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Average Price: $1,445
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Description
The DBX 160S Stereo Compressor/Limiter is a staple in the world of professional audio processing, offering unparalleled precision and control. Designed for studio engineers and musicians who demand the best, this unit is a modern rendition of the classic 160 series, revered for its smooth and musical compression capabilities. The 160S is equipped with a patented AutoVelocity™ circuit that intelligently adapts to the dynamics of your audio, ensuring seamless transitions and consistent sound quality across both live performances and studio recordings.
This compressor/limiter stands out with its dual-mono operation, allowing for independent control of two separate audio channels, or linked stereo processing for cohesive mix handling. The unit provides an impressive range of threshold and ratio settings, giving users the flexibility to tailor the compression to their specific needs. The inclusion of both XLR and 1/4-inch inputs and outputs ensures compatibility with a wide array of gear, making the 160S a versatile choice for any studio setup.
The DBX 160S is not just about functionality; it’s about delivering that classic, warm analog sound that professionals crave. With its intuitive front-panel controls and robust build quality, this compressor/limiter is as reliable as it is effective, making it an essential tool for shaping the dynamics of your audio projects.
Key Features:
- Patented AutoVelocity™ circuit for adaptive compression
- Dual-mono or stereo-linked operation
- Wide range of threshold and ratio settings
- XLR and 1/4-inch inputs and outputs
- Classic analog sound quality
- Intuitive front-panel controls for ease of use
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about DBX 160S Stereo Compressor/Limiter.
Features and functionality
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The DBX 160S is noted for its feed-forward design and fast attack, making it adept at catching peaks in audio signals.
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Comparisons
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Users find the DBX 160S has a unique gain reduction curve that isn't universally favored for vocals, unlike the more transparent DBX 165.
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Some users prefer the DBX 163x for vocals due to its ability to level out and provide a finished sound, contrasting with the 160S's more aggressive characteristics.
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The DBX 160S/SL is mentioned as a closer alternative to the vintage DBX 160 VU and 165, offering a more hi-fi sound compared to the 160a and 160x models.
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The 160S/SL models are noted for retaining some qualities of the older VU versions while providing a modernized sound, contrasting with the perceived inferiority of the 160a and 160x.
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Use cases and applications
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The DBX 160S, when paired with an 1176, is mentioned in vocal processing setups, though opinions vary on its effectiveness for this purpose.
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User experience
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Owners of the DBX 160S appreciate its ease of setup and quick usability, likening it to a stock DAW compressor in terms of simplicity.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings
424
Great compressor!
I used a lot on vocals. Sounds gorgeous. Special in "overeasy" mode. The only problems is the DC power. It becomes too hot and can burn (like mine 2 times....).
Artist usage
Add artist
"I remember my signal path because I still have it! [laughs] I plugged into a Roland SDE-1000 delay, and then I had an Eventide H3000 SE – I ran stuff from it in stereo and then I compressed it with a DBX 160S two-channel compressor. At that point, I had a left and a right signal, so I had a pair of stacks on each side, with each made up of a Roland JC120 solid-state head, a four by 12 Marshall cabinet and a four by 12 Sonic cab – both of those had Celestion speakers. Also, on each side of the stacks, I had a Fender Concert, a great tube amp with one 12-inch speaker.
Andy's drum micing technique is explained in this article. "The kick drums and snare were close-miked from various angles and sent through a variety of compressors (UREI 1176, dbx 160, and a PYE model from the ’60s),"
Mixing engineer Jaycen Joshua uses the DBX 160S Stereo Compressor/Limiter, describing it as a "fast and clean compressor" ideal for adding glue and punch to mixes, as noted on his official website.
In this interview with Bob Owsinski for The Mixing Engineer’s Handbook, the late Jerry Finn that after the DBX 160X,
then I’ll mult them [kick and snare] off and go through a new [dbx] 160S and really compress those and sneak them up underneath
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Album Usage
The DBX 160S Stereo Compressor/Limiter has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use DBX 160S Stereo Compressor/Limiter, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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