Product Overview

The DBX 234xs is a stereo 2/3-way or mono 4-way active crossover with XLR connectors, designed for professional sound reinforcement systems where precise driver band separation and low noise are required between the system processor output and the power amplifier inputs. As a rack-mount active crossover with Linkwitz-Riley 24 dB/octave filtering and XLR balanced I/O, the DBX 234xs crossover provides the signal routing and frequency division needed for bi-amp, tri-amp, and mono 4-way amplified loudspeaker systems. Audio contractors and sound engineers specify the DBX 234xs active crossover for its LF sum capability, subwoofer integration, and professional XLR connectivity. Available at Creation Networks.

Product Description

The DBX 234xs provides stereo 2-way or 3-way crossover operation, or can be configured as a mono 4-way crossover for subwoofer and multi-driver bass management systems. The Linkwitz-Riley filter alignment at 24 dB/octave produces a summed response that is acoustically flat at the crossover frequency, avoiding the amplitude peaks that occur with Butterworth crossover alignments at the crossover point. All crossover frequency points are continuously variable within their respective ranges, allowing precise driver band assignment without fixed frequency steps. The LF sum function combines the left and right low-frequency outputs into a single mono subwoofer signal, which is the standard configuration for stereo systems with a single subwoofer or mono sub array. XLR balanced inputs and outputs provide professional connectivity with high common-mode rejection for use in systems with long cable runs between the crossover and amplifier rack. The 234xs occupies 1U of rack space and is powered by a universal power supply compatible with international mains voltage. It delivers greater than 110 dB dynamic range at unity gain, with frequency response flat within 1 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz and THD+Noise below 0.01% in passband operation.

Key Features

• Stereo 2/3-Way or Mono 4-Way Operation – Flexible configuration supports stereo bi-amp, tri-amp, and mono 4-way driver management systems.
• Linkwitz-Riley 24 dB/Octave Filters – Produces an acoustically flat summed response at all crossover frequencies for correct driver integration.
• Continuously Variable Crossover Frequencies – All frequency division points are adjustable within their ranges for precise driver band assignment.
• LF Sum Function – Combines left and right low-frequency outputs to a mono subwoofer signal for standard stereo-with-sub configurations.
• XLR Balanced I/O – Professional XLR connections on all inputs and outputs for high CMRR and reliable performance in systems with long cable runs.
• Greater Than 110 dB Dynamic Range – Low noise floor appropriate for professional sound reinforcement and installed audio signal chains.
• Universal Power Supply – Compatible with international mains voltages for touring and installation use.
• 1U Rack Format – Compact chassis for integration into touring racks and installed equipment racks.

Typical Applications

• Live music venue
• House of worship
• Auditorium
• Performing arts center
• Subwoofer integration
• Multi-amplifier loudspeaker systems

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the DBX 234xs and the DBX 234s?The 234xs and 234s are identical in function and specifications. The 234xs uses XLR balanced connectors on all inputs and outputs, while the 234s uses 1/4 inch TRS balanced connectors. The choice between them depends on the connector standard used in the target system.Why does the 234xs use Linkwitz-Riley filters instead of Butterworth?Linkwitz-Riley crossover filters produce a flat summed acoustic response when the high-pass and low-pass outputs are combined. At the crossover frequency, each filter is 6 dB down, and the two outputs sum flat. Butterworth filters are 3 dB down at the crossover frequency and produce a 3 dB peak in the summed response, which must be corrected with additional equalization.How does the LF sum function work on the 234xs?When LF sum is engaged, the low-frequency outputs from both the left and right input channels are combined into a single summed mono output. This is the standard connection method for stereo systems that use a single subwoofer or mono subwoofer array, allowing both channels to contribute to the bass output without a separate mono summing device.Can the DBX 234xs be used as a mono 4-way crossover for a subwoofer management system?Yes. In mono 4-way mode, the 234xs provides four output bands from a single input, which is useful for systems with separate amplifier channels for infrasub, sub, low-mid, and high-frequency drivers in a multi-way bass management configuration.Is the 234xs appropriate for use between a DriveRack processor and power amplifiers?The DBX DriveRack series includes integrated crossover processing, so adding a separate 234xs would create duplicate crossover filtering. The 234xs is best suited for simpler systems without a dedicated loudspeaker management processor, or for specific mono 4-way bass management tasks that standard DriveRack routing does not support.What rack space does the DBX 234xs require?The 234xs occupies 1U of space in a standard 19-inch equipment rack.