DBX 286 S

The dbx 286s is a full-featured channel strip that gives you a wide range of signal processing options. In addition to an input section for microphone and line signals, four other processors including a compressor and de-esser are available, which can be used individually and in different combinations. On the rear panel, the 286s offers an XLR microphone input and a line input and output plus an insert jack, which is located in the signal chain between the preamp and compressor. The dbx 286s also features several LED meters and status LEDs for important parameters such as gain reduction, clipping, and level. Thanks to its affordable price, the dbx 286s can be recommended for beginners in particular.

The input section features a mic preamp with 60dB of gain, 48V phantom power, and an 80Hz high-pass filter. Next in the signal chain is the patented OverEasy compressor with drive and density as well as a fixed 4:1 ratio. The attack and release parameters vary depending on the level. A de-esser section with adjustable frequency range and threshold is located at the end. The subsequent enhancer section comes with independent controls for bass and treble. As the LF enhancer boosts at 80Hz and cuts at 250Hz using a Bell EQ, the HF enhancer works with a level-dependent shelving filter, whereby both the amplitude and the input frequency are controlled. The final processor is a noise gate with controls for attack and threshold. At the end of the chain, the level can be lowered by 30dB or raised by 10dB via an output control.

With the dbx 286s, you get a lot of analogue processing options at an incredible price. Although the processors are limited to two adjustable parameters each, they deliver more than merely satisfactory results thanks to their preset parameters, some of which are level-dependent. This kind of easy-to-use control is especially useful for beginners who want to produce a decent sound in a short period of time without a lot of fuss. So if you don't have the budget for devices from SSL & Co. but still want to work "outside the box" with 19" hardware, you will have a lot of fun with the dbx 286s.