DBX 286s Voice Test and First Impressions - Worth it?

[@stephenalcaide1778]

Finally, a video where someone actually uses the product thoroughly, so as to give you a true usage demonstration. Very nice. You've renewed my faith. Thanks!

[@rigocornejo6003]

I mean he used it all incorrectly because he didn't took the time to learn the conections, I will not be surprised if he uses brake fluid as a motor oil diesel as power steering oil and cooking oils as brake fluid, the car runs? Yes it will keep running badly but running

[@station08]

Agreed !

[@station08]

​@@rigocornejo6003
You should do a correction video with yours.

[@annekedebruyn7797]

The reason why it doesn't feature an XLR out is because it's not the common way to do it even in high end broadcasting.
The majority of the channels of a console aren't going to be XLR unless you plug a mic directly into it.
With line-in you don't have to double gain meaning less trouble with noise later down the line.
For anyone I recommend going line-in and set your final output on the unit. In most cases your interface, console or other effects device will automatically set itself to line-level or you have to set your switch from mic/intrument to line level. This is the "correct" way of doing it and no, it won't affect audio quality hence why it's wrong that people call them "stereo TRS."
One of the black ring is actually your ground (similar to your third XLR pin.)
Cheap stereosets (or effect units for feedback) use the groundpin as a second channel. In professional audio you simply use two TRS (or XLR) cables for stereo so there isn't a grounding issue. But since it's mono you don't have to worry about all of that.

[@Kilzu1]

Not entirely true. All outputs, no matter are they XLR or Jack, send LINE level signal. Some pre amps and effect processors, which have both as outputs use XLR for Mic line level and Jack for Line level signal, but you do have to check manual or see, if it has button that has lables of -10dbu and +4dbu. All that microphone pre-amp does, is amplify microphone signal to line level signal, if input is already line level signal, then microphone pre-amp will amplify it even further from that. If XLR input doesn't have mic pre-amp, it is line level input same as TS and TRS, balanced or unbalanced mono, depending on the cable.
Also TRS and XLR connectors have nothing to do with grounding and isn't any different from other cables, grounding is related to electricity in general (and very important role in safety), depending how device is manufactured, if any of the grounds breaks, it might not work at all or there wouldn't be any protection against over voltage and power spikes (and last one usually just means sooner or later, whole thing just dies).
Reason why you shouldn't use XLR to connect line level source to mic input, is because it can damage the device (also feeding phantom power to any outputs can break the ground among others). If XLR input in question doesn't have pre-amp, you actually have to connect line level output to it using either insert or external pre-amp. Unless device is designed to be used for both line and mic line inputs and/or outputs, both are always Line level, output is something you need to check the manual.
As for TRS and XLR cables, XLR and TRS analog cables are exactly the same cable, with different connectors. TRS is stereo, XLR is mono, TRS is used for line level signals, XLR is used for both. Other than that, XLR just has more secure locking mechanism and better shielding than TRS does, also TRS is used mainly because you don't have to worry about how long cables you can have (TS cables don't work that well from long distances and also are more prone to electronic interference, hence you need DI box if you wish to use TS cables for anything other than linking mono input and output within less than 1 meter away from each other)
Audio interfaces are designed so, that to bypass the pre-amp, you either connect external pre-amp to line inputs, inserts return inputs or use single insert cable. TRS inputs are designed not to be effected by mic pre-amps or phantom power, it's not possible (at least yet), for your device to automatically detect if input source uses line or mic level signal, because signal on both is same, there's just around 14dbu difference (Line level being +4dbu and mic line being -10dbu)

[@HarryLoveTV]

crazy. this was my first mic pre/channel strip and it was brilliant. even though i really didnt know how to get the best out of it i still managed to make records in my home which actually saw the light of day and didnt sound like a complete mess. that was thanks to this box and i have to thank Braintax for putting me onto that, the Roland VS and the Asr10 all of which were massive game changers in their day

[@neutralearth1061]

The dbx 286s is amazing! After recording our first two albums without one, we bought a 286s to see if we could improve the vocal recording process on our newest album we are currently recording. The 1st album was almost all SM58 direct into a Tascam DP-32, for the 2nd album we dug out an old AKG C 3000B and also used a new Neumann TLM 102, they added diversity and options for the vocals.
Now we're using the dbx 286s with the AKG, Neumann and a new Shure SM7B and the 286s made all 3 microphones come alive! A little compression when recording makes the mixing process so much easier!

