®

386
Dual Vacuum
Tube Preamp
w/Digital Out

User Manual
 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING FOR YOUR PROTECTION

CAUTION PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING:
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK KEEP THESE INSTRUCTIONS
DO NOT OPEN

A T T E N T I O N : RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR HEED ALL WARNINGS

W A R N I N G : TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS

SHOCK DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE

CLEAN ONLY WITH A DAMP CLOTH.

The symbols shown above are internationally accepted symbols that warn of
potential hazards with electrical products. The lightning flash with arrowpoint
in an equilateral triangle means that there are dangerous voltages present DO NOT BLOCK ANY OF THE VENTILATION OPENINGS. INSTALL IN
within the unit. The exclamation point in an equilateral triangle indicates that ACCORDANCE WITH THE MANUFACTURERS INSTRUCTIONS.
it is necessary for the user to refer to the owner’s manual.
DO NOT INSTALL NEAR ANY HEAT SOURCES SUCH AS RADIATORS,
These symbols warn that there are no user serviceable parts inside the unit. HEAT REGISTERS, STOVES; OR OTHER APPARATUS (INCLUDING
Do not open the unit. Do not attempt to service the unit yourself. Refer all AMPLIFIERS) THAT PRODUCE HEAT.
servicing to qualified personnel. Opening the chassis for any reason will void
the manufacturer’s warranty. Do not get the unit wet. If liquid is spilled on
the unit, shut it off immediately and take it to a dealer for service. Disconnect
ONLY USE ATTACHMENTS/ACCESSORIES SPECIFIED BY THE MAN-
the unit during storms to prevent damage. UFACTURER.

UNPLUG THIS APPARATUS DURING LIGHTNING STORMS OR WHEN

UNUSED FOR LONG PERIODS OF TIME.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WATER AND MOISTURE: Appliance should not be used near water
NOTICE FOR CUSTOMERS IF YOUR UNIT IS EQUIPPED WITH A POWER CORD. (e.g. near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet
basement, or near a swimming pool, etc). Care should be taken so
WARNING: THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE EARTHED.
that objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled into the enclosure
The cores in the mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following code: through openings.

GREEN and YELLOW - Earth BLUE - Neutral BROWN - Live POWER SOURCES: The appliance should be connected to a power
supply only of the type described in the operating instructions or as
As colours of the cores in the mains lead of this appliance may not correspond with
the coloured markings identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:
marked on the appliance.

• The core which is coloured green and yellow must be connected to the ter- GROUNDING OR POLARIZATION: Precautions should be taken so
minal in the plug marked with the letter E, or with the earth symbol, or that the grounding or polarization means of an appliance is not
coloured green, or green and yellow. defeated.
• The core which is coloured blue must be connected to the terminal marked
N or coloured black.
• The core which is coloured brown must be connected to the terminal POWER CORD PROTECTION: Power supply cords should be routed
marked L or coloured red. so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed
upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs,
This equipment may require the use of a different line cord, attachment plug, or
both, depending on the available power source at installation. If the attachment
convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the
plug needs to be changed, refer servicing to qualified service personnel who appliance.
should refer to the table below. The green/yellow wire shall be connected direct-
ly to the units chassis. SERVICING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, the user
should not attempt to service the appliance beyond that described in
WIRE COLOR the operating instructions. All other servicing should be referred to
CONDUCTOR qualified service personnel.
Normal Alt
L LIVE BROWN BLACK FOR UNITS EQUIPPED WITH EXTERNALLY ACCESSIBLE FUSE
N NEUTRAL BLUE WHITE RECEPTACLE: Replace fuse with same type and rating only.

E EARTH GND GREEN/YEL GREEN MULTIPLE-INPUT VOLTAGE: This equipment may require the use of
a different line cord, attachment plug, or both, depending on the
available power source at installation. Connect this equipment only to
WARNING: If the ground is defeated, certain fault conditions in the unit or in the the power source indicated on the equipment rear panel. To reduce
system to which it is connected can result in full line voltage between chassis and the risk of fire or electric shock, refer servicing to qualified service
earth ground. Severe injury or death can then result if the chassis and earth personnel or equivalent.
ground are touched simultaneously.
 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

LITHIUM BATTERY U.K. MAINS PLUG WARNING

WARNING A molded mains plug that has been cut off from the cord is unsafe.
Discard the mains plug at a suitable disposal facility. NEVER UNDER
CAUTION! ANY CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU INSERT A DAMAGED OR CUT
MAINS PLUG INTO A 13 AMP POWER SOCKET. Do not use the mains
This product may contain a lithium battery.There is danger of plug without the fuse cover in place. Replacement fuse covers can be
explosion if the battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only obtained from your local retailer. Replacement fuses are 13 amps and
with an Eveready CR 2032 or equivalent. Make sure the bat- MUST be ASTA approved to BS1362.
tery is installed with the correct polarity. Discard used batter-
ies according to manufacturer’s instructions.
ADVARSEL!
Lithiumbatteri - Eksplosjonsfare.Ved utskifting benyttes kun
batteri som anbefalt av apparatfabrikanten. Brukt batteri
returneres apparatleverandøren. DECLARATION OF
ADVARSEL!
Lithiumbatteri - Eksplosionsfare ved fejlagtig håndtering. CONFORMITY
Udskiftning må kun ske med batteri av samme fabrikat og
type. Levér det brugte batteri tilbage til leverandøren.
VAROITUS! Manufacturer’s Name: dbx Professional Products
Paristo voi räjähtää, jos se on virheellisesti asennettu.Vaihda Manufacturer’s Address: 8760 S. Sandy Parkway
Sandy, Utah 84070, USA
paristo ainoastaan laitevalmistajan suosittelemaan tyyppin.
Hävitä käytetty paristo valmistajan ohjeiden mukaisesti.
declares that the product:
VARNING!
Explosionsfara vid felaktigt batteribyte. Använd samma batteri- Product name: dbx 386
typ eller en ekvivalent typ som rekommenderas av apparattil- Product option: N/A
lverkaren. Kassera använt batteri enligt fabrikantens instruk-
tion. conforms to the following Product Specifications:

EMC: EN 55013 (1990)

