Set The DBX 286s For Great Voice Overs!

[@tof1998]

Best Explanation of the DBX 286s in the entire internet, Probably, ....................Great Job, easy to understand, Loved it.

[@HeyLennyB]

Right on Brian! Thanks for that. I'm planning to post many more on the subject soon. You can get more of my instruction at www.lennyb.com

[@jkratoville]

I've worked in the broadcast industry for over 40 years. This is the most consumer-friendly presentation of how to set up audio processing I've ever heard.

[@tomsteele937]

Exactly Jack! So well done!

[@barrygeary1890]

Onmia have a onmia microphone processor for broadcast quality now days my local station has one and onmia 9 for fm trasnmitter

[@angeltensey]

The most comprehensive guide for 286s i've seen so far. And just in 10 minutes. Excellent.

[@TALKCalgary]

You certainly nailed using the DBX286s. I haven't used my own 286 for years preferring to use plugins on my UAD Apollo. That said the 286 was a fantastic unit.

[@neowang8061]

SM7B+SSL2+dbx286S+your guide, it help me sooo much, thanks Lenny

[@ee1yd]

see a lot of people with this setup

[@rayderrich]

I own the 286s for a few years now and it has never let me down, yet I still learned something new here today so I will reconfigure it for my live streams. Thank you very much for a high quality video.

[@HeyLennyB]

Thanks Rayder Rich. My channel is all about making your voice sound better!

[@sethwilliams43]

Finally, a tutorial that makes sense to someone who ISN'T already a professional sound engineer. Great work!

[@jerrymcdonald6832]

THE BEST! I usually return to watch Lenny's instruction about three times a year or more, because I like to turn knobs and eventually get all out of wack - slowly but deadly. The DBX is a great piece of gear if set up right, and not so good if you get casual about settings (or are setting up for the first time). There are many DBX KZbins out there that I went through before I found this one. I don't want to bash the other creators, but this is the only instruction you need. Follow it, and then leave it alone (words to myself).

[@HeyLennyB]

Thank you for the kind words. I appreciate you!

[@stacistatic]

I feel like I owe you money. I have been stressing and calling people and you just solved such a big problem I'm so grateful. Thank you so much!!

[@HeyLennyB]

Happy to help! I saw your email. I'll get back to you asap!

[@wearybard866]

Just found this video and it's THE best setup walkthrough of the DBX 286s that I've found. Just getting started in VO and this is going to be a game changer. Many thanks for this video!

[@HeyLennyB]

Glad you found it helpful. I see that you're getting started in VO. Here's my take on the DBX 286s for Voice Over. When you need a fast way to get an excellent live voice-over or streaming sound without plugins, this is what you need. It's the most popular microphone processor in the broadcast industry, and it's prevalent for radio broadcasters and podcasters. However, it's also important to note that channel strips like the DBX 286s assume that your recording space (the room you're recording in) is appropriately treated. But, If you are looking for more quality and control over your voice-over sound, using a direct line to an interface with post-processing with plugins is a better choice. It would help if you didn't use them both simultaneously. I hope this helps further.

[@BillBene67]

Thank you for an awesome video. I wish others made their videos like this. No irritating loud music in the background...lol..well done!

[@michelem7786]

The DBX 286 is sold out on Amazon and Sweetwater for now (as of Aug 2020). Number 1 best seller on Amazon. Of note, I went to Guitar Center the other day and nearly all their podcast gear was sold out. They said since everyone is going virtual in light of Covid, they can't keep their shelves stocked. Interesting times.

[@HeyLennyB]

Yes, interesting times. I have several items on order that I'm waiting for. Personally, I think creating/working from home will be here to stay. I often tell my audio clients that if you are good at making content look and sound good, you are in demand. It's a great time to be a content creator. I'm seeing a tremendous interest in my own audio skills which is exciting. BTW, Sweetwater is absolutely the best place to buy audio gear in my opinion. Everytime I purchase from somewhere other than Sweetwater, I end up regretting it. I won't buy anywhere else. My "guy" there is Aaron Tremain. I can't say enough about how great Sweetwater is!

[@biteme263]

I recently got a mic and interface from guitar center and yes they are having problems keeping stuff in stock. The guy at the store told me its a combo of increased demand and their supply chain being slower. I had to drive to a different city to get what I wanted. The store close to me Toledo Ohio had mics but no interfaces. And they didn't have any USB mics if you wanted to go that route. I had to drive to Canton Michigan to get a focusrite 2i2. And no one around me, not just guitar center, but any music store has the DBX in stock. They are on Sweetwater as of today in early october. I should probably grab one while they still have them lol.

[@GrantCrowell]

That was DBXcellent!

[@robdj88]

Your instructions take all the guesswork on how to adjust the DBX 286s, If I order one, I will order through your affiliate link for sure !!

[@wh8614]

Nice work, good conversational presentation and demonstration was excellent.

[@HeyLennyB]

Thank you!

[@michaelchadwick6424]

Excellent vid Lenny. Thanks. Always good to get a healthy signal into your interface and DAW from the get go.

[@robdj88]

For anyone that bought this processor , this is gold. I have the Symetrix 528e voice Processor. I really wish someone would do the same kind of walk-through on that one.

[@troystrane]

I would probably have a 528E if they still made them. They were very popular radio station studio mic processors. If you've got a good one, you're lucky. That said, I would like to compare head to head with the 286S. I would be curious how they sound side by side.

[@mikeberndt181]

Great content & excellent walkthrough for newcomers. DBX has been making excellent consumer & professional audio products forever. I really wish they’d jump back into the home/consumer market with both feet again. I was reading the manual for the DBX-1bx ds the other day & you can tell even at the time it was written by dedicated audiophiles with a Great sense of humor.

[@barryalston7565]

Lenny thank you, the clearest explanation I have seen on how to set this up!

[@Simon_Hawkshaw]

Great hands-on illustration of how to easily set-up this equipment. Thank you so much for making the effort and taking the time to help us all sound good.

[@guyb2721]

Thanks very much for the excellent setup tips. I've had my unit for a couple of weeks and am still tinkering with the settings to find the sweet spot. Your video and website tips will make it a much easier quest.

[@jn2400]

I just ordered one because of this video. They should sponser you for this video.

[@HeyLennyB]

Hey @DBX_Pro did you hear that?

[@jn2400]

@@HeyLennyB I even have the receipt 😃

[@pyxelmixer3195]

LOVED IT... I'm suppa new to VO and this was an important hurdle!! CLEARED IT THANKS

[@HeyLennyB]

Glad it helped!

[@ArtistMorning]

Another incredible video. Thank you lenny. I just bought the DBX after watching this video. I used your link. such valuable content.

[@edtwodth]

Just bought one to work with my Røde Podmic (not enough gain directly to Behringer UMC22) - great tutorial

[@HeyLennyB]

I hope I helped dial in a perfect sound for you!!!

