Radial Engineering
Radial McBoost Microphone Signal Intensifier
Best signal booster for dynamic and ribbon microphone users.
The Radial McBoost is a high-performance signal intensifier designed to elevate the output of dynamic and ribbon microphones. It provides up to 26dB of clean gain using a discrete Class-A J-FET circuit, enhancing transient response and extending microphone reach. Powered by standard 48V phantom power, the McBoost features a 3-position load switch and variable gain for optimizing microphone performance. Its robust steel enclosure ensures durability for studio, live, and broadcast applications, breathing new life into your audio setup.
$189.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
4
/ 87
#4 in Microphone Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-88%
Below average
Type
Active Direct Box
/ Active Direct Box
Who it's for
- Podcasters and vocalists using quiet ribbon or dynamic microphones
- Touring professionals needing gear that survives heavy road use
- Audio engineers seeking maximum sonic clarity from passive microphones
Who should skip it
- Users lacking interfaces or mixers with phantom power capabilities
- Budget-conscious hobbyists building a home studio on a shoestring
- Producers requiring precise, variable gain control for specific recording tasks
Performance breakdown
Gain Transparency
Class-A J-FET circuitry delivers pristine amplification without coloring your source audio.
Build Durability
Cold-rolled steel housing survives the most demanding studio and touring environments.
Impedance Matching
Three-position load switch perfectly optimizes performance for diverse ribbon and dynamic mics.
Signal Integrity
Exceptional dynamic range ensures your signal remains clean even at high gain.
Operational Convenience
Phantom power eliminates the need for external batteries or bulky power supplies.
Frequency Response
Ultra-wide bandwidth captures every nuance from sub-bass to delicate high-end air.
Key Specs
Type
Active Direct Box
Channels
1
Gain
+26dB Full Gain, +20dB Half Gain, +4dB to +25dB Variable Gain
Frequency response
<7Hz to >30kHz
Dynamic range
116dB
Audio circuit type
Class-A Differential DC Coupled FET
Construction material
Cold Rolled Steel
Power source
48V phantom power
Features
- Boosts dynamic and ribbon microphone output
- Extends microphone reach and dynamic range
- Provides up to 26dB of clean gain
- Optimizes mic response with load switch
- Phantom powered for convenience
- Durable steel construction
- Improves signal-to-noise ratio
- Ideal for studio, live, and broadcast
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise the Radial McBoost for delivering clean, transparent gain, essential for maximizing low-output microphones like dynamic and ribbon models. Reviewers highlight its effectiveness in solving preamp noise issues, leading to professional clarity and better signal to noise ratios across vocals and instruments. A key theme is the exceptional build quality; users describe the unit as rugged and durable, built for heavy studio or live use. While the cost is noted, the superior construction and reliable performance fully justify the investment. This device is widely regarded as an essential, dependable tool that unlocks the full potential of passive microphones.
Know before you buy
No, the McBoost is powered entirely by standard 48V phantom power from your audio interface or mixing console. You simply plug it in, engage the phantom power, and it is ready to use.
The McBoost is specifically designed for dynamic and ribbon microphones that require a boost in signal level. It is not intended for use with condenser microphones, which already have their own internal active circuitry.
The load switch allows you to adjust the input impedance to better match your specific microphone. Changing this setting can subtly alter the frequency response and transient character of your mic, letting you fine-tune the tone to suit your recording environment.
It is perfectly suited for both. The McBoost is built with a rugged, cold-rolled steel enclosure designed to withstand the rigors of live touring and broadcast environments while maintaining a clean, quiet signal path.
The McBoost uses a discrete Class-A J-FET circuit designed to provide clean, transparent gain. It is engineered to improve your signal-to-noise ratio by boosting the mic level before it hits your preamp, rather than introducing unwanted noise or heavy coloration.
The McBoost features an inline design with XLR input and output connectors. You connect your microphone directly to the McBoost's input and then run a standard XLR cable from the McBoost output to your preamp or interface.
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