dbx

dbx is a professional audio company founded in 1971 by David E. Blackmer, best known for its dynamic range processors. Its first product, the dbx 117, introduced Blackmer’s patented voltage-controlled amplifiers and was praised for its transparent gain reduction. This success led to the release of the iconic dbx 160 and 165. While dbx later expanded into equalizers, compressors, and mic preamps, its dynamic processors remained the standout. Today, dbx gear is a staple in studios, broadcast facilities, and live sound environments, continuing the company’s legacy for reliable, high-quality audio tools.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1978 /

dbx 100 Boom Box Subharmonic Synthesiser

The dbx 100 Boom Box: revolutionising your audio experience by restoring the missing low-frequency bass in your favourite recordings. Say hello to a new dimension of sound fidelity and depth.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1978 /

dbx 128 Dynamic Range Enhancer & Noise Reduction System

The marketing material for the dbx 128 said: ‘Records deliver only half of the dynamics of live music. What happened to the other half?’ And that is the solution the dbx 128 tried to provide.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1978 /

dbx 1BX Dynamic Range Expander

The dbx 1BX is a compact audio processor renowned for its ability to enhance audio clarity, depth, and richness, making it an essential tool for musicians, sound engineers, and audiophiles seeking to elevate their listening experience.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1978 /

dbx 2BX Two Band Dynamic Range Expander

The dbx 2BX is a dynamic range expander that enhances the audio quality of recordings and broadcasts by restoring their original dynamic range. It reduces background noise and revitalizes both loud and quiet passages, breathing new life into old records and FM broadcasts. This makes the dbx 2BX a valuable addition for audiophiles looking to enrich their home music systems.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1978 /

dbx 208 Noise Reduction System

The dbx 208 is a rack-mounted power supply and distribution unit designed to support multiple dbx devices. It forms part of the dbx 411 noise reduction system, providing regulated and filtered DC power for stable operation. With multiple outputs and robust construction, it was commonly used in professional studios to power dbx noise reduction units and processors.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1979 /

dbx 163 Compressor/Limiter

Compression Type: VCA

The dbx 163 and dbx 164 compressor/ limiters feature dbx’s Over Easy compression. Over Easy refers to a “soft knee” compression characteristic that provides virtually inaudible gain control at ratios up to infinite compression.

Explore the full dbx 160 Series Series

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1980 /

dbx 165 Over Easy Compressor/Limiter

Compression Type: VCA

The dbx 165 is a professional single channel compressor/limiter that features the new dbx Over Easy compression curve. The dbx Over Easy compression curve permits extremely smooth, almost inaudible compression due to the gradual change of compression ratio around the threshold, instead of the customary sharp threshold.

Explore the full dbx 160 Series Series

Made In Japan

Released in 1981 /

dbx Model 224 Type II Noise Reduction System

The dbx Model 224 Type II Noise Reduction System was not a professional noise reduction system, but it did find its way into smaller studios and home studios for noise reduction duties on reel-to-reel recorders of the day.

Explore the full dbx Recording Technology Series Series

Made In Japan

Released in 1982 /

dbx 1BX Series Two Dynamic Range Expander

The dbx 1BX Series Two, introduced in 1982, is an affordable single-band dynamic range expander offering up to 50% expansion and 20dB noise reduction, delivering improved clarity and realism for home audio systems.

Made In Japan

Released in 1982 /

dbx 3BX Series Two Dynamic Range Expander

The dbx 3BX Series Two is a three-band dynamic range expander that restores natural dynamics to music and recordings. With up to 50% expansion, LED metering, Pre/Post switching, and 20dB of noise reduction, it brought professional-grade processing into home audio systems.

Made In Japan

Released in 1982 /

dbx 120 Subharmonic Synthesizer

The dbx 120 is a compact, two-channel bass enhancer that analyses 55–110 Hz and adds a coherent octave-lower band at 27.5–55 Hz, restoring weight and punch with low noise, low distortion, and easy hi-fi integration.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1982 /

dbx 165A Over Easy Compressor/Limiter

Compression Type: VCA

The dbx 165A is a professional single channel compressor/limiter that features the new dbx Over Easy compression curve. The dbx Over Easy compression curve permits extremely smooth, almost inaudible compression due to the gradual change of compression ratio around the threshold, instead of the customary sharp threshold.

Explore the full dbx 160 Series Series