[@edtwodth]

@@HeyLennyB still waiting for it to arrive :)

[@Deactrals]

@@edtwodth damn bro just wait till you get it

[@DystopianOwl]

It's really easy to overdo it on this unit. I personally would not have That much processing, I would back it down a tad bit. Specially on the EQ/Enhancer. Otherwise, nice vid!

[@Roadie40]

Super useful video, Lenny. What's the best way to stop other mics from getting into my mic during a 3 person radio production session? I've dialed up my gate on the expander and it 'seems' to help. Curious about what you think. Using RE20's.

[@HeyLennyB]

Yes, it's a great question! Here are a few techniques to improve the separation. Ensure each person is speaking close to the mic. The larger the room, the better. Room treatment to absorb as much of the reflections as possible is essential. Also, use the rejection of the mic. This means the back of the microphones should be facing the other two people. For example, a circular table with each person facing the center would be a good configuration. I hope this helps.

[@Roadie40]

@@HeyLennyB It does, thanks. It was better for today's radio shows---but guest #1 (the boss) comes in loud before settling down. I'm simply bringing my fader down when he's on. I'll know more this weekend when I hear the shows over the air. That's the moment of truth. I'm not doing post processing currently as our show runs through whatever the station is pumping.

[@ChrisMooreOfficial]

This was an absolutely incredible and informative video. Thanks so much Lenny!

[@wefamilymediagroup7687]

AWESOME TUTORIAL, LENNY!!! LOVE IT!!!

[@HeyLennyB]

Glad you liked it!!

[@troystrane]

Depending on the mic, I think a CloudLifter can still be useful used in conjunction with the 286S. In broadcast applications, an RE20 or SM7B have such low outputs that you still have to drive the 286S input nearly all the way. The CloudLifter helps with lots of clean gain but it does add to the cost.

[@mbaksa]

Cloudlifter is nothing more than a dynamic mic preamp. If one's interface (or mic processor in this case) can achieve the desired mic volume, and for the same mic volume does not produce more noise than the Cloudlifter does, then Cloudlifter is just a waste of money, and adding complexity into the system (one more component that can break). So, if you get desired volume level without Cloudlifter, and the mic sound is not noisier than when using Cloudlifter, removing Cloudlifter from the mic chain won't have any negative impact, only positive (and you can sell Cloudlifter if you are sure you won't need it for other purposes).

[@Maj0ra]

Thank you SO SO SO much for this video! That being said, I'm finding the De-esser part really difficult, and I don't know if you explained what the lights do for that. I'm just not really able to discern what is good or bad sound for that in an easy manner.

[@HeyLennyB]

Hey Maj0ra, I understand. That part kind of takes a trained ear. Send me a sample of your voice and I'll send back the frequency that should be De-Essed. email [e-mail] and make a note reminding me of this discussion. We'll get you dialed in!

[@Contracultura_tv]

Amazing video. Thank's for sharing!

[@seanmics9537]

Thank you for such a detailed video you sold me on this. Just ordered 1

[@mcsatyaa]

I knew nothing about pre amp before this video, now I feels like Einstein, jokes apart I love the way you explain things so practically sir I m a underground rapper from India thinking of a home studio but I know nothing, can you teach me

[@adnbeats8728]

You are the real G my brother 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@robdj88]

This is just GREAT, I wish someone would do one of these for a Symetrix 528E ... I have spend 100s of minutes playing to get the right sound I want .

[@HeyLennyB]

Hey RobDJ88, I know what you mean! The Symetrix units are almost impossible to find.

[@robdj88]

I have one but have played with it and played with it for spending hours to see if I have it set right or can set it better. If I had to do it all over again, I would have just gotten the DBX 286s, still may end up getting it, but its hard to do after investing in the S 528 E,

[@marketweis]

@@robdj88 I have worked with the 528e for YEARS. It actually has benefits over the DBX in that it's more "tune-able"...specifically the compressor section and of course the EQ. With that though comes more confusion because of more knobs to play with. A good rule of thumb with the Compressor/Exp section is to put all 3 knows in the 12:00 position. That gives you a 2:1 comp ratio, and if you turn the middle knob left and right from 12:00, you can see the wav form get stronger or way more crushed and flat. In the EQ section, I would normally just leave everything set at 12:00 and then boost or cut the Lows, Mids and/or Highs with the dB knob. Otherwise I found myself going too deep in to the weeds of trying to dial in the perfect frequency & range, and that IS frustrating. The way I did it allowed me to have at least a little bit of coloration, and then sprinkle in more with some software EQ afterward. The de-esser I didn't really use at all.

[@stewartroxburgh8844]

Definitely the best instruction Lenny, I'm still having mixed results as I'm coming out of the DBX into my Behringer mixer then out to the Focusrite. This means I'm not seeing the same leds lighting as you suggest. But I'm getting good audio to the mix. However, from time to time the DBX appears to take on a life of its own and has a hissy fit. I need to power it off to reset it. This is not great when broadcasting live though.

[@HeyLennyB]

Hi Stewart. In my experience, the DBX 286s lasts about 2 years, then it's cooked. They don't seem to last long especially if they're on 24/7. I've know several to do exactly that, create hissing and fizzing sounds that make the unit un useable. It may be time for a new one. 🪦

[@stewartroxburgh8844]

@@HeyLennyB thanks Lenny. That's so sad. I've only had it for two years and thought the issues were down to 'user error'.i struggled on with it connecting in other bits of kit to clean it up. I should have sent it back for a repair much sooner.

[@RickHunter811]

Great video Lenny. This video helped me gain a back up to my normal chain.

[@HeyLennyB]

Glad it helped

[@uriel-heavensguardian8949]

Thank you for this review!!!! I have this unit but ive been thinking of getting the 386 because of the digital output. Which i can free up the inputs to my interface and just use the spidif in

[@steveaustin8817]

Thanks, Lenny, very helpful. My goal is doing live webinars with clean audio real time so I dont have to process afterwards. I have a dB286 and a Shure SMB7. Its too low gain. I'm using it for live webinars. I'm sending the dbx output to my yamaha mixer for a very slight gain increase. I have my other music going into the Yamaha as well. I'm not saying this is the right or the best way - but I'm next going into my SONY 4K cam so that the audio is synced to the video. Otherwise I get time delays out of sync. Then this SONY goes to my utap converter so it will go into my laptop. Here I have OBS - out to zoom. I record both the zoom and the OBS video. The biggest problem is the audio in the laptop. Its hard to control and keep audio signals separate. My audio does sound pretty good - with low noise even after passing thru all this gear. The Shure is great for cutting out other noise. I have the whole room and ceiling entirely draped on all sides with sound blankets and shipping blankets. Absolutely no echo. Also provides much better light control for the camera. Zoom ruins the audio music - it wants to suppress background sounds. The video is compressed way too much - but I suppose needed for its purpose. The OBS video is much better resolution. If you have any comments on this crazy set up - I'm all ears. Thanks for your fantastic videos - really appreciate it!