[@jinglebirdmusic4492]

Hi I am using audient id14 and planning to buy dbx 286s for vocal and other instruments recording so it is good go ? And preamp quality is good or not ?

[@neutralearth1061]

@@jinglebirdmusic4492 We are not professional recording artists, we do it for fun, but it sounds great to us!
I don't know how it would work with the Audient ID14 as we don't use computers or USB interfaces. We record on Tascam Portastudios, DP-32, Model 24, and the 2488neo.

[@jinglebirdmusic4492]

@@neutralearth1061 ohh Thanks

[@musicislife704]

Do this preamp add warmth to vocals?

[@neutralearth1061]

@@musicislife704 It can. Depending on the microphone used and the dbx 286s compression and enhancer settings a wide range of tonal qualities can be achieved.

[@williamburkholder769]

The sound of this reminds me of my ancient dbx 164 from 1982. I still use it. While a dbx 286s is not anything like a Universal Audio 6176, they do make clean-sounding channel strips. Here in the USA, dbx has it on their site for $219.

[@DayTradeGold]

After watching this.. I am convinced (after looking at this unit for 2yrs) now that I want this unit. Keep up the good work

[@Afterburner]

I LOVE my DBX 286 and I added it to my chain with a Shure SM7B and a Cloudlifter. I don't have a regular studio with foam walls - just a game room to do my work in, so the gate just does an awesome job for my voice over work and it just works beautifully. I have a second studio I'm setting up with another SM7B and a cloudlifter and I don't need the preamp so I decided to go with the DBX 266. Great video and liked the review and setup you shared. -- Jon

[@TheLTGamer]

Do u stream my dude?

[@thiseasebob]

There is no XLR (mic level) out for a reason!
Being a microphone preamp, as the name suggests, it does the job of lifting the output voltage of the mic to a reasonable level.
So, in order to keep your signal path as clean as possibile, and to gain all of the (eventual) benefits of using an external preamp, you have to route the TRS jack output to a LINE IN (also TRS jack) on your audio interface.
This way, the preamp does it's preamp job, and the audio interface acts just as an AD converter, to bring your analog signal into the digital domain.
The connection you made makes the dbx preamp go into the UR22 preamp, and then the AD kicks in.
You did a double preamp pass!

[@diamondscout3190]

I just bought the DBX 580 can I connect it to my audio interface. I have the focus rite 2i4?

[@thiseasebob]

Diamond Scout Hi Diamond! First of all, your question makes me doubt... do you have a lunchbox to power and use the 580? If so, yes, you can connect it to your 2i4 but as I said in my comment you will be running a preamp into a preamp, which is not the best thing to do for a bunch of reasons.
If you are into/planning to be into external preamps, make sure to buy a proper audio interface that has either line ins (with no mic pre) or send-return circuit.
This way, your signal path stays as clean as it can be from the connections stand point!

[@cristianbatelli5873]

partially true, because if I pass it through the pre-amp of the interface but the volume is at zero, there is no noise.

[@annette2687]

Sweet! The second you plugged it into the 286, I was immediately impressed!

[@Thonik_]

Annette Spears i pressed "buy" after that xD

[@StarWarsJay]

Hello mate. I recently bought one of these. I have a Rode Podmic and while it’s not a bad microphone, it lacks wallop. This preamp is gold. With a bit of fine tuning, you can get a real professional sound out of an affordable mic with it…and it’s not even expensive. The only downside I’d say (and it’s a small quibble) is the sheer heft of the thing. I know, it’s designed to be rack mountable, but a lot of people don’t have a rack mount, so it ends up on your desk. It’s a big item that takes up a lot of desktop real estate. That small gripe aside though, this is a magic bit of kit that I’d highly recommend. On a side note, the deesser is a bonus too if you have a sibilant voice.

[@yu6htbfgd]

I been usin the dbx for a while and love it. The ex gate on it is a game changer.

[@therepguy1]

Recently come across your channel and was impressed. It’s nice to come across someone who takes the time to explain what a given device does in general use.

