Overview
The Royer Labs R-DB20 dBooster is a premium in-line signal activator designed to elevate the performance of low-output passive ribbon and dynamic microphones. Functioning more like the front end of a high-end preamplifier than a standard lifter, it utilizes a true Class-A input stage to deliver crystal-clear, uncolored gain via standard 3-pin XLR connections. The unit offers two switchable levels of clean boost—12dB or 20dB—allowing users to tailor the signal strength to their specific source and preamp requirements. By providing a high input impedance, it prevents the "loading" effects that can dull the high-frequency response of sensitive ribbon mics, ensuring they sound open, natural, and detailed.
Built for professional reliability, the dBooster is housed in a rugged chassis and provides complete electrical isolation, protecting delicate ribbon elements from phantom power while utilizing that same 48V power to operate its own internal circuitry. Its low-impedance XLR output is designed to drive difficult loads effortlessly, making it an ideal solution for long cable runs or when using mic splitters without signal degradation. Whether used in the studio to capture whisper-quiet vocals or on stage to drive long lines, the dBooster maintains massive headroom and virtually zero self-distortion, bringing new life to classic microphones like the Royer R-121 or Shure SM7B.
Features
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Class-A Input Stage – Delivers ultra-low noise and pristine audio quality indistinguishable from high-end preamps.
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Switchable Gain – Front-panel switch allows you to select between 12dB or 20dB of clean, transparent boost.
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XLR Connectivity – Features standard balanced 3-pin XLR input and output for universal microphone compatibility.
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High Input Impedance – 3.6k-ohm input prevents mic loading, preserving transient response and high-frequency clarity.
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Ribbon Protection – Internally decoupled design isolates the microphone from phantom power to keep ribbons safe.
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Load Driving – Low-impedance output handles long cable runs and mic splitters without signal loss or distortion.
Specifications
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Gain: 12dB or 20dB (Switchable)
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Connections: Balanced 3-Pin XLR (Input and Output)
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Input Impedance: 3.6k Ohms
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Output Impedance: 300 Ohms (at 20dB setting)
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Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (±0.25dB)
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THD+N: 0.001% (at 12dB setting)
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Power Requirements: 48V Phantom Power
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Dimensions: 3.62" x 2.0" x 1.62"
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Weight: 6 oz
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SKU: R-DB20