[@HeyLennyB]

Hi Steve, I know very well about the value of having the audio synched up to the video. I'm currently using Ecamm live to capture with a Blackmagic capture card. One of the things that really helped me keep the audio signals separate was an app called "loopback," However it's for Mac only. There may be a similar app for PC if that's what you're using. Hope that helps.

[@steveaustin8817]

@@HeyLennyB thanks

[@HowardOlsen]

Another Thumbs Up Vid! Thank you so much for clear concise practical instruction!

[@michaelt4877]

Thanks for this helpful walkthrough! The 286s sounds great with my RE320, but I was a bit surprised that I needed to turn the preamp gain nearly all the way up to light the LEDs at the suggested level. I say "surprised" because the RE320 isn't typically as gain-hungry as an SM7b or RE20 for example. Still, even pushing the 286s gain I'm not noticing any appreciable noise. Works great, but somehow just 'seems' wrong.. haha! Maybe I'll feel better about it if I buy myself a cloudlifter :)

[@HeyLennyB]

Hi Michael. Yeah, it could only help reduce the noise. You could always return it if it doesn't make a difference.

[@ryvlaw]

Hey! Great video. I just re-adjusted my setup. Now I'm still confused about the gain. What is the "best" gain to use to keep the signal as high quality as possible? The line Gain or the gain on the interface? When I record, especially in voice acting, my loudness changes really quick and I go from -12db to -6db really quick. I like to adjust the line gain on the dbx to be at around -10db when that happens but I'm always unsure if that's good or bad.

[@HeyLennyB]

Ideally, to get the best sound (lowest noise) from the DBX, your input gain should flicker the Yellow, but never go into the red. The key is using that LED meter. Then use the "Process Bypass" button to make sure that your DBX output is set correctly (see the end of this video). Then use the meters on your interface to get the best level (lowest) by again using the meters. Hitting about -6 on your (interface) meters is the highest you should go. NEVER hit the red. That should be the "best" gain settings for the lowest noise. Hope that helps.

[@DaniRich]

Great explanation man!!! thanks !

[@HeyLennyB]

Glad you liked it!

[@defmike617]

Awesome tutorial. Great job man. Thank you.

[@vasileiospgr]

I think that De-esser - Frequency controls the range it reacts to. if we set this to 4k, then whenever any signal *over* 4k passes the De-esser will kick in. Also noticed that De-esser - Threshold lowers *all* the signal down. (i thought it only lowered down the section close to De-esser - Frequency). At least thats what i saw in Ableton's Spectrum.

[@VelactionVideos]

Hi Lenny, Thanks for the great video. I just bought the DBX 286S and hooked it up to the line in on channel 2 of my focusrite solo. It works as expected on Camtasia software. On audition, it shows up with the waveform in the right channel, but won't play either in the preview of audition or if I export it to wav or mp3. If I swap it to the left with the channel mixer, it plays no problem, and I can fill right with left and then it will play as stereo on both the right and left speaker. But I use Logitech capture on occasion. It shows the input level on the mic level meter when I am recording, but has silence on the audio. I can import that file into premier, and split out the audio and do the same channel mix in audition and get the sound to play. Seems like this is just something simple, but I haven't been able to figure it out. I tried changing it to a single channel in the windows sound setting, but that cut off the input. Thanks for the help. Jeff

[@HeyLennyB]

Hi Jeff, I believe you need to first create a Mono Audio Track in Adobe Audition before you record. Then it should play back in both channels. I think your issue is that you've recorded only one side of a stereo track to start with. Hope that helps.

[@VelactionVideos]

@@HeyLennyB Thanks for the tip. I wasn't able to get it to work with the windows sound setting to make it mono. But I did try again with the TRS to XLR cable and went to channel 1. The output gain has to be -10 and the input gain on the solo is at 0 but it works with the sound on the left track. I had tried that before and it was a bit static-y, but must have just been a bad connection. Sounds great now. Thanks again.

[@martinozuna2154]

Thank you Lenny , excellent job!!!!!

[@john_ford]

My question is, what is that groovy rack mounted 4 slot ssd thingy? Now that is very cool.

[@HeyLennyB]

Hi John, That is the Multi Dock by Blackmagic Design. The manufacturer is primarily a video production equipment company. However this unit is just great and looks so nice in my rack. Add up to 4 ssd Drive via Thunderbolt. Thanks

[@fmesj]

Great video.My question is..these compressors,desser,noise gate are available in my DAW Logic pro X. Why need a DVX 286S?

[@HeyLennyB]

Hi @fmesj. It really depends on what you need the processing for. The DBX 286s is great for live broadcasting or podcasting when you need a good sound in real time. The DBX 286s delivers a "produced" sound immediately. If you want better quality and don't require a live sound, DAW plugins and a more detailed processing approach will serve you best in my opinion. Hope that helps.

[@mathew_pang]

Hi Lenny, really appreciate your content . I am using rode NT1 with my rode AI-1 audio interface . Just want to ask you is it possible for me add this dbx 286s into my setup ? I hope to boost my mic volume and also the quality of the sound . Really hope you has time to reply me 🙏🙏🙏

[@HeyLennyB]

Here's my take on the DBX. When you need a fast way to get a good live voice over or streaming sound without plugins, the DBX 286 is a good tool. It's the most popular microphone processor in the broadcast industry and it's very popular for radio broadcasters and podcasters. But, If you are looking for more quality and control over your voice over sound, using a direct line to an interface with post processing with plugins is a better choice. That's where my custom presets would be used. I don't suggest you use them both at the same time. I'm just mentioning this so you don't buy it if it's not necessary for your needs. You should need to boost your sound with the NT1 and the AI-1. What are you recording to?

[@mathew_pang]

@@HeyLennyB I am teaching Math at KZbin . Just find that my NT1 is too quiet , of course I do boost the volume at post production but I realised the audio after boost is not so mature (I am not knowledge about editing audio) . So thinking the DBX might help

[@HeyLennyB]

I believe you have a different issue. The DBX 286s will give you more gain, but you'll still have the issue which I believe is after the AI-1 in your equipment chain. You have plenty of gain with your equipment, so there may be a problem with your DAW. What computer and software are you using?

[@stewartroxburgh8844]

Really useful. Thank you. My only question relates to the addition of a mixer into the chain. I've connected my EV RE20 to the 286s and the output to channel 1 in my mixer. The output from my mixer goes to my Focusrite AI. I'm getting good signal from the 286 into the mixer and externally as output. Just wanted to ask if you had any specific thoughts when connecting to a mixer before the interface?

[@HeyLennyB]

Hi Stewart, there may be a better way. Please tell me what is the make/model of your mixer?

[@stewartroxburgh8844]

@@HeyLennyB its a Behringer X1622USB

[@HeyLennyB]

Hi Stewart, There is an alternate way to connect to your mixer. You can have the mic directly into any channel, and run the DBX in and out of the Auxiliary return. It's a big more complicated and may or may not sound any better. This video explains the concept. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mIuzgIisZZ12Z6c Hope that helps!

