For paranormal investigators and ghost hunting enthusiasts alike, few tools spark as much intrigue as the Spirit Box. Whether you’re brand new to the field or a seasoned hunter, Spirit Boxes (SB7, SB11) offer a unique and sometimes chilling method of real-time communication with spirits. Known for scanning through AM/FM frequencies at rapid speeds, these devices are believed to allow entities to speak through the fragments of radio broadcasts. In this post, we’ll break down the theory behind Spirit Boxes, how you can use them effectively, and why they continue to be a staple in paranormal investigations around the world.
The Theory Behind Spirit Boxes (SB7, SB11)
Both the SB7 and SB11 Spirit Boxes operate on a simple but fascinating principle: by scanning radio frequencies rapidly, they create a soundscape made up of white noise and fragmented audio. Paranormal investigators believe that spirits can manipulate this static and interference to form words, phrases, or even sentences.
What Is White Noise and Why Does It Matter?
White noise is a consistent ambient sound that spans across all audible frequencies. Many researchers suggest that spirits can use this “raw” audio energy as a vehicle for communication. The Spirit Box provides a near-constant flow of this energy by sweeping through the radio bands, giving spirits the means to pick and form audio snips.
Why Rapid Frequency Scanning?
The rapid scanning of radio frequencies allows for very brief bursts of audio signals, often just fractions of a second. These snippets usually contain only partial broadcast segments—barely long enough to form a complete sentence, unless manipulated. If a voice or phrase comes through clearly and for more than a split second, it may be considered anomalous or paranormal in nature.
SB7 vs. SB11: What’s the Difference?
- SB7: The smaller, more portable of the two. It provides single-band scanning (AM or FM) and is ideal for beginner to intermediate users.
- SB11: A more advanced model that adds dual-band scanning (AM & FM simultaneously), temperature detection, and higher scan speeds. It’s favored by seasoned investigators seeking more reliability.
Both models are designed to cut through the radio chatter, allowing spirits to interject amid the chaos—at least, that’s the working theory.
How to Use Spirit Boxes (SB7, SB11)
Want to try your hand at spirit communication? Using Spirit Boxes (SB7, SB11) can be thrilling and even unnerving. Below are the steps to effectively set up and conduct a Spirit Box session during a paranormal investigation.
1. Prepare the Environment
Before you dive into your investigation, take steps to ensure a controlled environment:
- Choose a haunted location: Pick places with known paranormal activity to increase your chances of communication.
- Minimize noise pollution: Turn off devices that could interfere, such as phones, fans, and unnecessary electronics.
- Control the lighting: Dim or red lighting is often preferred for ambiance, but make sure you can still see your gear clearly.
2. Set Up Your Spirit Box (SB7 or SB11)
The setup process is slightly different for each model, but the essential steps are similar:
- Turn on the device: Use fresh batteries or a fully charged power source.
- Choose your sweep mode: Select AM, FM, or both (SB11 allows dual sweep). AM is usually more static; FM provides clearer snippets of audio.
- Adjust sweep rate: Most investigators recommend 100ms for FM and 200ms for AM. Faster speeds reduce the chance of complete words bleeding through naturally.
- Enable reverse sweep (optional): Particularly useful for filtering out full radio broadcasts as spirits would need to work harder to form intelligible words, reducing false positives.
- Connect external speaker: Both SB7 and SB11 have relatively low built-in audio, so use a quality speaker for better clarity.
3. Begin the Session
Now you’re ready to start trying to make contact.
- Introduce yourself: Calmly state your name, explain that you mean no harm, and invite spirits to communicate.
- Ask clear, specific questions: Keep questions simple and spaced out, e.g., “What’s your name?” or “Are you here with us?”
- Listen carefully: Have someone take notes or record the session to review later. Use a voice recorder for added accuracy.
- Observe environmental changes: Combine the session with temperature or EMF readings, especially if you’re using the SB11 which includes temperature sensors.
4. Analyze the Results
A successful Spirit Box session often contains elements like:
- Direct answers: Yes, No, or specific names/dates in response to your questions.
- EVPs (Electronic Voice Phenomena): Voices that stand out clearly beyond static or station bleed-through.
- Repeated phrases: The same name or message repeating across multiple frequencies.
Review your audio thoroughly. Unexpected voices or intelligent responses are your main indicators. Combining Spirit Box sessions with audio editing software (like Audacity) for playback and filtering is particularly useful when combing through long responses.
Tips for a Productive Spirit Box Session
Here are some extra pointers to ensure you’re getting the most out of your Spirit Box:
- Don’t rush: Give spirits time to interact. Keeping sessions around 10–15 minutes helps reduce listener fatigue.
- Team up: Having others present can help confirm hearing the same phrases in real-time.
- Record everything: Even if nothing is heard live, EVPs often reveal themselves only during playback.
- Be respectful and professional: Spirits, if they are indeed present, deserve to be spoken to kindly and with dignity.
Conclusion: Why You Should Consider Spirit Boxes (SB7, SB11) in Your Next Investigation
Spirit Boxes (SB7, SB11) offer an accessible and compelling way for investigators to attempt real-time communication with spirits. Their ability to scan frequencies rapidly—combined with static, snippets, or even reversed audio—provides an intriguing medium for potential contact. Whether you’re investigating historic sites, abandoned asylums, or haunted residences, these tools can quickly become instrumental in your paranormal toolkit.
The SB7 is affordable, portable, and easy to use for anyone getting started, while the SB11 adds a layer of professionalism with dual sweep and environmental sensors. Regardless of your setup, both can deliver compelling results when used thoughtfully and with intention.
As always, keep your mind open but grounded, and let the evidence guide your conclusions. Happy hunting—and may your next Spirit Box session be both revealing and respectful.