dbx 160A Compressor Limiter

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)

Classic compressor with modern circuitry! The 160A adds a streamlined signal path and rugged new chassis to its time-tested design for even cleaner results. Selectable curves and tight control over threshold, ratio, and output are ready for any task. At-a-glance monitoring lets you know exactly what's happening, with XLR and TRS connections for seamless integration.