Since its introduction in the mid 1970's, the dbx 160 series has been the world's most popular line of audio compressors. After the classic 160 (which is still used daily in many world class studios), came the 165, the 160X and the 160XT. The 160X/XT were the models that truly became the industry standard. Solid construction, fool proof operation, great sound, at-a-glance metering and a bulletproof output stage all contributed to its popularity with musicians, recording studios, consultants and installers, and broadcast media production people alike.
The dbx 160A is a legendary dbx 160 family of compressor/limiters. The same classic sound, easy set-up and no compromise metering is now married to an improved signal path and stronger chassis design. The result is industry standard compressor/limiter which is digital-ready and road tough.
Featuring switch-selectable OverEasy and Hard Knee compression curves along with extremely wide-ranging threshold, ratio and output controls, the dbx 160A is up to any task. True RMS level detection provides the most natural-sounding dynamics processing available, from subtle compression to "brick wall" peak limiting. Choose low ratios and OverEasy compression to transparently smooth out fluctuating vocal and instrumental levels. Or use the 160A's Hard Knee compression and high ratios (up to and beyond :1 and over 60dB gain reduction) for bombproof protection against overload distortion in digital recording, P.A. systems and broadcast signals. The 160A is fully compatible with +4/-10dB and balanced/ unbalanced systems, and its electronically balanced output stage is an outstanding line driver for long cable runs (an output transformer is optional). The 19-segment, switchable input/ output LED metering can be easily calibrated to any operating level. 12-segment gain reduction LEDs provide precise analysis at a glance.
The dbx 160A's unique "INFINITY +" inverse-compression mode actually decreases the audio output level below unity gain when the input exceeds threshold, a real lifesaver for correcting overbearing vocal choruses and controlling runaway house mix levels. A detector input can be used with an equalizer for de-essing sibilant vocals and selectively smoothing out boomy notes on acoustic guitar and bass. And two 160As can be stereo-coupled to process an entire mix or instruments mic'd in stereo, without shifting the left/right image. Its musical sound, easy operation and unequaled versatility made the original dbx 160 a world standard. The 160A follows that tradition, while meeting the challenges of a digital world.
Features
OverEasy or classic hard knee compression with dbx's ultra-musical program dependent attack and release times
Compression ratio variable from 1:1 through infinity :1 to negative compression
Precision dual RMS LED display monitors input or putput and gain reduction over a wide range and calibrates for different operating levels
Over 60dB of gain reduction available
Exclusive Infinity+ compression allows negative compression
Independent balanced and unbalanced outputs can drive 600 loads to +24dBm simultaneously. New floating balanced output stage drives any load
Optional output transformer capable
Strappable with another 160A for true RMS stereo summing operation
Technical Info
Input
Connector: 1/4 in. TRS and XLR, Floating Balanced; XLR: Pin 2 hot Phone: Tip Hot
Impedance: 40k
Maximum Level: +24dBu, Balanced or Unabalanced (Absolute)
CMRR: >45dB (any Frequency)
Detector Input: Connector: 1/4 in. TRS phone, Floating Balanced
Impedance: >200k
Maximum Level: +28dBu, Balanced or Unbalanced
Output: Connector: XLR, floating balanced; pin 2 hot
Impedance: 30
Maximum Level: (Balanced): +24dBm; <0.3% THD
Maximum Level: (Unbalanced): +20dBm; <0.3% THD
Noise: <-90dBu, Unweighted (20Hz - 20kHz).
Frequency Response: 20Hz -20kHz, +0, -0.5dB; +0, -3dB 0.5Hz and 90kHz.
THD: <0.2%, Typical, any amount of compression up to 40dB @ 1kHz.
Output
Connector: 1/4 in. TRS phone, Unbalanced
Impedance: 20 ohm
Maximum Level: +24dBm
Compression
Threshold Range: -40dBu to +20dBu
Threshold Characteristic: OverEasy or hard knee
Compression Ratio: Variable 1:1 to :1 thru to -1:1; >60dB maximum compression
Attack Time: Program dependent; typically 15ms for 10dB, 5ms for 20dB, 3ms for 30dB
Release Time: Program Dependent; Typically 8ms for 1dB, 80ms for 10dB, 400ms for 50dB; 125dB/sec rate.
System Performance
Dynamic Range: >113dB
Gain Adjustment Range: Variable from -20dB to +20dB
Stereo Coupling: True RMS Power summing
Summing: 1/4 in. TRS phone jack
Power
Power Cord: IEC-type connector
Operating Voltage: DO: 90-130VAC, 50/60Hz; EU: 200-250VAC, 50/60Hz
Operating Temperature: 0ºC to 45ºC (32ºF to 113ºF).
Physical
Dimensions: 1.75 x 19 x 6.5 in. (4.45cm x 48.2cm x 16.51cm).
Weight Net/Shipping: 4.452 lbs/6.62 lbs (1.99 kg/2.99 kg)
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