dbx 160A Compressor/Limiter

$512.00 Price Tier: High-end

1 Critic Review

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Page last updated Feb 12, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated December 23, 2025.

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4.8 (7)

$512.00 Used

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Average Price: $512

High-end/Boutique

$100

$501+

Price Tier

In the Effects Processors category, dbx 160A Compressor/Limiter is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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High-end

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Description

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The dbx 160A Compressor/Limiter is a staple in the world of studio recording and live sound. Known for its OverEasy® compression curve, this unit offers a classic sound that can be both subtle and powerful, making it an indispensable tool for audio professionals. Its intuitive interface allows for easy control over threshold, compression ratio, and output gain, providing precise dynamics management for any audio source. Whether you're smoothing out a vocal track or adding punch to a drum mix, the dbx 160A delivers consistent and reliable performance.

With its rugged construction, the dbx 160A is designed to withstand the rigors of both studio and live environments. It features a wide range of compression ratios, from gentle leveling to severe limiting, ensuring it's versatile enough for any application. Additionally, the unit's LED metering provides clear visual feedback, enabling engineers to make quick and informed adjustments. Its ability to handle a variety of signal levels without distortion makes it a favorite among engineers seeking transparent compression.

Key Features:

OverEasy® compression curve for smooth, natural-sounding compression
Selectable hard-knee or OverEasy® compression
Precise threshold, compression ratio, and output gain controls
LED metering for clear visual feedback on input/output and gain reduction
Durable build quality suitable for studio and live use
Wide range of compression ratios, from 1:1 to infinity:1
XLR and 1/4" inputs and outputs for flexible connectivity options

Product specs

Brand	dbx
Model	160A Compressor/Limiter
Year	2010s
Categories	Compressors and Limiters, Gates and Expanders

FAQs

What type of compression does the dbx 160A provide?: The dbx 160A offers VCA (Voltage Controlled Amplifier) compression, known for its precise and clean dynamic control, making it ideal for studio and live sound applications.
Is the dbx 160A suitable for both studio and live sound use?: Yes, the dbx 160A is designed for both studio and live environments, providing reliable compression and limiting to smooth out audio levels and enhance sound quality.
How does the dbx 160A handle stereo signals?: The dbx 160A is a mono compressor/limiter, so to process stereo signals, you would need two units linked together for stereo operation.
What are the main controls available on the dbx 160A?: The dbx 160A features threshold, compression ratio, and output gain controls, allowing precise adjustment of the compression effect to suit different audio sources.
Can the dbx 160A be used as a limiter?: Yes, the dbx 160A can function as a limiter by setting a high compression ratio, effectively preventing audio peaks from exceeding a specific level.

Videos

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Reviews

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about dbx 160A Compressor/Limiter.

Features and functionality

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The dbx 160A is used effectively as a limiter, operating between the 10:1 and infinity:1 ratio to naturally manage peaks without altering tone.
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The "over easy" button provides a soft knee compression, which is gentler and more transparent, making it ideal for dynamic vocal performances like rap.
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The dbx 160A's fast attack and unique feed-forward design effectively catch peaks, making it useful in dynamic situations.
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Use cases and applications

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The dbx 160A enhances bass by bringing up low-level details, adding fatness without consistently cutting peaks, especially effective for vocals and bass performances.
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While effective as the sole compressor, the dbx 160A pairs well with an 1176 for vocals, especially at a 3:1 ratio with 3-5 dB compression.
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High ratios just below limiter mode are effective for controlling peak dynamics in vocals, kick, snare, and bass, enhancing performance clarity.
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The dbx 160A is favored by some for snare and guitar over vocals, where its distortion can be more beneficial.
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Comparisons

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It's been noted that using the dbx 160A as a limiter can be preferable to clipping for maintaining transparency, particularly on bass and vocal tracks.
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Users compare the dbx 160A unfavorably to the dbx 165 for vocal use, with the latter seen as more transparent and versatile.
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A preference exists for the Distressor over the dbx 160A when handling snare or guitar due to its tonal characteristics.
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Setup and maintenance

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Starting with a 2:1 ratio, soft knee, auto attack/release, and adjusting the threshold to taste can yield a more natural vocal sound.
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User experience

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Some owners find the dbx 160A's gain reduction curve less appealing for vocals compared to other models.
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The dbx 160A is often criticized for being less effective on vocals, described as having a non-pleasant distortion.
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Critic Reviews

DBX 160A Review - Sine-Post Audio

sine-post.co.uk

The DBX 160A Compressor/Limiter is a solid contender in the hardware arena, packing a punch with its ability to add a distinctive 'snap' and 'crack' to drum tracks, making them pop in the mix. Its simple interface, featuring just three rotary pots, allows for quick and effective sound shaping. While its program-dependent attack and release times might deter control freaks, its natural 'do its thing' approach is refreshingly straightforward. The unit’s ability to imbue signals with pleasing character and body is notable, even if the side-chain input can be a bit perplexing. Overall, the 160A offers excellent value, delivering impressive results, especially when paired against its software counterpart, the VC 160 plugin. A must-have for those looking to enhance their drum and instrument tracks without breaking the bank.

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