Fox DSC Compared to Fox DSC EVO
The Fox DSC Adjuster has been a reliable performer for years, trusted by off-road enthusiasts for its tuning capabilities. In early 2025, Fox introduced an updated version called the DSC “Evo” — short for Evolution. In this article, we’ll break down the differences between the original and the Evo to see how they compare. Is the new design truly an improvement? Let’s take a closer look.
Visual & Physical Differences
At first glance, the two adjusters look nearly identical—they share the same Fox branding and use similar color schemes for the high- and low-speed knobs. Both are crafted from aluminum and mounted at the end of the remote reservoir. The adjuster knobs are stacked in the same layout, giving both versions a familiar, purpose-built appearance. But look a little closer, and the subtle upgrades start to reveal themselves.
One of the standout improvements on the Fox DSC Evo is the addition of numbered markings on each knob, making it easy to see exactly what setting you’re on at a glance—something the original design lacked. Another welcome upgrade is the new triangular shape of the High-Speed Adjuster, which offers better grip and is noticeably easier to turn by hand compared to the older version.
The new DSC Evo knobs are a solid upgrade with more pronounced clicks for easier adjustments and a larger housing, but they can still be hard to see once mounted on the vehicle.
How many clicks of adjustment does each knob have?
Fox DSC | Low Speed: 10 High Speed: 12
Fox DSC EVO | Low Speed: 7 High Speed: 7
Summary: Don’t get too caught up in the number of adjustment “clicks” that are available. We have found that both offer a good adjustment range.
How does the adjustment range compare?
With both the High and Low-Speed Compression Adjusters fully open, the DSC EVO offers a noticeably softer ride—thanks to the progressive piston and how far the High-Speed Adjuster can be backed off. This makes it ideal for lighter setups like the rear of most trucks and SUVs. However, one trade-off is that the EVO’s Low-Speed Adjuster doesn’t have much effect until the High-Speed circuit is closed a few clicks. In contrast, the original DSC’s Low-Speed Adjuster is always effective due to the high preload on the High-Speed valving. When both adjusters are fully closed, performance between the DSC and DSC EVO becomes very similar—both providing a firm, digressive feel.
Are new knobs easier or harder to rotate?
One of the top complaints we hear about the original DSC is about the knobs. The DSC low speed compression knob does not have well defined clicks while the High Speed Knob can be very difficult to turn. Fox clearly heard this feedback and made significant improvements on the new DSC EVO. Both Low Speed and High Speed knobs are easy to turn and have well defined clicks.
The shock dyno testing was performed using a Fox 2.5 Performance Elite Series rear shock for a 2005–2023 Tacoma, with all valving removed from the main piston. This setup allowed for a fair comparison between the standard DSC and the new DSC Evo adjusters.
The shock dyno testing was performed using a Fox 2.5 Performance Elite Series rear shock for a 2024+ Tacoma, with all valving removed from the main piston. This setup allowed for a fair comparison between the standard DSC and the new DSC Evo adjusters.
Are both adjusters digressive?
Both the original Fox DSC and the new DSC Evo are digressive adjusters, but there are two main differences: how they adjust preload and the range of adjustment. The original DSC adjusts mechanical preload by compressing a valve stack (spring) as the knob is turned. Due to the high initial preload and stiffness of the spring the adjuster is very stiff even in its softest setting. In operation the oil must generate a lot of pressure in order to get the main valve stack to open.
The new DSC Evo adjusts preload by changing the rate of the spring depending on how the leaf springs interact with the adjuster plate. This design allows for significantly less preload force in the all the way open position. The digressiveness of the design was also reduced by using a progressive piston. While this is not a typical combination of parts it does allow the adjuster to act very differently depending on how it is adjusted, including the ability to be much softer on its lowest setting while retaining the digressive nature of the original DSC on it’s stiffest setting.
We took our 2024 Toyota Tacoma, outfitted with Fox shocks and the new DSC EVO adjusters, out to Ocotillo Wells Desert for some real-world testing. With the High-Speed Compression fully open, the EVO feels progressive and much more complaint than the original DSC. Note that due to the progressive nature of the adjuster piston the LSC knob was not very effective when the High Speed setting was on 1 and 2. With 3-5 clicks of High Speed the adjuster felt much more linear and responded well to adjustments without being too harsh. When adjusted to clicks 6 and 7 of High Speed the adjuster felt overly stiff and harsh, offering little performance gain and sacrificing comfort.
While both adjusters are digressive the DSC Evo is a large improvement because of its ability to be softer when completely open, leading to improved comfort. Due to the progressive piston counteracting the digressive preload the DSC EVO adjuster can act quite different depending on where it is set. Settings 3 to 5 on the high speed were found to be the most useful range.
