---
product_id: 1673223
title: "dbx DBX286SV Instrument, Microphone Preamp & Channel Strip Processor, with Compression, De-Esser, Enhancer, Expander/Gate, Loop-Out. Metering LEDs, XLR and ¼” inputs. Rack Mountable 1U. Silver"
brand: "dbx"
price: "492226CFA"
currency: XOF
in_stock: true
reviews_count: 9
category: "Dbx"
url: https://www.desertcart.sn/products/1673223-dbx-dbx286sv-instrument-microphone-preamp-and-channel-strip-processor-compression
store_origin: SN
region: Senegal
---

# Balanced XLR + ¼” TRS inputs Classic dbx compression tech 4-in-1 channel strip processor dbx DBX286SV Instrument, Microphone Preamp & Channel Strip Processor, with Compression, De-Esser, Enhancer, Expander/Gate, Loop-Out. Metering LEDs, XLR and ¼” inputs. Rack Mountable 1U. Silver

**Brand:** dbx
**Price:** 492226CFA
**Availability:** ✅ In Stock

## Summary

> 🎤 Elevate your sound game — pro vocal polish in a single rack space!

## Quick Answers

- **What is this?** dbx DBX286SV Instrument, Microphone Preamp & Channel Strip Processor, with Compression, De-Esser, Enhancer, Expander/Gate, Loop-Out. Metering LEDs, XLR and ¼” inputs. Rack Mountable 1U. Silver by dbx
- **How much does it cost?** 492226CFA with free shipping
- **Is it available?** Yes, in stock and ready to ship
- **Where can I buy it?** [www.desertcart.sn](https://www.desertcart.sn/products/1673223-dbx-dbx286sv-instrument-microphone-preamp-and-channel-strip-processor-compression)

## Best For

- dbx enthusiasts

## Why This Product

- Trusted dbx brand quality
- Free international shipping included
- Worldwide delivery with tracking
- 15-day hassle-free returns

## Key Features

- • **Pro-Grade Clarity:** dbx’s legendary compression and enhancer deliver radio-ready vocals and instruments with crystal precision.
- • **Flexible Connectivity:** Balanced XLR mic input plus ¼” TRS line input and loop-out for seamless integration with your studio rig.
- • **Noise-Free Performance:** Ultra-low noise floor even at high gain—perfect for dynamic and condenser mics alike.
- • **Instant Visual Feedback:** Full metering LEDs keep your levels and processing status in check for flawless live or studio sessions.
- • **All-in-One Sonic Control:** Combine preamp, compressor, de-esser, enhancer & gate in one sleek 1U rack unit.

## Overview

The dbx DBX286SV is a professional 1U rack-mount microphone preamp and channel strip processor featuring four independent effects: compression, de-essing, enhancing, and expansion/gating. It offers balanced XLR and ¼” TRS inputs, loop-out for external processors, and comprehensive metering LEDs. Designed for studio and live use, it delivers ultra-low noise, precise dynamic control, and enhanced tonal clarity, making it an essential tool for musicians and producers seeking polished, radio-quality sound without the complexity of multiple devices.

## Description

Product Description Transform your vocal recordings with the dbx® 286s Channel Strip Processor / Mic Pre-Amp Processor. It's a top-tier pre-amp combined with four processors that can be used independently or in any combination, making the 286s a versatile piece of equipment designed to elevate audio quality, and simplify set-up. Whether you're recording in a professional studio or setting up a home studio, the dbx 286s ensures pristine sound with its sonically superior mic preamp, making it an essential tool for any serious musician or producer. The dbx 286s features classic dbx Compression, making it easy to achieve that polished, professional, punchy sound. Its frequency-tunable De-esser effectively reduces sibilance and high-frequency distortion, ensuring your vocals and instruments are clear and crisp. The Enhancer boosts the detail and definition of both high and low frequencies, adding depth, richness, sparkle, and punch. Additionally, the program-adaptive Expander/Gate can subtly reduce headphone leakage or completely gate noisy guitar amps, providing you with flexibility and control over your sound. The insert jack also allows the addition of an external processor seamlessly. The dbx 286s also comes equipped with a full complement of meters and status LEDs, making it easy to monitor your levels and adjust settings on the fly. Plus, with +48V phantom power and precision detented controls, this preamp/processor is ready to handle any microphone or instrument you throw at it. Say goodbye to the hassle of patching together multiple processors. The dbx 286s offers all the mic processing you need in one compact box, ensuring the shortest, cleanest signal path for your music. The dbx 286s is the perfect secret weapon to add to your setup, ensuring your music always sounds its best. Rack mountable 1U Dimensions: 1.75" x 5.75" x 19" From the Manufacturer The cost and hassle of patching together multiple processors for use on one track can be frustrating. The dbx 286s provides you with all the mic processing you need in one box, with the shortest, cleanest signal path to keep your music sounding its best! The floating balanced XLR mic input Accepts balanced or unbalanced inputs to easily connect to professional and home studio microphones. The additional 1/4" TRS line input can accept balanced/unbalanced signals to process live electronic instruments or pre-recorded tracks at mix down. Use the insert jack to interface between the mic preamp and the signal processing sections to "Loop out" to external processors (such as EQ or delay unit) or to mix the mic preamp's signal out to an external destination.

