It began more 35 years ago with the vision
of a single man to create a better way to record
audio and that vision has continued into a new
millennium. The late David Blackmer, who is uni
versally considered to be the father of modern
Compression, had a quest to improve the dynamic
range of analog recordings using decibel expansion.
This quest produced the VCA and RMS detector
which taken together have changed the sonic land
scape and made possible so many of our current
audio technologies. In 1971, Mr. Blackmer founded
dbx® Professional Products which has collectively
produced over 35 patents that continue to forge
and reshape the landscape in the Live Sound, Stu
dio Recording, and Installed Sound professional
audio markets today. Our award-winning team of
designers and engineers have embraced Mr. Black
mer’s passion for audio purity with a vengeance,
and continue to design and build the precise and
hyper-accurate tools necessary for today’s audio
production. We at dbx Professional Products ap
ply the paradigm that while you can’t be everything
to everyone, you can make the best tools for each
individual application. From our rock-solid Analog
products like the 10-Series EQs and Compressors,
to our cutting-edge Performance and Commercial
Audio products the DriveRack and ZonePRO lines,
we provide the tools to accommodate all of your
audio needs. This brochure is designed to help you
navigate through our many product solutions and
module, feedback eliminator and the 120A Subharmonic Synthesizer on
the input, with a six channel output system that includes parametric EQs,
and Peak Plus™ limiters (which are used to provide protection against
speaker blowouts) and alignment delay. These features, combined with the
Wizard setup system, also include JBL® speaker tunings and Crown®
Power Amp settings and represents a methodical design that is
guaranteed to deliver optimal, all-inclusive processing in a completely
scalable system.
The optional RTA-M real time audio an-
alyzing mic is the perfect accessory tool for
the DriveRack PA and 260. Used in conjunc-
tion with the System Setup Wizard, the RTA-
M is ideal for optimizing the sound quality of
even the most difficult of acoustic environ-
ments.
HEAR NO EVIL.
The IEM™ In-Ear Monitor Processor is the ideal tool for fine-tuning
mix monitoring for in-ear monitoring devices. Not only does the IEM pro-
vide the legendary dbx effects in the digital domain, such as 4-band stereo
compression, PeakStop™ limiting and 5-band parametric EQ, but the IEM
also includes stereo adjust, dbx proprietary Type IV™ conversion system,
and for good measure, we have even raised the playing field by including
custom reverb algorithms using industry-standard Lexicon® reverb tech-
nology. The IEM was designed with the simple purpose and vision of en-
hancing the sonic quality of all in-ear monitor applications, while providing
the necessary audio level protection that artists and engineers require. The
design team at dbx has achieved this vision by building a unit that offers ef-
fects including: 4-band stereo compressor with gating and limiting, 5-Band
Parametric EQ, PeakStop™ limiting, and Stereo adjust. Additionally, the IEM
has been methodically designed with an intuitive user front panel which
provides instant access to all of the effects within the unit at the push of a
button. The IEM also provides the user with a large custom display which
clearly shows all operational information of the unit in a logical manner.
The IEM is a unit that is certain to take In-Ear Monitor processing to the
next level.
THE CURE FOR THE COMMON PA.
ZonePRO™ 640/641
Page 10
Page 11
Digital Zone Processors
ZonePRO™ 1260/1261
Digital Zone Processors
™
ZonePRO
The dbx® ZonePRO™ 640 and 641 products were designed to provide flexible pro-
grammable zone processing for Background Music and Paging applications.
With six inputs and four outputs the ZonePRO products are incredibly flexible, al-
lowing any input to be a primary or priority override source, and two inputs designated
as paging sources. Outputs are also highly configurable with combinations including mono
and stereo zones, and zones with subwoofers.
Besides routing, the 640 and 641 provide every tool required for maximizing system
performance: from paging microphone functions like Gating and Feedback Suppression,
to system processing such as EQ, Crossovers, Dynamics, and Delay. With these powerful
DSP processes comes a Wizard functions that speeds configuration and system setup.
The ZonePRO products offer full control from the computer-controlled GUI. Pro-
grammable end-user control is available from the front panel of the 640 and the ZC series
wall panels.
From signal routing to control to processing, the ZonePRO 640 and 641 are com-
plete Background Music and Paging solutions.
COMPLETE
SOLUTION
™
ZonePRO
With 12 inputs and 6 outputs and Ethernet control, the dbx ZonePro™
1260 and 1261 provide broader matrixing of inputs and outputs for even larger
applications. Designed to offer superior sonic performance and flexibility, the
1260/1261 deliver the highest quality tools available. The ZonePro products of-
fer industry standard Phoenix connectors for balanced signals and RCA connec-
tors for interfacing with consumer equipment often used in commercial applica-
tions; there is also a simple analog input buss that allows inputs to be sent from
one unit to the next for unit and job scalability.