EN 55020 (1991)
Supplementary Information:
ELECTROMAGNETIC The product herewith complies with the require-
ments of the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC
COMPATIBILITY and the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC as amended
by Directive 93/68/EEC.
This unit conforms to the Product Specifications
noted on the Declaration of Conformity. dbx Professional Products
Vice-President of Engineering
Operation is subject to the following two condi- 8760 S. Sandy Parkway
tions: Sandy, Utah 84070, USA
December 15, 1999
• this device may not cause harmful inter-
ference, and European Contact: Your Local dbx Sales and Service
Office or
• this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that Harman Music Group
8760 South Sandy Parkway
may cause undesired operation. Sandy, Utah
84070 USA
(801) 568-7638
Operation of this unit within significant electro- (801) 568-7642
magnetic fields should be avoided.
 386 Table of Contents

Introduction Section 3 - Digital Applications

0.1 Defining the 386................................................i 3.1 Digital Output Front Panel Functions ...........10

0.2 Service Contact Info.........................................ii 3.2 Digital Rear Panel Connections .....................10

0.3 Warranty............................................................ii 3.3 Sync Input Sample Rate Selection.................11

0.4 Installation Recommendations........................iii 3.4 Direct Connection to a DAW (CPU) .............12

3.5 Direct Connection to a Digital Mixer............13

Section 1 - Getting Started
3.6 A/D Conversion..............................................14
1.1 Rear Panel Connections ...................................2
3.7 Multi-Tracking to Digital ................................15
1.2 Front Panel Connections..................................3
3.8 Analog and Digital Output Applications ......16
1.3 Type IV™ Conversion System Controls..........4

Appendix
Section 2 - Analog Applications
Sync Input Info.....................................................18
2.1 Basic Connection..............................................6
Block Diagram ......................................................19
2.2 Connection to a Mixing Console.....................6
dbx Type IV™ Conversion System......................20
2.3 Direct Connection to a Recorder ....................7
D.1 Noise-Shaping Algorithms.............................25

D.2 Truncation ......................................................25

D.3 Specifications .................................................26

Table of Contents 386 User Manual

386
INTRODUCTION

INTRO
CUSTOMER SERVICE INFO
386 DEFINED
WARRANTY INFO

®
 Introduction 386
INTRODUCTION Congratulations on your purchase of the dbx 386 Dual Vacuum Tube Preamp with digital out-
put capabilities. For over 25 years, dbx has been the industry leader in dynamics processing.
With the introduction of the 386, we offer the classic smooth and warmth qualities of tube
microphone pre-amplification, combined with the state-of-the-art proprietary dbx Type IV™
conversion system to offer the best characteristics of both analog and digital recording capabil-
ities.

This manual will be your guide to understanding the full functionality of the powerful 386. After
you have become familiar with the unit, we encourage you to experiment and find creative
ways that the 386 can help you optimize your specific application.

0.1 Defining the 386

The dbx 386 Dual Vacuum Tube Preamp provides the user with Dual Vacuum tube microphone
preamp capabilities in the analog domain as well as giving you pristine digital output capabil-
ities. Listed below, are some of features available to you in the 386:

• Two channel tube microphone pre-amplifier

• 200V Tube Plate Voltage
• Insert Jack
• 60 dB of microphone gain and +/- 15 dB of output gain
• Selectable mic/line switch
• 48 volt phantom power
• 20 dB pad
• 75 Hz low cut filter
• Phase reverse
• 12 segment LED analog/digital level meter
• Type IV™ conversion system
• Selectable 96 kHz, 88.2 kHz, 48 kHz, or 44.1 kHz sampling rate
• 24, 20, and 16 bit wordlengths
• Selectable dither and noise shaping
• AES/EBU and S/PDIF digital outputs
• Word clock sync input and output
• Separate analog and digital output control

With the dbx proprietary patent-pending TSE™ Tape Saturation Emulation and TYPE IV™
Conversion System, your signal retains its analog warmth and character, with the pristine clari-
ty demanded by today’s digital standards. In addition, the 386 offers 96kHz A/D conversion,
which results in improved frequency response.

i 386 User Manual

386 Introduction

0.2 Service Contact Info

If you require technical support, contact dbx Customer Service. Be prepared to accurately
describe the problem. Know the serial number of your unit - this is printed on a sticker attached
to the rear panel. If you have not already taken the time to fill out your warranty registration
card and send it in, please do so now.

Before you return a product to the factory for service, we recommend you refer to the manu-
al. Make sure you have correctly followed installation steps and operation procedures. If you
are still unable to solve a problem, contact our Customer Service Department at (801) 568-7660
for consultation. If you need to return a product to the factory for service, you MUST contact
Customer Service to obtain a Return Authorization Number.
No returned products will be accepted at the factory without a Return Authorization Number.
Please refer to the warranty below, which extends to the first end-user. After expiration of the
warranty, a reasonable charge will be made for parts, labor, and packing if you choose to use
the factory service facility. In all cases, you are responsible for transportation charges to the fac-
tory. dbx will pay return shipping if the unit is still under warranty.

Use the original packing material if it is available. Mark the package with the name of the ship-
per and with these words in red: DELICATE INSTRUMENT, FRAGILE! Insure the package prop-
erly. Ship prepaid, not collect. Do not ship parcel post.

0.3 Warranty
This warranty is valid only for the original purchaser and only in the United States.

1). The warranty registration card that accompanies this product must be mailed within 30 days
after purchase date to validate this warranty. Proof-of-purchase is considered to be the bur-
den of the consumer.

2). dbx warrants this product, when bought and used solely within the U.S., to be free from
defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service.

3). dbx liability under this warranty is limited to repairing or, at our discretion, replacing defec-
tive materials that show evidence of defect, provided the product is returned to dbx WITH
RETURN AUTHORIZATION from the factory, where all parts and labor will be covered up
to a period of two years. A Return Authorization number must be obtained from dbx by
telephone. The company shall not be liable for any consequential damage as a result of the
product's use in any circuit or assembly.

4). dbx reserves the right to make changes in design or make additions to or improvements
upon this product without incurring any obligation to install the same additions or
improvements on products previously manufactured.