Review: A Quality, Low-cost Audio Preamp/Processor - When it first arrived, I admit that I was prepared to find fault with this relatively low cost device. However, I have since found it to be a very competent performer. The dbx 286S Audio Processor packs a lot of features and performance for the approximately $200 that I paid for it. This one rack space (1.75") high device contains a microphone preamplifier with switchable phantom power for condenser microphones, a limiter, expander/gate, and a two-band effects equalizer. All of the processing sections are interconnected such that a signal inserted at the front end passes through all of the sections before emerging at line level out of this device. The amount of audio limiting, expansion/gating and equalization can be set to taste and even individually turned off if you need a particular function. All of the sections "play" well together, making audio tweaks fairly easy to accomplish. Keep in mind that this is a monaural device that can accept balanced microphone or line level input signals. I found the background noise level to be very low (virtually inaudible), even at high mic preamplifier gain settings, and I found the frequency response surprisingly wide and pleasant. This processor brought out the better qualities of the several dynamic and condenser microphones that I auditioned through it. Everything comes through clear and clean at low to moderate control settings, although it is possible to significantly modify your audio, for better or for worse, at higher control settings. Download the manufacturer's manual for this device to learn about its individual features and functions, and how they are used. I find that I really have no complaints about the dbx 286S Audio Processor. It is now in daily use in my modest studio. The 286S does what the manufacturer's literature says it's supposed to do, and it does it crisply and cleanly without added noise or fuss. You can buy high end separate mic preamplifiers, limiters, expander/gates, and equalizers, then connect them all together to do what this little dbx box does. But, you will spend very much more money to achieve or exceed the same level of performance offered by the dbx 286S. Strong bang for the buck. Highly recommended!
Review: Effortless radio voice - I have a shure sm7db hooked into this, which then runs into a scarlet focusrite, and into my pc, and my gosh does it sound incredible. I get radio quality vocals without any post processing. My microphone is fairly decent, but this thing is doing a ton of heavy lifting. I followed the settings listed in another reviewers desertcart review, which I highly recommend, and haven't needed to tweak it since. The raw audio requires next to nothing done to it after the fact, I'm not an audiophile, but it sounds almost perfect to my ears. Using this on calls is phenomenal, it is super crispy, even over most websites trashy audio bitrate. Shure SM7s and their variations are good at blocking out background noise, but with this thing, it's unbelievable. My recording desk is in an unfinished room, with two large fish tanks directly behind it. I always have a dehumidifier running in the room, and usually a fan. My microphone doesnt pick up on a single sound, even in the background while I'm talking, its actually insane. I bought mine for $200, and even at that price I thought it was amazing. Ive seen it go as low as $150. If youre looking for a stellar processor that doesnt cost a grand, go with this thing.

