Achieve professional, crystal-clear sound with the dbx 520 De-Esser, a 500 Series processor built for precision sibilance control in vocals, instruments, and complex audio material. Based on the legendary dbx 902, the 520 allows engineers, producers, and sound technicians to tame harsh high-frequency content while maintaining the natural tone and dynamics of the original signal. Whether in the studio, live sound, or broadcast environment, the dbx 520 provides reliable and consistent performance for all your critical audio applications.

The dbx 520 offers advanced de-essing control with a frequency range from 800Hz to 8kHz, letting you target sibilant peaks in vocals, cymbals, and other high-frequency dense instruments. With an adjustable de-essing amount from 0dB to 20dB, you can tailor the effect to subtle smoothing or aggressive sibilance reduction without introducing distortion or affecting the overall mix. The processor also features expanded LED gain reduction metering, providing visual feedback for precise monitoring and adjustment of signal processing.

Designed for professional flexibility, the dbx 520 includes an In/Out switch for easy bypass, and a HF mode switch to fine-tune response depending on the signal type. Its modular 500 Series form factor allows seamless integration into any compatible rack setup, offering convenience and scalability for both live sound rigs and studio configurations.

The dbx 520 is ideal for controlling excessive sibilance in vocals, percussive instruments, drum overheads, and reverb-heavy tracks, ensuring clarity and intelligibility in complex mixes. Its precise and adaptive processing helps maintain consistent levels, even with dynamic audio material that varies by as much as 60dB. With its intuitive interface, robust design, and legendary dbx sound quality, the 520 De-Esser is a must-have tool for professional audio engineers seeking polished, high-fidelity results.

dbx 520 Key Features:

  • 500 Series modular design for easy integration

  • Frequency control range: 800Hz – 8kHz

  • Adjustable de-essing range: 0dB – 20dB

  • Expanded LED gain reduction metering

  • In/Out bypass switch for quick comparison

  • HF mode switch for optimized high-frequency response

  • Works on vocals, drums, percussive instruments, and reverb-heavy material

  • Precision, consistent performance for studio, live, and broadcast applications

Bring clarity, smoothness, and professional control to your mixes with the dbx 520 De-Esser, the ultimate solution for high-frequency management in any audio environment.

dbx 520 Specifications

Input Type Electronically balanced/unbalanced, RF filtered
Input Impedance 20 k Ω balanced, 10 k Ω unbalanced
Max Input Level +22 dBu
CMRR >40 dB; typically >55 dB at 1 kHz
Output Type Electronically balanced/unbalanced, RF filtered
Output Impedance Balanced 30Ω , unbalanced 15Ω
Max Output Level +22 dBu
Frequency Response 20Hz – 20kHz, + 0/-0.5dB; 14 Hz – 120 kHz, +0/-3 dB
Noise <-99 dBu, Unweighted (22 Hz – 22 kHz)
THD+Noise <0.006% typical, No compression, 1 input kHz at 0 dBu
Dynamic Range >114 dB
GAIN Unity
Crossover Point Variable 800 Hz to 8 kHz
Crossover Filter Type 12 dB/octave, phase coherent
De-essing Range Operates uniformly over input range of -40 dBu to +22 dBu without requiring adjustment
Maximum Attenuation Variable 0 to 20 dB
Attack Rate Program-dependent, 2 ms for 10 dB above threshold, 600 μs for 20 dB above threshold, to achieve 63% gain reduction
Release Rate 925 dB/sec
Controls Frequency, Range
Switches IN/OUT, Mode (HF ONLY/NORMAL)
Indicators IN/OUT, HF ONLY
Metering LED Column: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 15, 20 dB gain reduction
Power Requirements +/- 16V DC
Power Current Draw 76 mA per power rail
Power Draw 2.4 watts
Rack System Compatibility 500 Series Compatible Power-frame
Rack Space 1 Slot
Dimensions (H x W x D) 5.25” x 1.5” x 6” (13.34 cm x 3.81 cm x 15.24 cm)
Weight 1.3 lbs (0.59 kg)
Shipping Weight 1.7 lbs (0.77 kg)

 

List price: $367.50
Price: $295.00