5). The foregoing is in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied, and dbx neither
assumes nor authorizes any person to assume on its behalf any obligation or liability in con-
nection with the sale of this product. In no event shall dbx or its dealers be liable for spe-
cial or consequential damages or from any delay in the performance of this warranty due
to causes beyond their control.

386 User Manual ii

 Introduction 386
0.4 Installation Recommendations

Install the 386 in your rack with the provided rack screws. It is essential that when the 386 is
being mounted in a rack mounting enclosure, the unit should be positioned with enough room
(at least one centimeter at the top and one centimeter at the bottom of the unit) to allow prop-
er ventilation. The 386 should not be mounted above or below anything that generates exces-
sive heat. Ambient temperatures should not exceed 1130F (450C) when equipment is in use.
Although the unit is shielded against radio frequency and electromagnetic interference, extreme-
ly high fields of RF and EMI should be avoided where possible.

iii 386 User Manual

386 Section 1
Getting Started

Getting
Started

®
Section 1 Getting Started 386
1.1 Rear Panel Connections

Power Switch
Turns the 386 on and off.

IEC Power Cord Receptacle

This is the power cord receptacle of the 386. An IEC cord is included with the shipped prod-
uct.

AES/EBU Digital Connector

The 386 provides AES/EBU digital output formating through the XLR connector. Be sure to use short
lengths of 110Ω digital cables rather than standard XLR to XLR cables. Using the correct cables will
prevent digital dropouts and other interconnection problems.

S/PDIF Digital Connector

The 386 provides S/PDIF digital output formating through the RCA coaxial connector. Be sure to use
short lengths of 75Ω digital cables or 75Ω video cables rather than standard audio RCA to RCA
cables. Using the correct cables will prevent digital dropouts and other interconnection problems.

NOTE: Although digital information is coming out of both XLR and RCA jacks simultaneously, the correct format will only appear at the
output for the format type selected. For example, if you have AES/EBU format selected, an AES/EBU formatted signal will appear at
the output of both the XLR and the RCA connector. Or, if you have S/PDIF format selected, an S/PDIF formatted signal will appear at
the output of both the RCA and XLR connectors.

Sync In and Out Connectors

BNC connectors are provided for both clock in and out functions. The 386’s clock chips are dbx
custom VCXO chips, designed for low-jitter performance. You may use the 386 as a master
clock source, having other equipment slave to the 386, or you may slave the 386’s clock to any
other wordclock source device.

Analog Input Connectors

The analog input section of the 386 offers both XLR (Microphone) and a rear 1/4" TRS (Line)
electronically balanced connections. The 1/4” connector may be used in a balanced or unbal-
anced configuration. Using a 1/4” TS connector will unbalance the signal.

Analog Output Connectors

The analog output section of the 386 offers both XLR and 1/4" TRS electronically balanced con-
nections. The 1/4” connector may be used in a balanced or unbalanced configuration. Using a
1/4” TS connector will unbalance the signal.

Insert Jack
The 1/4” TRS Insert jack (Tip=SEND and Ring=RETURN), will allow you to add an effects loop
directly into the signal path of the 386. This insertion point is located after the tube section and
prior to the output section. This insertion positioning is ideal for adding external effects such
as a compressor or an EQ to the analog and digital output sections.

2 386 User Manual

386 Getting Started Section 1
1.2 Front Panel Controls

Instrument Input
This unbalanced high-impedance input connection is used to insert an instrument signal direct-
ly into the preamp. Use the LINE switch to make instrument input or the rear panel line input
active. Plugging into the instrument jack will override the rear panel 1/4” input jack (line input
must be selected).

Line Select Switch

This switch, when lit, selects the rear line input or front panel instrument input (when some-
thing is connected) as the source signal of the 386.

Drive Control
This control sets the amount of gain at the input of the vacuum tube stage. The range of gain
available is +30 to +60 dB (-15 to +15 dB when LINE INPUT is selected).

Peak LED
This LED will light 3dB prior to input stage clipping.

+48 Volt Switch

This switch activates phantom power for condenser microphones on pins 2 and 3 of the XLR
mic input. You should connect your microphone before turning on the phantom power to pre-
vent damage to your microphone. Be sure to always lower levels prior to using the the +48
Volt Switch.

20db Pad Switch

This switch attenuates the microphone input signal by 20dB.

Phase Switch
This switch inverts the phase of the incoming signal at the Mic input by swapping pins 2 and
3 on the XLR connector.

Note- The +48 Volt, 20dB Pad and Phase functions are only available when the microphone input
is in use.

Low Cut Switch

This switch places a 12 dB per octave shelving high pass filter in the signal path. The knee
frequency of the Low Cut filter is 75 Hz. This filter is very useful for removing low frequency
rumble or handling noise from a microphone input signal.

Analog Output
This knob controls the overall level of the analog output signal, and ranges from -15 to +15dB.

386 User Manual 3

Section 1 Getting Started 386
Meter Select Switch
This switch allows you to select display metering of either the digital or analog output signal.
The analog level is scaled in dBu, while the digital level is scaled in dBFS.

LightPipe™ Meter
This meter displays either the analog or digital output signal.

Digital Output
This knob controls the signal being sent to the A/D Converter, and ranges from -15 to +15dB.

1.3 Front Panel (Type IV™ conversion system controls)

Dither Switch
This switch is used to select the dither type algorithms including: TPDF, SNR2 , or None. Dither
is random noise that is added to the audio signal which effectively eliminates the harmonic dis-
tortion created by truncation. See the “Truncation” graph in section D.2 of the Appendix. The
LED will be lit RED for the SNR2 or GREEN for the TPDF dither algorithm. When the LED is off,
dithering is not in use.

Shape Switch
This switch selects either the Shape 1 or Shape 2 psycho-acoustic noise-shaping curve. Shape
1 utilizes a mild psycho-acoustic curve, while the curve used in Shape 2 tends to be more
aggressive. Please see the "Noise Shaping" graph in section D.1 of the Appendix. The LED
will light GREEN for Shape 1 and RED for Shape 2. When the LED is off, the noise-shaping
effect is not in use.

Sample Rate Switch

This switch selects the digital output sample rate of either: 44.1, 48, 88.2, or 96 kHz. The
LED will not be lit for 44.1 kHz, GREEN for 48 kHz, RED for 88.2 kHz and YELLOW for 96 kHz.

