dbx 530 - Parametric Equalizer

dbx 530 - 500 Series 3-Band Parametric Equalizer with Infinite Notch Mode

The dbx 530 is a 3-band parametric equalizer for 500 Series format, based on the circuitry of the classic dbx 905. It offers full control of frequency , gain (±15 dB), and bandwidth (Q) on each band, with the ability to switch the LF and HF bands between peaking and shelving (6 dB/oct shelving). Its distinctive Infinite Notch mode allows you to turn any band into an extremely narrow notch filter to eliminate unwanted feedback or resonances. It includes hardwire bypass with IN button and Peak LED for real-time headroom monitoring.

With a dynamic range of 112 dB , THD+N < 0.006% (20 Hz–20 kHz, 0 dBu) and 20 Hz–20 kHz (+0/−1 dB) response , the 530 integrates effortlessly into recording, mixing or live chains. Inputs and outputs are electronically balanced with maximum levels of +22 dBu , and the module occupies one slot of the standard 500 chassis.

Main features

• 3 fully parametric bands with frequency, gain (±15 dB) and Q control.
• Peak/shelf switching on LF and HF ( 6 dB/oct slope in shelf mode); MF band in peak mode.
• Independent Infinite Notch per band (typical attenuation > 40 dB) to eliminate feedback or resonances.
• Overlapping frequency ranges : LF 20 Hz–500 Hz , MF 200 Hz–5 kHz , HF 800 Hz–20 kHz .
• Q (peak mode) range approx. 0.9–5 in each band for broad or very selective curves.
• Hardwire bypass ( IN button) and peak LED on the front.
• Audio pro : response 20 Hz–20 kHz +0/−1 dB (<10 Hz–30 kHz +0/−3 dB), noise −90 dBu , THD+N < 0.006 % , DR 112 dB .
• Electronically balanced I/O : max. +22 dBu , CMRR > 40 dB (typ. > 55 dB @ 1 kHz).
• 500 Series format : 1 slot; chassis power supply ±16 V , consumption 85 mA/rail (2.72 W).

Product benefits

• Precise timbre sculpting thanks to complete control of frequency, Q and ±15 dB of gain per band.
• Practical versatility : LF/HF shelving for global adjustments and peaking for surgical corrections.
• Quick troubleshooting with Infinite Notch to suppress hum, feedback, or narrow resonances.
• Seamless integration into analog chains and DAW reamping, with physical bypass for instant comparison.

Use cases

• Recording : give “console” color to vocals, bass or drums before the converter.
• Mix : Soft shelving boost on LF/HF or narrow-Q selective clipping on problematic mids.
• Direct : Quick notches to tame feedback on vocals or instruments without sacrificing overall tone.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I activate Infinite Notch mode? Turn the band's gain control fully counterclockwise until it clicks.
• Does Q work in shelving? No. In shelf mode (LF/HF), the Q is disabled and the slope is fixed at 6 dB/oct .
• Does it have a dedicated high-pass filter? No; it uses the LF band during peaking or shelving to manage the low end.

Description for projects

dbx 530 3-band parametric equalizer for 500 Series (1 slot); overlapping bands: LF 20–500 Hz , MF 200 Hz–5 kHz , HF 800 Hz–20 kHz ; gain ±15 dB per band; adjustable Q (peak mode) approx. 0.9–5 ; LF/HF shelf with 6 dB/oct slope; Infinite Notch per band (> 40 dB typ.); hardwire bypass and peak LED ; electronically balanced I/O, max. +22 dBu , CMRR > 40 dB (typ. > 55 dB at 1 kHz); Performance: 20 Hz–20 kHz +0/−1 dB (<10 Hz–30 kHz +0/−3 dB), noise −90 dBu , THD+N < 0.006 % , DR 112 dB ; chassis power ±16 V , consumption 85 mA/rail (2.72 W); dimensions 13.34 × 3.81 × 15.24 cm ; weight 0.59 kg .