is ultra compact yet is feature-packed to ensure great performance on any stage.

The compact design begins with a ¼" input and thru-put to feed the on-stage amp. This connects to the custom made Eclipse ET-DB3 transformer which performs the impedance matching and balances the signal. When using extra high output instruments, a -15dB pad can be inserted into the signal path. This enables the SB-2 to be used with active basses and digital pianos that often tend to overload the input side of the interface. An innovative stereo-to-mono merge function provides a convenient way to connect stereo keyboards and computers without having to reset the source for mono operation, saving time and input channels on the PA. The SB-2 output features an XLR wired to the AES standard with pin-2 hot.

Once connected, the SB-2 delivers a smooth warm sound reminiscent of older vintage gear. The Eclipse ET-DB3 transformer is magical in its ability to handle extreme signal levels with a natural compression that is pleasing to the ears. The transformer also helps eliminate hum and buzz caused by ground loops by isolating the input from the output. This is augmented with a ground lift switch that lifts pin-1 on the XLR for quiet, professional results.

These features make the StageBug SB-2 a great choice for electric bass, acoustic guitar and keyboards where small size and big performance matters!

  • Passive DI for bass, acoustic and keyboard
  • Ultra compact to fit in your guitar case
  • Plug & play easy to use feature set
  • Transformer isolation eliminates noise
  • 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. Connect your instrument to the SB-2 input using a standard ¼” instrument cable. Connect the XLR output from the SB-2 to the PA or recording system using a standard XLR cable. You can now turn on the PA and start testing. Always test at low volumes as this provides a margin of safety should something not be connected properly.
  • ADDING A STAGE AMP OR TUNER
    The SB-2 is equipped with a THRU-put connection that lets you connect your instrument to an on-stage amp or personal monitoring system so that you can create a comfortable listening environment for yourself. This output is fed directly from the instrument and is not affected by the PAD switch. If you like you can also use the THRU output to feed a tuner.
  • USING THE AUTO MERGE
    The SB-2 is equipped with an auto-merge feature that combines the left and right outputs from a stereo device like a keyboard or MP3 player to produce a mono output at the XLR to feed the PA. This innovative function saves valuable channels at the mixing console while eliminating the need to reprogram audio files or stereo setups before a show. To use the auto-merge, simply connect the left and right outputs from your stereo device to the ¼” INPUT and THRU jacks and the SB-2 will do the rest for you!
  • USING THE GROUND LIFT
    In some instances, you may find that you are experiencing excessive hum or buzz thatmay not have been present at your last show. This is known as a ground loop and is often caused by the audio ground interacting with the electrical ground. The SB2’s passive circuit is equipped with a transformer that often helps solve the problem. This is augmented with a ground lift switch that disconnects pin-1 on the XLR to lift the audio ground. If you encounter noise, simply push in the LIFT switch.
  • USING THE PAD FOR LOUDER INSTRUMENTS
    Although the SB-2 is perfectly suited for high output instruments like digital keyboards and active basses, every so often, you may encounter an instrument or audio source that is louder than normal. Examples include digital pianos or the headphone output from some audio players. These can overload the SB-2 and cause distortion. The SB-2 features a -15dB PAD switch that enables these high output instruments to be used without distortion. If you hear distortion, simply engage the PAD and increase the level on the PA or recording system to compensate.
  • RECORDING DIRECT WITH THE SB-2
    Using a direct box to match the impedance will produce a warmer more natural tone versus plugging the instrument directly into the recording system. The StageBug SB-2 is well suited for this as it both balances the signal and matches the impedance simultaneously. Simply connect your instrument to the SB-2 and the XLR output to the mic input on your recording system. You will find the SB-2 will work remarkably well when
    tracking bass and acoustic guitar.