## Features

- The dbx 286s is a full featured Pre-Amp for Microphones, and Instruments - a Channel Strip Processor with 4 Independent Effects - Compression, De-Esser, Enhancer, Expander/Gate. Plus Loop-Out for adding additional processors.
- Classic dbx Compression - Reduces the dynamic range of signals with loud and quiet elements so that both can be heard clearly. Perfect for bringing vocals to the forefront of your mix, ensuring they stand out with greater clarity and presence.
- The additional 1/4" TRS Line Input can accept balanced/unbalanced signals to process live electronic instruments or pre-recorded tracks at mixdown. Use the Insert jack to interface between the Mic Preamp and the signal processing sections to "loop out"
- Enhancer increases the detail and definition of the high and low frequencies adding punch and shimmer to a mix. De-Essers are specialized compressors that focus on a specific frequency range. They reduce harsh high frequencies and sibilance.
- Full array of status LEDs - Monitor audio levels and processor status at a glance, ensuring optimal performance. Floating balanced XLR Mic Input accepts balanced or unbalanced inputs to connect to microphones.
- Rack mountable 1U Dimensions: 1.75" x 5.75" x 19"
- Input: 1/4" TRS (x2) and XLR (x1); output: 1/4" TRS (x1)
- Operating voltage: 120VAC 60Hz, 100VAC 50/60Hz
- Purchase includes: dbx286s, power cord, operation manual, and rack mount screws and washers (x4)

## Technical Specifications

| Specification | Value |
|---------------|-------|
| ASIN | B004LWH79A |
| Best Sellers Rank | #17,614 in Musical Instruments ( See Top 100 in Musical Instruments ) #25 in Microphone Preamps |
| Body Material | Metal |
| Color Name | Silver |
| Connector Type | 1/4 inch (6.35mm) audio jack |
| Customer Reviews | 4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars (814) |
| Date First Available | February 11, 2011 |
| Hardware Interface | 1/4-inch Audio |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Item Weight | 5.06 pounds |
| Item model number | DBX286SV |
| Material Type | Metal |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Product Dimensions | 19 x 5.75 x 1.75 inches |
| Signal Format | Analog |
| Size | 1U |
| Voltage | 0.4 Volts |

## Product Details

- **Brand:** dbx
- **Color:** Silver
- **Item Weight:** 2.3 Kilograms
- **Product Dimensions:** 5.75"L x 19"W x 1.75"H
- **Style:** Rack Mount

## Images

![dbx DBX286SV Instrument, Microphone Preamp & Channel Strip Processor, with Compression, De-Esser, Enhancer, Expander/Gate, Loop-Out. Metering LEDs, XLR and ¼” inputs. Rack Mountable 1U. Silver - Image 1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61GdC7ylERL.jpg)

## Questions & Answers

**Q: Will this prevent clipping? My music has a lot of soft parts and parts where I'm shouting. Thanks!**
A: The only thing I use to prevent mic clip is mic staging and proper leveling in side what ever DAW your using. In other words sing lower parts louder by moving to the mic and loud parts lower by moving away from the mic. So the DBX is pretty good for the price but without proper mic staging could add to your problem.

**Q: My plan is to use a Microphone - into XLR - then into Channel 1 on my Focusrite 18i20.  How does someone use this as an 'INSERT"?  What is an INSERT?**
A: I'd imagine more or less you'll be doing this the same way I have mine set up. You run your XLR into the back input of the DBX 286s, then use a 1/4" audio out into your first channel preamp on your Focusrite interface. Currently Focusrite cannot get a signal with WDM (only ASIO gets a signal) if you try using the 1/4" audio out into the rear inputs. Only the front ones work until they address it with a patch.

**Q: Can someone direct me to a video showing me exactly how to use this? I use a focusrite scarlette solo audio interface**
A: Do a search for 'Best Settings and How To Connect - get started with the dbx 286s by Julian Krause' for the best video to set up this equipment.

**Q: If i set it up with an interface would i set it up like this? mic > pre amp > interface > monitors/headphones please explain proper setup**
A: John, you would plug MIC > DBX 286s > LINE INPUT of your interface.  Receive the line input signal in your DAW and adjust your settings as necessary on the CH strip. Your monitors would plug in to your interface as normal.  If you have further questions , please let us know!