[@stewartroxburgh8844]

@@HeyLennyB Thank you Lenny, I'll check it out.

[@karimgurrola6472]

Is this usable for a Band in a Live situation? Or is it just for Studio?

[@HeyLennyB]

It's great for both!!

[@gaborkiss1425]

Hi@@HeyLennyB​, I have an SM7B with an SE Dynamite inline preamp connected to it. I also have a dbx 286A. Should I leave the Dynamite in the signal chain when using the dbx, or would that unnecessary double amping, with worse sound? Thank you!

[@ConsumerTeamPete]

Well done! Have you every done a demo for the Wheatstone M1 or the Symetrix 528e? (out of production) I'd love to hear your ideas on my VO. Can I send you sample?

[@HeyLennyB]

Hi Peter. The Symetrix 528es units are great but the are just about extinct. I do have a couple in our studios (still working well) but as soon as they break, they're replaced by DBX 286s units. The M1s are very interesting to me but I haven't had the opportunity to use one yet. My home setup is Mac and I think the Wheatstone system is only PC. I hope to offer custom processing for #Wheatstone units in the future. Yes send me your voice! You can submit here: bit.ly/Submit-Your-Voice.

[@Aravindarts]

Hey Lenny, awesome explaination. Thank you. I have DBX 266xs. What is the best set up for voiceover. Please help me.

[@HeyLennyB]

Hey Jay, tell me a little about your goals and I'll try my best to point you in the right direction. In the meantime, I have a video on this subject you might check out... kzbin.info/www/bejne/rZK8o5itZbahndE

[@saxmanny]

Hi Lenny. I also found you from the excellent conversation on Curtis' channel. I wanted to ask if you would use the 286 in your signal chain for recorded, post processed, content. I'm fairly new at this and can see the application for live broadcast. I'm asking if you would also use it to modify the signal into a recorder which you will be working on later in post anyway. Thanks again.

[@HeyLennyB]

You could absolutely. But I would (personally) choose to use the tools in my DAW software. I think it's easier to manage the necessary adjustments for recorded content on separate tracks.

[@saxmanny]

@@HeyLennyB Thank you for that clarification. Much appreciated :-)

[@HeyLennyB]

Hit me up with more questions if necessary. I'm happy to help!

[@co-null5599]

Hello, can you post a description of the equipment setup you have? And what is your dbx screwed into?

[@HeyLennyB]

Hey Co-Null, In this video I'm using a Neumann TLM 103, going in to the DBX 286s, then through a Focusrite Clarett 8preX interface to a Mac Pro (using Logic Pro X recording software). You should consider this... Many home studio producers think that professional, expensive equipment will help get the “sound” they’re looking for. Better equipment can improve the overall quality for sure. But your room (the space that you record in), and a few recording concepts are MUCH more important when it comes to getting a good sound as a foundation. I can achieve a better voice recording quality recording strait to my iPhone than someone who has thousands of dollars worth of gear and doesn't understand the fundamental recording concepts. Your recording space is the majority of your sound. I've have several free tips about exactly that subject on my website, www.lennyb.com. Let me know how it goes and thanks for watching! By the way, the desk I'm using (the thing that the equipment is screwed into) is an Argosy Halo desk. www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/HaloPlus--argosy-halo-workstation-plus

[@richwilliams9103]

Utterly superb

[@hsnlens]

Thank you so much 😊

[@MitchellFxnesse]

I saw in another comment where you said you used a C214 for this walkthrough and I own one, however I wanted to get an sm7b for my voiceovers along with a 286s. I was under the impression dynamic microphones would be better suited for voiceovers/podcasts? I could potentially save money.

[@HeyLennyB]

Hey Mitchell, They're both great mics for voice over. Here's my take... I think the SM7B (because it's a dynamic mic) will likely do better if you Do Not have good room treatment. But, depending on your audio interface, you may need something like a cloud lifter to increase it's gain. Dynamic mics are more gain hungry to achieve a good recording level. If you have somewhat good room treatment (little echo in the room you're recording in), the AKG will be good and can save you some money. Here's the good news. Both of these mics are very popular and their value holds up well if you want to resell them. Consider this... Some professional microphone techniques will do a lot more to get you a good quality sound than a more expensive mic. I've got free tips on my website (lennyb.com) that will help you. Good luck. Hope that helps.

[@MrMrDeeCee]

Sorry to cut in but this is interesting to me as I was toying with going down the sm7b route, and hence me ending up here researching the dbx 286. I was under the impression that the 286 would do the work of the cloudlifter but with extra value as it’s clearly more equipped. A bit shocked to hear that both maybe necessary. Looks like the smb7 is an expensive route to take for a guy on a shoe string budget. Thanks for the video. It’s clear and pleasant to watch and learn from.👍🏼

[@MichaelTheChairman]

Hey Lenny, I got currently and SSL 2 preamp and I am wondering why I would need to connect the DBX 286s to it if the DBX has its own preamp? Can I not hook the DBX directly to my PC and use it? Sorry still trying to learn. Also does the DBX have a headphone jack so I can hear myself and PC audio? Or is that why I need to use the SSL 2? Thank you!

[@HeyLennyB]

Hey TheChairmanTV. The DBX 286s does have its own preamp but it serves a separate purpose. It's not uncommon to use 2 or even 3 preamps in the studio. Your SSL would be similar to the Focusrite unit I use in this video. Let me know if you have more questions. If you are in the learning stage, I think you'll really appreciate the info on my website. I've got some free beginner tips that will up your game. Good luck!

[@jerrys7261]

Very well made

[@BaritoneDeLaTorre]

This video is tremendously helpful!!! I want to ask, can I get the same quality using a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 as my interface??? I'd really appreciate your response!!!

[@HeyLennyB]

I'm glad you found it so helpful! I've actually anticipated your question and I'm going to do a video on that subject soon. The answer is YES, you can get the same quality, or extremely close with an entry lever interface like the Focusrite 2i2. Many home studio producers think that more expensive equipment will help get the “sound” they’re looking for. Better equipment can improve the overall quality some. But your room (the space that you record in), and a few recording concepts are MUCH more important when it comes to getting a good sound as a foundation. I've have several free tips about exactly that subject on my website, www.lennyb.com. Let me know how it goes and thanks for watching!

[@BaritoneDeLaTorre]

@@HeyLennyB thank you so so much for your very kind response, I'm an opera singer who's heading to do voice over and I want to make a professional studio with the best quality possible in a budget. With all your useful information now I feel that I'll be able to make it happen soon! I already subscribed to your amazing channel!

[@HeyLennyB]

@Opera MX wow, that's great. Don't hesitate to reach out to me via my website. I'm happy to off any help I can. 👍

[@YamiFrankc]

What do you recommend, if even with the input gain set to the highest, the first green led barely starts turning on?

[@HeyLennyB]

I expect that you are using a dynamic mic. Correct? Can you list the exact equipment that you're using? I'll do my best to make a suggestion for you.

