TEST: Radial Engineering DI Boxen

 What does the common sound engineer / producer / sound engineer do when he wants to impress his colleagues or customers? He shows his expansive consoles, his high-performance DAWs or his elaborate monitors, or P.A. components. What he is guaranteed not to show are the small, inconspicuous little helpers, mostly the size of a cigarette pack, without which a proper signal flow would not be possible either in the studio or on stage.

The diverse manifestations of the D.I. Box, the device that converts, sums or simply adjusts high-impedance and low-impedance, or symmetrical and asymmetrical signals along with all their connector variants, so that they can be further processed in the best quality by the targeted signal manager. Doesn't sound really exciting, but it's one of those areas where small mistakes cause big problems that can't be repaired later in the signal flow.

Aware of this, there is a whole smorgasbord of D.I. Boxes that give the different signals the necessary processing options. It's hard to believe what kind of constellations you can deal with these days.

construction

What all Radial Engineering products have in common is their high-quality mechanical design. The housings, made in Canada, are made of solid sheet metal and should easily withstand tough everyday road use. On the underside of the case, a glued-on, continuous foam rubber plate offers a good grip even on smooth surfaces.

The product range in detail:

Radial Engineering SB-1

The little one from the StageBug series, which comes in a blue case, is also listed as the SB-1 Acoustic, since its primary area of application is feeding an acoustic guitar into a P.A. is. However, since the product can also process an e-bass or line signals, such as those coming from moderate keyboards, the decision was made to change the name. As an active DI box, the product can run with 48V phantom power, which almost every mixer offers.

The product provides an unbalanced jack input along with a tuner output, which can also be used to feed an acoustic guitar amp. The two holes are right next to each other and just about allow for two massive Neutrik plugs in terms of distance. Milled clean! For signals with high output power, a PAD switch can be activated with -10 dB. For any feedback that may occur, the phase can be changed using another switch, a ground lift attached to the side of the housing, which can only be activated/deactivated with a pointed object, suppresses any mains hum that may occur. The output is via a standard XLR cable.

Radial Engineering SB-2

The Nato green version of the StageBug series is largely identical to the SB-1, although it is a passive version and is primarily dedicated to very powerful signals such as active basses or keyboards. Dj equipment also finds an optimal converter from asymmetrical to symmetrical here.

A special feature is the auto merge function, which routes a stereo keyboard from the input and the thru input to a mono channel when both inputs are used. In this way, channels can be saved if necessary. The phase switch has been omitted, all other functions are the same as the SB-1.

The result is an extremely high-impedance signal and a preamp that's ripped up to the hilt, but mostly doesn't manage to eliminate the harsh basic sound. This is where the Radial Engineering SB-4 can work wonders with its unusual 5 megaohm input. In addition to a phase switch and a ground lift, the product also has a high-pass filter that starts at 150 Hz with 6 dB / octave. The practical knowledge of the Radial crew is also evident here. A standard low-cut filter that cuts in at 80 Hz would cut low on an acoustic stringed instrument, while the rumble section at 150 Hz is a much better choice, especially in live situations.

Radial Engineering SB-5

Another specialist enters the stage with the SB-5. The mini-jack stereo cable fixed to the side quickly reveals its area of application. We're talking about iPads, iPhones and notebooks, whose internally built-in audio outputs cannot be beaten in terms of sensitivity and operational reliability, but sometimes have to be managed.

The Radial Engineering SB-5 is therefore designed somewhat differently than its colleagues, despite the same dimensions. It also has PAD and ground lift switches, but the signal, which is mostly in stereo, can be output via two symmetrical TRS jacks on the right / left or via an XLR jack in summed mono. Optionally, you can also purchase an L-bracket for this product, with which you can attach the Radial Engineering SB-5 to a rack or desk.

Radial Engineering SB-6

The Radial Engineering SB-6 takes the flexibility of a DI box to the next level. The product, which is consistently based on stereo, takes on several functions that can cause problems in the studio and on stage. On the one hand, it takes over the classic function of a stereo DI box, i.e. with the shortest possible unbalanced cables in the box and with symmetric cables of any length out of the box.

The next function, eliminating a power loop between two balanced audio devices, but powered by different circuits. Here a so-called potential difference can cause strong mains hum. The same applies to guitarists who want to play through 2 different amplifiers at the same time. In order to avoid the life-threatening masking of the protective conductor on one of the amplifiers, you can, for example, go from the guitar into a stereo effects device, isolate the two outputs via the Radial Engineering SB-6 and then feed them into the amplifier. In addition to the separate ground lifts, this is also achieved by changing the polarity of the left channel in order to avoid phase cancellations.

