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 1973 /

dbx 117 Dynamic Range Enhancer

The DBX 117 is a dynamic range modifier. It can compress or expand the dynamic range of any audio program by a constant factor. It will expand previously compressed material or compress material with excessive dynamic range. may be used in any situation where dynamic range must be compressed to meet limitations of recording equipment or listening environment or expanded to rectify the effects of previous compression.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1974 /

dbx 152 2-Channel Noise Reduction System

The dbx 152 was a two-channel professional noise reduction system introduced in 1974, providing 30dB of hiss reduction and 10dB of added headroom. Compact and easy to use, it delivered dbx’s signature linear companding and RMS tracking in an affordable format ideal for smaller studios and recordists seeking professional-quality results.

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Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1974 /

dbx 154 2-Channel Noise Reduction System

The dbx 154 was a four-channel noise reduction system introduced in 1974, delivering 30dB of broadband noise reduction and 10dB of added headroom. Compact yet professional, it used dbx’s proven Type I companding technology to provide transparent operation, accurate tracking, and full compatibility with all dbx 150 Series systems.

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Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1974 /

dbx 157 2-Channel Decilinear Noise Reduction System

The dbx 157 was a two-channel professional noise reduction system. Offering simultaneous encode and decode capability, it provided 30dB of broadband hiss reduction and 10dB of added headroom through dbx Type I companding. Fully compatible with other dbx 150 Series units, it delivered transparent, noise-free analogue recording in a compact stereo format.

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Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1975 /

dbx 160 Compressor/Limiter

Compression Type: VCA

The dbx 160 and 161 are single-channel compressor/limiters combining sophisticated technology and user-oriented features in a compact package. Unique circuit designs, such as true rms level-detection and feed-forward gain reduction, place the 160 and 161 in a completely different class from conventional compressor/limiters.

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Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1976 /

dbx 155 4-Channel Tape Noise Reduction System

The dbx 155 provided four channels of professional broadband noise reduction with 30dB of hiss reduction and 10dB of added headroom. Its true RMS companding system ensured precise tracking, transparency, and dynamic accuracy, making it a reliable and flexible choice for small studios and professional facilities seeking high-quality analogue recording with minimal noise.

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Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1976 /

dbx 118 Dynamic Range Enhancer

The dbx 118 Dynamic Range Enhancer, despite being initially targeted at consumers, has earned a solid reputation in professional studio environments.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1976 /

dbx 119 Dynamic Range Enhancer

The dbx 119 is remembered for its versatility and advanced features, offering extended compression range, precise threshold-based control, and dual modes for professional and audiophile use. Its ability to enhance dynamic range and provide consistent, high-quality sound made it a valuable tool in studios and public address systems, all at an affordable price.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1976 /

dbx 162 Stereo Compressor/Limiter

Compression Type: VCA

The dbx 162 compressor/limiter is one of the most iconic studio compressor/limiters to have ever graced a studio. The dbx 162 compressor/limiter is a stereo device using true rms level detection circuitry tor signal sensing and sophisticated voltage-controlled amplifiers as the gain control elements.

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Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1977 /

dbx 3BX 3 Band Dynamic Range Expander

The dbx 3BX is a state-of-the-art dynamic range expander that enhances audio quality by dividing the sound spectrum into three frequency bands. Utilising advanced RMS detectors and voltage-controlled amplifiers, it individually expands bass, midrange, and treble, ensuring pristine sound clarity and preserving musical integrity even in the most complex compositions.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1977 /

dbx 110 Subharmonic Synthesizer

The dbx 110 is an innovative device that enhances stereo systems by addressing the limitation of reproducing deep bass frequencies below 50 Hz. It samples low-frequency fundamentals, generates these signals an octave lower, and mixes them back in at controllable levels. This results in a rich, deep bass experience, similar to that of a live performance.

Made In Japan

Released in 1978 /

dbx 228 Tape Noise Reduction Unit/Dynamic Range Expander

The dbx 228 combined the professional noise reduction of the dbx 224 with the dynamic range expansion of the 1BX Series Two, providing 30dB noise reduction, 100dB dynamic range, and complete tape hiss elimination. With its dbx Disc Decoder and linear decibel companding system, it brought the sound and presence of live music to home and studio playback systems alike.

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