Latest in the the Radial Engineering StageBug line of miniature DI boxes is the SB-5 Sidewinder Laptop direct box, for FOH engineers, A/V system techs and ‘laptop-generation’ musicians.
‘With so many productions now using computers, we felt that the time had come to bring out an additional solution to our range,’ says Radial President, Peter Janis.
Connection from the source device uses a headphone output, which feeds transformers for stereo operation. The transformers perform the balancing while assisting in reducing noise by isolating the input from the output to eliminate hum and buzz caused by ground loops.
A ground lift switch at the output offers noise suppression, while a-15dB input pad accommodates devices with an extra high output. Two quarter-inch TRS output connections provide a choice of balanced or unbalanced stereo connections to a PA or recording system. An additional XLR output sums the LR signals to mono, reducing channel count requirements where full stereo is not required.
Connection from the source device uses a headphone output, which feeds transformers for stereo operation. The transformers perform the balancing while assisting in reducing noise by isolating the input from the output to eliminate hum and buzz caused by ground loops.
A ground lift switch at the output offers noise suppression, while a-15dB input pad accommodates devices with an extra high output. Two quarter-inch TRS output connections provide a choice of balanced or unbalanced stereo connections to a PA or recording system. An additional XLR output sums the LR signals to mono, reducing channel count requirements where full stereo is not required.
The unit features an integral 1.5m (5-ft) cable terminated in a 3.5mm connection for laptops, tablets and personal music players. Secured with a compression fitting, this can be neatly wrapped and safely stored using the sidewinder cable cleat.
‘There’s nothing more painful than trying to find a 3.5mm interface cable when you are in the heat of the action,’ Janis says. ‘I also think that the super compact design will be of particular benefit to the audiovideo tech. These guys travel with their own service kits and having a ready solution in the work case will certainly be welcomed.’
Housed in heavy steel and finished in baked enamel, the SB-5 is intended to be solid and roadworthy. The full bottom no-slip pad provides mechanical isolation and electrical insulation from electrically charged devices.
More: www.radialeng.com
