Radial Engineering

Radial Engineering R800 1031 IceCube Line Isolator

4.4 (65 reviews)
XLR

Eliminate ground loop hum instantly with the Radial IceCube IC-1 balanced line isolator.

$84.99*
In Stock on Amazon.com
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jun 28, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The Radial Engineering IceCube IC-1 (R800 1031) is a passive line-level isolator engineered to solve one of the most common and frustrating problems in audio: ground loop hum. When two pieces of audio equipment share a signal path but are grounded through different electrical circuits, an audible hum or buzz can result. The IceCube breaks this ground connection using a high-quality internal isolation transformer, allowing clean audio to pass while rejecting the unwanted noise. Simply insert it between the offending devices using its XLR input and output, and the problem is resolved.

Designed to accommodate both balanced and unbalanced audio signals at any volume level, the IceCube is versatile enough for studio, live sound, and installed audio applications. The included ground lift switch disconnects Pin 1 on the XLR, offering an additional troubleshooting option when standard isolation alone isn't enough. Weighing just 6.4 ounces and measuring 4.2 x 1.6 x 1.32 inches, it tucks easily into a rack drawer, cable bag, or behind installed equipment. No power supply is needed, making deployment as simple as plugging it in line.

Key Features

XLR Line Isolator Designed to Handle Balanced

Unbalanced Audio Signals at Any Volume Level

Specifications

Brand
Radial Engineering
Model
R800 1031
Type
Balanced Line-Level Isolator
Connectors
XLR Input and Output
Ground Lift
Yes (disconnects Pin 1)
Weight
6.4 ounces
Dimensions
4.2 x 1.6 x 1.32 inches
Housing Material
Plastic
Voltage Rating
240 Volts

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Effectively eliminates ground loop hum and buzz without degrading audio quality
  • Handles both balanced and unbalanced signals for versatile hookup options
  • Compact and lightweight design at just 6.4 ounces for easy placement in any rig
  • Passive operation requires no external power supply
  • Includes a ground lift switch for an extra layer of noise troubleshooting

👎 Cons

  • Only one channel of isolation, so stereo setups require two units
  • Plastic housing is less rugged than metal-bodied alternatives for touring use
  • XLR-only connections mean you need adapters for 1/4-inch or RCA gear
  • Limited to line-level signals and not suitable for mic-level or speaker-level use

Frequently Asked Questions

It uses a transformer to galvanically isolate two audio devices, breaking the electrical ground connection that causes ground loop hum and buzz.
Yes, it is designed to handle both balanced and unbalanced audio signals at any volume level.
It uses standard XLR input and output connectors for easy integration into professional audio chains.
No, it is a passive transformer-based isolator and does not need any external power source.
The ground lift disconnects Pin 1 on the XLR connector, providing an additional option for eliminating persistent hum.