Harman’s dbx Professional has introduced new 500 series processors, including the 560A compressor/limiter, 530 parametric EQ, 580 mic pre, 520 de-esser and 510 sub harmonic synth.
The 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 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 simple due to the 560A’s ladder-style LED RMS gain-reduction and input/output meter displays with true RMS level detection.
Based on the classic dbx 905, the 530 parametric EQ is a 3-band parametric equalizer with selectable bell or shelf-type filters on the low- and high-frequency bands, and adjustable Q on each band. It allows adjustment of level and bandwidth at frequencies that have been carefully chosen for maximum musical effectiveness.
The 580 mic pre is designed to deliver pristine audio quality with clarity, nuance and presence. Its custom-designed, low-noise mic preamp circuitry provides up to 60 dB 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.
The 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 800 Hz to 8k Hz and provides de-essing ranging from 0 dB to 20 dB. Its gain reduction metering provides at-a-glance indication of the amount of de-essing applied.
The 510 sub harmonic synth provides deep, powerful bass that’s 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, synthesizer, bass drum or other instrument, it can add a subterranean punch. 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,” says 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.”
Pricing: 560A compressor/limiter, $399; 530 parametric EQ, $399; 580 mic pre, $499; 520 de-esser, $299; 510 sub harmonic synth, $299. The 560A will be the first product in the series to ship, available in April 2015, with the others following soon after.
