dbx 1231 Dual Channel 31-Band Equalizer
Description
dbx 1231 Dual Channel 31-Band Equalizer
The dbx 1231 is a studio workhorse that puts precise frequency control directly in your hands. Dual 31-band channels with smooth 45 mm faders let you sculpt independent EQ curves on two sources simultaneously—ideal for comparing mic placements, A/B-ing instrumental takes, or fine-tuning parallel compression chains. The transparent, artifact-free response makes it equally at home in mix sessions, mastering chains, and tracking applications across rock, pop, electronic, and hybrid productions.
Audio Performance & Control
With a dynamic range of 109–115 dB, signal-to-noise ratio of 90–97 dB, and THD+Noise under 0.005%, the 1231 delivers clean, artifact-free equalization. Interchannel crosstalk is minimized to less than −80 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ensuring transparent channel isolation and professional fidelity across the entire audio spectrum.
Studio Integration & Flexibility
The compact 19" rack-mountable chassis fits seamlessly into tracking and mixing chains. Switchable 40 Hz/18 dB per octave low-cut filters on each channel eliminate subsonic rumble and mic handling noise, while the choice of 6 or 15 dB boost/cut ranges adapts to surgical spot corrections or aggressive tonal reshaping. Balanced XLR, barrier strip, and 1/4" TRS connectors support flexible I/O routing and patch-bay integration, with RF-filtered inputs and outputs keeping interference out of critical signal paths.
Key Features
- Dual channels with 31 1/3 octave bands at ISO frequency centers
- 45 mm faders for precise, hands-on control
- ±12 dB input gain range for flexible level management
- Switchable 40 Hz/18 dB per octave low-cut filters on each channel
- Switchable 6 or 15 dB boost/cut ranges
- XLR, barrier strip, and 1/4" TRS connectors with balanced and unbalanced options
- RF-filtered inputs and outputs
- Chassis and signal ground lift capabilities
- 4-LED bar graph output level display (−10, 0, +10, +18 dBu)
- Frequency response <10 Hz to >50 kHz
- Dynamic range 109–115 dB; SNR 90–97 dB; THD+Noise <0.005%
- Internal power supply transformer with power-off hardwire relay bypass and 2-second power-up delay
The dbx 1231 is the go-to tool for session work that demands transparent, real-time frequency shaping with studio-grade precision.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Country of Manufacture | China |
Reviews
At a Glance
The dbx 1231 gives home and professional studios precise, transparent equalization across two channels simultaneously, making it ideal for mix comparisons, mastering chains, and session work. Clean headroom (109–115 dB dynamic range), minimal crosstalk (−80 dB isolation), and responsive 31-band control let you sculpt individual tracks or master buses without coloration or artifacts. The dual-channel layout rewards iterative mixing and A/B comparisons, while rack-mount form factor and multiple I/O options integrate seamlessly into any recording setup.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Live Sound
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Mixing
- ✓ Mastering
Not the best pick for
- – Practice (home use without PA/monitoring needs)
- – Portable/mobile applications
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the dual-channel design useful for mixing and mastering?
Each of the two independent 31-band channels gives you real-time comparison capability—you can EQ and listen to two different versions of a track or bus simultaneously, or use one channel for mix work and the other for reference. This side-by-side approach is especially valuable when A/B testing EQ decisions during sessions or mastering.
Can I use the dbx 1231 with both balanced and unbalanced cables?
Yes. The 1231 includes XLR, barrier strip, and 1/4" TRS connectors to support balanced and unbalanced I/O, so it adapts to your existing signal chain whether you're in a studio or live-sound environment.
What is the frequency range and precision of the equalizer bands?
The 1231 offers 31 one-third octave bands at ISO frequency centers, covering less than 10 Hz to greater than 50 kHz. Each band is adjustable in your choice of ±6 dB or ±15 dB boost/cut ranges, depending on the application.
Does it have a high-pass filter for cleaning up low-end rumble?
Yes. Each channel includes a switchable 40 Hz low-cut filter with 18 dB per octave slope, useful for removing stage rumble in live sound or unwanted subsonic content in studio recording.
What are the noise and distortion specs?
Dynamic range is 109–115 dB, signal-to-noise ratio is 90–97 dB, THD+Noise is under 0.005%, and interchannel crosstalk is less than −80 dB across 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ensuring clean, artifact-free equalization in professional applications.
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