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Offered is „dbx 5BX-DS (1987)“ by DBX as second-hand device from the category „Sound Processor (Digital)“ on audio-markt.de - the online market place for high-end. The advert with the number 8394718143 ends on 21.11.2026 at 16:07 o'clock.
Should you jump on this, or is €2,000 asking collector money? It’s clearly ambitious versus the recent EUR comp set: well above the €1,067 75th percentile and more than triple the €637 median, so this is not a casual fair-buy listing.
That said, the unit itself is a desirable piece of classic dbx processing: the 5BX-DS is the top-end, five-band dynamic range expander, still respected for adding punch and perceived openness without the crude artifacts people associate with cheaper enhancers. If the condition is genuinely clean and it’s complete with remote, box, or proof of service, the rarity helps; otherwise, at this price, I’d want exceptional cosmetics and documented functionality before paying up.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Founded in 1971 in the United States by audio engineer David Blackmer, dbx emerged from his pioneering work in dynamic range processing. Blackmer, whose initials inspired the brand name, initially developed decibel expansion technology to enhance audio fidelity, aiming to capture the realism of live performances. The company's early innovations, including the dbx 202 "Boom Box" bass amplifier and the iconic dbx 160 compressor/limiter, quickly established it as a staple in professional studios and live racks during the 1970s and 1980s.
dbx specializes in professional audio signal processing equipment, with a legacy built on compressors, limiters, and noise reduction systems. Its lineup has expanded to include microphone preamps like the 286s, speaker management systems such as the DriveRack PA2, and modern rackmount processors in the CX and 500 Series. While it briefly ventured into consumer gear like speakers and amplifiers under BSR ownership in the late 1970s, dbx has steadfastly focused on pro-audio tools leveraging proprietary technologies like True RMS detection.
Now a division of Harman International (under Samsung), dbx holds a respected mid-tier position in the professional audio market, prized by engineers for reliable, workhorse dynamics control in broadcasting, live sound, and recording. Vintage models remain collector favorites, but current offerings compete effectively against digital rivals, blending heritage innovation with robust build quality for demanding applications.
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