Word Length Switch

Selects output wordlength of 16, 20, or 24 bits output resolution. The LED will not be lit for
16 bit, GREEN for 20 bit, and RED for 24 bit.

Output Format
Selects the AES/EBU or S/PDIF digital output format. The LED will be lit red for AES/EBU
and green for S/PDIF.

4 386 User Manual

386 Section 2
ANALOG APPLICATIONS

ANALOG
APPLICATIONS

®
Section 2 Analog Applications 386
2.1 Basic Analog Connection of the 386
• Turn off all equipment before making any connections.

• Install the 386 in your rack with the provided rack screws. It is essential that when the 386
is being mounted in a rack mounting enclosure, the unit should be positioned with enough
room (at least one centimeter at the top and one centimeter at the bottom of the unit) to allow
proper ventilation. The 386 should not be mounted above or below anything that generates
excessive heat. Ambient temperatures should not exceed 1130F (450C) when equipment is in
use. Although the unit is shielded against radio frequency and electromagnetic interference,
extremely high fields of RF and EMI should be avoided where possible.

• Make audio connections via XLR, 1/4” TRS, or 1/4” TS plugs.

With the flexibility of the 386, various connection options are available. For input con-
nection, use the XLR Microphone, 1/4” line or 1/4” instrument (front panel) inputs. For
analog output connections, use either XLR or 1/4” Line output. The use of more than
one connector at a time for the output section, could unbalance balanced lines, cause
phase cancellations, short a conductor to ground, or cause damage to other equipment
connected to the 386.

• Apply power to the 386. Connect the AC power cord to the AC power receptacle on the back
of the unit. Route the AC power cord to a convenient power outlet away from audio lines.
The unit may be turned on and off from the rear panel power switch or from a master equip-
ment power switch.

2.2 Connection to a Mixing Console

1). Connect your mic cable to the Mic input of the 386

NOTE: If you are using a mic with a separate power supply, such as a tube microphone, make
sure that you are not sending two sources of +48V phantom power to the mic. Use the
+48V from the mic’s power supply. Use the +48V Phantom Power switch on the 386 for
all other microphones which require phantom power.

2). Set the front panel of the 386 to the desired settings, including phantom power, 20 dB pad,
phase, etc. Connect the line output of the 386 to the console’s LINE INPUT, and ensure that
the console’s input selection switch is set to LINE, and the console’s gain control is set
appropriately low.

3). Turn the 386’s DRIVE control to the minimum position. Turn the OUTPUT LEVEL control
to the 12 o’clock position, and apply power to the 386. Make sure your console’s gain fader
is at the nominal level and begin to slowly increase the gain of the 386 using the DRIVE
control. You should increase the gain until the mixing/recording device is operating at nom-
inal signal input level.

6 3386 User Manual

386 Analog Applications Section 2

2.3 Direct Connection to a Recorder

1). Make microphone connections, being careful to keep the DRIVE control in the
minimum (+30 dB) position.

2). Connect the 386’s Line outputs directly to the audio inputs of your recorder.

3). Enable the record function of the specific track of the recorder and open the specific tape
track return in the console which corresponds to the track to which the 386 is connected. As
you increase the setting of the DRIVE control, you should begin to hear the input of the 386
running through the recorder and returning to your console as a tape return.

386 User Manual 7

386 Section 3
DIGITAL APPLICATIONS

DIGITAL
APPLICATIONS

®
Section 3 Digital Applications 386
3.1 Digital Output Front Functions of the 386

Dither Switch
This switch is used to select the dither type algorithms including: TPDF, SNR2 , or None. Dither is
random noise that is added to the audio signal which effectively eliminates the harmonic distor-
tion created by truncation. See the“Truncation” graph in section D.2 of the Appendix. The LED
will be lit RED for the SNR2 or GREEN for the TPDF dither algorithm. When the LED is off, dither-
ing is not in use.

Shape Switch
This switch selects the Shape 1, or Shape 2 psycho-acoustic noise-shaping curve. Shape 1 uti-
lizes a mild psycho-acoustic curve, while the curve used in Shape 2 tends to be more aggres-
sive. Please see the "Noise Shaping" graph in section D.1 of the appendix. The LED will be lit
GREEN for Shape 1 and RED for Shape 2. When the LED is off, the noise-shaping algorithm is
not in use.

Sample Rate Switch

This switch selects the digital output sample rate of either: 44.1, 48, 88.2, or 96 kHz. The LED
will not be lit for 44.1 kHz, GREEN for 48 kHz, RED for 88.2 kHz and YELLOW for 96 kHz.

Word Length Switch

Selects output wordlength of 16, 20, or 24 bits output resolution. The LED will not be lit for 16
bit, GREEN for 20 bit, and RED for 24 bit.

Output Format
Selects either the AES/EBU or S/PDIF digital output format. The LED will be red for AES/EBU
and green for S/PDIF.

3.2 Digital Output Rear Panel Connections

10 386 User Manual

386 Digital Applications Section 3
AES/EBU Digital Connector
The 386 provides AES/EBU digital output formating through the XLR connector. Be sure to use short
lengths of 110Ω digital cables rather than standard XLR to XLR cables. Using the correct cables will pre-
vent digital dropouts and other interconnection problems.

S/PDIF Digital Connector

The 386 provides S/PDIF digital output formating through the RCA coaxial connector. Be sure to use
short lengths of 75Ω digital cables or 75Ω video cables rather than standard audio RCA to RCA cables.
Using the correct cables will prevent digital dropouts and other interconnection problems.

NOTE: Although digital information is coming out of both XLR and RCA jacks simultaneously, the correct format will only appear at
the output for the format type selected. For example, if you have AES/EBU format selected, an AES/EBU formatted signal will appear
at the output of both the XLR and the RCA connector. Or, if you have S/PDIF format selected, an S/PDIF formatted signal will appear
at the output of both the RCA and XLR connectors.

Sync In and Out Connectors

BNC connectors are provided for both word clock in and out functions. The 386’s clock chips are
dbx custom VCXO chips, designed for low-jitter performance. You may use the 386 as a master
clock source, having other equipment slave to the 386, or you may slave the 386’s clock to any
other word clock source.

