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 China

Released in 1996 /

dbx 166XL Compressor Limiter Gate

Compression Type: VCA

Professionals and newcomers alike will find that the 166XL sets up rapidly and musically the first time it is used, especially with the Auto attack and release function.

Explore the full dbx 160 Series Series

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1998 /

dbx 786 Microphone Preamplifier

The craftsmanship of the dbx 786 precision microphone preamplifier is as stunning as the engineering is innovative.

Made In Canada

Released in 1998 /

dbx 586 Tube Preamplifier

Mic preamps have long been a part of dbx’s reputation as the leader in signal processing technology. In keeping with that proven tradition, dbx proudly enters the vacuum tube domain with the dbx 586 Dual Vacuum Tube Preamp.

Made In Canada

Released in 1998 /

dbx 576 Tube Preamplifier/Compressor

Compression Type: VCA

With innovative, state-of-the-art engineering, the dbx 576 Vacuum Tube Preamp/Compressor carries the dbx heritage into the vacuum tube arena.

Made In Canada

Released in 1998 /

dbx 566 Tube Compressor

Compression Type: VCA

The inclusion of 2 vacuum tubes makes the dbx 566 Vacuum Tube Compressor no ordinary compressor.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1998 /

dbx DDP Digital Dynamics Processor

Compression Type: Digital RMS

The dbx DDP offers you the processing power of digital, with the great sounds you know and want from the analogue world. Plus, with digital technology, we can offer you more precise control and extended parameters than you could ever have with analogue processing.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1999 /

dbx Quantum Mastering Processor

dbx Quantum combines multiband dynamics, flexible equalisation and high-resolution digital processing into a single integrated mastering system, offering extensive control over the entire mastering chain within one unit.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 2001 /

dbx Quantum II Mastering Processor

The dbx Quantum II is a 2001 digital mastering processor combining four-band dynamics processing, five-band EQ, and Type IV conversion, delivering integrated control over tone, dynamics, and digital signal integrity in a single unit.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 2004 /

dbx 162SL Compressor/Limiter

Compression Type: VCA

The striking front panel, machined from 1/4″ aircraft aluminum, handcrafted solid aluminum knobs, LEDs mounted individually in machined stainless steel housings, custom VU meters with peak indicators, mark the dbx 162SL as a leader for decades to come. Or so it seemed…

Explore the full dbx 160 Series Series

Made In China

Released in 2004 /

dbx 286A Microphone Preamplifier

The dbx 286A’s Mic Preamp and five processors can be used independently or in any combination.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 2011 /

dbx 160SL Compressor/Limiter

Compression Type: VCA

The dbx160SL is a 2U stereo Compressor/Limiter in the tradition of the industry standard dbx160. The signal path consists of a high precision input stage followed by the worlds widest dynamic range voltage-controlled amplifier – the dbx V8™ VCA – and then an output stage with phenomenal performance.

Explore the full dbx 160 Series Series

Made In China

Released in 2013 /

dbx 2231 Graphic Equaliser/Limiter with Type III

The dbx 2231 is a dual-function unit, blending a 31-band graphic equaliser with a limiter. Perfect for audio pros, it offers precise EQ for shaping and a built-in limiter for peak control. Ideal for studio, live sound, or installations, it’s a compact solution for comprehensive audio processing.