DBX 286S
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Manufacturer Information
DBX
https://www.dbxpro.com
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A Modernized Successor to the 286A
Direct successor to the very popular 286A, the dbx 286S features a redesigned front panel and updated electronics based on recent components. This evolution preserves the dbx sonic character-clear, punchy, and reliable-while offering more readable ergonomics and optimized performance for today's studios.
Designed for Voice, Podcasting, and Direct Input
Whether you're recording voice-over, podcast, streaming, or vocals in a booth, the 286S stands as an efficient analog gateway before your audio interface. Its integrated processing chain reduces reliance on plugins, lowers perceived headphone latency, and secures professional levels both live and on-air.
Precise Processing for a Mix-Ready Result
Complete Chain, Easy to Control
Each section can be engaged separately to apply only what's necessary: a touch of compression to stabilize the voice, a targeted de-esser to tame sibilance, the enhancer to add brightness and body, and the expander/gate to clean up silences. The insert allows adding an external processor if needed.
Controlled Dynamics, dbx Style
The OverEasy compressor ensures smooth transitions that keep the signal upfront without artifacts. The expander/gate, with dedicated threshold and ratio, ranges from subtle noise reduction to sharp gating of overly noisy takes.
Sculpting Timbre, Enhancing Intelligibility
The variable-frequency de-esser precisely targets problematic areas, while the HF/LF enhancer adds detail to highs and density to lows. The 80 Hz high-pass filter maintains a clean low end by removing unwanted vibrations.
Technical specifications
| Category | Preamp |
| Number of channels | 1 |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz - 20 kHz |
| Rack unit | 1 |
| Threshold | -40 dB to +20 dBu, OverEasy |
| Maximum compression | 30 dB |
| Distortion | < 0.05% (20 Hz-20 kHz), 15 dB G/R; +10 dBu |
| Frequency range | 800 Hz to 10 kHz, 12 dB/octave slope |
| Release time | program-dependent, 1 ms/dB |
| HF | signal-dependent shelving equalizer; approximately 15 dB max high-frequency gain |
| LF | bell EQ gain/80 Hz and cut/250 Hz, ratio 2:1 |
| Ratio | adjustable from 1.5:1 to 10:1 |
| Maximum attenuation | > 50 dB |
| Attack time | signal-dependent, about 2 ms |
| Mic input gain | 0 to +60 dB |
| Line input gain | -15 to +45 dB |
| Max mic input level | 0.25 Vrms, gain -30 dB |
| Max line input level | > +21 dB |
| Max output level | +21 dBu / 600 Ohms |
| Distortion + Noise | < 0.08% (20 Hz-20 kHz), processing bypassed |
| Signal-to-noise ratio | < -85 dBu unweighted |
| Height | 1U |
| Dimensions | 45 x 146 x 485 mm |
| Weight | 2.05 kg |
Questions frequently asked
Is the DBX 286S suitable for podcast or streaming vocals?
The built-in chain combines microphone preamp, OverEasy compressor, de-esser, enhancer, and expander/gate. The 80 Hz high-pass filter helps reduce unwanted rumble. An insert allows integration of an external processor into the signal path.
What microphone gain does this dbx preamp offer?
The preamp provides adjustable mic input gain from 0 to +60 dB. The line input covers a range from -15 to +45 dB.
What frequency can the de-esser target?
The de-esser operates over an adjustable range from 800 Hz to 10 kHz, with a 12 dB per octave slope.
Does the 286S gate strongly reduce noise between phrases?
The expander/gate features an adjustable threshold and ratio from 1.5:1 to 10:1. Its maximum attenuation exceeds 50 dB for subtle cleaning or more pronounced cutting of silence.
Is the format suitable for rack installation?
In a 1U rack size, this processor fits into a studio setup. Its stated frequency response spans from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