## Customer Reviews

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Quality, Low-cost Audio Preamp/Processor
*by S***E on December 23, 2014*

When it first arrived, I admit that I was prepared to find fault with this relatively low cost device. However, I have since found it to be a very competent performer. The dbx 286S Audio Processor packs a lot of features and performance for the approximately $200 that I paid for it. This one rack space (1.75") high device contains a microphone preamplifier with switchable phantom power for condenser microphones, a limiter, expander/gate, and a two-band effects equalizer. All of the processing sections are interconnected such that a signal inserted at the front end passes through all of the sections before emerging at line level out of this device. The amount of audio limiting, expansion/gating and equalization can be set to taste and even individually turned off if you need a particular function. All of the sections "play" well together, making audio tweaks fairly easy to accomplish. Keep in mind that this is a monaural device that can accept balanced microphone or line level input signals. I found the background noise level to be very low (virtually inaudible), even at high mic preamplifier gain settings, and I found the frequency response surprisingly wide and pleasant. This processor brought out the better qualities of the several dynamic and condenser microphones that I auditioned through it. Everything comes through clear and clean at low to moderate control settings, although it is possible to significantly modify your audio, for better or for worse, at higher control settings. Download the manufacturer's manual for this device to learn about its individual features and functions, and how they are used. I find that I really have no complaints about the dbx 286S Audio Processor. It is now in daily use in my modest studio. The 286S does what the manufacturer's literature says it's supposed to do, and it does it crisply and cleanly without added noise or fuss. You can buy high end separate mic preamplifiers, limiters, expander/gates, and equalizers, then connect them all together to do what this little dbx box does. But, you will spend very much more money to achieve or exceed the same level of performance offered by the dbx 286S. Strong bang for the buck. Highly recommended!

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Effortless radio voice
*by E***E on April 3, 2025*

I have a shure sm7db hooked into this, which then runs into a scarlet focusrite, and into my pc, and my gosh does it sound incredible. I get radio quality vocals without any post processing. My microphone is fairly decent, but this thing is doing a ton of heavy lifting. I followed the settings listed in another reviewers Amazon review, which I highly recommend, and haven't needed to tweak it since. The raw audio requires next to nothing done to it after the fact, I'm not an audiophile, but it sounds almost perfect to my ears. Using this on calls is phenomenal, it is super crispy, even over most websites trashy audio bitrate. Shure SM7s and their variations are good at blocking out background noise, but with this thing, it's unbelievable. My recording desk is in an unfinished room, with two large fish tanks directly behind it. I always have a dehumidifier running in the room, and usually a fan. My microphone doesnt pick up on a single sound, even in the background while I'm talking, its actually insane. I bought mine for $200, and even at that price I thought it was amazing. Ive seen it go as low as $150. If youre looking for a stellar processor that doesnt cost a grand, go with this thing.

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Simply Magic
*by L***D on February 24, 2019*

I'm a Twitch streamer and I've fiddled with every sort of software solution I could dig up. I have a Rode NT1 mic with a Scarlet 2i2 interface and a Roland VT3 Voice Transformer. I've struggled with noise in the line, as well as the fact that even on the weakest setting the Noise Suppression filter in OBS colors my voice. I finally broke down and ordered one of these because I'd heard good things. The dbx 286s has blown me away. Not only did it meet my needs as a pre-amp, Noise Gate, and Compressor... but the de-esser is an awesome bonus, as well as the Low and High Frequency Enhancer. My mic is sounding cleaner than it ever has, and my voice is sounding better than ever. When my wife heard my voice over my stream she was instantly moistened. I really don't have enough good things to say about this piece of hardware. You can spend a little bit less to get bits of kit that do some these things individually, but for $50-$100 more having all of these tools in one piece of hardware that works so well is the way to go. From my research you can also spend more on similar pieces of hardware, but for my purposes and for home broadcasting/recording purposes I can't imagine the more expensive solutions being worth the jump in cost. Seriously, if you're on the fence about the dbx 286s, just do it. It's very easy to set up. The settings are very easy to dial in, depending on how anal you are. The results are just magical. My chain right now is RODE NT1 > dbx 286s > Roland VT3 Voice Transformer > Line6 M13 (mainly just to use a foot pedal for volume control to mute during stream) > Scarlet 2i2 > PC

## Frequently Bought Together

- dbx, 1 286s Microphone Preamp & Channel Strip Processor, Silver, 1U (DBX286SV)
- Shure SM7B Microphone - Vocal Dynamic Studio Mic for Broadcast, Podcast, Recording, Gaming & Streaming, XLR, Rugged Construction, Detachable Windscreen, Smooth Sound, Warm Vocals, Wide-Range Frequency
- Cable Matters 2-Pack Premium XLR to XLR Cables - 6ft, Male to Female Microphone Cable, Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) Mic Cord, Black

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*Product available on Desertcart Senegal*
*Store origin: SN*
*Last updated: 2026-02-22*