Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (18)
$94.99
Amazon
4.8 (130)
$94.99 New
$90.24 Used (Like New)
Reverb
5.0 (8)
$80.99 New
$70.00 Used
zZounds
5.0 (1)
$94.99
B&H
5.0 (3)
$94.99
Thomann
4.8 (156)
$98.00 $95.00 $3.00 · All time low

Average Price: $91

Budget/Beginner

$119

$300+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Radial StageBug SB-2 Passive Direct Box". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Compact yet powerful, the Radial StageBug SB-2 Passive Direct Box is an essential tool for musicians on the go. Perfectly suited for bassists, keyboardists, and acoustic guitarists, this DI box ensures a seamless transition from your instrument to the PA or recording interface. Its core component, the custom Eclipse ET-DB3 transformer, skillfully matches impedance and balances the signal, delivering a warm and vintage-like tone while eliminating unwanted hum and buzz.

The SB-2's design is user-friendly and efficient. Featuring a 1/4" input and thru-put, it easily connects to your on-stage amp, while the balanced XLR output ensures top-notch audio quality. The clever stereo-to-mono merge function is perfect for those with stereo keyboards or computer setups, simplifying your signal path and saving precious mixer channels. Additionally, the -15dB pad is invaluable for managing high-output instruments like active basses and digital pianos, preventing any distortion.

Built with a robust metal housing, the StageBug SB-2 is compact enough to fit inside your gig bag or instrument case, making it a reliable companion for both studio sessions and live performances. Its ground-lift switch further enhances its versatility, ensuring quiet operations free from ground loop issues. Whether you're a touring professional or a recording enthusiast, the Radial StageBug SB-2 delivers pristine audio quality with unmatched convenience.

Key Features:

  • Compact passive DI for bass, keyboards, and acoustic guitars
  • Custom Eclipse ET-DB3 transformer for impedance matching and signal balancing
  • -15dB pad for high-output instruments
  • Stereo-to-mono merge function
  • Transformer isolation to eliminate noise
  • Ground-lift switch for noise-free operation
  • 1/4" input and thru jack, balanced XLR output
  • Fits easily in a gig bag or instrument case

Product specs

Type Acoustic/Bass/Keyboard Passive Direct Box
Channels Stereo to Mono
Pads -15dB
Ground Lift Yes
Inputs 1 x 1/4" (input), 1 x 1/4" (input/thru)
Outputs 1 x XLR
Height 1.35"
Width 1.85"
Depth 4.5"
Weight 0.55 lbs.

FAQs

What type of instruments can the Radial StageBug SB-2 Passive Direct Box be used with?

The Radial StageBug SB-2 is designed for use with acoustic instruments, bass guitars, and keyboards, converting their signals for balanced, low-impedance output suitable for mixing consoles.

Does the Radial StageBug SB-2 require any external power to operate?

No, the Radial StageBug SB-2 is a passive direct box and does not require external power. It uses a transformer to convert signals without the need for a power source.

Can the Radial StageBug SB-2 handle high-output instruments?

Yes, the Radial StageBug SB-2 includes a -15dB pad switch, allowing it to handle high-output instruments without distortion, making it suitable for a wide range of audio sources.

Does the Radial StageBug SB-2 offer any noise reduction features?

Yes, the Radial StageBug SB-2 features a ground lift switch which helps eliminate hum and noise caused by ground loops, ensuring a clean signal.

What are the input and output options for the Radial StageBug SB-2?

The Radial StageBug SB-2 offers a 1/4" input, a 1/4" input/thru for direct connection to amplifiers, and an XLR output for balanced signal routing to mixing consoles.