[@YamiFrankc]

@@HeyLennyB yes. I use an electro-voice re320 into the 286s, then yamaha mg12xu mixer, then to my pc thru usb

[@HeyLennyB]

Ah, that makes sense. The RE320 requires a lot of gain so what you are experiencing is normal for that mic. You may try going into the mixer from the microphone first (to channel's 1-4). Don't send that signal to your PC. Sene it out Aux 1. Go out the Aux 1 (blue knob) and then to the line in of the DBX 286s. Then go out of the DBX 286s to second channel of your mixer. You'd basically be using the additional gain from your mixer to boos the signal going into the DBX. NOTE TWO THINGS> you must make sure you're using the right cables and you need to gain stage the mixer correctly otherwise you won't get the best sound. It's a little more complicated but it's a studio trick used often. You may benefit from some additional studio mic techniques available on my website (lennyb.com) good luck!

[@YamiFrankc]

@@HeyLennyB Ohh thank you. Im going to try that, and also take a look at your site!

[@LIGHTSNH33T]

Amazing sound there my friend. What kind of you are using for this tutorial? Sounds so proffessional. Not a sm7b sound either lol

[@HeyLennyB]

For this video, I used the AKG 214 microphone.

[@LIGHTSNH33T]

@@HeyLennyB Love how that sounds. I am a blind producer/musician and always love to hear clean tutorials or anything clear. I currently have the DBX and Neumann 102 and after listening to you I retweeked a few things and it sounds amazing…..

[@honestnewsnet]

DID YOU DO ANY AUDIO PROCESSESSING TO THIS VIDEO BEFORE YOU UPLOADED THIS? THANKS

[@HeyLennyB]

I used very little gain/limiting to bring it to KZbin streaming standards (so they wouldn't automatically adjust it themselves). I tried my best to preserve the integrity of the voice tone.

[@starbituin0876]

Love it❤️ thanks ❤️🥰

[@poalotesta7743]

If I'm using a dbx 286s with a Shure sm7b will I need a Cloudlifter?

[@HeyLennyB]

The DBX can supply +60db of gain. The Cloudlifter is not necessary if you use a DBX 286s.

[@emilionavarrete9530]

Hi, that hdd solution over the dbx what model is it?

[@HeyLennyB]

Hi Emilio, That's from Blackmagic Design. It's so great. I bring HDD drives back and forth to my other studio and it's awesome. Their current middle is here: www.blackmagicdesign.com/products/blackmagicmultidock

[@Contentmediagroup]

Great vid! I purchased a used 286s from a reputable source b/c of your vid. Unfortunately, it's incredibly noisy and unusable. Could I have a bad unit or is it really this noisy/hissy? I'm definitely returning it. Are you using a plug-in to remove the noise? It's really bad.

[@HeyLennyB]

Sorry to hear that. You may have a bad unit. However, let me ask you a few questions to make sure. What mic are you using? And can you confirm that you have a TRS cable from the DBX to your interface? Thanks

[@trilogychannel]

Thanks for this Lenny. I am currently using an Audio Technica AT 4047 going into a Great River ME1NV. Would this unit replace that preamp?

[@HeyLennyB]

Hi Richard, In my opinion, you have a very high quality Great River preamp. I feel you'd be harming your overall quality by putting a cheap(ish) DBX 286 in your chain. I would only use a hardware channel strip like the DBX 286s if you need an inexpensive way to get a processed sound live (broadcasting, zoom calls etc.). If you are looking for best quality, I'd use plugins in post production. Hope that helps.

[@terrytesar7681]

Lenny, do plug ins do a good enough job?

[@HeyLennyB]

Hi Terry, Here is my opinion. When you need a fast way to get an excellent live voice-over or streaming sound without plugins, a unit like the DBX 286s is what you need. It's the most popular microphone processor in the broadcast industry, and it's prevalent for radio broadcasters and podcasters. However, it's also important to note that channel strips like the DBX 286s assume that your recording space (the room you're recording in) is well treated to reduce or remove reflections. But, If you are looking for more quality and control over your voice-over sound, using a direct line to an interface with post-processing with plugins is a better choice. That's where my custom presets would be used. It would help if you didn't use them both simultaneously. I hope this helps.

[@shellybrandon9]

I use 3 different condenser mics, AT4040, Rode nT1a, AT 2035 - do you suggest setting each mic separately to the DBX286s? Or is one setting sufficient?

[@HeyLennyB]

Hi Shelly, I believe you're going to want to adjust the DBX 286s' settings on each microphone a little differently. The reason is because they all will likely each need a slightly different amount of gain and slightly different Enhancer/De-Esser settings. The good news is you probably don't have to completely start over. I imagine each of the settings will only need to be adjusted marginally. Just be sure that when you readjust for a different mic, go in the same order as I do in this video. Good luck. Let me know if you have any further questions.

[@shellybrandon9]

Your presentation is very easy to understand, Thank you. I set the 4040 to the DBX with your recommendations and found I passed ACX test without any additional messing. Oddly enough, I had only used the pre -amp, gate and de-esser- for 2 years. thanks to you I can use the whole line now.

[@AndrewDBrown2020]

Hi Lenny - I'm learning so much from your videos - thank you. I have a question about gates and the Adobe Audition noise capture function when recording training videos. I have a pretty terrible room for recording with lots of reflective surfaces, a computer fan and no viable way to make a lot of improvements to it (at this time). So I rely on my equipment and Audition to make things acceptable. I am using a Synco Mic-D2 shotgun, going into a DBX286s and finally a Scarlett 2i2. My question is when I am recording, should I switch the gate off - on the DBX286s for a few seconds, so that I have a place to capture the actual noise floor of the room? Or should, I leave just leave the gate on? The reason I ask is because when the talent is speaking the things mention above will be coming through a little with the voice. Hope that makes sense & thanks once again.

[@HeyLennyB]

Hi Andy, I believe I understand what you're getting at. I personally prefer (when making the best out of a non optimal situation), to only use each of the processes once. I believe a little bit of noise floor in the background is less attention getting than two gates switching on and off. My goal would be to do what ever I could to draw attention away from the problem. Unfortunately, there's no right way to suppress the noise when it's that much of a problem. However, since you're using a shotgun microphone, you may want to try and use it to your advantage. Make sure you're aware of what is directly behind the talent where the shotgun mic is pointing. If you can minimize the first generation reflections with a soft fuzzy blanket at least on the wall behind the talent (directly in the path of the shotgun mic), it may improve the overall sound more than gating will. Hope that helps. Good luck!

[@AndrewDBrown2020]

@@HeyLennyB Thank you so much Lenny - really great advice (as always). PS - I'm loving your EQ course. As per usual, I'd wish I'd had this information years ago. Keep up the great work.

[@jayj2702]

Hi, is anyone getting a bit of a buzzing sound when you put your ear to the dbx286s, its only plugged into the mains, any info would be good. Thanks

[@marketweis]

Were you using the C214 for this walk-through?