Radial Engineering SB-48UB

The Radial Engineering SB-48UB shows its qualities the moment you want to send a condenser microphone through a stage amplifier or an effects pedal. Most products of this type only have unbalanced inputs, so the incoming signal must be converted beforehand.

The DI Box comes with its own power supply and supplies either 12 or 48V phantom power. A standard XLR socket is used as input, the balanced and unbalanced output can be used simultaneously.

Radial Engineering SB-48 power bar

The Radial Engineering SB-48 Powerbar is a pantomime generator, which also comes with its own power supply (15 V - 400 mA). The product supplies two microphones or similar with either 12 or 48V phantom power if the connected mixer cannot supply the same.

Radial Engineering BT Pro Bluetooth

The highlight at the end of the list. According to modern sound technology, an ambitious technician should nowadays have a Bluetooth D.I. have a box at the start. The BT-Pro comes with the same Built-As-A-Rock feel, which suggests a long service life, especially since the pulled-over housing tabs additionally protect the ground lift switch, the mono summing switch and the headphone volume control. Unfortunately, the headphone jack is only a mini jack. Both signals can also be isolated to eliminate ground loops.

Conclusion

All Radial Engineering DI boxes shine with a very good sound, excellent workmanship, small dimensions and very good practicality. Whenever a signal needs to be converted symmetrically, Radial Engineering offers the right little box, it's just a matter of finding the perfect area of application.


Additional Informations:

Radial Engineering: A Leading Force in Professional Audio Solutions
Introduction:
Radial Engineering Ltd., founded in 1991 in Vancouver, Canada, is a renowned name in the professional audio industry. As a manufacturer of high-quality audio equipment, Radial Engineering has built a solid reputation for innovative designs, reliability, and superior sound performance. With a diverse product portfolio catering to recording studios, live sound, broadcast, and touring applications, Radial Engineering has become a trusted choice for audio professionals worldwide.
Founding and Early Years:
Radial Engineering was established by Peter Janis, a seasoned entrepreneur with a passion for audio technology. The company's initial focus was on designing and manufacturing custom audio solutions for the music and broadcast industries. This personalized approach quickly gained popularity, leading Radial Engineering to expand its product range and become a recognized player in the professional audio market.
Commitment to Innovation:

At the heart of Radial Engineering's success lies its commitment to innovation and ingenuity. The company's engineers and product designers are driven by the desire to address real-world audio challenges and offer practical, effective solutions. This ethos has resulted in numerous industry-first innovations and patents that have set new benchmarks for audio performance and functionality.
Product Portfolio:

Radial Engineering boasts an extensive and diverse product portfolio, encompassing a wide range of audio solutions designed to meet the needs of various audio professionals. Key product categories include:

a. Direct Boxes (DI Boxes): Radial Engineering's DI boxes are highly regarded for their transparent sound, signal isolation, and durability. The JDI, J48, and ProD2 are among the popular DI models used by musicians, live sound engineers, and recording studios.

b. Reamp Devices: Radial Engineering's Reamp boxes enable reamping, a process where recorded dry signals are sent back to amplifiers for additional processing and tonal shaping. The Radial Reamp JCR and X-Amp have become industry standards for this application.

c. Signal Processors: Radial Engineering offers a range of signal processors, including preamps, compressors, and channel strips, which are prized for their sonic integrity and versatility.

d. Switching and Routing: Radial Engineering's switching and routing solutions, such as the SW8 and JX44 V2, provide efficient and seamless control over audio signals in live and studio environments.

e. Direct-Drive: The Radial Direct-Drive is a unique preamp and distortion pedal that combines the functions of a DI box and a distortion pedal, catering to the needs of professional musicians and recording artists.

High-Profile Users and Endorsements:
Radial Engineering's commitment to excellence and innovative design has attracted an impressive list of high-profile users and endorsements. Renowned musicians, engineers, and producers rely on Radial Engineering's products in their live performances, studio recordings, and touring setups. This widespread adoption by industry professionals further cements Radial Engineering's status as a trusted brand in the audio community.

Global Reach and Manufacturing:
While headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, Radial Engineering's products are distributed and used globally. The company's commitment to quality extends to its manufacturing process, with products being assembled in-house to ensure consistent performance and reliability.

