DBX Expander

I use my unit primarily for the Impact Restoration. The effect of the IR is to really open up the leading edge of sounds that already have a fast attack. High hats, cymbals, plucked strings, bass thumps really sound much more like live music. Until you A/B back and forth, you don't realize what you've been missing - once you do, there's no going back.

I totally agree when it comes to dial it in by frequency range, and adjustable independent impact level, and overall output level the 5BX has no equal. The Impact Restoration function is worth the price of the 5BX alone. The other features certainly have their place as well it is a great sounding musical piece of equipment. It also has a very elegant look to it. It's rarity certainly makes it a conversation piece.

I have heard of people using the Quantum or Quantum II to perform similar functions and over larger frequency ranges but I have never tried one myself.

Thanks guys for all the very valuable responses. I have had my A4010 reel to reel completely refurbed and my 3BX series 111 is on it's way so it should be an interesting experience through my Cary Slp05. I'll let ya know what I hear or don't hear
Mar

Since my system is balanced, and I'd like to keep it that way, could I just use one 3BX-DS for each channel? Meaning left is inverting - right is non inverting, then combine them back to XLR? I already use gear (Strain Gauge) that puts out balanced signals over 2 RCA's, and have a custom adaptor that goes from 2 RCA's to XLR.

Frzninvt - is this what you are referring to, or did you mean the signal goes through expansion twice? Please elaborate.

The VCA's in the 3BX-DS are mono triggered so dedicating one each to each channel (L & R) improves imaging, staging and definition. It also gives you the flexibility to adjust the channel expansion independent of one another.

I used 2 male RCA to a single female "Y" adapters (two per unit) giving me a single "mono" input on each unit. One for the left channel and one for the right channel. Not daisy chained. I suppose you could do it with XLR to RCA adapters.

Make sure the rear mounted trim pots for HF & LF transition are set equally on the units. You can tweak them as necessary by watching the front displays so you are getting the same level of expansion out of each unit. Having units close in manufacture dates helps too.

The 3BX-DS can be calibrated and adjusted using the Service Manual. Better capacitors in the power supply improve performance as well.