{"product_id":"h-k-red-box-mkii-used","title":"H\u0026K Red Box MkII, (Used)","description":"\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eHughes \u0026amp; Kettner Red Box MkII\u003c\/strong\u003e is a used guitar speaker simulator and DI box designed for sending an amp or preamp signal directly to a mixing desk, audio interface or PA system. It is ideal for guitarists, recording players and live performers who want a more controlled direct sound than a standard DI alone, with built-in cabinet simulation designed to recreate the character of a miked 4x12 guitar speaker cabinet. The Red Box MkII is especially useful for recording, silent-stage setups, live sound consistency and reducing the need for extra microphones on stage. \u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAt A Glance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"TyagGW_tableContainer\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"group TyagGW_tableWrapper flex flex-col-reverse w-fit\" tabindex=\"-1\"\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)\"\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"last:pe-10\"\u003eKey Detail\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"last:pe-10\"\u003eInformation\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBrand\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHughes \u0026amp; Kettner\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eModel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRed Box MkII\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eType\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSpeaker Simulator \/ DI Box\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCondition\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eUsed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMain Appeal\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCabinet-simulated direct guitar sound for live and studio use\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBest For\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGuitar amps, preamp outputs, recording, PA feeds and live sound\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePower\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e9V battery or external DC power\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOutput\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBalanced line output\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSkill Level\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIntermediate to professional\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCondition Overview\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUsed Condition – Specific Fair Deal Music grade to be confirmed.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Hughes \u0026amp; Kettner Red Box MkII is pre-owned. A precise Fair Deal Music condition grade has not been supplied, so the cosmetic condition should be confirmed before publishing the final listing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat’s Included?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Hughes \u0026amp; Kettner Red Box MkII\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCondition Notes\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo specific cosmetic marks, modifications or operational faults have been supplied.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFair Deal Inspection \u0026amp; Assessment\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore leaving Fair Deal Music, this used DI box \/ speaker simulator will be checked to ensure it is ready for its next owner. Our assessment includes:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInput checked\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOutput checked\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePower operation checked\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSignal path tested\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpeaker simulation function checked\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConnector condition assessed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGeneral functionality assessed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eService \/ Testing Work\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis unit will be tested as part of our used equipment inspection process. The input, output, power operation and general signal performance are checked so it can be used with confidence in a live, studio or rehearsal setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Choose The Hughes \u0026amp; Kettner Red Box MkII?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDirect Guitar Cabinet Simulation\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Red Box MkII is designed to let guitarists send a usable direct signal to a console without relying on a microphone in front of a speaker cabinet. Hughes \u0026amp; Kettner’s manual states that the Red Box recreates the sound of a miked-up guitar cabinet loaded with four 12\" loudspeakers, helping produce a more guitar-appropriate direct sound than a plain DI feed. \u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eA Practical Live Sound Tool\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor live players, the Red Box MkII can help reduce stage clutter and setup time. Instead of placing an extra microphone and stand in front of a cab, the unit provides a direct feed for the mixing desk. Hughes \u0026amp; Kettner lists reduced setup time, consistent sound, reduced extraneous noise and no phase cancellation from other open microphones among the practical benefits of the Red Box approach. \u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eUseful For Studio Recording\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the studio, the Red Box MkII gives players another way to capture an amp or preamp signal. It can be used as a direct cabinet-simulated track, or blended creatively with a miked cabinet depending on the recording setup. This makes it useful for home recording, project studios and players who want repeatable guitar tones without always relying on microphone placement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWorks With Tube And Transistor Amp Setups\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Red Box MkII manual explains that tube amps are best connected from the amplifier’s loudspeaker output, with the speaker connected through the Red Box’s speaker thru connection. It also states that, with transistor amplifiers, the preamp or line output is preferred for dynamics and signal-to-noise performance. \u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCompact, Simple And Stage-Friendly\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a straightforward utility box rather than a complicated modelling unit. It is ideal for players who want a reliable cabinet-simulated direct output without menus, presets or software editing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eImportant Usage Note\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen using the Red Box MkII with a \u003cstrong\u003etube amplifier speaker