[@peterschmidt9942]

I've been meaning to watch this one for a while Shane. I got one of the DBX166xs a few years back to help smooth out vocals on a PA setup as I didn't need a preamp, just the compressor. Got it for a great price (under $250AU) and bonus was these had a gate and limiter in it too. The DBX gear is nicely built, easy to setup and operate. I didn't think I needed a gate, but because the compression emphasizes harmonics at higher volumes, the whole system tends to feedback a little. So I find the gate helps tremendously in between songs.

[@420wizdumb6]

I've had one for about 2 years now and it is awesome. I live on a busy street and the gate works flawlessly. I've uses it with condensers and dynamic mics. ive used trs to xlr and trs patch cable to my mbox2 and profire 2626. in my opinion, anyone who records vocals needs this!!!

[@DJURBANBG]

did you tried it on a rode nt1a mic

[@justinjr1623]

I had a chance to try it out at my friend house, i would say, it sounds beautiful, little twist you can hear the sound change, the price is reasonable and affordable, I like it, got to get one for me

[@TheMatrixxandRhodesShow]

I want this for my livestreams. I have the Rodecaster Pro but I dont like the processing on the Rodecaster Pro. It doesnt sound good enough live.

[@ee1yd]

interesting

[@apostolicbible1]

Great video. I gave my UR22 away and bought a Scatlett solo 3td gen. If you get a scarlett use the DBX286 TRS out to Line input on the Scarlet. I think the Scarlet is quite and better.

[@StarWarsJay]

I got the scarlet 4i4 and a podmic and it’s still hissy with rubbish gain.

[@ChrisGardinerBill]

Another terrific video, thanks!

[@Auska64]

Thanks I ordered one it's a great piece for podcasting

[@MikkoRantalainen]

You could also get one DBX 286s for each channel you want. Given the prices here in Europe, getting multiple 286s could actually be the most cost effective option.

[@sacstudiosargentina]

The output of the 286s is line signal (around 1.23v) if you use an xlr cable your interface is expecting mic level signal (around 150mv).

[@dump7838]

Единственный нормальный наглядный тест данного аппарата. Теперь уверен на 100%, что куплю DBX 286S. Спасибо автору видео!

[@jamalabdul2009]

It makes a huge difference!!! You should do radio!!!👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾

[@derkhedemann5606]

my shure mv7 didn't sound very good but since I bought the DBX 286s the sound is now perfect for me in my home studio.

[@jonbinnie]

Thank you!! Looking forward to writing a song everyday with it ❤🌍💞

[@YAWN....]

well presented vids bro! Cheers from NZ

[@bennettshapiro2965]

It's not actually that weird that the unit would only have a quarter inch output. This is designed to amplify a microphone and send it into the line level input of an audio interface. You wouldn't want to send this into a microphone preamp input.

[@johnheiser2604]

After 12 months of not being available I am picking one up today. Can't wait?

[@showreel.kirill]

Не понимаю: канал отличный, ведущий приятный человек, а просмотров и подписчиков не густо!
Спасибо. Отличное наглядное видео и аудио!

[@GeekyNerdyTechy]

Большое спасибо

[@listenhere5167]

I've just got a Procaster (which I love and the fifth Rode in my collection), Audiobox iOne cranked all the way up, then using software to boost is a paaaaaain for livestreams. I'm very glad I've ordered one of these, shame there's an 8 week wait downunder.

[@GeekyNerdyTechy]

Cool these units are awesome. This or a SE Dynamite would do the trick :)

[@listenhere5167]

Yeah was looking at a cloud-lift or similar, but the 268s really wasn't that much more for a whole lot more.

[@madsjrgensen795]

Awesome video. I actually just bought this cause of you 🙏🏽🙏🏽 peace ✌🏽

[@AsikBanget]

Hi... what is the alternative for dbs286s (I already have > rode procaster + presonus solo soundcard). I couldnt find dbs286s here in Indonesia. Thanks.

[@timmark4190]

ART Voice Channel Tube Channel Strip

[@KookedKoala]

Awesome video man!

[@sharkmanking2644]

You need to test 266 as well

[@andyr8812]

Thanks for the video. I am also looking to get a hardware processor for my mic as I am not interested in software-based plugins as they can be a headache when trying to use with different applications.

[@ATC_Radio]

Informative.. Thanks.