Conclusion:
Radial Engineering's journey from a small custom audio solutions provider to a global force in the professional audio industry is a testament to its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. With an impressive product portfolio, endorsements from industry professionals, and a reputation for exceptional audio performance, Radial Engineering continues to be at the forefront of audio technology. As the industry evolves, Radial Engineering's dedication to innovation and delivering practical, reliable solutions ensures that it remains a trusted partner for audio professionals worldwide.

- DI Boxes: The Essential Link for Seamless Audio Integration

Introduction:
Direct Injection (DI) boxes, also known as direct boxes or DI units, play a crucial role in professional audio applications, bridging the gap between different audio systems and ensuring a seamless and reliable audio integration process. Designed to convert unbalanced, high-impedance signals into balanced, low-impedance signals, DI boxes are indispensable tools for musicians, audio engineers, and recording studios. This comprehensive report explores the principles, applications, types, and advantages of DI boxes in the world of professional audio.
Principles of Operation:

At their core, DI boxes serve to solve impedance and signal level mismatches encountered when connecting instruments and equipment with different signal characteristics. Most musical instruments, such as electric guitars and keyboards, produce unbalanced high-impedance signals that are susceptible to noise interference and signal loss over long cable runs. On the other hand, professional audio systems, mixers, and recording interfaces typically require balanced, low-impedance signals for optimum performance and noise rejection.
DI boxes work by utilizing transformers or electronic circuitry to perform the following functions:

a. Signal Conversion: DI boxes convert unbalanced high-impedance signals from instruments into balanced low-impedance signals suitable for professional audio equipment.

b. Ground Isolation: DI boxes provide ground isolation, which helps eliminate ground loop hum and unwanted noise caused by differences in ground potential between connected equipment.

c. Level Matching: DI boxes often feature attenuation controls to match the output level of the instrument to the input level of the audio system.

Applications of DI Boxes:
DI boxes find widespread application in various audio scenarios, including:

a. Live Performances: Musicians and bands use DI boxes on stage to connect their instruments, such as electric guitars, basses, and keyboards, to the front-of-house mixing console or monitor systems.

b. Studio Recording: In the recording studio, DI boxes are employed to capture clean and direct signals from instruments before applying further processing or amplification.

c. Broadcast and Film: DI boxes facilitate the integration of instruments and audio sources into broadcast and film productions, ensuring pristine audio quality.

d. Corporate Events and Conferences: In corporate settings, DI boxes are used to interface laptops, media players, and audio equipment for presentations and speeches.

e. Public Address (PA) Systems: DI boxes play a crucial role in connecting musical instruments to PA systems in various events and venues.

Types of DI Boxes:
There are several types of DI boxes available, each designed for specific applications:

a. Passive DI Boxes: Passive DI boxes rely on transformers to perform signal conversion without the need for external power. They are simple, robust, and cost-effective, making them suitable for most live and studio applications.

b. Active DI Boxes: Active DI boxes incorporate electronic circuitry and require external power, usually through batteries or phantom power from the mixing console. Active DI boxes provide higher impedance matching, increased headroom, and sometimes additional features like EQ and phase reversal.

c. Stereo DI Boxes: Stereo DI boxes are designed to accommodate stereo signals from keyboards, digital audio players, and other stereo sources, providing separate inputs and outputs for left and right channels.

d. Reamp DI Boxes: Reamp DI boxes reverse the DI process, converting balanced, low-impedance signals back into unbalanced high-impedance signals. This allows musicians and producers to send pre-recorded tracks from a DAW back to amplifiers for re-recording and tonal manipulation.
Advantages of Using DI Boxes:

DI boxes offer several advantages that make them indispensable tools in professional audio applications:

a. Noise Reduction: DI boxes provide ground isolation and balanced connections, minimizing noise and interference in audio signals.

b. Signal Integrity: DI boxes preserve the original tone and dynamics of instruments, ensuring accurate sound reproduction.

c. Cable Length Compensation: DI boxes allow for longer cable runs without signal degradation, making them ideal for live performances and large venues.

d. Versatility: DI boxes can be used with a wide range of instruments and audio sources, making them valuable assets in diverse audio setups.

e. Troubleshooting: DI boxes help troubleshoot ground loop issues and impedance mismatches in audio systems.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, DI boxes are essential tools that bridge the gap between instruments and audio systems, ensuring seamless integration and preserving the integrity of audio signals. Their versatility, noise reduction capabilities, and ability to match impedance and signal levels make them invaluable assets in live performances, studio recording, broadcasting, and a variety of professional audio applications. As the audio industry continues to evolve, DI boxes will remain fundamental devices for audio professionals seeking clean, reliable, and high-quality signal transmission.