The dbx 530 3-Band Parametric Equalizer is a professional 500 Series audio processor designed for precise tonal shaping in recording studios, live sound systems, and professional audio production. Inspired by the classic dbx 905 equalizer, the 530 provides independent frequency, gain, and bandwidth (Q) adjustments across three fully parametric EQ bands, giving engineers detailed control over the sound of individual instruments, vocals, and complete mixes.
Featuring selectable peak/dip filtering, low- and high-frequency shelving, and infinite notch modes, the dbx 530 offers flexible equalization for both creative sound shaping and corrective audio processing. Its compact single-slot 500 Series design allows easy integration into compatible powered modular processing racks.
Features & Benefits
Three Fully Parametric EQ Bands
The dbx 530 provides independent low-, mid-, and high-frequency bands, each with adjustable frequency, gain, and Q controls.
Unlike fixed-frequency graphic equalizers, the 530 allows engineers to select specific frequencies and adjust the bandwidth of each filter for more precise tonal control.
Adjustable Frequency Ranges
Each band covers a dedicated frequency range:
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Low Band: 20 Hz to 500 Hz for bass, warmth, and low-frequency adjustments.
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Mid Band: 200 Hz to 5 kHz for vocal presence, instrument definition, and midrange correction.
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High Band: 800 Hz to 20 kHz for brightness, detail, and high-frequency shaping.
The overlapping frequency ranges provide additional flexibility when targeting problem frequencies.
Selectable Peak and Shelving Filters
All three bands support symmetrical peak/dip filtering for targeted frequency adjustments.
The low and high bands also offer shelving modes, allowing broader tonal changes across bass and treble frequencies.
This makes the 530 useful for both detailed corrective equalization and musical tone shaping.
Infinite Notch Filtering
Each EQ band can be switched to an infinite notch mode, providing deep attenuation of selected frequencies.
With typical notch attenuation greater than 40 dB, this feature is useful for reducing unwanted resonances, narrowband noise, and other problematic frequencies.
Adjustable Q for Precise Control
Individual Q controls determine the bandwidth of each EQ adjustment.
Narrower settings allow focused frequency correction, while wider settings provide smoother tonal shaping across a broader range.
EQ Bypass for Quick Comparison
A front-panel ON switch allows the equalization circuit to be engaged or bypassed.
This provides a convenient way to compare processed and unprocessed audio while adjusting EQ settings.
Compact 500 Series Module
The dbx 530 occupies a single slot in a compatible powered 500 Series chassis.
Its modular design is well suited for recording studios, mobile production racks, and professional audio systems where rack space is limited.
Key Features
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Professional 3-band fully parametric equalizer
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Inspired by the classic dbx 905 EQ design
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Independent frequency, gain, and Q controls
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Low-frequency adjustment from 20 Hz to 500 Hz
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Mid-frequency adjustment from 200 Hz to 5 kHz
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High-frequency adjustment from 800 Hz to 20 kHz
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Selectable peak/dip filtering on all three bands
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Low- and high-frequency shelving options
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Infinite notch mode with greater than 40 dB typical attenuation
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±15 dB EQ boost/cut range
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Front-panel EQ ON/bypass switch
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Single-slot 500 Series module design
Ideal Applications
The dbx 530 is suitable for professional audio applications requiring detailed frequency control, including recording and mixing studios, vocal and instrument processing, live sound production, mobile recording systems, and modular analog processing racks.
It can be used for correcting unwanted resonances, enhancing instrument definition, adjusting vocal presence, and shaping the overall tonal character of audio signals.
dbx 530 Technical Specifications
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Specification
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Details
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Manufacturer
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dbx Professional
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Model
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530
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Product Type
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3-Band Parametric Equalizer
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Module Format
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500 Series
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EQ Bands
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3
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Input Type
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Electronically balanced/unbalanced, RF filtered
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Input Impedance
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40kΩ balanced; 20kΩ unbalanced
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Maximum Input Level
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+22 dBu
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CMRR
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Greater than 40 dB; typically greater than 55 dB at 1 kHz
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Output Type
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Electronically balanced/unbalanced, RF filtered
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Output Impedance
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30Ω balanced; 15Ω unbalanced
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Maximum Output Level
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+22 dBu
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Frequency Response
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20 Hz–20 kHz, +0/−1 dB
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Extended Frequency Response
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Below 10 Hz–30 kHz, +0/−3 dB
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Noise
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−90 dBu, unweighted (22 Hz–22 kHz)
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THD + Noise
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Typically less than 0.006%, 20 Hz–20 kHz at 0 dBu output
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Dynamic Range
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112 dB
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EQ Filter Type
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Symmetrical peak/dip on all bands
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Shelving Filters
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Selectable on low and high bands
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Infinite Notch Mode
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Selectable on all three bands
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Low Band Frequency Range
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20 Hz–500 Hz
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Mid Band Frequency Range
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200 Hz–5 kHz
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High Band Frequency Range
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800 Hz–20 kHz
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EQ Gain Range
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±15 dB, peak or shelf
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Q Control
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Independently adjustable on each band
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Infinite Notch Attenuation
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Typically greater than 40 dB
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EQ Bypass
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Front-panel ON switch
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Power Requirements
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±16V DC
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Current Draw
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85 mA per power rail
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Power Consumption
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2.72W
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Rack Compatibility
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Compatible powered 500 Series chassis
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Rack Space
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1 module slot
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Dimensions
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5.25"H × 1.5"W × 6"D
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Net Weight
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1.3 lbs (0.59 kg)
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Shipping Weight
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1.7 lbs (0.77 kg)
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Installation and Compatibility
The dbx 530 requires a compatible powered 500 Series chassis supplying ±16V DC. It cannot operate independently and must be installed in a suitable modular processing frame.
Audio input and output connections are provided through the chassis, so external connector types depend on the selected frame.
The module can be integrated into compatible professional line-level audio systems for individual channel equalization or other analog processing applications.
Need a Compatible 500 Series Chassis?
The dbx 530 Parametric Equalizer requires a powered 500 Series chassis with an available module slot and sufficient power capacity.
Before purchasing, verify that the chassis supports the dbx 530's ±16V DC requirements and provides suitable audio connections.
Why Buy the dbx 530 from Audio Supply?
Audio Supply offers professional dbx audio processing equipment for recording, live sound, and installed applications. The dbx 530 provides precise analog equalization, flexible filter options, and compact modular integration for professional audio systems.
