If you’re diving into the world of ghost hunting, one of the tools you’ll hear about often is the spirit box. You’ve probably seen investigators using them on shows like Ghost Adventures or in YouTube videos where strange voices break through the static. But with so many spirit boxes out there—ranging from $9 to over $150—how do you know which one is right for you?
In this article, we’ll compare some of the best beginner-friendly spirit boxes with two high-end devices that professionals swear by: the P-SB11-ANC and the SB7. You’ll also find a helpful comparison chart and simple explanations of each feature so you know what really matters for ghost hunting.
What Is a Spirit Box?
A spirit box is a tool that rapidly sweeps through AM and FM radio frequencies. The idea is that spirits can manipulate these sound waves to speak or communicate. Paranormal investigators use them during sessions to ask questions and listen for possible voices, words, or sounds that stand out from the static.
Best Budget Spirit Boxes for Beginners
1. Manual AM/FM Spirit Box (~$9)
This is a simple, super cheap AM/FM radio you tune manually. It doesn’t auto-scan, and you’ll need to turn the dial yourself. But if you’re just starting out, this gives you a taste of how spirit boxes work without spending much.
- Pros: Ultra-affordable, great for practicing.
- Cons: No auto sweep, no features, very basic audio.
2. Sam & Colby XPLR Spirit Box (~$55)
A branded spirit box that looks cooler and may offer basic auto scanning features. It’s popular among fans of the XPLR YouTube series and fits in that mid-budget range.
- Pros: Designed with paranormal fans in mind, more modern.
- Cons: Not as powerful as pro gear, but still decent for starters.
3. Sinister Speaker Spirit Box (~$84)
This is one of the most “advanced” beginner options. It has features like Bluetooth and louder speaker output, making it better for group sessions.
- Pros: Good sound, some modern extras.
- Cons: Doesn’t sweep as smoothly or deeply as pro models.
Premium Spirit Boxes for Serious Ghost Hunters
4. SB7 Spirit Box
The SB7 is one of the most famous spirit boxes out there. It’s been used on tons of paranormal shows and is well-respected in the field.
- Pros: Fast sweep speeds, reverse sweep mode, better AM/FM control.
- Cons: Can be noisy, may need external speakers for clearer audio.
5. P-SB11-ANC Spirit Box
This is a step above the SB7 and one of the most powerful boxes available. It has dual sweep channels, adjustable sweep speeds, built-in noise control, and even temperature detection.
- Pros: Dual sweep, ANC (adjustable noise control), temperature alerts, external audio ports.
- Cons: Expensive, but packed with features.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Here’s a simple chart to help you see what each box has and doesn’t have:
| Feature | Manual AM/FM (~$9) | XPLR (~$55) | Sinister (~$84) | SB7 | P-SB11-ANC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AM + FM Sweep | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Adjustable Sweep Speed | ✘ | ✔ (basic) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ (full control) |
| Forward / Reverse Sweep | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Dual Channel (AM + FM at once) | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Adjustable Noise Control (ANC) | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ (limited) | ✔ |
| Temperature Detection (ATDD) | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ (some) | ✔ |
| External Audio Output / Dual Ports | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ (with add-ons) | ✔ |
| Built-in Flashlight / LED | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ (maybe) | ✔ (some) | ✔ |
What Do These Features Actually Mean?
Here’s a quick breakdown of the most important features so you know what’s useful and what’s just “nice to have”:
- Sweep Speed (Adjustable): Helps you control how fast the radio scans through stations. Faster sweeps can reduce interference, while slower ones may make voices clearer.
- Forward/Reverse Sweep: Some believe spirits can communicate better in reverse sweep mode. Having both gives you more options.
- Noise Control (ANC): Static can drown out voices. Adjustable noise control makes it easier to hear actual words. This is a big feature on high-end models.
- Dual Channel: Sweeping AM and FM at the same time can double your chances of picking up responses.
- Temperature Detection: Ghost hunters often report cold spots during paranormal activity. A built-in sensor can alert you when temperature drops unexpectedly.
- External Audio Ports: Recording audio directly or plugging into better speakers helps with evidence review.
So, Which One Should You Get?
If you’re on a budget or just getting started, you don’t need to spend hundreds. Start with one of the basic options:
- The Manual AM/FM spirit box is the cheapest way to learn the ropes.
- The XPLR and Sinister Speaker boxes give you better design and basic auto-sweep without going pro.
If you’re ready to get serious, go with:
- The SB7 for a solid step into pro-level tools.
- The P-SB11-ANC if you want top-of-the-line gear with everything you could ask for in a spirit box.
Final Thoughts
Ghost hunting doesn’t have to be expensive—but having the right equipment can make your sessions more productive and believable. Whether you go budget or premium, what matters most is learning how to use the gear, being patient, and staying consistent.