dbx dB12 - Active Direct Box with Stackable Chassis and XLR Connector in Black Finish

The dbx dB12 is a high-performance active direct box that represents dbx's commitment to superior audio quality and rugged reliability. Designed with both studio and live sound applications in mind, the dB12 combines advanced technology with robust construction, making it an ideal choice for professionals seeking exceptional performance and durability.

The dB12's standout feature is its custom dbx mu-metal-shielded transformer, which ensures pristine signal integrity and minimal interference. This is complemented by high-quality Neutrik connectors, renowned for their reliability and durability. The active circuitry within the dB12 provides low-noise operation, preserving the true characteristics of your signal with high fidelity.

One of the key features of the dB12 is its versatile 3-way pad switch, which allows users to handle a range of signal levels including instrument, line, and speaker levels. The pad switch offers three attenuation settings: 0 dB, 20 dB, and 40 dB, enabling precise control over input levels to avoid distortion. Additionally, the 40 dB pad position includes a switchable low-pass filter at 6 kHz, which helps to clean up the signal and reduce unwanted high-frequency noise.

The dB12 also includes a polarity invert switch, which is useful for adjusting the phase relationship between the direct and mic'd signals. This feature is particularly beneficial in multi-miked setups, such as recording drums or other instruments with multiple microphones. For added versatility, the direct box features a parallel 1/4-inch thru jack, allowing for seamless integration into complex signal chains without affecting the main signal path.

Designed with a stackable chassis, the dB12 provides a solid and stable base that prevents accidental movement during use. The unique contoured underside allows for secure stacking of multiple units, making it a practical choice for live sound environments where several direct boxes are needed. The robust metal casting and powder coat finish ensure durability and a professional appearance that can withstand the rigors of touring and studio use.

The dB12 operates with +48V phantom power, making it suitable for use with condenser microphones. A green LED indicator provides a visual confirmation of phantom power status. The direct box features premium chrome toggle switches and a ground lift switch to eliminate hum and buzz caused by ground loops, ensuring a clean and interference-free signal.

In terms of performance, the dB12 delivers impressive specifications with a frequency response of 16 Hz to 30 kHz ±3 dB at 600 ? load, and 10 Hz to 70 kHz ±3 dB at 2 k? or higher load. The harmonic distortion is exceptionally low, with THD+N values of 0.03% at 50 Hz, 0.003% at 1 kHz, and 0.005% at 10 kHz. The noise floor is remarkably low at -112 dBu, and the dynamic range reaches 122 dB, providing excellent clarity and precision for all audio applications.

In summary, the dbx dB12 Active Direct Box is a top-tier solution for high-quality signal conversion, featuring advanced technology, durable construction, and versatile controls. Whether on stage or in the studio, the dB12 ensures reliable, interference-free performance, making it a valuable addition to any professional audio setup.

Features

• Premium performance with dbx mu-metal-shielded custom transformer
• Rugged metal casting with powder coat finish for durability
• Stackable chassis design with contoured underside for secure stacking
• Gold-plated Neutrik XLR connector for balanced output
• Premium chrome toggle switches for reliability
• Hi-Z 1/4" input jack and parallel 1/4" thru jack
• Transformer isolated for minimal interference
• Balanced XLR Lo-Z output
• 3-way pad switch (0/20/40 dB) for handling various signal levels
• Flat/High-cut filter switch with low-pass filter at 6 kHz (40 dB pad only)
• Output polarity invert switch for phase adjustment
• Ground lift switch to eliminate hum and buzz
• +48V phantom powered operation with green LED indicator
• Low-noise active circuitry for high fidelity
• Frequency response: 16 Hz to 30 kHz ±3 dB (600 ? load), 10 Hz to 70 kHz ±3 dB (2 k? or higher load)
• Harmonic distortion: 0.03% typical at 50 Hz, 0.003% at 1 kHz, 0.005% at 10 kHz
• Noise floor: -112 dBu, 22 Hz to 22 kHz, unweighted
• Dynamic range: 122 dB, 22 Hz to 22 kHz, unweighted
• Dimensions: 5.82 x 5.44 x 2.20 inches; weight: 1.5 lbs
• 4-year warranty for peace of mind

Specifications

Input

• Number of Connectors: 1 Instrument/Line/Speaker level
• Connection: 1/4-inch TS (Tip Hot, Sleeve Ground)
• Type: Unbalanced, RF Filtered
• Attenuation Pad: Switchable: 0, 20, 40 dB
• Filter: Switchable: Low Pass @ 6 kHz (40 dB pad position only)
• Max Input Level
  • (0 dB Pad): +10 dBu typical @ 1 kHz with <1% THD
  • (20 dB Pad): +30 dBu typical @ 1 kHz with <1% THD
  • (40 dB Pad): +33 dBu
• Input Impedance
  • (0dB): 1 MΩ
  • (-20dB): 65 kΩ
  • (-40dB): 70 kΩ

Outputs

• Number of Connectors: 2
• Main Output: Male XLR, Balanced, Pin 2 Hot
• THRU Output: 1/4-inch Unbalanced TS (Tip Hot, Sleeve Ground)
• Main Output Impedance: 600 Ω typical, balanced
• Main Output CMRR
  • (60 Hz): 106 dB typical @ 60 Hz
  • (1 kHz): 123 dB typical @ 1 kHz
  • (10 kHz) 108 dB typical @ 10 kHz
• Output Polarity: Switchable: Normal / Invert

Performance

• Bandwidth:
  • 20 Hz to 20 kHz +0/-2 dB typical with 600 Ω load
  • 20 Hz to 20 kHz +0/-1 dB typical with 2 kΩ or higher load
• Frequency Response:
  • 16 Hz to 30 kHz, -3 dB, with 600 Ω Load
  • 10 Hz to 70 kHz, -3 dB, with 2 kΩ or higher load
• Phase Deviation (Input to Output): +40 deg @ 20 Hz, -20 deg @ 20 kHz into 2 kΩ load
• Harmonic Distortion (THD+N):
  • 0.03% typical @ 50 Hz, 0 dBu
  • 0.003% typical @ 1 kHz, 0 dBu
  • 0.005%typical @ 10 kHz, 0 dBu
• Noise Floor: -112 dBu, 22 Hz to 22 kHz, unweighted
• Dynamic Range: 122 dB, 22 Hz to 22 kHz, unweighted

Power Supply

• Voltage: +48 V Phantom Power
• Current: < 8 mA
• Ground: Switchable: Ground / Lift

Physical

• Dimensions: 5.82 x 5.44 x 2.20 inches
• Weight: 1.5 lbs
• Construction: Metal Casting
• Finish: Powder Coat