DCX2496 or DBX Driverack?

[brad]

I have just ordered four FI IB18's and am looking (still) at different processors. Both the Behringer DCX2496 and the DBX driverack PA both seem to have very similar functions (crossovers, PEQ, feedback suppression, compressors, etc) but I know of no one that has used either one of these units yet. I can get the driverack here locally where I am getting my amp (Samson Audio), but will have to order the Behringer. They carry Behringer and can order the DCX2496 but none of them seem to carry a very high opinion of Behringer. The DBX unit is more expensive, but I think I am leaning more towards it ... still unsure though.

Both of the units have far more features than I will ever use, but it is nice to have crossover and EQ in the same unit.

Can anyone give any information or opinions on either piece of equipment?

[ThomasW]

The DBX was all the rage when it was first introduced a few years ago. Then things mellowed out.

Steve Dodds sold his DBX and bought a DCX2496.
www.doddsy.net/steve6_010.htm

Of course the pro sound shop is down on Behringer, they don't make as much money selling it.

I have a DCX2496 I use for prototyping and other projects, it's surprisingly good.

You need to be careful with Samson amps they don't like to drive low impedance loads..

[jonfo]

I have both, see more details on my Bass Management page

From a “which is better” standpoint, my recommendation is unequivocal: The DBX is a much better unit.

Feature-wise, yes they’re pretty comparable, and when working well, the DCX is fairly neutral. The problem I have is that the DCX is susceptible to noise and some units have a nasty ground problem that requires disassembly and mods to fix.

My DriveRacks stay on for months on end and just work. The DCX require ‘re-booting’ every week to clean up some noise that builds up in it, or it losses a channel that won’t come back until rebooted.
The DriveRack PC UI is quite good, and the RS232 is great for switching presets on the units.

I’m purchasing a DBX DriveRack 4800 to replace my two DriveRack260’s used across the front channels, one DR260 will then replace the DCX2496, which will be auctioned off for whatever I can get.

Link fixed by Jonfo to reflect new domain

[jonfo]

Well, I got a DriveRack 4800 a few weeks ago and re-did my bass management setup and now have just the 4800 and a 260.

The DriveRack 4800 is an amazing piece of gear!
I'm totally smitten with that thing; it really is worth the extra coin to go to this model. Even over the 260's, it is cleaner, has much better analog gain management, and now offer the option of full digital I/O as well as tons of other features.

The new HiQ net remote control UI is very, very slick. And now that one can control it over Ethernet, using a WiFi enabled laptop and you can just in the main listening position and tweak away.

All DR’s have SubHarmonic Synths, which for an IB user is a must, as many old recordings have their bass rolled off in either the recording or mastering process (thank you RIAA) that the Subharmonic Synth really repairs in a very clean and subtle fashion.


This new unit brings some features prior DR's did not have, the best is the new ‘AutoWarmth’ module.

What this does is provide a dynamic adaptation of the system tonal response based on the human ear’s natural response changes as volume drops. This is the ‘Fletcher-Munson’ curve one hears about for adjusting frequency so perceived loudness is maintained irrespective of actual SPL. This also known as an “equal-loudness contour”.

The AutoWarmth module has a user controllable threshold setting (volume at which it takes effect) as well as variable ratios of application of the effect. Anywhere from 1/4 to 4x the effect can be applied.
Once the threshold is crossed, it dynamically EQ’s according to the curves and the current volume level.

It is very effective. I’ve been listening to some prog-rock this afternoon as I write all this up, and I’ve had it playing at an average of 73dB, but the fullness of the bass is all there.

It is miles ahead of the old ‘loudness’ controls, and nothing short of the new Audyssey Dynamic EQ found in the new Denon AVP-A1HD processor is even close to it.

Really, really dig this feature


The other cool feature (found also in the 260) are the limiters, a must for the IB sub owner with a monster amp that could bottom drivers or fry voice coils. Setting them right is a bit of an art, but it will save you from overly aggressive demo’s and system usage errors (like turning on a crossover with the sub amp on).
I know my limiters just protected my rig from destruction recently, so I highly recommend them.

More details on this thread about my system over at the MartinLogan owners club.

[Rhue]

Feb 16, 2008 5:59:44 GMT -7 jonfo said:

I have both, see more details on my Bass Management page

From a “which is better” standpoint, my recommendation is unequivocal: The DBX is a much better unit.

Feature-wise, yes they’re pretty comparable, and when working well, the DCX is fairly neutral. The problem I have is that the DCX is susceptible to noise and some units have a nasty ground problem that requires disassembly and mods to fix.

My DriveRacks stay on for months on end and just work. The DCX require ‘re-booting’ every week to clean up some noise that builds up in it, or it losses a channel that won’t come back until rebooted.
The DriveRack PC UI is quite good, and the RS232 is great for switching presets on the units.

I’m purchasing a DBX DriveRack 4800 to replace my two DriveRack260’s used across the front channels, one DR260 will then replace the DCX2496, which will be auctioned off for whatever I can get.

Link fixed by Jonfo to reflect new domain

Sory for being late but not last about DCX 2496:

DCX 2496 is good for any high-quality or high-end sound system.
It's very affordable, very versatile and excellent when used in digital link. Some tweaks may be useful to reach the best end of the tool.

I am been using DCX 2496 for two years ( ancient music and classical works, lots of bass, sound and fury) : clear, direct, good imaging, strong and smooth both. Yes.

No problem, once settling and ordinary troubles fixed.

To make your mind, look at this french english-spoken link :
www.dcx2496.fr/