3.3 Sync Input Sample Rate Selection

When connecting an incoming or master device to the sync input of the 386, the 386 will auto-
matically lock to the sample rate of the master device. The sample rate will then be indicated in
the SAMPLE RATE select button.

Note that when the master device is disconnected from the Sync Input connection, the SAMPLE
RATE select button will flash until an internal sample rate is selected.

386 User Manual 11

Section 3 Digital Applications 386
3.4 Direct Connection to a DAW (CPU)

S/PDIF

Rear Panel Connections

• Connect the source to the desired 1/4” TRS or XLR input.
• Connect the AES/EBU or S/PDIF output of the 386 and run into the AES/EBU or S/PDIF input
interface of the DAW (CPU).

Front Panel Digital Output Features

1). Use the METER switch to select digital output metering.
2). Use the DITHER switch to select the desired dither algorithm.
3). Use the SHAPE switch to select the desired noise-shaping algorithm.
4). Use the SAMPLE RATE switch to select the correct sampling rate.
5). Use the WORD LENGTH switch to select the correct word length.
6). Use the OUTPUT FORMAT switch to select the appropriate digital output format.

12 386 User Manual

386 Digital Applications Section 3
3.5 Direct Connection to a Digital Mixer

(insert)
THRESHOLD THRESHOLD GAIN REDUCTION dB INPUT / OUTPUT LEVEL dBu THRESHOLD THRESHOLD THRESHOLD GAIN REDUCTION dB INPUT / OUTPUT LEVEL dBu THRESHOLD
S/PDIF or
AES/EBU
- + - O + 30 27 24 21 18 15 12 9 6 4 2 1 -24 -18 -12 -6 0 +6 +12 +18 + - + - O + 30 27 24 21 18 15 12 9 6 4 2 1 -24 -18 -12 -6 0 +6 +12 +18 +
CHANNEL ONE CHANNEL TWO
SC Enable OverEasy SC Enable OverEasy

1066
-40 2:1 -10 4:1 .35 50 0 -40 2:1 -10 4:1 .35 50 0
3:1 +8 +12 3:1 +8 +12
-20 -20 0 3:1 6:1 -20 -20 0 3:1 6:1
1.6:1 1.6:1
-60 1 .15 125 12.5 -10 +10 +6 +16 -60 1 .15 125 12.5 -10 +10 +6 +16
4:1 4:1
-30 +10 2:1 10:1
Stereo
-30 +10 2:1 10:1 Compressor/
0 1.4:1 0 1.4:1
PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTS SC Mon Contour Auto I/O Meter Bypass Couple SC Mon Contour Auto I/O Meter Bypass Limiter/Gate
OFF dBu +15 1.2:1 8:1 -40 dBu +20 1:1 :1 3 dB/mSec .04 250 dB/Sec 5 -20 dB +20 +4 dBu OFF OFF dBu +15 1.2:1 8:1 -40 dBu +20 1:1 :1 3 dB/mSec .04 250 dB/Sec 5 -20 dB +20 +4 dBu OFF
THRESHOLD RATIO THRESHOLD RATIO ATTACK RELEASE OUTPUT GAIN PeakStopPlus THRESHOLD RATIO THRESHOLD RATIO ATTACK RELEASE OUTPUT GAIN PeakStopPlus
EXPANDER / GATE COMPRESSOR LIMITER EXPANDER / GATE COMPRESSOR LIMITER

Rear Panel Connections

• Connect the source to the desired 1/4” TRS or XLR input jack.
• Connect the AES/EBU or S/PDIF output of the 386 and run into the AES/EBU or S/PDIF input
of the digital mixer.

Front Panel Digital Output Features

1). Use the METER switch to select digital output metering.
2). Use the DITHER switch to select the desired dither algorithm.
3). Use the SHAPE switch to select the desired noise-shaping algorithm.
4). Use the SAMPLE RATE switch to select the correct sampling rate.
5). Use the WORD LENGTH switch to select the correct word length.
6). Use the OUTPUT FORMAT switch to select the appropriate digital output format.

386 User Manual 13

Section 3 Digital Applications 386
3.6 A/D Conversion

S/PDIF or AES/EBU

Rear Panel Connections

• Connect the source to the desired 1/4” TRS or XLR input.
• Connect the AES/EBU or S/PDIF output of the 386 and run into the
AES/EBU or S/PDIF input interface of the DAW (CPU).

Front Panel Digital Output Features

1). Use the METER switch to select digital output metering.
2). Use the DITHER switch to select the desired dither algorithm.
3). Use the SHAPE switch to select the desired noise-shaping algorithm.
4). Use the SAMPLE RATE switch to select the correct sampling rate.
5). Use the WORD LENGTH switch to select the correct word length.
6). Use the OUTPUT FORMAT switch to select the appropriate digital output format.

14 386 User Manual

386 Digital Applications Section 3
3.7 Multi-Tracking to Digital

-24

SYNC

AES/EBU or
S/PDIF

Rear Panel Connections

• Connect the source to the desired 1/4” TRS or XLR input jack.
• Connect the AES/EBU or S/PDIF output of the 386 and run into the AES/EBU or S/PDIF input
of the digital mixer.

Front Panel Digital Output Features

1). Use the METER switch to select digital output metering.
2). Use the DITHER switch to select the desired dither algorithm.
3). Use the SHAPE switch to select the desired noise-shaping algorithm.
4). Use the SAMPLE RATE switch to select the correct sampling rate.
5). Use the WORD LENGTH switch to select the correct word length.
6). Use the OUTPUT FORMAT switch to select the appropriate digital output format.

386 User Manual 15

Section 3 Digital Applications 386
3.8 Analog and Digital Output Application

MONITOR SOURCE

ANALOG OUTPUT

S/PDIF or AES/EBU

The 386 gives you the unique option of utilizing the analog and digital outputs simultaneously.
This option is ideal for using the analog output section as a reference monitoring signal of the dig-
ital signal. Both analog and digital outputs offer independent output control, which allows you to
send a digital signal to a receiving device (such as a DAW or digital recorder) and route the ana-
log signal to a monitoring device (such as a mixer or headphone amplifier) , while controlling both
levels independently all at the same time.

