Product Overview

The DBX 223xs is a stereo 2-way or mono 3-way active crossover with XLR connectors, designed for professional sound reinforcement systems that require passive-crossover replacement or active loudspeaker management in a compact 1U rack-mount format. As a dedicated active crossover with Linkwitz-Riley 24 dB/octave filtering and XLR balanced I/O, the DBX 223xs crossover provides precise driver band separation for stereo bi-amp and mono 3-way loudspeaker configurations. Available at Creation Networks.

Product Description

The DBX 223xs delivers stereo 2-way crossover operation with two outputs per channel, or can be reconfigured as a mono 3-way crossover providing three band outputs from a single input. The Linkwitz-Riley filter design at 24 dB/octave produces a flat acoustic summed response at the crossover frequency, which is the standard requirement for correct driver integration in multi-amplifier loudspeaker systems. All crossover frequency points are continuously variable, allowing the engineer to set precise division frequencies between bass and mid, or mid and high, to match the driver characteristics of the loudspeaker system. XLR balanced inputs and outputs provide professional-grade connectivity with high common-mode rejection for connection to mixing consoles, crossover processors, and power amplifiers in systems with long cable runs. The 223xs occupies 1U in a standard 19-inch rack and uses a universal power supply compatible with international mains voltages. Dynamic range exceeds 110 dB, A-weighted, with THD+Noise below 0.01% and frequency response flat within 1 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.

Key Features

• Stereo 2-Way or Mono 3-Way Operation – Supports stereo bi-amp configurations or mono 3-way driver management from a single input.
• Linkwitz-Riley 24 dB/Octave Filters – Flat summed acoustic response at crossover frequencies for correct driver integration without summation peaks.
• Continuously Variable Crossover Frequencies – All division points adjustable within their ranges for precise matching to driver characteristics.
• XLR Balanced I/O – Professional XLR connections on all inputs and outputs for high CMRR in systems with long cable runs.
• Greater Than 110 dB Dynamic Range – Low noise floor appropriate for professional sound reinforcement applications.
• Universal Power Supply – Compatible with international mains voltages for touring and installation use.
• 1U Rack Format – Compact chassis for integration into touring racks and permanent equipment installations.

Typical Applications

• Live music venue
• House of worship
• Auditorium
• Multi-amplifier loudspeaker systems
• Bi-amp monitor systems
• Rental and touring production

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the DBX 223xs and the DBX 234xs?The 223xs supports stereo 2-way or mono 3-way operation, providing up to two output bands per channel or three bands in mono mode. The 234xs supports stereo 2/3-way or mono 4-way operation, adding a third stereo band per channel or a fourth mono band. The 234xs also includes an LF sum function for mono subwoofer integration. Choose the 223xs for simpler bi-amp systems and the 234xs for tri-amp or subwoofer management applications.How does Linkwitz-Riley 24 dB/octave filtering improve driver integration?Linkwitz-Riley filters are designed so that at the crossover frequency each filter output is 6 dB below the passband level. When the adjacent high-pass and low-pass drivers reproduce the crossover region, the acoustic sum is flat rather than elevated. This avoids the need for additional equalization at the crossover point and produces accurate driver integration without frequency response anomalies.Can the 223xs be used for monitor system equalization in a live touring setup?The 223xs provides crossover filtering only and does not include equalization. For bi-amp monitor systems where the low-frequency and high-frequency drivers require separate amplification and the crossover frequency needs to be adjustable, the 223xs is appropriate. A separate graphic or parametric equalizer would be required if per-band equalization is also needed.What is the maximum number of amplifier channels the 223xs can drive?In stereo 2-way mode, the 223xs drives four amplifier channels: left high, left low, right high, and right low. In mono 3-way mode, it drives three channels: low, mid, and high. The choice of mode determines the total number of amplifier channels required in the system.Is the DBX 223xs suitable for permanent installed sound?Yes. The XLR balanced I/O, 1U rack format, and universal power supply make the 223xs suitable for permanent installed sound applications where bi-amp driver management is required, such as distributed amplifier systems in auditoriums and houses of worship.What rack space does the DBX 223xs require?The 223xs occupies 1U of space in a standard 19-inch equipment rack.