[@richwilliams9103]

Brilliant thanks. Excuse my ignorance. So the microphone goes straight into this then this connects to the interface e.g. Focusrite Solo and then into computer? Looks really great

[@thebasicmaterialsproject1892]

I just got one of these on a black friday bargain.

[@rogerclemens826]

Nice job brother!!!

[@paulm8157]

👍 Credible content, capably presented. Do you rack-mount these items (front panel has mounting holes, I notice)? Watch out for those "S" words. Argh, Shane is a whiz with that box cutter - better listen up and subscribe 😁.

[@realconect]

I've been watching your videos and I'm going to grab a Procaster and the DBX 286s. Thanks for all the recommendations!
BTW, since the Rode PSA1 is insanely expensive right now in my country, do you recommend the neewer boom arm you're using for the procaster? Thank you

[@thebasicmaterialsproject1892]

nice i was going to inserts a dbs sonic maximer aswell.

[@brantzmyers5410]

Great job! I'm looking at getting one. Did you keep it? Do you still use it? Thanks!!!!

[@GeekyNerdyTechy]

It’s a great unit but I ended up getting a rodecaster pro in the end it did most of what this did (but not quite as well)

[@progressivemediapostllc.1592]

I am creating a home studio for voice acting. I have the Focusrite Scarlet 2i2 and I am going to buy this rack, but should I buy a power Conditioner?

[@DaviddoesStuff]

I’m late to the party but thank you for the review. 👍🏻

[@GeekyNerdyTechy]

Thanks for watching!

[@MikkoRantalainen]

The current price here in Europe seems to be 155 EUR as a new so there's no much sense to get it as second hand unit because you obviously don't get the same warranty for the second hand units.

[@eazygfx4815]

All this mic really needs is a little cut in the higher frequencies (the S's) for my taste other than that sounds great

[@VirtuelleWeltenMitKhan]

My dbx 286s generates a lot of noise even at +30dB. +45dB like in the video is impossible.
My interface alone is super silent even with +60dB. I will send the dbx 286s back (I got it last week) and order a new one and hope for the best.
I love the sound, I like the features. But I can not work with that noise.

[@TrevorStyles]

Hey man compare this think to your external preamp 🙏🏻

[@francarlofogaca]

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

[@Brenners2010]

Hi there, this is a very helpful review. I'm just wondering why would someone choose the DBX286s over something like the CloudLifter CL-1? Are they basically the same device? Does one offer more decibels over the other or something like that? Any helpful information would be great. Thanks

[@skyace888]

Thanks for the video. How would this compare to something like a DBX 676 or the older 576 which isn't that much more money than a 286s when picked up used? I'm considering getting something like this to use for livestreaming, webinars, etc. through my MixPre II as a USB interface. Any other alternatives or suggestions are appreciated!

[@nickr3526]

Could you just not use a TRS male to TRS male into an interface that has a combo XLR TRS input?

[@420wizdumb6]

Nick R yes

[@DJURBANBG]

you can ,that exactly what i am going to do with my scarlett 2i2 XLR/TRS preamps

[@hipethenomad]

I have an SM7B that I use for singing, do you think this would be better for vocals or the Cloudlifter? Mainly trying to get a clean signal (boost in gain with less room noise)

[@ICUNURSE]

Will I need trs to xlr or
Trs to trs for connecting dbx to sound interface ?
Please give a link to buy the cable

[@GeekyNerdyTechy]

imp.i114863.net/JE02v I use stereo TRS jacks (Tip Ring Sleeve) You can get TRS to XLR but it's not actually required.

[@ICUNURSE]

@@GeekyNerdyTechy thank you :-)

[@mikegalaxy349]

I was actually just about to ask this very same question. I'm using U-Phoria UMC204HD which features 2 combined XLR/TRS imputes. So I assume as you stated below, I can simply use 1/4 TRS out from DBX to the Behringer UPhoria. Also, i'm using Rode Procaster. Cheers!

[@nathantoan]

You should absolutely NOT use trs to XLR. That's just plain wrong. That's essentially running a preamp into another preamp. Watch the Podcastage video on connecting preamps to interfaces. It explains the process very simply.

