The DBX 286s - Should every podcaster own one?

[Spencer Kobren]

I'm not sure, but I think I might have been the first internet broadcaster to have two dbx 286As as part of my rig! Using them since 2009 and love them! Important article Andrew…Keep them coming!

[Dan Ortego]

Wow! That was a great sound clip for my aging old damaged ears and the difference was considerable. The modulation and tone dropped to completely flat and lifeless with the bypass engaged. I regret sending the one back that I had but frankly, the demo from Mark Jensen gave me pause. Not sure if it was the combination with his RE20 or the settings he chose, but I also wanted something with a bit more adjustability.

Anyway, I'm on the fence today to purchase a different microphone preamp and I have to say that some of our fellow forum members may call me crazy. Unfortunately, I have a habit of pushing the envelope a bit too far so hopefully I'll hold off and just reorder the 286.

By the way Andrew, that was an excellent article and very well written.

[AlBurr]

In my search to solve noise issues in my audio chain I came upon a post at VoiceOver Universe about setting up your 286a which I believe applies to the 286s as well. I found it helpful to read it, and the responses. Hope it is helpful to anyone else trying to better understand this stuff...

http://www.voiceoveruniverse.com/profiles/blogs/dbx-286a-quickstart-guide?id=2070077%3ABlogPost%3A188461&page=1#commen ts

[andrewzarian]

I think it all comes down to your setup and environment.Everyone will have a different setting

I personally never use the De-Esser

[AlBurr]

Andrew that is so true. It was funny to see people asking others "what are your settings?". Between the environment and your voice and even your voice at different times of the day, weather conditions etc etc...it appears affect and can change the settings. No two people are alike.

[andrewzarian]

I have set up a few DBX 286's and every time the settings have been different. One thing I stand by is "Less is more" dont over do the Boom and Sizzle

[bigsix]

OK, my DBX 286s is arriving tomorrow. I have a question for you experts out there. Is this thing easy to set up and what kind of cable(s) will I need?

[andrewzarian]

Very easy to set up. I suggest getting a few high end TRS Cables. Also always remember that less is more.

[bigsix]

Very easy to set up. I suggest getting a few high end TRS Cables. Also always remember that less is more.

I have the XLR mic cables and TRS cables. So do I just take the XLR from my mixer and connect it to the DBX and then run a TRS from the DBX to the mixer? I don't have any other devices (yet) connected to the mixer, other than my monitors and my computer via the USB on the mixer.

Thanks

[andrewzarian]

Microphone connects to the DBX Via XLR.... Line out from DBX into the mixer