At NAMM 2015, HARMAN’s dbx is introducing its 500 Series processors, five compact yet powerful half-rack-space recording studio signal processors. The new 500 Series models include the 560A Compressor/Limiter, 530 Parametric EQ, 580 Mic Pre, 520 De-Esser and 510 Sub Harmonic Synth.
Photo above - dbx 560A Compressor/Limiter (click for hi-res version)
The dbx 560A Compressor/Limiter provides flexible control of dynamics including threshold, compression ratio and output gain. It offers selectable classic hard-knee compression or exclusive OverEasy® mode incorporating dbx’s highly musical program-dependent attack and release times. The compression ratio is variable from 1:1 through infinity:1 to -1:1 and the 560A also has a unique Infinity+ compression mode using negative ratios. Adjustment is easy thanks to the 560A’s ladder-style LED RMS gain-reduction and input/output meter displays with true RMS level detection.
Photo above - dbx 530 Parametric EQ (click for hi-res version)
Based on the classic dbx 905, the dbx 530 Parametric EQ is a 3-band parametric equaliser with selectable bell or shelf-type filters on the low- and high-frequency bands, and adjustable Q on each band. The dbx 530 allows adjustment of level and bandwidth at frequencies that have been carefully chosen for maximum musical effectiveness.
Photo above - dbx 580 Mic Pre (click of hi-res version)
Great studio sound starts with a great mic preamp – and the dbx 580 Mic Pre is designed to deliver pristine audio quality with exceptional clarity, nuance and presence. Its custom-designed, premium ultra-low-noise mic preamp circuitry provides up to 60dB of gain and can accommodate mic or line-level signals. Controls for Gain, Low Cut, High Detail, Low Detail and Polarity Invert allow precise sonic tailoring and the large analog VU meter combines old school visual appeal with accurate level indication.
Photo above - dbx 520 De-Esser (click for hi-res version)
The dbx 520 De-Esser is remarkably effective at removing sibilance from vocals for smooth, professional-quality recordings. Taking its heritage from the acclaimed dbx 902, the 520 has a frequency control range from 800Hz to 8kHz and provides de-essing ranging from 0dB to 20dB. Its gain reduction metering provides at-a-glance indication of the amount of de-essing applied.
Photo above - dbx 510 Sub Harmonic Synth (click for hi-res version)
The dbx 510 Sub Harmonic Synth enhances any recording with deep, powerful bass an octave lower than the original signal. Whether it’s used for adding low-frequency impact to an entire track or beefing up an electric bass, synthesiser, bass drum or other instrument, the dbx 510 adds the subterranean punch today’s producers, musicians and listeners demand. The 510 includes a low-frequency boost, subharmonic level and frequency range controls.
“Our 500 Series processors bring renowned dbx signal processing to a smaller footprint than ever before while delivering the signature sound quality engineers, producers and musicians know they can rely on from dbx,” said Jason Kunz, Market Manager, Portable PA and Recording & Broadcast at HARMAN Signal Processing. “In addition to taking up little real estate, they’re extremely simple to use yet provide the sound-tailoring flexibility needed to create the perfect track or final mix.”
dbx is distributed in the UK and ROI by Sound Technology Ltd. For more information please call Sound Technology Ltd on 01462 480000 or visit www.soundtech.co.uk/dbx.