[@rigocornejo6003]

Don't listen to this guy, he is just trying to get money out of affiliating links, he didn't even took the time to learn the conections correctly, what you need is xlr to xlr to conect mic to dbx using mic input, do never conect mic xlr to line input that conections is for a alredy amplified signal coming from a compresor or extra mic pre amp,
2 from the dbx get a trs to trs and conect the cable from LINE OUTPUT to LINE INPUT because the signal is alredy amplified and it is no longer a mic signal, never conect a line level signal to xlr or instrument inputs, this youtuber did it and hes signal is so freaking hot and sounds terrible

[@GlennUpgraded]

Can I connect this DBX 286s to something like a Zoom H5 or H6 recorder and direcly connect it to my mirrorless camera?

[@dpstrix3220]

Every time I use the expander gate it sounds like someone rustling a plastic bag after I speak I’m using a sm7b and a tascam us42 interface it’s very annoying

[@_Trakman]

Please show this with an SM7B and also WITH and WITHOUT a cloudlifter, plz

[@GeekyNerdyTechy]

I don't own a SM7B sorry, but I should be able to borrow one at some point. :)

[@sl4081]

Please pair it with Shure Sm58. Would love to see if it works with it? Thanks.

[@themescode]

Please make a video on RE20 VS Rode Procaster .

[@GeekyNerdyTechy]

I would love to try an RE20 but I don't own one and they are $800 or so dollars here in Australia.

[@themescode]

@@GeekyNerdyTechy Hi, Does Rode WS2 reduce plosives better? I have RODE ProCaster but face plosives issue. Thanks

[@jordykay3210]

I have a rode nt1 condenser mic, so would the dbx 286 be good for recording vocals

[@Fragsu]

Could you speak to the microphone from every side next time? ^^ I'm curious how the DB affects the sound spectrum

[@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

[@luisamedina1]

How do you compare the 286S with Apex Project Channel? Thank you!

[@KeithB2718]

Wow!!!

[@TheSpidermycron]

Hello thank a lot , i found it on ebay but does it come with cables ? Fo i connect it with my scarlet soundcard ? Eish tell me about this any chance please , thanks

[@kenzorwings]

Hello sir! Do you think i need an power conditioner or a normal socket adapter with switch on / off for him, because it doesn't have the power botton?

[@goldman7267]

Can I take the output from dbx and use Rodecaster Pro 2 to record? What cable will I use then? Are rodecaster pro 2 inputs stereo or mono?

[@GeekyNerdyTechy]

If you get a TRS to XLR that would work but the Rodecaster has all the same features as the DBX. It's probably not worth it.

[@goat2503]

Sounds a little muddy, not sure if it's the mic but maybe a little over kill on the desser

[@cristianbatelli5873]

to your years, wash them up dude

[@giraffey8974]

Hello, just got my dbx286s. I noticed that there's a buzz noise coming directly from my dbx box even only power cord is attached. do you have such a problem? is it normal or should I ask the warranty?

[@_Trakman]

I'm confused.
So does this take a "mic level" signal (a microphone) and change it to "Line level" signal?!
On the gain knob, it has red and black numbers, which one do you look at for a mic

[@GeekyNerdyTechy]

It can handle mic and line level. Line level is less signal than microphone/balanced connectors so they have the line and mic level listed on the front. Just turn it up until it sounds good for whatever you're using. :)

[@mojoefelix]

Aside from spoken-word real-time podcast, broadcast, is this unit appropriate for singers using a condensor mic to make recordings?

[@GeekyNerdyTechy]

Absolutely. These units are great but if you want a dry signal to play with in editing then it's not the right choice. The compressor alone in this unit will help you get a more balanced signal to the computer though.

[@DarkPa1adin]

so how do you connect it? mic > dbx > audio interface > pc?

[@GeekyNerdyTechy]

Yep, that's how I have it connected.

[@DarkPa1adin]

@@GeekyNerdyTechyare the cables corresponding XLR - XLR > TRS 1/4" to either > USB?

[@DanielFowlerSr]

This unit sounds terrible in comparison to your Behringer Composer. I just watch two of your other videos and I feel they sounded better. But I also see on your compression the meter was heavily engaged so I may have been listening to more compression than your natural voice. DBX has always been a good company, but the Behringer devices you demonstrated convinced me to buy one. Thanks love the training... .and your perspectives. I just bought an MXL M77 Ribbon Mic and I am trying to get the gain up. I picked up a cloud lift CL-1 and because of you, I ordered the Behringer Composer Pro MDX 2600 for that system. My other system is the MXL Genesis Tube Anniversary Edition with the Presonus Channel both feeding into my Tascam 4800 for Voiceovers and Corporate Videos. Thank you so much for the help in your videos.