[@HeyLennyB]

Yes, I was for this video. I think the C214 with the DBX 286s is a good combo for live streaming. Do you have one?

[@marketweis]

@@HeyLennyB Thank you...no, I do not. I've always been worried about the fairly scooped nature of its EQ curve, but in your videos at least, it seems to be a tailor-made fit for the 286, which I do have.

[@HeyLennyB]

I have a ton of mics because of the nature of what I do. I find the C-214 pretty bright compared to other large diaphragm condensers. At least on my voice... Let me know if there's any other questions I may be able to help with. Thanks for watching...

[@catsven1973]

Very helpful .. thanks .. do you think that increasing the gain is colouring the sound ? Or it’s neutral ? I have trouble with my AT4040 which has some midrangy colour through the DBX (500-2khz) which is less pronounced when it’s plugged directly into my Roland Octacapture

[@HeyLennyB]

Hey Cat, in my experience this pre is pretty neutral. I do think that you can get more "color" from this unit by driving the compressor harder. You may also consider this. By increasing the lows and highs (enhancer) is the same (the sum difference is) as decreasing the mids. Hope that helps.

[@catsven1973]

@@HeyLennyB thanks indeed it decreases the mids by increasing low and high that worked fine ..

[@dharmvirbharti1037]

sir I have bought the Focusrite solo 3rd gen can I connect it to dbx 286s and if yes how(what cables will be required ) please answer ASAP

[@HeyLennyB]

Specifically on the Focusrite Scarlett Solo, you can ONLY connect the DBX to the XLR (channel one) of the Solo. Channel 2's input won't work. The Solo can receive both a mic level and the "balanced" line connection with it's XLR connection. So you'll need a male 1/4" TRS cable from your line out of the DBX 286s to a male XLR into the channel 1 of your Scarlet Solo. Hope that helps you. Let me know how it turns out! Thanks for stopping by my channel. Check out my new voice over website and sign up for the news letter for tutorial announcements, freebies, and promotions. Thanks!

[@dharmvirbharti1037]

@@HeyLennyB Thank you sir for such fast response , wish you a healthy life ahead.

[@HeyLennyB]

Specifically on the Focusrite Scarlett Solo, you can ONLY connect the DBX to the XLR (channel one) of the Solo. Channel 2's input won't work. The Solo can receive both a mic level and the "balanced" line connection with it's XLR connection. So you'll need a male 1/4" TRS cable from your line out of the DBX 286s to a male XLR into the channel 1 of your Scarlet Solo. Hope that helps you. Let me know how it turns out! Thanks for stopping by my channel. Check out my new voice over website and sign up for the news letter for tutorial announcements, freebies, and promotions. Thanks!

[@HeyLennyB]

What generation Focusrite solo do you have?

[@HeyLennyB]

Glad to hear it!

[@infoidea9712]

You are Awesome? Please make a video on how you edit your audio.

[@HeyLennyB]

I will soon

[@francarlofogaca]

Hello! Do you have the schematic for this equipment that you could provide me (dbx286s)? Thank you very much

[@HeyLennyB]

Hi @francarlofogaca, I think you'll find it here dbxpro.com/en-US/product_documents/dbx286sownersmanualpdf

[@KennyGuyte]

Thanks

[@sacocheioradio]

Can I use the DBX 286s to compress my entire mixer?

[@HeyLennyB]

Yes. Connecting it correctly to do the job depends on your mixer's connections. You'll use the line in and line out of the DBX, bypassing the DBX preamp.

[@kevinboucher6536]

I agree with some earlier posters, the easiest to understand tutorial...I'll be ordering my 286s soon, and, like a poster earlier was asking about cables..I've got plenty of good XLRs to take my tlm 102 to the unit, but, like a few others, I am a bit confused about how to get the line signal out of the 286s TO my audio recorder...Two Male TRS quarter inch?? Or, possibly send you an email so you can send the links?

[@HeyLennyB]

Hey Kevin. I put a link to the cable in the description of the video.

[@TommyTucker77]

Really nice vid, thanks. I am looking at the dbx286. My issue/desire is to have my interface/dbx by me in the studio. My laptop fans are too noisy to have in the studio and is about 25fr away in another room. Extender cables from laptop to the ssl2 interface doesn't support it enought to work in the studio. How can I set it up to at leaset have the dbx in my studio handy, while cabled to the interface and laptop in the other room...??

[@HeyLennyB]

Wow, that's a tough challenge. There's one way to accomplish the result you're looking for but it's a bit complicated. You could record your voice raw (no DBX), then once you get it in to the computer you could run it through the DBX (line in, not Mic in) and adjust it accordingly the back into the computer. You could also try and keep the computer close, but separate (isolate) it with some acoustic dampening material. I hope that helps.

[@TommyTucker77]

@@HeyLennyB I am setting up with a TSR to Mic Cable in to the interface. It's not yielding me much result there's a hiss and no improvement and noise floor. I'm going to have to try TSR to TSR connection.

[@HeyLennyB]

Yeah, it's all about using the correct line/mic level to the appropriate input. If you send me some photos, I can walk you through it. email me at [e-mail]

[@ScalezX]

Hi Lenny i'm really struggling to follow your guide, since my unit does not seem to react the same way yours does. The indicator LEDs do not correspond with the audio levels when monitoring. Any ideas as to what this issue might be? I'm using a SM7B with a motu m2.

[@HeyLennyB]

Hi Aleksander, I haven't heard of any experience like this. Can you send me a video of exactly what you're experiencing? Please include in your email that you contacted me via KZbin comment. I may be able to help. email [e-mail]

[@ScalezX]

@@HeyLennyB I spent most of my day trying to figure out what the problem was, and i'm 90% certain its an issue with windows and my motu. I fixed it by only using my DAW as a reference point.

[@flamersss]

Hey! l have a SSL2 interface, thinkin to get this DBX, which cables do you think l would need to connect from the back of the DBX to the SSL2?

[@HeyLennyB]

You'll need a Balanced Line Cable - TRS Male to TRS Male. www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/BLC3--rapcohorizon-balanced-line-cable-blc-3-3-foot

[@SpawnzFPV]

How good is the noise gate been thinking about getting this to get rid of people in the background and how would I hook this up to a USB mixer do I hook the mic in the DBX then go out to the mixer using XLR to the mic channel in the mixer?

[@HeyLennyB]

Hi. I think the noise gate is the really good. I'd use it with a low "range" setting otherwise it will sound choppy if the ambient sound in your recording is loud. You could us it either of the two ways you describe, but I'd go Mic to DBX to Mixer.

[@SpawnzFPV]

@@HeyLennyB Thank you so much for the reply one more thing what cables would I need to hook it to the mixer

[@HeyLennyB]

Yes, the correct cables are important. Can you tell me the make and model of your mixer? Also, please email me at [e-mail] and I'll probably end up sending you a diagram. Thanks!

[@tsdmoto]

What processing would you perform in your DAW after running your mic through the 286?

