Detail 01
Passive, transformer-based circuit
It operates without power while using transformers for signal isolation and balancing.
Product detailSKU #1500000256393
Radial EngineeringStageBug SB-5 Stereo Laptop Direct Box
1/3
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
StageBug SB-5 is a passive two-channel direct box for bringing playback from a laptop, smartphone, or tablet into a mixer or PA. Its attached 3.5 mm stereo lead keeps the device connection direct, while internal transformers isolate and balance the audio for longer cable runs. Use the left and right 1/4-inch TRS outputs for stereo, or select the mono XLR output when conserving PA channels. Ground-lift and pad switches address ground-loop noise and high-output sources without requiring power.
Strong match
Who this is for
- Connecting a laptop, phone, or tablet directly to a mixer or PA for playback.
- Stereo playback feeds that need left and right 1/4-inch TRS outputs.
- Mono PA feeds where saving mixer channels matters.
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- Installations needing use outside dry locations or beyond the listed 5°C to 40°C range.
What matters in use
The specifications, translated
Catalog numbers tell only part of the story. These are the details most likely to change how this product feels, sounds, or fits into a setup.
Detail 02
3.5 mm input with 1/4-inch TRS and XLR outputs
The built-in device connection can feed stereo quarter-inch outputs or a mono XLR output.
Detail 03
Ground-lift and pad switches
These switches are provided for ground-loop noise and high-output playback sources.
Detail 04
14-gauge steel chassis and outer shell
The enclosure uses 14-gauge steel.
Detail 05
4.5 x 1.85 x 1.35 inches; 0.55 lb
Its listed compact size and weight suit small playback rigs.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01For stereo operation, use the left and right 1/4-inch TRS outputs; the XLR output is mono.
- 02Use only in dry locations between 5°C and 40°C.
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
01Does the SB-5 need power?
No. It is a passive direct box and requires no power.
02Can it connect a smartphone or tablet to a PA?
Yes. Its built-in cable terminates in a 3.5 mm stereo plug for laptops, smartphones, and tablets.
03Can it run in mono?
Yes. Use its mono XLR output when you want to save PA channels.
Reference
Full specifications
The complete catalog record, organized around the decisions musicians make when comparing gear.
2 detailsSound
- Frequency Response
- 20Hz ~ 20KHz (± 1dB)
- Power
- Passive, no power required
1 detailsPickups & controls
- Audio Circuit Type
- Passive, transformer based
1 detailsBody & build
- Construction
- 14 gauge steel chassis & outer shell
5 detailsConnections & power
- Input Impedance
- 40k Ohms, unbalanced
- Output Impedance
- 2.8k Ohms, balanced
- Output Connectors
- 1/4 inch TRS, XLR
- Maximum Input
- +20dB
- Input Connectors
- 3.5mm
2 detailsSize & weight
- Weight
- 0.55
- Shipping Weight
- 0.8 lbs (365 grams)
8 detailsOther
- Number of Channels
- Two channels
- Size L X W X D
- 4.5 inch x 1,85 inch x 1.35 inch (114mm x 47mm x 34mm)
- Dynamic Range
- 100dB
- Phase Deviation
- 2° @ 100Hz; 5° @ 50Hz
- Warranty
- Radial 3-year, transferable
- Shipping Size L X W X D
- 8 inch x 5 inch x 3 inch (203mm x 127mm x 76mm)
- Conditions
- For use in dry locations only between 5°C and 40°C
- Total Harmonic Distortion
- 0.01% @ 1kHz