Rear Panel Connections

• Connect the source to the desired 1/4” TRS or XLR input.
• Connect the AES/EBU or S/PDIF output of the 386 and run into the AES/EBU or S/PDIF input
interface of the DAW (CPU).
• Connect the 1/4” TRS or XLR output of the 386 and run into the 1/4” TRS or XLR input of the
monitoring device.

Front Panel Digital Output Features

1). Use the METER switch to select digital output metering.
2). Use the DITHER switch to select the desired dither algorithm.
3). Use the SHAPE switch to select the desired noise-shaping algorithm.
4). Use the SAMPLE RATE switch to select the correct sampling rate.
5). Use the WORD LENGTH switch to select the correct word length.
6). Use the OUTPUT FORMAT switch to select the appropriate digital output format.

16 386 User Manual

386 Appendix
APPENDIX

APPENDIX
Sync Input Info
Block Diagram
dbx Type IV™ White Paper
Noise-Shaping Algorithms
Truncation
Specifications

®
Appendix A Sync Input Info 386
Sync Input Info

The dbx 386 comes with the word input 75Ω terminated. For certain configurations, you may
wish to have the sync input be unterminated. Certain "house sync" configurations will require
you to change the default position of the termination jumper on the main circuit board. For
example, if you run your sync to several pieces of equipment using a tapped configuration
(using BNC T’s) as shown below, only the last box, box C, would be terminated (marked "75
ohm terminated" on the circuit board). Unfortunately, some equipment does not allow the user
to change the termination setting. These pieces of equipment are usually provided with a per-
manent termination. If you use the 386 with another piece of terminated equipment in tapped
configuration, you should unterminate (marked "unterminated" on the circuit board) the 386’s
sync input. The same is true if you wish to use several 386’s in a tapped configuration. See Fig.
A.1 for the location of termination jumper.

Tapped Configuration

Sync Source A 386 C

Fig. A.1

Location of sync input termina-

tion jumper. “Terminated”
selection is shown.

18 386 User Manual

 ®
386

Microphone +48V Low 20dB Pad Phase Invert

Input

Peak LED

12AU7
Rear Panel Line/Mic Tube
Line Input
+
Low Cut
-

Front Panel
Instrument Input

Drive

Insert Analog Outputs Word - In

dbx
Pulsar Chip
Analog
Output
Level Word - Out
Bargraph Meter

Analog Dither Shape

Digital
Output Digital
Level AES/EBU
dbx TYPE IV Output
Conversion System DSP

S/PDIF
Block Diagram

Output

Sample Word Output

Rate Length Format

386 User Manual

Block Diagram

19
Appendix B
Appendix C Type IV™ White Paper 386
Type IV™ White Paper

dbx Type IV™ Conversion System

White Paper
by Roger Johnson
The dbx Type IV™ Conversion System is a proprietary analog-to-digital (A/D) conversion process that combines
the best attributes of digital conversion and analog recording processes to preserve the essence of the analog signal when
it is converted to a digital format. dbx Type IV™ not only exploits the wide linear dynamic range of today’s A/D con-
verters, but also enhances it and extends the useable dynamic range beyond the linear range. By providing a logarith-
mic “Type IV™ Over Region” above the linear A/D range, we benefit from the extended high-level headroom that is
inherent in analog recording without compromising the noise performance of the A/D conversion process.
Digital conversion and recording processes proliferated in the 1980’s primarily due to the “cleaner” sound of dig-
ital versus analog, an advantage resulting from the comparatively wider linear dynamic range of digital. Anyone who is
familiar with the technical specifications of digital equipment knows that the typical maximum signal-to-noise specifica-
tions for 16-bit systems is in the neighborhood of 90-something dB. Compare this to the typical signal-to-noise specifi-
cations for professional analog tape of about 55 dB without the aid of noise reduction and around 75 to 85 dB with noise
reduction such as dbx Type I™ or Type II™ applied.
This seemingly tremendous signal-to-noise advantage of digital over analog would suggest that digital would
become the unanimous choice for recording. For the most part this has occurred, not totally due to its signal-to-noise
advantage, but as much due to the benefits of digital storage such as random access and the inherent ability to with-
stand degradation, unlike that of analog tape or LP’s. In spite of the benefits of digital, no one in the audio world can
refute the rediscovery of analog recording and tube gear that has occurred in the 90’s, attributable to the quest for that
“analog character” that is missing from digital recordings. This continued use of analog gear with modern digital systems
brings to light a favorable characteristic of analog recording which those who abandoned analog and jumped on the dig-
ital bandwagon were either never aware of or simply took for granted.
Anyone who has ever used analog tape knows that you can “hit it hard” without destroying the recording. The
printed specifications of analog tape don’t take into account the practical headroom available. The max signal-to-noise
specification of analog tape is measured by defining the “max” signal as the point where a given signal level and fre-
quency produces a given percent Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)—typically the level at which a 1 kHz signal produces
3% THD. In actual use, the signal can easily exceed this “max” signal level by 5, 10, or even 15 dB on peaks, depend-
ing on the type of signal being recorded, without unacceptable artifacts. High signal levels can be tolerated (i.e. more
headroom) at the expense of increased THD which, incidentally, is often desirable as an effect, evidenced by the
renewed popularity of tube equipment.
The obvious conclusion is that analog recording actually has more useable dynamic range than the specifica-
tions seem to indicate. For example, let’s say we’re recording a kick drum. If analog tape measures 55 dB from the 3%
THD point down to the RMS noise floor and the peaks of the kick drum exceed the 3% THD level by, say, 15 dB and
it still sounds good, then we have 15 dB of extra useable headroom. Therefore, we end up with 70 dB of useable dynam-
ic range. Throw in noise reduction and we push into the 90-something dB dynamic range territory of 16-bit digital. This
explains why well-recorded analog master tapes make good-sounding CD’s with no objectionable noise.
One main drawback of digital is that it inherently lacks this forgiving and beneficial characteristic of analog
recording. Although digital conversion exhibits wide linear dynamic range, when you run out of headroom for high-level
signals, hard clipping or even ugly signal wrap-around occurs, not to mention that A/D converters have their own nasty
side effects such as going unstable when their modulator is overdriven with high-level signals.
This shortcoming of digital conversion has drastically affected the way users operate their equipment. Users are
paranoid of overdriving the converter input and end up recording at lower levels to ensure that there is ample head-
room to allow for the large peaks that would ruin an otherwise perfect recording. This, of course, compromises signal-

