The dbx 580 Microphone Preamp brings premium, low-noise performance to your 500 Series rack, delivering up to 60dB of clean, transparent gain to reveal every detail and character of your microphones. Designed for engineers who demand clarity and flexibility, the 580 transforms low-level mic signals into powerful, high-current outputs ready for mixers, interfaces, samplers, and any device with line-level inputs.

Featuring a variable-frequency Low-Cut Filter, Low and High Detail EQ controls, and a responsive VU meter with peak indication, the dbx 580 gives you precise control over tone and dynamics. Essential studio tools such as a 20dB Pad, Polarity Invert, +48V Phantom Power, and a convenient front-panel instrument input make it a versatile solution for vocals, instruments, acoustic recordings, and more.

Whether you're tracking with vintage condensers, dynamic mics, or high-end ribbons, the dbx 580 adds warmth, depth, and definition—making it an ideal choice for professional engineers, project studios, and 500 Series enthusiasts.

dbx 580 Microphone Preamp – Key Features

• Premium Low-Noise Microphone Preamplifier

Delivers up to 60dB of clean, transparent gain, ideal for revealing detail and preserving the natural character of any microphone.

• Variable-Frequency Low-Cut Filter

Helps remove rumble, handling noise, and low-end buildup, giving you tighter, cleaner recordings.

• Low and High Detail Equalization Controls

Shape your sound with precision—add clarity, warmth, and presence directly from the preamp without relying on downstream EQ.

• 20dB Pad for High-Level Sources

Handles loud instruments, drum close-miking, and high-output condensers without distortion.

• Polarity Invert Switch

Quick phase correction for multi-mic setups, ensuring proper alignment and fuller, more focused recordings.

• +48V Phantom Power

Safely powers condenser microphones and active DI boxes for maximum flexibility in the studio.

• Front-Panel Instrument Input

Instant access for guitars, basses, and synths—perfect for quick tracking sessions.

• VU Metering & Peak Indicator

Provides accurate visual feedback, helping you set optimal gain and avoid clipping.

• 500 Series Modular Format

Fits easily into any standard 500 Series rack, making it a compact, high-quality upgrade for professional and project studios.

DBX 580 Specifications

Input Type Electronically balanced/unbalanced, RF filtered
Input Impedance 1.7kΩ
Max Input Level +15 dBu balanced or unbalanced (20dB PAD disabled) +35 dBu balanced or unbalanced (20dB PAD enabled)
Maximum Gain 60dB
CMRR >60 dB; typically >70 dB from 20 Hz – 20 kHz
Instrument Input Connector Tip-Sleeve ¼” Jack
Instrument Input Type Unbalanced
Instrument Input Impedance 500 k Ω
Max Instrument Input Level +21 dBu unbalanced
Output Type Electronically balanced/unbalanced, RF filtered
Output Impedance Balanced 30 Ohms, unbalanced 15 Ohms
Max Output Level +22dBu
EIN Typically > -128.0 dBu, 150 Ω source impedance, 22 kHz bandwidth, unweigh
Frequency Response 20Hz - 20kHz, +0/-1dB; <10Hz - 30kHz, +0/-3dB
THD+Noise <0.006% typical, 20Hz - 20kHz, 0dBu out
Power Requirements +/- 16V DC
Power Current Draw 80 mA per power rail
Power Draw 2.56 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 (0.77kg)
List price: $473.75
Price: $379.00
SKU: DBX580
Catalog: 
Processors & DSP
Brand: 
DBX
Dimensions: 12 in × 10 in × 4 in
Weight: 4 lb