[@cristianbatelli5873]

Behringer is crap dude, Dbx American products, the best made in Utah, Made in the USA

[@saltypancreas5866]

there really is no one stop shop for the shure sm7b i want something that can give my mic the least noise and supply it with the exact amount of gain but i can not find just one product im looking for a budget product but its seemingly impossible to get clean gain with the least noise and the right gain all in one anyone that can help i would really appreciate

[@ICUNURSE]

Hey which trs to trs cable (brand and model number) shall I buy for connecting the dbx to the sound interface. How much length will it need ? Please respond

[@yoleclerc4171]

Could I do the same with a ur12 instead of the ur22?

[@drritu9851]

Sir dbx286 is only for live recording ?

[@ParadoxOficial]

Hey! This is for podcasting or can i also record rap voice? Thanks!

[@GeekyNerdyTechy]

The DBX is a great preamp for vocal use as well. You could in theory, add similar effects in post production via plugins. If you mean the mic, it's a bit too sizzly sounding for some people but it's still just a mic, so it's possible. Try a Shure SM7B for getting a full vocal sound without the bite on the top end.

[@BeardedBluesDude]

I dunno. When you get close to the mic the compressor seems to do something odd to your voice. I cant really describe it but I was not a big fan. When you are a few inches back from the mic and when you turn your head it sounds great.

[@GeekyNerdyTechy]

It's a mix of setting it up correctly for each situation. You can set it up so it works well for any situation :-) One setting isn't probably a "do-all" but for my needs I liked it especially like you said, a bit back from the mic :-)

[@BeardedBluesDude]

@@GeekyNerdyTechy ok then I trust my ears a little more knowing you heard it the same way, cant wait to hear the comparison with the behringer compressor.

[@franco.cordini]

Hello i have a focusrite 6i6 and a microphone at2020, thinking about buying this preamp. I mainly record vocals and acoustic guitar for some songs i make; Does this will improve my sound quality?

[@GeekyNerdyTechy]

Yes, if you set it up correctly it will. Basically, you can do a lot of the same stuff with software. This saves time and gives you a more balanced signal if that's what you're looking for. The Two Band EQ is also pretty great. Depending on your microphone it makes a huge difference. For any dynamic microphones you'll hear a huge difference. For Condenser mics it won't be as prominent with the exception of the expander that helps eliminate unwanted sounds.

[@franco.cordini]

@@GeekyNerdyTechy Thank you very much for your answer! That sounds great, i think i will buy it now hehe 😀

[@zeikur]

Do I need to have both 48v buttons turn on to work? The 48v from dbx and soundcard?

[@420wizdumb6]

Harold Herrera only the dbx

[@ryanmariano2023]

Bro can i use trs to xlr cable? Dbx to focusrite solo

[@LivePDOfficerInterviews]

How easy is it to connect an EQ to this unit?

[@MontyDeane]

Can I use this for live vocals at gigs?

[@ee1yd]

you could

[@gphillimo]

Do I need one of these for a home studio?

[@GeekyNerdyTechy]

If you're not sure you do, then no. :-)

[@ChuckoMountain-fv9yj]

Something to spend money on but after 60 years in radio I dont need it.

[@umbertofurlan501]

do you think would be any good with an sm57 mic?

[@GeekyNerdyTechy]

100% they work great with a 57. I have one and tested it with it.

[@umbertofurlan501]

@@GeekyNerdyTechy thx mate

[@subtitles1492]

hurtful highs, muffled mids, lacking lows, over-compressed, tiring… i guess the combination of mic and pre is sub-optimal, or the settings are off. compared to the more natural and open sounding voice in the intro.

[@grampsradio]

I was the 1,000th like so do I win the DBX 286S?

[@GeekyNerdyTechy]

Thanks for the support! I wish I could give it away! haha

[@CptBerns]

You're connecting it wrong. You need a TRS to TRS cable to connect your DBX to your sound card. The front connector on your sound card takes only a mic level signal through the XLR connector. Your DBX output signal is line level. You have to connect it to the line level input of your sound card. What you're doing is preamping the signal twice. Not good. Will give extra noise. Connect your DBX to your sound card with a TRS to TRS cable. And if the volume isn't loud enough (problem with dynamic mics) plug somethibg like a Cloudlifter between your mic and your DBX. It'll boost the mic by 25 dB without extra noise.

