I'm using an old DBX 2031 thats probably hasn't seen the light of day in about 2 years. When I chain this thing on my vocals, the SNR just goes through the roof. Pushing faders in any direction will increase the noise depending on how much is gained. Using the built-in Type-III NR will bring it down to a less than audible volume with idle signal, but as soon as the singer sends something, you can hear the noise behind the vocals. Is this normal behaviour for this EQ? Just seems like waaay too much noise for me, in fact I'm preferring the channel strip EQ over this thing
Audio Players & Recorders - DBX - 2031 Home Equalizer
Answers & Comments
Putting an EQ in the chain after a vocal mic can add quite a bit of noise to the signal as the EQ is actually another gain stage prior to the mixer's input. I would recommend the cleanest signal possible from the mic to the console. Add eq after the fact, whether outboard like your DBX, or in the digital realm in your DAW. Keep the signal straight and clean as possible from the mic.