[NAMM] dbx Graphic Equalizers, Compressors & Crossovers

The dbx S Series products making their NAMM debut include the following:

• 231s dual 31-band graphic equalizer
• 215s dual 15-band graphic equalizer
• 131s single 31-band graphic equalizer
• 266xs compressor/gate
• 166xs compressor/limiter/gate
• 234s/234xs stereo 2-way/mono 3-way/mono 4-way crossover
• 223s/223xs stereo 2-way/mono 3-way crossover

dbx Graphic Equalizers

The dbx 231s dual 31-band, 215s dual 15-band and 131s single 31-band graphic equalizers offer 1/3-octave constant Q equalization with switchable boost/cut ranges of ±6 or ±12dB, with a ±12dB input gain range.

The 231s, 215s and 131s feature 4-segment LED ladder meters that provide indication of output levels, and their 20mm nonconductive sliders are designed to enable smooth operation. All models have XLR and 1/4-inch TRS inputs and outputs, and offer a frequency response of <10Hz to >50kHz with greater than 108dB dynamic range.

dbx Compressors

The 266xs compressor/gate and 166xs compressor/limiter/gate  feature Overeasy compression technology designed to smooth out fluctuating vocal and instrumental levels. Both models offer dbx AutoDynamic scalable program-dependent attack and release controls that continually adjust the actual attack and release times to match the program material, rather than standard compressors that provide pre-set attack and release functionality.

The 266xs and 166xs also enable classic “hard-knee” compression, and allow users to manually adjust threshold, ratio, attack, release and output gain. New gate timing algorithms ensure the smoothest release characteristics available. The 266xs and 166xs can be used in stereo or dual-mono mode, and include balanced inputs and outputs with XLR and ¼-inch TRS connectors, along with a TRS sidechain insert.

dbx Crossovers

The dbx 234s/234xs have stereo 2/way/mono 3-way/mono 4/way crossover and 223s/223xs have stereo 2-way/mono 3-way crossover. Both models utilize Linkwitz-Riley filters to separate the audio signal and direct the correct frequencies to the loudspeaker drivers.

The dual-channel 234s/234xs and 223s/223xs offer independent output gain controls for level matching, output phase inversion, a 40Hz low-cut filter, selectable stereo/mono operation and low-frequency summing for the subwoofer output and additional features. The 234s and 223s feature 1/4-inch TRS inputs and outputs, while the 234xs and 223xs provide XLR connections.

Pricing

Manufacturer’s suggested retail pricing is as follows: 231s dual 31-band graphic equalizer, $279.95; 215s dual 15-band graphic equalizer, $229.95; 131s single 31-band graphic equalizer, $229.95; 266xs compressor/gate, $209.95; 166xs compressor/limiter/gate, $339.95; 234s/234xs stereo 2-way/mono 3-way/mono 4-way crossover, $279.95 and $339.95; 223s/223xs stereo 2-way/mono 3-way crossover, $229.95 and $259.95.

dbx is a unit of Harman International Industries, Incorporated (www.harman.com).