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dbx 160 Series

The dbx 160 Series marked a major step forward in professional dynamics control, introducing engineers to one of the most musically transparent compressors ever made. Launched in the mid-1970s, the series was based on David Blackmer’s RMS detection and feed-forward VCA design, delivering smooth, natural compression that responded directly to perceived loudness rather than peak levels. Known for its simplicity and precision, the dbx 160 quickly became a studio staple, praised for its ability to control dynamics without altering tone or attack. Its trademark “OverEasy” compression curve, introduced in later versions, made gain reduction virtually inaudible, establishing the 160 Series as a benchmark for clean, musical compression that remains a recording industry standard to this day.

1975
Compressors & Limiters
/ Made In U.S.A.

dbx 160 Compressor/Limiter

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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dbx 160
1976
dbx 162
Compressors & Limiters
Made In U.S.A. /

dbx 162 Stereo Compressor/Limiter

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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1979
Compressors & Limiters
/ Made In U.S.A.

dbx 163 Compressor/Limiter

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.
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dbx 163
1980
DBX 165
Compressors & Limiters
Made In U.S.A. /

dbx 165 Over Easy Compressor/Limiter

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.
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1982
Compressors & Limiters
/ Made In U.S.A.

dbx 165A Over Easy Compressor/Limiter

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.
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dbx 165A
1982
dbx 160X
Compressors & Limiters
Made In Japan /

dbx 160X Compressor

The dbx 160X replaced the now legendary dbx 160 (VU) and added the over easy compression of the dbx 165 and changed the form factor from the half rack size with wood side panels, to a single rack chassis.
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1986
Compressors & Limiters
/ Made In Hong Kong

dbx 163X Compressor Limiter

The dbx 163X Compressor/Limiter provides smooth, natural-sounding OverEasy® compression with easy, hands-on control, versatile inputs for recording and live use, and features like stereo-strapping for balanced stereo compression, making it ideal for enhancing instrument and vocal levels while preventing PA overload.
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dbx 163X
1995
dbx 160A
Compressors & Limiters
Made In U.S.A. /

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. And now, the 160A.
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1996
Compressors & Limiters
/ Made In China

dbx 166XL Compressor Limiter Gate

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.
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dbx 166XL
2004
dbx 162SL
Compressors & Limiters
Made In U.S.A. /

dbx 162SL Compressor/Limiter

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...
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2011
Compressors & Limiters
/ Made In U.S.A.

dbx 160SL Compressor/Limiter

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.
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dbx 160SL
2020
dbx 166xs
Compressors & Limiters
Made In China /

dbx 166xs Compressor Limiter Gate

Adding a dbx 166xs Compressor/Limiter/Gate to your live sound rig or studio gives you more dynamic control to help create a more polished, professional sound.
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