I've had this unit since about 2008 and it has performed flawlessly. Over the years I have modified it with help from Linear Audio and Pilgham Audio in the Netherlands to maximise its potential.
This is truly a flexible and powerful unit. It can be: a DAC, a crossover, an equaliser, a DSP processor, a preamp - or everything at once.
It has 6 balanced outputs and 3 balanced inputs, with one configurable analog or stereo digital over AES/EBU up to 24bit 96khz. Internal processing is carried out at 24bit/96khz.
The most common scenario would be stereo digital input with stereo three way outputs for active crossover duty. Delay, phase, crossover slopes, parametric EQ, compressor/limiters, it's all there. If you run active with a digital source, or are wanting to experiment with DIY speaker design and prototyping, this is what you want as you can set up and A/B any crossover / delay /EQ parameters imaginable.
The basic story here is that Behringer built an amazingly capable DSP but didn't get too ambitious in the analog domain.
This is where some capable Dutchmen stepped in, and put together some excellent mods.
So from Jan Didden via pilgham audio, first of all was the active output board which equipped the outputs with remote controllable ANALOG attenuation and gain post the DACs, and much higher quality output with lower distortion and noise floor. This is a game changer and brings this unit to hi fi status. Super high quality parts are used in this board.
This was purchased and installed as a kit in about 2013.
Fast forward to about 2019 and I decided to go further, adding again from Pilgham Audio:
Linear regulated power supply with outboard transformer
Upgraded VREG for the DACs
Upgraded Clock/SRC
I also took the opportunity to recap the DAC board with Panasonic electrolytics. I made a custom external enclosure for the transformer and laser engraved the details so it's not just a nondescript black box.
All up I spent about $1200 on mod kits, plus labour hours. It punches way above it's humble original price.
I you run active or are interested in doing so - this is a brilliant way to go as it can sit directly between your digital source and your power amplification, being a remote controlled preamp after the active output mod. If you fancy designing your own speakers, also perfect for crossover development.
Any questions, please ask. Fantastic condition, just the display is a bit wonky but it always was from factory and it never bothered me too much.
Includes two remote controls for the active output mod. This means the analog output volume of all channels plus balance, mute/unmute are available via remote.
Pickup Northcote 3070 or postage possible Oz wide at cost.
The item being advertised is sold "as is", and no warranty should be assumed unless otherwise indicated and agreed between the Buyer and the Seller. Photos representing the item being advertised form part of the description unless otherwise specified.
### Sound Quality
Users describe the sound as clean and transparent for practical applications like church installs and PA systems, with effective real-time adjustments for crossovers, delays, EQ, and time alignment. Measurements reveal elevated distortion (especially low-frequency THD and IMD), data-dependent jitter, and a slight low-end droop compared to modern DACs, though noise floor and linearity are deemed adequate for the price point of DAC+ADC+DSP functionality. Subjective tests found it competitive with pricier units, holding up against modified versions and showing only minor deficits in treble detail versus alternatives like MiniDSP.
### Build Quality
Build is rated as fair to solid, with a utilitarian PA-style design featuring bold branding, flashing lights, and rack ears that look out of place in home audio racks. Some report hot-running linear regulator ICs requiring heat spreaders and non-standard RS232 wiring, but the all-digital design lacks wear-prone analog knobs.
### Reliability
Opinions are mixed: some expect 10+ years of service due to minimal heat and digital internals, while others note frequent failures like input/output dropouts within 10 years and variable long-term durability. No widespread recent complaints, but pro audio forums highlight it as basic rather than robust.
### Strengths
- Exceptional flexibility: 3 inputs/6 outputs with routing, parametric EQ, delays, gain matching, and "Sum" channel for speaker balancing; suits installed systems, DIY crossovers, and PA experimentation.
- Value: "Well worth the price" for features that would cost far more to replicate; firmware updates available.
- Ease for pros: Intuitive for technicians after initial setup; real-time tweaks speed alignment.
### Weaknesses
- Steep learning curve: Small, coarse LCD screen, technical manual, and poor documentation demand 2+ hours for setup; not beginner-friendly.
- Outdated interface: Hard-to-read display and no modern remote/network UI.
- Aesthetics and heat: Industrial look and minor hardware quirks like hot components.
### Overall Reputation
The DCX2496 enjoys a strong reputation as a "workhorse" for budget-conscious pro audio and DIY users, praised for versatility in live sound over audiophile transparency. Critics in measurement-focused communities view it as outdated with mediocre specs by 2020s standards but "decent" given its low cost; it's recommended for practical needs rather than critical listening. Long-term ownership reveals reliability risks, yet it remains popular for its capability-to-price ratio.
### Price Breakdown by Condition
| Condition | Typical Range (AUD) | Key Listings |
|-----------|---------------------|--------------|
| New | $499–$519 | $499 , $519 , $514 , $499 |
| Used | $300–$450 (est.) | No direct listings; conservative estimate based on typical 30–50% depreciation for pro audio gear in good condition, inferred from new pricing. |
### Key Factors Affecting Value
- Condition: New units command full retail; used prices drop due to wear on connectors, power supply, or internals, plus lack of warranty.
- Variant: Standard DCX2496 lists higher; LE version (reduced digital I/O) is cheaper at $419 .
- Retailer & Stock: Australian stores cluster around $500+ with price matching ; lower US pricing ($339 ) excludes AUD shipping/import duties.
- Market Trends: Stable demand for this legacy pro audio processor in live sound/installs, but no evidence of shortages or inflation as of recent data.
- Accessories: Bundles with cables/power supplies may add $20–50; standalone units assumed.
Prices reflect active Australian listings and may fluctuate with promotions or exchange rates. For used values, check local platforms like Gumtree or Reverb for real-time sales.
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