dbx 530 - 3-Band Parametric Equalizer with Selectable Bell or Shelf Type Filters in Black Finish

The dbx 530 is a versatile and highly-regarded 3-band parametric equalizer designed for professional audio applications in both studio and live sound environments. Compliant with the 500 series format, the dbx 530 is built upon the renowned circuit of the classic dbx 905, offering a robust set of features that allow for precise frequency sculpting and control.

This equalizer provides full parametric control over each of its three bands, making it an excellent choice for engineers seeking to add analog console-style EQ to their recording chains or mix signals with enhanced flexibility. Whether used in the recording phase to prepare tracks for mixing or during mixing to fine-tune audio, the dbx 530 delivers exceptional performance and ease of use.

The dbx 530 features three fully parametric bands with independently adjustable frequency, bandwidth (Q), and gain controls, allowing for up to 15 dB of cut or boost per band. This configuration provides comprehensive control over the frequency spectrum, enabling engineers to address specific tonal issues or enhance desirable characteristics in their audio signals. The frequency bands are designed to overlap, offering creative flexibility for more complex EQ tasks.

One of the standout features of the dbx 530 is its ability to switch the low and high bands between peaking and shelving filters using the SHELF buttons. This dual functionality ensures that the equalizer can accommodate a wide range of EQ requirements, from precise adjustments with peaking filters to broader tonal shaping with shelving filters.

Additionally, the dbx 530 includes an innovative "Infinite Notch" mode for each band, which can be activated by turning the gain control fully counter-clockwise until it clicks. This mode is particularly useful for extreme notch filtering applications, such as removing feedback frequencies or addressing narrowband resonances. The Infinite Notch mode provides exceptionally deep attenuation, typically exceeding 40 dB, making it a powerful tool for detailed audio correction.

For quick comparisons between processed and unprocessed signals, the dbx 530 features a hard-wired bypass accessible via the IN/OUT switch. This functionality allows engineers to evaluate the impact of their EQ adjustments in real-time, ensuring that the final mix meets their desired specifications.

In terms of connectivity, the dbx 530 supports electronically balanced and unbalanced inputs and outputs, both RF filtered to minimize interference. The unit handles a maximum input and output level of +22 dBu, with a dynamic range of 112 dB and a noise floor of -90 dBu. Its performance specifications include a frequency response of 20 Hz - 20 kHz (+0/-1 dB) and a broader range of <10 Hz - 30 kHz (+0/-3 dB).

The dbx 530 is powered by a +/- 16V DC supply and has a current draw of 85 mA per rail. It is designed to fit into a standard 1-slot 500 series power-frame, with compact dimensions of 6 x 5.25 x 1.5 inches and a weight of 1.3 lbs. This ensures easy integration into any 500 series rack setup.

In summary, the dbx 530 3-Band Parametric Equalizer offers exceptional flexibility, precision, and functionality for both studio and live sound applications. Its combination of parametric control, selectable filter types, and innovative features make it an indispensable tool for professional audio engineers seeking to refine and enhance their audio signals.

Features

• Based on the classic dbx 905 circuit for proven performance
• 3-band fully parametric EQ with adjustable frequency, bandwidth (Q), and gain
• Each band offers up to ±15 dB of cut or boost
• Selectable peaking or shelving filters for low and high-frequency bands
• "Infinite Notch" mode for extreme notch filtering, with attenuation typically > 40 dB
• Hard-wired bypass for instant comparison of processed vs. unprocessed signals
• Electronically balanced/unbalanced inputs and outputs with RF filtering
• Handles maximum input and output levels of +22 dBu
• Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz (+0/-1 dB), <10 Hz - 30 kHz (+0/-3 dB)
• Dynamic range: 112 dB, noise floor: -90 dBu
• Compact 500 series format: 1 slot, dimensions of 6 x 5.25 x 1.5 inches, weight of 1.3 lbs
• Power requirements: +/- 16V DC, 85 mA current draw per rail, 2.72 watts power draw

Specifications

Input

• Type: Electronically balanced/unbalanced, RF filtered
• Impedance: 40 kΩ balanced, 20 kΩ unbalanced
• Maximum Input Level: +22 dBu
• CMRR: >40 dB; typically >55 dB at 1 kHz

Output

• Type: Electronically balanced/unbalanced, RF filtered
• Impedance: Balanced 30 Ω, unbalanced 15 Ω
• Maximum Output Level: +22 dBu

Performance

• Frequency Response:
• 20 Hz - 20 kHz, +0/-1 dB
• <10 Hz - 30 kHz, +0/-3 dB
• Noise: -90 dBu, Unweighted (22 Hz - 22 kHz)
• THD+N: <0.006% typical, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 0 dBu out
• Dynamic Range: 112 dB

EQ

• Filter Type: Each band symmetrical peak/dip, each band switchable to Infinite Notch mode, high and low bands switchable to symmetrical shelving
• Center Frequencies: Low band = 20 Hz - 500 Hz, mid band = 200 Hz - 5 kHz, high band = 800 Hz - 20 kHz
• Range: ±15 dB, peak or shelved
• Infinite Notch Attenuation: Typically > 40 dB

Power

• Requirements: +/- 16V DC
• Current Draw: 85 mA per power rail
• Power Draw: 2.72 watts

Physical

• Rack System: 500 Series Compatible Power-frame
• Rack Space: 1 Slot
• Dimensions 6 x 5.25 x 1.5 inches
• Weight: 1.3 lbs
• Shipping Weight: 1.7 lbs