20 386 User Manual

386 Type IV™ White Paper Appendix C
to-noise performance since the signal is now closer to the noise floor. Because users of digital equipment have to be
extremely careful not to exceed 0 dB FS (full-scale), they must use peak-reading headroom meters. On the other hand,
the forgiving nature of analog tape allows users of analog recording equipment the luxury of only needing to monitor
the average level using VU meters, often having no peak indicators whatsoever. If only digital were more forgiving like
analog, we could really exploit its wide dynamic range and more completely capture the essence of the musical perfor-
mance.
Enter the dbx Type IV™ Conversion System. Like its related predecessor technologies—Type I™, Type II™, and
Type III™—dbx Type IV™ succeeds in preserving the wide dynamic range of the original analog signal within a limit-
ed dynamic range medium. Whereas Type I™ and Type II™ expand the dynamic range of analog tape and other limit-
ed dynamic range media, and the simultaneous encode/decode process of Type III™ similarly expands the limited
dynamic range through minimum-delay devices, Type IV™ breaks new ground by greatly enhancing the useable dynam-
ic range of the analog-to-digital conversion process.
The dbx Type IV™ Conversion System combines proprietary analog and digital processing techniques to cap-
ture a much wider dynamic range than the A/D converter could by itself, preserving the maximum amount of informa-
tion from the analog signal. This information is then encoded within the available bits of whichever A/D converter is
used. This means that Type IV™ improves the performance of any A/D converter, from low-cost 16-bit to high-perfor-
mance 24-bit! And no decoding is necessary beyond the conversion process!
As we have previously mentioned, digital systems have a wide linear region compared to analog tape and the
dynamic range of A/D converters has improved significantly in recent years. The dbx Type IV™ Conversion System takes
advantage of this and utilizes the top 4 dB of the A/D converter’s linear dynamic range to create a logarithmic “overload
region.” This allows high-level transient signals passing far above the point where the overload region begins to be ade-
quately represented in just 4 dB of the converter’s dynamic range, whereas a typical A/D converter would clip. With
Type IV™, you can never clip the A/D converter!

Converted
Signal
Level
dB FS

A/D Clip Point

0
gion
m ic R e
a r it h
-4 Log
n
io
eg
R
ar
ne
Li

dB
-4 0 +4 +8 +12 Input
Signal
Level
Figure 1 - Converted Level vs. Input Level

Fig. 1 illustrates this concept showing the level of the converted signal below and above the start of the overload region.
The converted signal level is plotted along the Y-axis (vertical axis) of the plot vs. the level of the input signal along the
X-axis (horizontal axis). The logarithmic mapping of the overload region begins 4 dB below 0 dB FS (full-scale) of the
A/D converter. What this shows is that below -4 dB FS, in the linear region, the output signal is the same as the input
signal. Above this, in the logarithmic region, high-level input signals get “mapped” into the top 4 dB of the A/D con-
verter. This mapping is analogous to the signal compression effect that occurs when recording high-level signals onto
analog tape.

386 User Manual 21

Appendix C Type IV™ White Paper 386
Input
Signal
Level

TYPE IV™
Over
+12 Region
+8
+4 0 dB FS
0
-4 dB -4

A/D Converter
Linear Region

Noise Floor

Figure 2 - Input Signal Levels Mapped to Type IV Over Region

Fig. 2 illustrates the mapping function in a different way. Input levels are shown on the left of the graph, while con-
verted levels are shown on the right. Notice the mapping of large signal excursions to the 4 dB “Type IV™ Over Region.”
One might question the validity of such an approach—trying to represent a lot of signal information within a
smaller “space.” The reason why this is not only valid but makes a whole lot of sense is that the digital codes in a con-
verter are linear, or evenly-spaced, meaning that each consecutive code represents the same change in voltage of the
input signal. This implies that half of the digital codes are used to represent input signals whose voltage level is below
1/2 of the full-scale A/D input voltage, while the other half of the codes are used to represent signals above 1/2 of the
full-scale A/D input voltage. This seems reasonable until you realize that 1/2 of the full-scale input is only 6 dB below
full-scale! So half of the codes are used to represent only the top 6 dB of signal information, while the other half are
used to represent the remaining 80 to 110 dB of signal information, depending on the quality of the converter. It seems
not only reasonable, but also desirable, to utilize the increased signal resolution afforded by this density of digital codes
to represent more input dynamic range in this region.
Another advantage of the logarithmic mapping of our dbx Type IV™ Conversion System is that it preserves the
high-frequency detail of the signal in the overload region. Figs. 3a through 3d illustrate what happens when you over-
load an A/D converter without Type IV™. Fig. 3a shows an input signal having both low-frequency and high-frequen-
cy components. When the signal overloads, or clips, (Fig. 3b) at the A/D converter, a disproportionate amount of high-
frequency signal information is lost compared with the low-frequency information. The low and high-frequency com-
ponents of the signal are separated in Fig. 3c to illustrate this more clearly. As you can see, the low frequency signal
simply gets distorted but maintains most of its signal characteristics, while sections of the high-frequency signal are com-
pletely lost! With dbx Type IV™, its mapping preserves high-frequency signal information, as illustrated in Fig. 3d, since
the signal is confined within the Type IV™ Over Region and never clips. The dashed line indicates the original input
signal level. Below the Over Region no mapping occurs, while above this, mapping keeps all peaks of the signal below
the A/D clip level, thus preserving the high-frequency content of the signal.

