* Active DI optimized for piezo
transducers
* Smoothes out peaks, eliminates squawk
* High pass filter
eliminates resonance
* Ultra compact to fit in your guitar
case
The Radial StageBug SB-4 is a compact active direct box that has been
optimized for use with piezo transducers. This enables violin, dobro, mandolin,
cello, upright bass and other instruments that are best amplified using a piezo
to be connected without compromising the tone or frequency response.
The design begins with a ¼" input for the instrument pickup. Unlike typical
direct boxes that have a 1meg-ohm input impedance, the SB-4 features a very high
10meg-ohm impedance that smoothes out troublesome peaks that give piezos a bad
name.
The higher impedance also broadens the frequency response for a more
natural and pleasing sound. The active circuit performs the high-to-low
impedance conversion and balances the signal to enable long runs upwards to 100
meters without loss, delivering spectacular linearity and low distortion
throughout the audio range.
To help eliminate feedback on stage, the SB-4 is equipped with a high-pass
filter and 180° polarity reverse switch. The high pass filter eliminates
excessive bottom end which in turn reduces resonance that can cause the top of
the instrument to vibrate.
The 180° polarity reverse helps reduce acoustic hot spots on stage by
changing the phase relationship between the PA system and room acoustics which
can combine at certain frequencies to create peaks.
Reversing the polarity eliminates the acoustic peak without resorting to
severe equalization which only serves to compromise the natural tone of the
instrument.
Connections include an AUX out for a stage amplifier plus a standard XLR
output to feed the PA. Power is derived from the console's 48V phantom, thus
eliminating the need for batteries or external supply. One simply connects,
turns on the phantom power and plays!
These features combined with the compact size make the StageBug SB-4 the
perfect companion for orchestral artists, blue grass players and pop string
quartets that need to turn it up when in concert.