DBX1231V vs DBXIEQ31-M — Compare

dbx 1231 Dual Channel 31-Band Equalizer vs dbx iEQ31 Dual 31-Band Graphic EQ/Limiter with Type V NR and AFS

The dbx 1231 is a pure analog graphic EQ for surgical frequency shaping with transparent tone and direct fader control, while the iEQ31 adds integrated limiter, Type V noise reduction, and AFS feedback suppression for live sound and broadcast work. Choose the 1231 if you need transparent, artifact-free tone sculpting; choose the iEQ31 if you need dynamics control and noise management built in.

No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.

dbx 1231 Dual Channel 31-Band Equalizer

$655.00
View dbx 1231 Dual Channel 31-Band Equalizer

dbx iEQ31 Dual 31-Band Graphic EQ/Limiter with Type V NR and AFS

$1,415.00
View dbx iEQ31 Dual 31-Band Graphic EQ/Limiter with Type V NR and AFS

Specs side by side

dbx 1231 Dual Channel 31-Band Equalizerdbx iEQ31 Dual 31-Band Graphic EQ/Limiter with Type V NR and AFS
Price$655.00$1,415.00
BrandDBXDBX
YearUnknownUnknown
ConditionNewNew

Why choose dbx 1231 Dual Channel 31-Band Equalizer

  • Truly transparent analog signal path with THD+Noise under 0.005% and 90–97 dB SNR
  • Direct 45 mm fader control with immediate tactile feedback for mixing precision
  • Balanced XLR, barrier strip, and 1/4" TRS connectivity covers studio and live rigs
  • Switchable 40 Hz low-cut and dual ±6/15 dB boost/cut ranges for flexible EQ sculpting

Why choose dbx iEQ31 Dual 31-Band Graphic EQ/Limiter with Type V NR and AFS

  • Integrated limiter and Type V noise reduction eliminate feedback and rumble without external gear
  • 24-bit digital processing at 48 kHz with only 2 msec latency for studio-quality fidelity
  • AFS (Automatic Feedback Suppression) handles problem frequencies in live venues automatically
  • Lower distortion at 0.003% THD+Noise typical, plus 113 dB dynamic range for cleaner headroom
Bottom line: Pick the 1231 for mastering, studio mixing, and applications where transparent analog tone is paramount. Pick the iEQ31 if you're doing live sound reinforcement or broadcast work where you need a single unit handling feedback suppression, noise reduction, and limiting alongside equalization.

Frequently asked questions

Which is better for live sound at venues prone to feedback?

The iEQ31 is built for live sound with integrated AFS feedback suppression and Type V noise reduction to handle troublesome frequencies automatically. The 1231 is a pure EQ that requires manual feedback hunting or external processing.

Which one is better for studio mastering and mixing?

The 1231 excels in mastering thanks to its fully analog, transparent signal path with ultra-low distortion (under 0.005%) and discrete channel isolation. The iEQ31 adds digital processing and limiting, which is useful for live work but may introduce subtle phase artifacts in critical mastering chains.

What's the main sonic difference between them?

The 1231 is pure analog with artifact-free transparency across the audio spectrum. The iEQ31 uses 24-bit digital processing at 48 kHz, which delivers excellent fidelity but operates in a different sonic domain; some users may perceive the digital stage as slightly less transparent than the 1231's analog path.

Do both units need external gear for dynamics control?

The 1231 requires external compressors or limiters for dynamics work. The iEQ31 includes an integrated limiter, so it handles level control and peak clipping on its own, reducing your outboard rack needs in live or broadcast settings.

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