[@cristianbatelli5873]

...partially true, because if I pass it through the pre-amp of the interface but the volume is at zero, there is no noise....

[@CptBerns]

@@cristianbatelli5873 It's still the wrong way to do things. The DBX has a line out. You should connect that to a line in. Period. I once had a mobile recorder that had only mic inputs. I tried connecting my DBX to it. But the signal was so strong that even with the level at zero my recording was too loud and distorted. So I had to bring the output level on the DBX down, resulting in a poor signal. Or use attenuators. Finally I decided to return the mobile recorder and buy one with line inputs instead. The quality of my recordings is way better now.

[@ICUNURSE]

Can you give me a link to buy the best trs to trs cable please

[@gsgidney]

Great vid... the sound just seems a bit fuzzy.
Wierd that you need to be that close the the mic.

[@CrescentRollCarl]

I think that's from the Rodecaster and not the 286s.

[@cristianbatelli5873]

fuzzy your ears assho••

[@gsgidney]

@@cristianbatelli5873 dick

[@tar4heel2]

He paid $339? I see $220 all over the place. Oh, Australia, where everything costs more.

[@39zack]

No no no!! You do the same error as most when it comes to hooking this up to an external sound card with combo plugs.
Most sound cards with combo plugs turns on the preamp when plugging in an xlr cabel and is a regular line when using a 1/4 jack.
The way you connects it it most likely runs the signal through both amps.
Some sound cards has a button to turn the amp on/off but most of the cheaper ones does not.

[@GeekyNerdyTechy]

There's nothing wrong with using a stereo TRS to XLR cable. After 20 years of recording I have never had any issues with this.

[@39zack]

Geeky Nerdy Techy offcause it works, and like I said it depends on the sound card used,but there is no point in using two preamps :-)
I would like to know why you prefer xlr on the sound card insted of an trs 1/4 jack

[@GeekyNerdyTechy]

@@39zack With the second preamp you can control how hot you want to run the initial one. I keep it basically all of the way down on the most part. I make do with what I have on hand. It makes very little difference to the end result. Theres no extra noise because you're not pushing the preamp stage on the audio interface.

[@goaway2174]

In general there is nothing innately wrong with converting a TRS to an XLR connection; However, Zack is correct in explaining the way that several of the audio interfaces process combo XLR/TRS connectors. Usually the XLR will route the signal through the microphone preamp section of the interface and the TRS will route it through the line level section of the interface. Some interfaces may not work this way, but the 4 that I have owned all did it this way.
Routing your microphone the way you have chosen to do can add substantial noise to the signal due to the interface routing running two microphone preamps in series (these are both high gain amplifiers). I think this is possibly a reason DBX chose not to have an XLR output on the 286s. Also, it is always best to have the largest gain level in your first amplification stage after the microphone as this generally will result with the lowest signal to noise ratio.
The other consideration is that if the signal is too hot going from the channel strip into your interface microphone preamp, you can easily overload it and cause unnecessary distortion. I am only speaking as someone who has 30 years in electronic product development and am intimately familiar with these technologies.

[@zentatonic]

@@GeekyNerdyTechy I'm pretty sure a combo jack will pass through the preamp regardless. A dedicated line-in on the back would go straight to the converters. I have ocd and try to avoid going through that chip, but since most modern pieces are so clean, there is negligible influence on the tone (as you know). Subbed.

[@jordancurk950]

That mic does sound terrible

[@GeekyNerdyTechy]

Check out one of my newer videos. This was my first shot with the unit.

[@rigocornejo6003]

Why is always the ignorant youtuber making the videos, dude read the manual, read the conections on the devices, you got out of a LINE OUTPUT and didn't conect to a lINE INPUT you need trs to trs and conect to line level inputs, you went from a line output (aplified mic signal to a line level) and conected xlr mic input again, so you are amplifying a signal twice and that is why your signal is so hot and sound terrible

[@jonathandidley5262]

I used to good affect on bass guitar. I think you’re the Australian guitar guy and you could use it on guitar. 🫡