The 1260 and 1261 provide every necessary processing tool, from the in-
put processing like gain control and EQ available on all inputs to highly sophis-
ticated and specific functions such as selectable paging microphone processing
including Gating, De-Essing, Auto Gain Control, Compression and Feedback
Suppression. The heart of the ZonePro products is the Routing module that
provides of course Primary Source Selection but also Source Ducking for Paging
and Priority Override. The outputs also offer a wealth of processing designed
for commercial applications like our patent-pending AutoWarmth® function that
was co-developed with JBL to provide natural low frequency extension at any
signal level. Each output also offers EQ, Bandpass and Crossover filters, Limiting
and Delay for system optimization. With the ZonePro™ every tool is at your
disposal to maximize the response of your system.
ZC1
Programmable
Volume Control
ZCBOB
“home-run” or
parallel wiring
ZC9
Source
Selection
ZC2
Programmable
Volume & Mute
ZC6
Programmable
Volume Control
ZCFIRE
Fire Safety
Interface
ZC3
Programmable
Selection
ZC7
Programmable
Push-To-Talk
Page Assignment
ZC4
Program
Selection
ZC8
Programmable
Volume and
Source Select
786
Page 1
Page 1
Precision Mic Pre
The craftsmanship of the 786 is as
stunning as the engineering is innovative.
The 786 combines the best preamplifier
features and an absolutely pristine audio
path. In addition to having +48V phantom
power as well as a phase reverse switch,
the 786 also features a patent-pending EQ
circuit called “spectrum” with frequency
cut and boost up to 40kHz. An 11-position
coarse gain switch sets the gain between
+10 and +60dB, while the fine gain control
varies between -3 and +3dB. Levels may be
monitored on peak-program VU meters
with adjustable reference levels. The signal
path consists of a transformer-coupled, dis-
crete-design premium input stage, utilizing
the proprietary dbx® M8™ Mic Pre-Amp
Module. The “Spectrum” control is a unique variable high-frequency equalization cir-
cuit employed in the mic pre-amp which enhances the high frequency spectral content
of the signal, while continuing to maintain phase integrity. The “Detail” control var-
ies the amount of high frequency shelving boost at the frequency determined by the
Spectrum control. The combination of the Spectrum and Detail controls allow pristine
high frequency equalization adjustments without the added “hash” of traditional high-
frequency EQ topologies. Premium active electronics, precision 0.1% and 1% metal film
resistors, great sounding temperature stable polypropylene capacitors, high-reliability
board-to-board connectors with gold-palladium-nickel contacts, Jensen® transformers,
gold plated Neutrik® XLRs, rare earth magnet relays with gold contacts, contribute to
the most technologically advanced preamplifier in the world.
704X
The 704X digital output card allows the dbx Blue
Series® processors to take advantage of dbx’s amazing
Type IV™ Conversion System. Its features include 44.1kHz,
48kHz, 88.2kHz, and 96kHz sample rates; 16-, 20-, or 24-
bit word length; TPDF or SNR2 noise shaping, dithering at
16 or 20 bits; synchronized outputs with low-jitter, phase-
locked loops; selectable noise-shaping algorithms; and gold-
plated AES/EBU and S/PDIF output jacks.
Digital Output Card
Quantum II
™
Digital Multi-Band Processor
The engineers at dbx® designed the Quantum II™ to be the standard
by which all digital mastering processors are measured. With our pat-
ented Type IV® Conversion System and TSE™ Tape Saturation Emulation
circuitry, the Quantum II allows your signal to retain its analog warmth
and character, while delivering the sonic clarity that today’s digital envi-
ronments demand. Other features include four-band Gating, Compres-
sion, and Limiting, or MS Gating, Compression, and Limiting. A five-band
Parametric EQ is available to change the tonal character of the signal and
the EQ can be placed either pre- or post-dynamics processing. The EQ
can also be set up as a MS EQ allowing the user to manipulate the char-
acter of the Center information (Left + Right) and the Side information
(Left – Right). The Quantum II is capable of dual mono or true stereo
operation with RMS Power Summing™. Also available on the Quantum
II™ is a Normalizer with flexible gain optimization, stereo adjust, and
an output Dither and Noise Shaping option which allows user assigned
noise shaping and output dither to 8, 16, 20 or 24 bits. The Quantum II
features sample rate conversion and low-jitter synchronized inputs and
outputs that use dbx’s proprietary clock chips.