Fox Variable Valve Control (VVC) Technology
The DSC EVO features Fox’s Variable Valve Control (VVC) on the high-speed compression circuit—a technology first introduced on the Fox GRIP2 damper for mountain bikes in 2021. Unlike traditional adjusters that increase stiffness by adding preload, VVC changes the leverage applied to internal leaf springs, effectively isolating high-speed and low-speed damping. More leverage softens the shock; less leverage makes it firmer. This allows for improved comfort, truly independent compression circuits, and greater control over big impacts. You can now add high-speed compression clicks without compromising small-bump compliance.
Can I upgrade my current Fox 2.5 Shocks to have DSC Evo adjusters?
Technically, you can add Fox DSC Evo Adjusters to any Fox 2.5 shock with a remote reservoir, but it’s an expensive upgrade because it requires swapping the entire reservoir assembly. Currently, AccuTune Offroad does not offer this as an upgrade option.
What is the Current Availability for these Fox DSC Evo Adjusters?
Fox DSC Evo Adjusters now come standard on Fox 2.5 shocks for the 2024+ Toyota Tacoma, 2022+ Land Cruiser 300 / Lexus LX600, and 2023+ Ineos Grenadier. While they’re not yet available for other vehicles, Fox is likely to expand support and update more applications in the near future.
2024+ Toyota Tacoma Fox DSC Evo Shock Package
If you’re looking to upgrade your 4th Gen Tacoma, custom-tuned Fox Shocks with DSC Evo adjusters are a top-tier option. This bolt-on package delivers 1–3 inches of lift, giving you the clearance needed for larger off-road tires. Even better, AccuTune Offroad will revalve the shocks specifically for your Tacoma’s weight and how you drive—whether that’s daily commuting, weekend exploring, or hitting rough trails. Shop now.
Final thoughts from AccuTune Offroad
Fox’s new DSC EVO Adjuster is an improvement over the previous design. It features Variable Valve Control (VVC) on the high-speed compression circuit—technology borrowed from Fox’s GRIP2 mountain bike dampers. Unlike traditional adjusters that add preload, VVC adjusts leverage on internal leaf springs, giving riders better comfort, more independent control over high- and low-speed damping, and improved performance on big hits.
The new triangular knob design makes adjustments easier, with firmer clicks and smoother rotation. Testing showed the EVO adjuster offers a softer, more progressive ride when High Speed Compression Adjuster is fully open and gets harsh past click 5. It’s a big improvement, especially for lightweight setups like the rear of trucks or SUVs, though its low-speed adjuster isn’t as effective until High Speed Adjuster is partially closed.
Overall, Fox knocked it out of the park with the new DSC Evo Adjuster. We look forward to tuning more Fox Shocks equipped with the DSC Evo Adjusters as new applications become available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fox DSC Adjusters
What is a Dual Speed Compression Adjuster?
Fox’s Dual Speed Compression (DSC) Adjusters are available on select shocks and coilovers, giving you manual control over both high-speed and low-speed compression damping. This makes it easy to dial in your suspension on the fly—whether you’re hitting rough trails or loading up with gear—so you can adapt your ride to changing conditions and get the performance you need.
What is High Speed Compression?
High-speed compression describes how a shock responds to quick, forceful impacts—like hitting a speed bump, pothole, or rock at speed. It’s not just about how fast you’re driving, but how fast the suspension compresses. Even at low speeds, a sharp impact can trigger high-speed compression, whereas gradual terrain changes at high speed may still fall under low-speed compression.
When would I need to make adjustment to High Speed Compression?
If your suspension is slamming or your tires are bottoming out on hard hits, dialing up the high-speed compression can make a big difference. It helps the shocks absorb sudden, sharp impacts more effectively—perfect for aggressive off-road driving where big bumps come fast. This is one of the most noticeable and effective adjustments you can make when tuning for harsh terrain.
What is Low Speed Compression?
Low-speed compression refers to how the shock handles slower, more controlled movements—like cornering, braking, accelerating, or rolling over small bumps. It affects how planted and comfortable the vehicle feels during everyday driving and helps reduce body roll, squat, and dive, making the ride smoother and more stable.
When Would I Adjust Low Speed Compression?
If you’re experiencing brake dive, bouncing, or bottoming out over larger rolling bumps, increasing the Low-Speed Compression on your DSC Adjuster can help. It adds control to slower suspension movements, which is especially helpful when carrying extra weight—resulting in a more stable and comfortable ride.
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