DBX 530 Parametric EQ - 500 Series - DBX530

Product Overview

The DBX 530 is a fully parametric 3-band equalizer in the 500-series format, based on the classic dbx 905 and providing true parametric operation across all three filter bands with independent control of frequency, bandwidth (Q), and gain in a single module slot. With a dynamic range of 112 dB and THD+N below 0.006%, the 530 handles precision frequency correction, creative sound shaping, and surgical notch filtering for recording studio, broadcast studio, and live sound applications. Each band can be independently switched to infinite notch mode for removal of spurious tones, and the high and low bands can be switched between peaking and shelving operation.

Product Description

The DBX 530 500-series parametric EQ provides three fully parametric bands with overlapping frequency ranges: low band from 20 Hz to 500 Hz, mid band from 200 Hz to 5 kHz, and high band from 800 Hz to 20 kHz. Each band provides +/-15 dB of gain in both peak and shelving modes, with adjustable Q (bandwidth) control that allows narrow surgical correction or broad tonal shaping from the same knob. The overlapping band ranges mean that virtually any problem frequency can be addressed by more than one band, providing flexibility when multiple issues occupy adjacent frequency regions.

The infinite notch mode on each band provides greater than 40 dB of attenuation at the selected frequency without affecting the operation of the other bands. This is particularly useful in live sound feedback elimination, broadcast RF interference removal, and recording sessions where a specific resonant frequency needs to be eliminated without broadband coloration. The high and low bands switch independently between symmetrical peak/dip and symmetrical shelving operation, making the 530 function as both a parametric corrective tool and a tonal shaping processor in the same unit.

The in/out comparison switch allows instant before/after comparison of the equalization being applied, essential for evaluating the effect of subtle corrections. With a maximum input level of +22 dBu, 40 kOhm balanced input impedance, and RF-filtered electronically balanced I/O, the 530 integrates cleanly into any professional 500-series signal chain. Available at Creation Networks for recording studio, broadcast, and live sound 500-series builds.

Key Features

• True Fully Parametric 3-Band EQ — Independent frequency, Q, and gain control on all three bands based on the classic dbx 905.
• Infinite Notch Mode (Each Band) — Greater than 40 dB of attenuation at the selected frequency, switchable independently per band.
• Selectable Peak or Shelving (High and Low Bands) — High and low bands switch between symmetrical peaking and shelving operation for tonal shaping flexibility.
• +/-15 dB Gain Range — Equal cut and boost on all three bands for precise, complementary filter action.
• Overlapping Band Frequencies — Low (20 Hz-500 Hz), mid (200 Hz-5 kHz), and high (800 Hz-20 kHz) bands overlap to address any frequency from multiple bands.
• Dynamic Range 112 dB — Preserves the full dynamic range of professional digital recording systems.
• In/Out Comparison Switch — Instant bypass comparison allows accurate evaluation of equalization changes.
• 500-Series Single-Slot Format — Fits any standard 500-series compatible power frame; draws only 2.72 watts.

Typical Applications

• Recording studio
• Broadcast studio
• House of worship
• Auditorium

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between the 530's infinite notch mode and standard cut?

Standard parametric cut reduces gain by up to 15 dB at the selected frequency. Infinite notch mode provides more than 40 dB of attenuation, effectively eliminating a very narrow band of frequencies such as a feedback tone or RF interference spike.

Q: Can all three bands on the 530 be in infinite notch mode simultaneously?

Yes. Each band's infinite notch mode operates independently of the others, allowing up to three separate frequencies to be notched simultaneously without affecting the rest of the frequency response.

Q: Does the 530 have a bypass switch?

Yes. The in/out switch allows instant comparison between the processed and unprocessed signal for accurate evaluation of equalization changes.

Q: What is the Q range on the 530?

dbx does not publish a specific Q range for the 530. The adjustable bandwidth control on each band allows narrow notch-like settings and broad, gentle shelving-style curves from the same knob.

Q: Can the 530 be used as a shelving EQ for mastering applications?

Yes. The high and low bands can be switched to symmetrical shelving operation with +/-15 dB of range, making the 530 useful for tonal shaping and mastering EQ applications in addition to corrective work.