[@HeyLennyB]

That's a good question. I don't do any processing after the DBX, and here's why. When you need a fast way to get an excellent live voice-over or streaming sound without plugins, the DBX 286s is what you need. It's the most popular microphone processor in the broadcast industry, and it's prevalent for radio broadcasters and podcasters. However, it's also important to note that channel strips like the DBX 286s assume that your recording space (the room you're recording in) is appropriately treated. But, If you are looking for more quality and control over your voice recorded sound, using a direct line to an interface with post-processing with plugins is a better choice. The processing effect order is a huge factor. That's where my custom presets would be used. I don't suggest using both the DBX and plugin processing together. I hope this explanation helps.

[@rickflair9374]

thanks alot

[@Zach_TheGamer]

How do I get rid of the background buzzing noise? Even when I turn on the expansion gate, it is still there. It is barely there, but it is there.

[@HeyLennyB]

Hey Zach, let's see if we can figure out what's making the noise in the first place. Can you tell me what your setup consists of?

[@Zach_TheGamer]

@@HeyLennyB Well, I have a laptop. There is a Scarlett 2i2 plugged into that which is also connected to a Cloudlifter and a DBX 286s. These all plug into a Shure SM7B.

[@HeyLennyB]

Ah, I think I know where that problem may be coming from. Let's start from the Mic. The mic goes into the cloud lifter, then to your 2i2. Then you 2i2 goes to your computer. Make sure that is the connection order and let me know if you still have the buzz.

[@MattBrandon]

Why use a stereo 6.35mm (1/4") phone jack rather than a mono for voice? Frankly I am having a hard time finding a short stereo 6.35mm male to 6.35mm male jack.

[@HeyLennyB]

Hey Matt, yeah seems like it shouldn't make sense. You need a TRS cable (which looks like a stereo cable) which is a "balanced" mono cable. The difference between balanced and unbalanced is the level of the signal that passes through. Think of it this way... a TRS cable is just like an XLR cable but it has a stereo 1/4" connector. I've purchased from amazon many times. Here's a link to a TRS cable amzn.to/2Xz5jv4

[@MattBrandon]

@@HeyLennyB Thanks Lenny. Not sure I understand. So, if I use an unbalanced cable, would the sound then come out of one speaker? Thanks for the link, but I am in Malaysia and we dont have Amazon here. But, I did manage to find a cable listed as "stereo". I think this should work for now. shopee.com.my/product/92757371/7841236297

[@HeyLennyB]

Matt, it gets complicated, but you'll get it. Just understand that all voice signals are mono before they get to your computer or Mixer. The balanced/unbalanced difference only has to do with signal level and how strong the signals is that's traveling through the mono connection. Here's a great article on the subject. But, like I said, it gets complicated quickly. www.sweetwater.com/insync/understanding-signal-levels-audio-gear/

[@biteme263]

@@HeyLennyB The TRS cable are balanced cables not really stereo headphone cables or interconnects from what I understand. You want a balanced cable to reduce line noise like hum and stuff like that.

[@bujorvoinea]

Nu știu ce să cred; microfonul conectat la preamplificator scoate semnal doar pe canalul stâng. Am verificat cablul și tot ce face legăturile. E defect preamplificatorul meu? Mulțumesc pentru răspuns! I do not know what to believe; the microphone connected to the preamplifier output signal only on the left channel. I checked the cable and everything that makes the connections. Is my preamplifier defective? Thanks for the reply!

[@HeyLennyB]

No I don't think it's defective. You need to go to your recording software and record a "Mono" track instead of a Stereo track. 1 microphone is a Mono signal. I expect you're trying to record a mono signal to the stereo track so it's only sending signal to the left side. Once you create a mono track, the voice should come to both the left and right. Hope that helps.

[@bujorvoinea]

@@HeyLennyB Mulțumesc pentru răspuns! Dacă ascult la căștile mele audio, foarte bune și verificate, printr-un preamplificator de căști, aud doar canalul din partea stângă. Asta nu e plăcut. Credeam că acest dbx trimite sunetul stereo, chiar și dacă microfonul e mono. Dacă așa trebuie să fie nu e bine! Dumneavoastră cum considerați asta? Thanks for the reply! If I listen to my audio headphones, very good and checked, through a headphone preamplifier, I only hear the channel on the left. That's not nice. I thought this dbx sends stereo sound, even if the microphone is mono. If that's the way it is, it's not good! How do you think that?

[@HeyLennyB]

The DBX is a mono unit. It only receives and sends a mono signal. Please explain to me your full equipment chain. What are you connecting the DBX to?

[@bujorvoinea]

@@HeyLennyB În primul rând am vrut să văd cum răspunde la reglaj, așa că am conectat la el un preamplificator de căști TOPPING A 30 și am folosit căști SONY, verificate. Am conectat un microfon Shure dinamic și am vorbit în microfon. Cablurile folosite sunt de calitate. Așa am văzut că se aude doar în stânga. Sigur că am verificat atent conectările. Credeam că voi avea sunet pe ambele canale, stânga și dreapta. Asta m-am așteptat, dar se aude doar stânga. Am conectat și la PC. Același rezultat pe înregistrare. Am tras concluzia că din dbx plecă sunet doar pe un canal. E corect? First of all, I wanted to see how it responds to the setting, so I connected a TOPPING A 30 headphone preamplifier to it and used SONY, verified headphones. I connected a dynamic Shure microphone and spoke into the microphone. The cables used are of high quality. That's how I saw that it can only be heard on the left. Of course I checked the connections carefully. I thought I would have sound on both channels, left and right. That's what I expected, but it can only be heard on the left. I also connected to the PC. Same result on recording. I concluded that the sound leaves dbx only on one channel. It's correct?

[@HeyLennyB]

The DBX 286s is not meant to go directly into a stereo source. You need to use a mixer (amzn.to/3I3uTOv) to split the mono signal. From the mixer, you can then connect to speakers or your headphone amp.

[@richardhurd7855]

Having connected my condenser mic to my dbx 286s and my focusrite 2i2 I naturally activated the 48v phantom power on the dbx but realized I also had one on my 2i2. Should both be on and if they are does it affect the recording in any way? I've never encountered this before so wanted ask.

[@HeyLennyB]

Hi Richard, It's only necessary on the DBX unit. If you also have it on the 2i2 it shouldn't affect the quality or damage anything. It's just not necessary. Thanks for reaching out!

[@SplashAnimationCo]

Hi there, I am interested in connecting the DBX 286s to my reel to reel tape player. Probably a strange question, as most would rather record to a computer. But anyways, would a TRS cable with RCA outputs would be sufficient enough to connect it? If you don't know the answer, I am still willing to give a shot.

