The Royer dBooster2 (model R-DB22) puts two channels of Royer's dBooster in one box, and each channel also works as a high-impedance DI for guitar and bass. In mic mode a channel adds 12 dB or 20 dB of clean gain to a passive ribbon or dynamic mic, and in DI mode it gives unity gain or 8 dB. It runs on 48 V phantom from your preamp or interface and handles a stereo ribbon pair, two DIs, or one mic and one DI at the same time.

Two Independent Channels

Each channel has a combination input that takes an XLR mic cable or a 1/4-inch instrument cable, its own gain switch and its own balanced XLR output. The channels are electrically isolated from each other, which helps avoid ground loops with a stereo mic such as the SF-12 or with two separate preamps. For a single mic in an electrically noisy room, Royer recommends channel 1.

What It Works With

Royer pairs the dBooster2 with its R-121, R-10 and SF-12 ribbons, and it also brings up dynamic mics such as the Shure SM7B and Electro-Voice RE20. The input blocks phantom power from reaching the mic to protect ribbons, so phantom-powered condenser mics will not work through it. The output is a boosted mic-level signal meant for a mic preamp or interface input.

Features

• Two independent channels, electrically isolated from each other
• Mic mode: 12 dB or 20 dB of gain per channel
• DI mode: 0 dB (unity) or 8 dB of gain per channel for guitar, bass and other Hi-Z sources
• Combination XLR and 1/4-inch input on each channel
• Class A input stages with ultra-low noise and distortion
• Balanced low-impedance outputs that drive long cables, mic splitters and vintage-style preamps
• Blocks phantom power from the mic to protect ribbons
• Designed and assembled in the USA

Specifications

• Model: R-DB22
• Channels: 2
• Gain, mic mode: 12 dB or 20 dB, switchable
• Gain, DI mode: 0 dB or 8 dB, switchable
• Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ±0.25 dB
• THD+N: 0.0015% at 20 dB gain (-25 dBu input), 0.001% at 12 dB gain (-6 dBu input)
• IM distortion: Below 0.002% at 20 dB (800 mV output), below 0.005% at 12 dB (2.6 V output)
• Self-noise: Below 11 dBA at 20 dB, below 15 dBA at 12 dB (referred to -48 dB re 1 V/Pa)
• Headroom: 127 dB at 20 dB, 120 dB at 12 dB
• Input impedance, mic mode: 3.6k ohms
• Output impedance: 300 ohms (20 dB setting)
• Inputs: 2 x combination XLR and 1/4-inch (1/4-inch unbalanced, tip hot)
• Outputs: 2 x balanced XLR (pin 2 hot)
• Power: 48 V phantom, about 5 mA idle and 7.5 mA at full output
• Dimensions: 98.4 x 98.4 x 44.5 mm (3.875 x 3.875 x 1.75 in)
• Weight: 289 g (10.2 oz)
• Warranty: 1 year, parts and labor