DBX AFS2 Advanced Feedback Suppression® Processor with Full LCD Display - DBXAFS2-V

Product Overview

The DBX AFS2 is a dual-channel advanced feedback suppression processor with a full LCD display, designed for live sound, installed speech reinforcement, and broadcast applications where microphone feedback must be controlled without compromising audio quality. As a dedicated rack-mount feedback suppressor with 24 filters per channel and an automatic detection wizard, the AFS2 provides both fixed and live filter placement modes to address both persistent and transient feedback frequencies. System engineers and front-of-house technicians use the DBX AFS2 feedback processor for its Type IV conversion, 24-bit digital processing, and per-channel filter visualization on the LCD display. Available at Creation Networks.

Product Description

The DBX AFS2 provides two completely independent channels of automatic feedback suppression, each equipped with 24 narrow notch filters that can be allocated between fixed and live modes. Fixed filters are placed during soundcheck using the AFS wizard and remain in position throughout the event, targeting the room's persistent feedback frequencies at specific microphone positions. Live filters dynamically respond to feedback that occurs during the performance, deploying available filter slots as new feedback events are detected without manual intervention from the operator. The LCD display on the front panel provides real-time visualization of filter activity on both channels, showing which filters are engaged and the frequency and depth of each notch, giving technicians visibility into system behavior without interrupting the program. The AFS2 wizard guides operators through a structured soundcheck process: the system plays pink noise through the loudspeakers, detects feedback frequencies, and places fixed filters automatically before any microphone is opened. The Type IV analog-to-digital conversion and 24-bit processing engine maintain signal transparency through the filter chain, with frequency response flat from 20 Hz to 20 kHz within 1 dB at all-pass settings. XLR balanced inputs and outputs connect directly into mixing console inserts or main outputs. The AFS2 is 1U in a standard 19-inch rack, making it a low-overhead addition to equipment racks in houses of worship, conference rooms, and speech reinforcement systems.

Key Features

• Dual Independent Channels - Two fully independent processing channels each with 24 notch filters for simultaneous feedback control on two separate signal paths.
• 24 Filters per Channel - Configurable allocation between fixed and live modes to address both persistent room feedback and dynamic microphone feedback events.
• Fixed and Live Filter Modes - Fixed filters are placed during soundcheck; live filters deploy automatically in response to feedback detected during the performance.
• Full LCD Display - Real-time per-channel filter visualization shows active filter frequencies, depths, and mode assignments without external software.
• AFS Wizard - Automated soundcheck process guides filter placement using pink noise to detect and notch persistent feedback frequencies before the event.
• Type IV Conversion - High-performance analog-to-digital conversion maintains signal transparency through the processing chain.
• 24-Bit Digital Processing - Full audio bandwidth processing at 24-bit depth for professional signal quality across both channels.
• XLR Balanced I/O - Balanced XLR connectors on inputs and outputs for direct connection to mixing consoles and system inserts.
• 1U Rack Format - Compact 1U chassis minimizes rack space consumption in installed equipment racks.

Typical Applications

• House of worship
• Auditorium
• Conference room
• All-hands room
• Training room
• Broadcast studio

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between fixed and live filter modes on the DBX AFS2?

Fixed filters are placed during the pre-show soundcheck using the AFS wizard and remain at their assigned frequencies for the duration of the event. They address the room's persistent acoustic feedback frequencies at known microphone positions. Live filters are held in reserve and deploy automatically in real time when new feedback events are detected during the performance. The operator can allocate the 24 available filters per channel between fixed and live modes based on the needs of the venue.

Does the AFS2 affect the sound quality of audio that does not contain feedback?

In all-pass mode with no filters engaged, the AFS2 maintains frequency response within 1 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Engaged notch filters are narrow by design and target specific feedback frequencies, minimizing their effect on adjacent frequencies in the program signal.

How does the AFS wizard work on the DBX AFS2?

The wizard guides the operator through a structured soundcheck process. It plays pink noise through the connected loudspeaker system, listens for feedback frequencies that develop in the room, and automatically places fixed notch filters at each detected frequency. The process is completed before any microphone is opened for the event, establishing a baseline filter configuration for the room.

Can the DBX AFS2 handle two completely separate mono signal paths simultaneously?

Yes. The AFS2 provides two fully independent processing channels with separate filter allocations, separate wizard processes, and separate LCD visualization. Both channels operate simultaneously and can be configured independently for different microphone inputs or zones.

Where in the signal chain should the AFS2 be inserted?

The AFS2 is typically inserted in the main output of the mixing console before the power amplifiers, or in the insert of a specific channel or bus where feedback is a concern. For installed speech reinforcement systems, it is often placed between the mixer output and the equalizer or loudspeaker management processor in the signal chain.

What is the rack space requirement for the DBX AFS2?

The AFS2 occupies 1U of rack space in a standard 19-inch equipment rack, making it a compact addition to installed AV system racks or touring stage racks.