In addition to providing a bevy of state-of-the-art features and
specifications, the Quantum II allows you to control the aforementioned
items via the included PC GUI interface. This feature in turn allows you
to keep your focus on the project at hand, while keeping your hands off
of the unit itself.
Whether you are working with DAT, DAW, or analog, the Quantum
II provides all the tools that you need to make the most of your mixes.
160SL
Page 1
Page 1
Compressor/Limiter
The 160SL combines the best features of all the great dbx® compres-
sors, past and present, and gives you more versatile performance than
ever before. In addition to having the auto attack and release as well as the
hard knee threshold characteristics of the classic dbx 160, the 160SL now
offers AutoVelocity manual mode, in addition to our classic OverEasy®
mode. dbx AutoVelocity technology allows you to find the exact attack
and release effect you are looking for. Still on board is the venerable dbx
Auto mode. Now you can set your maximum preferred settings in manual
mode, and let the 160SL do the rest for you.
The heart of any dynamics processor is its VCA. The dbx 160SL
features dual proprietary V8 VCA modules. This state-of-the-art imple-
mentation of dbx’s original Blackmer decilinear VCA boasts an unheard-
of 127dB dynamic range and ultra-low distortion. Encased in a specially
designed aluminum-zinc housing for shielding and thermal characteristics,
the V8 maintains its superior performance even in the harshest environ-
ments. The 160SL takes full advantage of the most technologically superior
components available today. The 160SL offers a plethora of features which
include: variable attack and release controls, as well as dbx’s latest limiting
algorithm PeakStopPlus™, precision 0.1% and 1% resistors, gold-palladium-
nickel contacts, Jensen® transformers, gold plated Neutrik® XLRs, and rare
earth magnet relays with gold contacts. These features are housed in a her-
metically-sealed nitrogen environment and mounted on military-grade glass
epoxy circuit boards. The end result is the most technologically advanced
compressor in the world, which offers pristine sound quality that will bring
new life and dimension to any audio piece be it live or in the studio.
Composer W.G. Snuffy Walden produces music scores for the network
hits “The West Wing,” “Once and Again,” and “Drew Carey”
“Using the dbx 786 and 160SL as a pair, we’ve been able to use minimal eq. Just using the
dbx 786 mic pre gives a really open and warm sound which is what we thrive on here.”
The Best Ears in the Business Agree
162SL
The 162SL combines the best features of
all the great dbx compressors, past and pres-
ent, and gives you more versatile performance
than ever before. In addition to having the auto
attack and release, and the hard knee thresh-
old characteristics of the classic dbx 160, the
162SL offers AutoVelocity™ manual mode,
along with our classic dbx OverEasy® mode,
made standard by the legendary dbx 165A. All
of the 160SL’s features, including variable attack
and release controls, PeakStopPlus®, as well as
dbx’s latest limiting algorithm PeakStopPlus™,
are included in the 162SL.
Compressor/Limiter
The heart of any dynamics processor is its VCA and the dbx 162SL is no different,
featuring dual proprietary dbx VCA’s. This state-of-the-art implementation of dbx’s origi-
nal Blackmer decilinear VCA boasts an unheard of dynamic range and ultra-low distor-
tion seen only previously in the Blue 160SLs. With sonic clarity designed for the studio,
the 162SL maintains its superior performance in harsh environment. “Pure enough for
the studio, rugged enough for the road,” was the engineering motto of the Purple Series
of Compressor /Limiters. Like its big brother, the 162SL takes full advantage of the best
parts available and dbx’s advanced manufacturing, including Jensen® transformers on each
output standard. Following in the footsteps of the Blue Series® 160SL with the Purple
Series 162SL, dbx continues to create to the most technologically advanced compressors
in the world.
iEQ
Page 1
Page 1
™
Digital Graphic Equalizers w/AFS
™
With an EQ heritage that has produced countless
industry standard patents and dates back more than 30
years, the dbx® iEQs™ easily live up to the dbx legacy
of uncompromising sonic integrity. In addition to unsur-
passed Equalization specs, the iEQ also offers the built-
in necessities which include AFS™ Advanced Feedback
Suppression (which removes unwanted feedback at the
push of a button), Type V™ Noise Reduction and Peak-
StopPlus™ limiting. The iEQ-Series represents a major
step forward in the performance of graphic equalizers.
From its amazing 10Hz to 22kHz frequency response,
to its 110dB dynamic range the iEQs offer out of this
world specifications with a down to earth price point.