[@HeyLennyB]

Hi Michael Ngo, I need a bit more info before we can figure out an answer. Can you send me a photo of the front and the back of your reel to reel machine? We'll figure this out. 👍

[@SplashAnimationCo]

@@HeyLennyB Thanks for the help! I should have been more specific. My reel to reel player is a Teac a 6300. It is like a really glorified cassette deck. It has 2 RCA stereo inputs and 2 RCA stereo outputs. In the front panel, there are two TRS jacks that can be used as a microphone input. Funny enough, I connected my AudioTechnica m50x headphone with the quarter inch jack the the microphone input and it works, lol. But, there is a lot of gain noise, so I would rather use the stereo line RCA inputs of the tape recorder.

[@HeyLennyB]

I would be hesitant to connect the line out of the DBX 286s to the RCA input of the Teac a 6300. At best it may work, or work with noise. At the worst it may damage your Teac. You're basically going from the balanced line level (DBX) to an unbalanced line level (Teac) connections. I don't know what the repercussions may be. You'd need a special "TRS balanced Line Level to unbalanced line level RCA" adapter. Hope that helps.

[@SplashAnimationCo]

@@HeyLennyB Thanks for the advice! You just saved me a lot of money. I think I am just going to connect the Shure SM57 and use an XLR to dual TS jacks cable to the microphone input of the Teac (No DBX). The Teac microphone gain maybe noisy, but I will just speak louder to compensate for it. :)

[@Roqfort]

Hi! I've found that if the output gain from the DBX 286 is still too low, I slightly tweak the gain on the Focusrite 212 connected and the signal is great. I also don't hear any unwanted squeaks or noises. Am I making a mistake by adding some gain from the audio interface to the chain? Can I damage something?

[@HeyLennyB]

Hi Mario. It sounds to me like you may have a dynamic microphone. I believe what's happening is that you're using the DBX 286s to boost the extra gain that your dynamic mic is needing. I'd suggest you ad a mic activator like a Cloudlifter or a sE Electronics Dynamite. You can absolutely raise the gain from your audio interface. You won't damage anything. However, what you are doing is adding unnecessary noise to the system (probably a minuscule amount) by cranking the gain on one or the other unit. Hope this helps. Thanks for watching!

[@Roqfort]

​@@HeyLennyB Hi. I've got a dynamic microphones. Rode Procaster and Rode Podmic. Procaster has attached Klark booster. Podmic without booster with a little bit of increased gain (about 10%) on Focusrite has more than enought loud signal for voice recording. I don't hear any distortions or noise. I was worrying that I can damage something because I didn't find, somebody does the same method. You calmed me down. Many thanks!

[@Чумачечший]

Hi. For some reason, after I set up the gain and proceed to setting up the Drive compressor, even a small value gives out the clip eventually. And I can't get rid of it, if I make the gain less, then it becomes worse to hear me. I use the Behringer b-1 - DBX - UMC202HD. I use a translator, there may be problems in the text. I tried to make a sentence, as they taught at school

[@HeyLennyB]

Hi. That is strange. Which clip light are you referring to the input clip light or the output clip?

[@Чумачечший]

@@HeyLennyB There is no clip indication on the DBX itself. But it is displayed on the audio card, and during recording the value can reach 0 db. This often happens when I pronounce the letter A. Now it's more or less normal, but the sound seems to have lost its volume and volume

[@HeyLennyB]

You must be using a a 1/4 jack to go into channel 1 or 2 of your UMC202HD. You should have your channel switched to "Line" and you need to have the Pad disengaged. Is this true?

[@Чумачечший]

@@HeyLennyB Yes, cable 6.3 or 1/4 (in our country they call 6.3) on DBX-XLR mama-UMC. switch "line". Gain on UMC = 0

[@HeyLennyB]

The only other thing I can think of would be a setting on your computer's audio driver. It should all be set to the default.

[@dasarimusic]

So when you use the preamp can you track vocals and print them on the vocal track ? So like from preamp into my interface into my daw or does it record it dry after playback ? if you get what I'm saying ?

[@HeyLennyB]

Unfortunately, no. You need a plugin chain in your DAW to do that. The DBX is best for live broadcasting or vocals. What DAW are you using?

[@dasarimusic]

@@HeyLennyB cakewalk

[@dasarimusic]

@@HeyLennyB so what does the preamp do just let's you hear your self thru your headphones and thats it if it doesn't do anything to do the actual recording why use it ? I'm sorry I'm new to preamp I'm just wondering what it helps on

[@HeyLennyB]

Depending on which version of cakewalk you have, you've likely got all of the effects (like what the DBX 286s does) already. The DBX 286s is compression, gating, de-essing and EQ. If you want to use those types of effects during a live performance, or a live broadcast or stream, that's why you'd need a hardware unit like the 286s. But if you are recording, the plugins in your DAW will give you more control which can get you a better sound. I expect you are using an audio interface like a Focusrite or something similar. The audio interface you are using has a preamp in it. So what does a preamp do? Basically, a microphone preamp makes the signal (which is a low level signal from your mic) loud enough so you DAW can capture it. When it comes to music production, standalone preamps from Neve, Universal Audio, API, or ART and others are used to record guitar, bass, drums, or any other instruments to add a little saturation. When you run audio through a preamp, it thickens up the sound. I discuss it it in this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5SneZWBZalqjqc. They have plugins that do can add that sound too, but many people still like the sound of the hardware unit better. I hope that helps. Take a look at your effects in cake walk. It's like an effects playground when you start messing with them. Remember this... EQ and Compression are the main things that can transform your recordings from amateur to professional!

[@alfonsopereira7345]

Hey! I can used this pream with apollo twin ?

[@HeyLennyB]

Absolutely. Just ensure you take the line-out from the DBX into a Line-In of the Twin. You basically need to bypass the Apollo Twin's microphone preamp.

[@goddestroyer3416]

Can I use the dbx286s with two microphones?

[@HeyLennyB]

Unfortunately, no. Just one microphone input for the DBX286s. DBX has some other 2 channel units that have the dynamics control, but they don't have a preamp.

[@gequerelle]

Hola... Sabes cual es la forma de configurar para poder obtener el efecto ducking en el 286s. Saludos desde Chile

[@HeyLennyB]

Hola, lo siento, pero no creo que el 286 no tenga esa característica.

[@gequerelle]

@@HeyLennyB Gracias por responder... pero ¿No sabes o no crees amigo que tenga o no tenga esa característica? Mi DBX lo tengo conectado a una mesa Zoom L8. Abrazo desde CHILE.

[@HeyLennyB]

To create a ducking effect with a compressor, you must use a sidechain input. The DBX 286s does not have that feature. I would suggest using a recording software application to handle this task.

[@gequerelle]

@@HeyLennyB Gracias por tu tiempo... Amigo, tengo además el RNC1773, este me sirve para hacer el efecto Duck? si es que conecto el RNC al DBX 286s? Gracias y saludos dede Chile.

[@HeyLennyB]

The RNC1773 does have the capability to do this. However, you need to send your voice to the RNC side chain. But you'll run the audio you want to duck (for example a music bed) into and out of the RNC. Your voice triggers the compress to duck the music when you're speaking. You might want to search ducking audio on KZbin. The concept is advanced. I hope that helps.