22 386 User Manual

386 Type IV™ White Paper Appendix C
Amplitude

Time

Figure 3a - Signal Having Low and High Frequency Content

Amplitude

A/D Clip Level

Time

A/D Clip Level

Figure 3b - Signal of Fig. 3a Going Beyond the A/D Clip Level

386 User Manual 23

Appendix C Type IV™ White Paper 386
Amplitude

High-Frequency Information Completely Lost

High-Frequency Content

A/D Clip Level

Low-Frequency Content

Time

A/D Clip Level

High-Frequency Information Completely Lost

Figure 3c - Disproportionate Loss of High-Frequency Information Due to Clipping

Amplitude

0 dB FS A/D Clip Level

-4
} TYPE IV™ Over Region

Time

-4

0 dB FS
} TYPE IV™ Over Region
A/D Clip Level

Figure 3d - Type IV Mapping Preserves High-Frequency Information

Now you’re probably wondering, “What’s the catch? I can’t get something for nothing so what did I give up?”
You may be worried that your A/D noise floor got 4 dB worse because we borrowed the top 4 dB of your converter.
This is certainly a valid concern. Fortunately, we have the answer! Without going into the confidential technical details,
by using our proprietary analog and digital Type IV™ processing, we reclaim the original A/D noise level! So what you
get is free headroom!
The benefits of the dbx Type IV™ Conversion System can easily be heard by switching it in and out while lis-
tening to signals with high-level peaks captured in the Type IV™ Over Region. You will notice an obvious audible dif-
ference. With Type IV™ bypassed, you can’t help notice the harsh, edgy sound of the A/D converter clipping. With Type
IV™ enabled, those nasty artifacts disappear revealing a more open and natural sound. With Type IV™ enabled, you will
get a more accurate and pure representation of the original wide-dynamic-range signal. You will absolutely agree that
we really do give you “something for nothing.” We give you peace of mind knowing that you never have to worry about
clipping your A/D again! And when you listen to the noise floor of your A/D, you’ll realize that we never compromise
your noise performance with Type IV™!
The dbx Type IV™ Conversion System succeeds in combining the best of the analog and digital worlds to cap-
ture the truest essence and fullest dynamic range of audio signals. Who else but dbx would bring you this technology!

24 386 User Manual

386 Appendix Appendix D
D.1 Noise-Shaping Algorithms

D.1

16-Bit TPDF dither. (a) Shape “off”, (b) with shape set to “S1”, (c) with shape set to “S2.” Parameters: Input -60dBFS, 1
kHz; FFT Length= 2048, Sample Rate= 48 Khz, Averages= 32; Graph Steps= 1024.

D.2 Truncation

D.2

(a) 24-Bit word, (b) 16-Bit truncated output, no dither. Parameters: Input -60dBFS, 1 kHz; FFT Length= 2048, Sample
Rate= 48 Khz, Averages= 32; Graph Steps= 1024.

386 User Manual 25

Appendix D Appendix 386
D.3 Specifications
Microphone Input
Connector: Female XLR Pin 2 Hot
Type: Electronically balanced/unbalanced
Impedance: 330Ω
Maximum Input Level: -9 dBu or +11 dBu with 20 dB pad engaged
CMRR: >40dB, Typically 55dB
Equivalent Input Noise: Typically -120 dBu with a 150Ω source load, 20Hz to 20kHz BW
Line Input (Rear Panel)
Connector: TRS 1/4" Jack
Type: Electronically balanced/unbalanced
Impedance: 20kΩ unbalanced, 40kΩ balanced
Maximum Input Level: +21dBu balanced or unbalanced
CMRR: >40dB, Typically 55dB
Gain (Drive Control) -15dB to +15dB
Instrument Input (Front Panel)
Connector: TS 1/4" Jack
Type: Unbalanced
Impedance: 470 kΩ
Maximum Input Level: +21dBu unbalanced
Analog Outputs
Connector: Male XLR Pin 2 Hot and TRS 1/4"
Type: Servo-balanced/unbalanced
Impedance: Balanced 120Ω, unbalanced 60Ω
Maximum Output Level: >+21 dBu, >+20 dBm (into a 600Ω load)
Insert
Connector: TRS 1/4"
Type: Unbalanced
Impedance: 100Ω (SEND), 20kΩ (RETURN)
Digital Outputs
Connectors: XLR for AES/EBU
RCA for S/PDIF
Impedance: 110Ω for AES/EBU
75Ω for S/PDIF
Word Sync Input/Output
Connectors: BNC
Input Impedance: 75Ω terminated by internal jumper
Input: 96, 88.2, 48, or 44.1kHz word clock
Output: 96, 88.2, 48, or 44.1kHz word clock
System Performance
DRIVE Control Range: +30dB to +60dB for Mic Input
-15dB to +15dB for Line and Instrument Inputs
LEVEL Control Range
(Analog and Digital): -15dB to +15dB
LINE: Selects between microphone and line inputs
Phantom Power: +48V
PAD: 20dB pad
PHASE: Reverses pins 2 and 3 of the microphone input XLR
LOW CUT: 75Hz, 12dB/octave high pass filter
Analog Frequency Response: <10Hz to 75kHz
THD+Noise: 0.35% typical at +4dBu out, 1kHz, 40 dB gain
Interchannel Crosstalk: Typically –80dB, 20Hz to 20kHz
Analog to Digital Conversion
Type: dbx Type IV™ A/D Conversion System
Sample Rate: 96, 88.2, 48, or 44.1kHz selectable
Wordlength: 24, 20, or 16 bit selectable
Dither Type: TPDF, SNR2, or none
Noise Shape: Shape 1, Shape 2, or none
Output Format: S/PDIF or AES/EBU
Convertor Dynamic Range 107dB typical, A-weighted, 22kHz bandwidth
Power Supply
Operating Voltage: DO: 120VAC 60Hz, 100VAC 50/60Hz
EU: 230VAC 50/60 Hz
Power Requirements: 35 Watts
Physical
Weight: 7.3 lbs (3.3kg)
Dimensions: 1.75'' x 7.75'' x 19'' (4.5cm x 19.7cm x 48.5cm)
NOTE: 0dBu= -18dBFS, 0dBu = 0.775V rms

26 386 User Manual

 ®

A Harman International Company

8760 South Sandy Pkwy.

Sandy, Utah 84070
Phone: (801) 568-7660
Fax: (801) 568-7662
Int’l Fax: (603) 672-4246
Questions or comments?
E•mail us at: [email protected]
or visit our World Wide Web home page at:
www.dbxpro.com

18-0098-A