Sure to find a home in the studio, on tour and with
installed sound venues, the iEQs are destined to take
their rightful place in the lineage of great dbx signal
processors that are the Professional’s Choice™.
iEQ-15 DUAL 15-BAND GRAPHIC EQ/LIMITER
The iEQ-15 includes two 15-band channels of 2/3-octave digital equalization.
In addition it also offers ±12 dB input gain range; switchable ±6 or ±15 dB boost/
• • • • • • Filter Type: Butterworth, Bessel, or Linkwitz-Riley - Note: PA - offers no bessel
• • • • • • Slope: 6, 12, 18 or 24 dB/octave for Butterworth or Bessel filters
12, 24, 36 or 48 dB/octave for Linkwitz-Riley filters Note: PA - offers only 12 and 24 LR
POST EQ
4 3(2) 4 4 4 4 2 Number: EQ bands per output channel
• • • Range: +/-12dB range
DYNAMICS
• • • • • • Type: Compressor/Limiter with PeakStopPlus
• • • • • Signal to Noise: >94dB, unweighted, ref. : +4dBu, 22kHz measurement bandwidth
• • • Dynamic Range: 108dB
• • • Signal to Noise Ratio: 90dB
• • • Noise Reduction: Up to 20dB of dynamic broadband noise reduction
• • Noise Reduction: Up to 10dB of dynamic broadband noise reduction
Noise Reduction In (+/-6dB and +/-15dB range)
• • • Dynamic Range: >120dB , unweighted
• • • Signal to Noise Ratio: >102dB, unweighted , ref: +4dBu, 22kHz measurement bandwidth
• • Dynamic Range: 109dB 115dB
• • • • • Signal to Noise: >94dB, unweighted, ref. : +4dBu, 22kHz measurement bandwidth
• • Digital Resolution: 24 bits
• • Sample Frequency: 48kHz
• • Latency: 2msec
FUNCTION SWITCHES
• • AFS: Activates dbx AFS
• • Type V: Activates dbx Type V
• • • Type III: Activates dbx Type III
• • • • • • • • • • EQ Bypass: Bypasses the graphic equalizer section in the signal path
• • • • • • • Low Cut (recessed): Active the 40Hz 18dB/octave Bessel high-pass filter
• • • Low Cut: Active the 50Hz 12dB/octave high-pass filter
• • • • • • • Range: (recessed) Selects either +/-6dB or +/- 15dB slider boost/cut range
• • • Range: Selects either +/-6dB or +/- 12dB slider boost/cut range
INDICATORS
• • • • • • • • • • 4-LED bar graph (Green, Green, Yellow, Red) at -10, 0, +10, and +18dBu
• • • • • Gain Reduction Meter: 4-LED bar graph (all Red) at 3, 6, and 10dB
• • • Type III
• • Type V
• • AFS™ Advanced Feedback Suppression Active: Red LED
• • • • • • • • • • EQ Bypass: Red LED
• • • • • • • • • • Clip: Red LED
• • • • • • • • • • Low Cut Active: Red LED
• • • • • +/-6dB range: Red LED
• • • +/-12dB range: Red LED
• • • • • • • +/-15dB range: Red LED
POWER SUPPLY
• • • • • • • • Operating Voltage: 100VAC 50/60Hz, 120VAC 60Hz - 230VAC 50/60Hz
12 w 12 w 15 w 24 w 24 w 12 w 24 w 24 w 17 w 17 w Power Consumption: (watts)
• • • • • • • • • • Mains Connection: IEC receptacle
DIMENSIONS: H x W
• • THD+ Noise: 0.002% typical at +4 dBu, 1 kHz, input gain at 0dB
• • THD+ Noise: 0.003% typical at +4 dBu, 1 kHz, input gain at 0dB
• • • Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz, +0/-0.5dB
• • Interchannel Crosstalk: <-85dB at 1kHz, input gain at 0dB
• Interchannel Crosstalk: <-80dB at 1kHz, input gain at 0dB
DIGITAL I/O
• • N/A Word Clock: 96kHz, 88.1 kHz, 48 kHz and 44.1 kHz - (internal) INT96, INT88.2, INT48, INT44.1,
(SuperClock) SC48, SC44.1, Word, AES/EBU, and S/PDIF.
The SuperClock frequencies are 256 times the sample frequency
• • SRC (sample rate conversion): INT44.1 and INT48, Word, SC48, SC44.1
• Converter Dynamic Range: >113dB A-weighted, >110dB unweighted, 22kHz bandwidth
Type IV
™
• • Up to 125dB with transient material, unweighted, 22kHz bandwidth
Typically 119dB with program material, A-weighted, 22kHz bandwidth
Typically 117 dB with program material, unweighted, 22kHz bandwidth