Radial ICECUBE-IC-1

A line isolator designed for demanding audio systems

The IceCube IC-1 is a balanced line-level isolator designed to solve a problem that is both common and frustrating: hum, buzz and interference that can occur in an audio setup, often due to ground loops or other interference. Rather than searching for the source throughout the entire chain, the IC-1 offers a direct approach: insert it into the signal path, and the internal galvanic isolation does the job cleanly, without unnecessary compromises.

At the heart of the unit, the custom-built Eclipse transformer provides separation between the input and output. Whereas small transformers can "squash" the low end or become less effective below 100 Hz, the IC-1 stands out with performance specified as being highly linear across a broad useful range. This makes it a relevant tool for both studio and live applications, including sources with significant low-frequency content.

Who is the IceCube IC-1 for, and when should it be used?

The IceCube IC-1 is intended for musicians, sound engineers, studios, control rooms, DJs and system integrators looking for a simple, fast and reliable solution to unwanted noise, without touching the gain staging or altering the tone. It is particularly useful when hum appears between two devices connected via XLR (audio interface, mixer, preamp, processor, active speakers, recorder, broadcast system, etc.).

Thanks to its passive design, it requires no power: you can deploy it immediately, without relying on a power adapter or an available USB port. It is also a reassuring choice for live work: fewer potential points of failure, greater peace of mind, and a format that is easy to slip into a flight case or cable bag.

Audio isolation and performance: noise correction without artifacts

The IC-1 works by isolating the input from the output in order to block unwanted interference. The goal is not simply to "reduce noise", but to do so without limiting the bandwidth or introducing artifacts or unpleasant coloration. In the field, this translates into a cleaner signal while retaining low-end impact, midrange presence and high-end openness.

Custom Eclipse transformer: effective isolation across an extended range

The proprietary Eclipse transformer is specified as being exceptionally linear from 20 Hz to 18 kHz, with the ability to handle substantial low-frequency levels: up to +10 dB at 20 Hz with less than 0.01% distortion. In other words, the IC-1 is designed to remain clean where other solutions may saturate or compress the low end, which is valuable for high-energy signals (bass, kick, music bus, monitor feeds, etc.).

Ground switch: immediate control when the situation demands it

The ground switch provides welcome flexibility for quickly addressing typical ground-loop situations. In practice, it is a tool for rapid diagnosis and correction: test it, choose the position that eliminates the hum, and maintain a stable signal without having to reorganize the entire power setup on stage or in the studio.

Passive design and steel chassis: built to last

With no active electronics or power supply, the IC-1 focuses on ruggedness and consistency. Its 1.19 mm steel chassis is designed to withstand repeated handling, improvised rack trays and stage changes. A compact format, a single channel and a "pro"-oriented construction: the kind of tool you keep close at hand because it solves problems quickly and effectively.

Technical specifications

Frequency response - start	20 Hz	THD	< 0,0006% @ 1 kHz
Frequency response - end	20 kHz	Inputs	XLR
Category	Line isolator	Analog outputs	XLR
Number of channels	1	Power supply	Passive
Digital conversion	No	Weight	180 g
Max input level (dBu)	15	Dimensions (mm)	107 x 34 x 41
Settings	ground lift switch

Technology	passive	Dynamic range	> 135 dB
Controls	ground lift switch	Input impedance	8.66 (with a 10k load)
Outputs	XLR	Output impedance	600 nominal
Sub-D 25 configuration	Tascam analog	Transformers	Eclipse custom-made
Frequency response	20 Hz - 20 kHz	Construction	1.19 mm steel chassis
Max. input level (dBu)	15