Radial Engineering StageBug SB-1 – Compact Active DI for Acoustic Instruments

The Radial Engineering StageBug SB-1 is a portable active DI designed for acoustic guitars, bass guitars, and keyboards, delivering a clean, balanced signal to any PA or audio interface. Powered entirely by 48V phantom power, it converts a hi-Z instrument output into a low-noise, low-Z balanced XLR signal for longer cable runs and improved clarity on stage or in the studio. With high input impedance, a -12 dB pad, and a 180° polarity switch, the SB-1 ensures optimal tone and feedback control in a compact, travel-ready housing.

Key Features

• Active DI design: Converts hi-Z instrument signals to balanced low-Z for clean, noise-free performance.
• High input impedance (220 kΩ): Preserves tone from acoustic instruments and vintage pickups.
• 48V phantom-powered: No batteries or external power supply required.
• -12 dB pad: Handles high-output instruments such as active basses and keyboards.
• 180° polarity switch: Helps control feedback on stage by eliminating low-frequency hot spots.
• Tuner Out: Always-on thru output for tuners or on-stage amps.
• Rugged construction: 14-gauge steel chassis, mil-spec PCB, and durable switches for touring reliability.

Customer Benefits

The SB-1 provides acoustic performers and instrumentalists with a clean, reliable connection to any PA system. Its natural-sounding active circuitry maintains instrument tone, while the polarity switch and pad make it adaptable to a wide range of live and studio situations—all in a chassis small enough to live in your guitar case.

Quick Specs

• Type: Active DI (phantom powered)
• Input: 1/4" Hi-Z instrument input
• Outputs: Balanced XLR output, 1/4" always-on tuner thru
• Pad: -12 dB
• Phase: 180° polarity reverse switch
• Input Impedance: 220 kΩ
• Construction: 14-gauge steel enclosure, mil-spec PCB
• Power: 48V phantom power only

What’s in the Box

• Radial Engineering StageBug SB-1
• User documentation

Use Cases / Ideal For

Acoustic guitars, electric bass, keyboards, stage performers, singer-songwriters, touring musicians, recording interfaces, and church or venue stages.

Compatibility

Works with all PA systems, stage boxes, mixers, and audio interfaces that provide 48V phantom power. Suitable for passive and active instruments.

Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:

• Clean active DI tone with excellent clarity
• Phantom-powered—no batteries needed
• Compact and rugged for touring
• Tuner output and polarity control add flexibility

⚠️ Cons:

• Requires 48V phantom power (no battery option)
• Single-channel only

The Radial StageBug SB-1 delivers clean, reliable DI performance for acoustic players and instrumentalists in a travel-friendly design—available now at Soundium.