Want 2 Check

Want 2 Check

DI comparison on Bass - Passive Direct Box: Radial Pro DI vs. Radial Stage Bug SB-2 - Want 2 Check

Video thumbnail for DI comparison on Bass - Passive Direct Box: Radial Pro DI vs. Radial Stage Bug SB-2 - Want 2 Check by Want 2 Check

DI comparison on Bass - Passive Direct Box: Radial Pro DI vs. Radial Stage Bug SB-2 - Want 2 Check

Want 2 Check

Want 2 Check

Video thumbnail for Radial Stage Bug Series Review SB-1 SB-2 SB-5 by Chris Lang Music (ChrisLangMusic)

Radial Stage Bug Series Review SB-1 SB-2 SB-5

Chris Lang Music (ChrisLangMusic)

Chris Lang Music (ChrisLangMusic)

Video thumbnail for DI comparison Upright Bass - Direct Box: Radial Pro DI vs. Radial Stage Bug SB-2 - Want 2 Check by Want 2 Check

DI comparison Upright Bass - Direct Box: Radial Pro DI vs. Radial Stage Bug SB-2 - Want 2 Check

Want 2 Check

Want 2 Check

Video thumbnail for Radial StageBug SB-2 ~ パッシブDI ~ by エレクトリ Channel

Radial StageBug SB-2 ~ パッシブDI ~

エレクトリ Channel

エレクトリ Channel

Reviews

PROS

  • Transparent, noise-free sound quality

  • Compact design fits well on pedalboards and in instrument cases

  • Reliable passive design ideal for high-output instruments

  • Versatile link and ground lift options

  • Effectively merges stereo signals to mono

  • Protects instruments from phantom power issues

  • High build quality, feels solid and durable

  • Handles both active and passive pickups exceptionally

  • Lightweight yet robust, suitable for live gigs

  • Enhances sound clarity for acoustic instruments

CONS

  • Some reports of exterior components rusting quickly

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Radial StageBug SB-2 Passive Direct Box.

Comparisons

  • The Radial StageBug SB-2 is $30 cheaper than the Pro DI, appealing to those seeking cost-effective options without significant performance trade-offs.

    Source
  • The Whirlwind IMP 2 is seen as an entry-level DI, often used in budget setups but not on professional stages, emphasizing the importance of transformer quality for sound fidelity.

    Source
  • The Radial JDI is preferred by professionals for its superior sound quality over the Whirlwind IMP 2, highlighting the significance of investing in better transformers for high-fidelity audio.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The StageBug SB-2 offers essential features like a ground lift, which is crucial for live performances to minimize hum and noise.

    Source
  • The Radial StageBug SB-2 is favored for its compact size, fitting conveniently in a bass case for easy transport and always being on hand when needed.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Ideal for live use in small bars and clubs, the StageBug SB-2 is effective for acoustic guitars and keyboards.

    Source
  • Users find the StageBug SB-2 reliable for emergency situations, capable of connecting a P Bass directly to FoH and maintaining sound quality in case of other gear failures.

    Source
  • The Whirlwind Director is favored for non-space-constrained setups, indicating its utility where size isn't a primary concern but reliability is.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Some users suggest saving on passive DIs, like the StageBug, to allocate funds for other gear like the Radial JDX, enhancing overall setup versatility.

    Source
  • The IMP 2's affordability is linked to its smaller, lighter transformer, which impacts sound quality, making it a budget-friendly yet performance-limited option.

    Source

User experience

  • The passive design of the StageBug SB-2 eliminates the need for batteries, reducing the risk of power-related failures during performances.

    Source

Build quality

  • Owners appreciate the StageBug SB-2's solid construction, describing it as durable and trustworthy for regular use in various settings.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Dave Hollingworth uses Radial StageBug SB-2 Passive Direct Box

Dave Hollingworth

Guitarist, Bassist

Dorje

...
Verified via YouTube

In a video by Ben Minal, Dave Hollingworth is shown using the Radial StageBug SB-2 Passive Direct Box to connect to his mixing desk during a drumming setup for Dorje & Toska.

See how Nicky Palermo uses Radial StageBug SB-2 Passive Direct Box

Nicky Palermo

Singer, Guitarist

Nothing

...
Verified via YouTube

you can see the direct box in the gear

See how Tomasz Wróblewski uses Radial StageBug SB-2 Passive Direct Box

Tomasz Wróblewski

Bassist

Behemoth

...
Verified via YouTube

Radial stage bug is shown on his pedal board in this video.

M

Michael Coltun

Bassist, Music Producer

TAKAAT

...
Verified via Photo

During the Portsmouth, NH live show in 2026, Michael Coltun used a Radial StageBug SB-2 Passive Direct Box, as evidenced by the image provided.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Radial StageBug SB-2 Passive Direct Box, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

Show yours
matthiriarte75

matthiriarte75

Gear IQ 208

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