output\u003c\/strong\u003e, the amplifier must still see a proper speaker load. Hughes \u0026amp; Kettner’s manual warns that a speaker, or suitable dummy load, must be connected to the Speaker Thru jack when connecting a tube amp to the Speaker In jack, otherwise the amplifier may be damaged. \u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eComparison Against Popular Alternatives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHughes \u0026amp; Kettner Red Box MkII vs Standard DI Box\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA standard DI box is useful for impedance matching and sending balanced signals, but it does not normally provide guitar speaker simulation. The Red Box MkII is the better choice when you want a direct guitar signal shaped to feel more like a miked cabinet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHughes \u0026amp; Kettner Red Box MkII vs Modern IR Loader\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eModern impulse response loaders offer deeper cabinet choice, presets and more detailed editing. The Red Box MkII is simpler, faster and more self-contained, making it a good option for players who want a practical direct box without managing files or presets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHughes \u0026amp; Kettner Red Box MkII vs Hughes \u0026amp; Kettner Red Box 5\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Red Box 5 is the later model and Hughes \u0026amp; Kettner describe it as the latest version of their speaker simulation range, with additional filtering options for cabinet size, speaker voicing and cabinet response. The Red Box MkII is a more straightforward earlier version for players who want the classic Red Box concept in a simpler used unit. \u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHughes \u0026amp; Kettner Red Box MkII vs Mic’d Guitar Cabinet\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA microphone on a guitar cab can sound excellent, but placement, room sound, stage spill and phase issues can affect consistency. The Red Box MkII is useful when repeatability, convenience and reduced stage noise are more important than traditional mic placement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWho Is It For?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBeginner Players\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBest suited to beginners who are starting to record guitar amps or play live through a PA and want a simple way to understand direct guitar sound.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIntermediate Players\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA strong choice for players building a practical live or recording setup. It is especially useful for guitarists who already use an amp or preamp and want a consistent direct output.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eProfessional Players\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUseful as a compact utility tool for live rigs, backup setups, fly rigs, studio sessions and situations where a quick cabinet-simulated signal is needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSuitable Genres And Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRock\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBlues\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMetal\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePunk\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIndie\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWorship\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePop\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHome recording\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLive PA feeds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStudio tracking\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRehearsal setups\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBackup guitar rigs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAmp direct recording\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Choose A Speaker Simulator DI Box?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA speaker simulator DI box is designed to solve a common guitar problem: a raw amp or preamp signal can sound harsh and unnatural when sent straight to a mixer or recording interface. Guitar speakers shape the tone heavily, smoothing the top end and adding the familiar cabinet character players expect.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Hughes \u0026amp; Kettner Red Box MkII adds cabinet simulation before the balanced output, helping create a direct sound that is more suitable for guitar. It is a practical tool for players who want consistent live sound, easier recording or a compact backup option.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLooking for advice on choosing the right DI box, speaker simulator or direct recording solution? Our experienced team of musicians can help by phone, online or in-store.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eStory \u0026amp; Context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHughes \u0026amp; Kettner’s Red Box series is closely associated with direct guitar cabinet simulation. The current Red Box 5 is described by Hughes \u0026amp; Kettner as “the origin of cab simulation” and the latest version of their award-winning speaker simulation line, showing how long-running and recognisable the Red Box concept has become within guitar recording and live sound setups. \u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe MkII model sits as an earlier, simple and practical version of that idea: a compact box built to help guitarists get a cabinet-simulated DI signal without needing a microphone in front of the cab.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTechnical Specifications\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"TyagGW_tableContainer\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"group TyagGW_tableWrapper flex flex-col-reverse w-fit\" tabindex=\"-1\"\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)\"\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"last:pe-10\"\u003eSpecification\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"last:pe-10\"\u003eDetails\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBrand\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHughes \u0026amp; Kettner\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eModel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRed Box MkII\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eProduct Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSpeaker Simulator \/ DI Box\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCabinet Simulation\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e4x12 guitar cabinet simulation\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOperational Voltage\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e9V DC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePower Consumption\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1 mA\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLine In\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMaximum 2.3V, 20 kΩ impedance\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLine Out\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBalanced, 200 Ω impedance\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGain\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0 dB\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eExternal DC Power\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e9–20V DC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePolarity\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRing positive, tip negative\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIntended Use\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGuitar cabinet-simulated direct output for live or studio mixing\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecifications are based on available Hughes \u0026amp; Kettner Red Box MkII manual information. \u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePower Requirements\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Hughes \u0026amp; Kettner Red Box MkII operates from a \u003cstrong\u003e9V battery\u003c\/strong\u003e or an \u003cstrong\u003eexternal 9–20V DC power supply\u003c\/strong\u003e. The manual lists \u003cstrong\u003e9V DC operating voltage\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003e1 mA power consumption\u003c\/strong\u003e. It also states that battery power is activated when a standard 1\/4\" plug is inserted into either the Line In or Speaker In, and turned off when the plug is removed. \u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFair Deal Music Verdict\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e★★★★★ 5\/5\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eHughes \u0026amp; Kettner Red Box MkII\u003c\/strong\u003e is a very useful used buy for guitarists who want a simple, compact and proven cabinet-simulated DI solution. Its main benefit is practicality: it helps send a more guitar-friendly direct signal to a mixer or recording setup, reducing the need for microphone placement while improving consistency. For live players, recording guitarists and anyone building a reliable amp-based direct rig, this is a smart utility box with strong real-world value.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Buy From Fair Deal Music?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChoosing Fair Deal Music means buying from a passionate team of musicians who genuinely understand the products we sell. Whether you're purchasing your first instrument, upgrading your current setup or searching for something special, we're here to help you make the right choice with friendly advice and expert support.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen you shop with Fair Deal Music, you can buy with confidence thanks to:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExpert advice from knowledgeable musicians\u003cbr\u003eCarefully checked new, used, pre-owned and ex-display equipment\u003cbr\u003eCompetitive prices on leading music brands\u003cbr\u003eSecure UK-wide delivery\u003cbr\u003eFlexible finance options available (subject to status)\u003cbr\u003eFriendly support before and after your purchase\u003cbr\u003eA trusted independent UK music retailer with decades of experience\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTrade In. Trade Up. Save More.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThinking about upgrading? Your next piece of gear could cost less than you think.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe're always happy to consider part exchanges and trade-ins on a wide range of musical instruments and equipment. Whether you're looking to upgrade your guitar, keyboard, amplifier, drum kit or studio gear, your existing equipment could help reduce the cost of your next purchase.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSimply get in touch with our team for a no-obligation valuation, and we'll be happy to discuss the options available.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's an easy way to unlock the value of the gear you no longer use while making your next instrument even more affordable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFAQ\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat does the Hughes \u0026amp; Kettner Red Box MkII do?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt provides a cabinet-simulated direct output for guitar amps or preamp signals, helping create a more natural guitar sound when feeding a mixer, PA system or recording setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I use it instead of a microphone on a guitar cabinet?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. That is one of its main uses. It provides a direct signal with cabinet simulation, which can reduce setup time and avoid microphone placement issues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I use the Red Box MkII with a tube amp?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, but the amplifier must still be connected to a speaker or suitable load when using the speaker output. Hughes \u0026amp; Kettner specifically warns that failing to connect a speaker or dummy load when using a tube amp speaker output may damage the amp. \u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I use it with a solid-state or transistor amp?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Hughes \u0026amp; Kettner’s manual states that with transistor amplifiers, the preamp signal or line output is preferred for dynamics and signal-to-noise performance. \u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIs this useful for home recording?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It can help you capture a cabinet-simulated guitar signal directly into recording equipment, making it useful for home studios and project recording.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes it replace an amp load box?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. The Red Box MkII is not a load box. When using a tube amp speaker output, you still need a connected speaker or suitable dummy load.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIs it better than a modern IR loader?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt depends on the setup. A modern IR loader gives more cabinet options and deeper editing, while the Red Box MkII is simpler and more immediate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat kind of player benefits most from this unit?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is best for guitarists who use amps, preamps or live rigs and want a consistent cabinet-simulated DI signal for PA systems, recording interfaces or backup setups.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"USED","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57254944145788,"sku":"H\u0026K Red Box MkII, (Used)","price":49.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0441\/6457\/9484\/files\/PXL_20260806_101932206.jpg?v=1786014647","url":"https:\/\/www.fairdealmusic.co.uk\/products\/h-k-red-box-mkii-used","provider":"Fair Deal Music","version":"1.0","type":"link"}