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Average Price: $195

Standard/Professional

$100

$501+

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Budget

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High-end

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Description

The dbx 160xt is a classic compressor/limiter that has been a staple in professional studios for decades, known for its distinctive sound and reliability. Ideal for both live and studio settings, this effects processor offers precise dynamics control, delivering consistent and punchy audio outputs. At the heart of its appeal is the OverEasy® compression, which provides smooth and natural transitions, making it a favorite among sound engineers who crave both transparency and character in their audio processing.

The dbx 160xt is designed with simplicity in mind, featuring straightforward controls that include threshold, compression ratio, and output gain. These intuitive controls allow you to easily shape your sound, whether you're working on vocals, drums, or other instruments. Its rugged construction ensures durability, making it a reliable choice for both touring musicians and studio professionals.

The unit also features a classic VU meter for accurate gain reduction monitoring, allowing users to make informed adjustments on the fly. With its ability to handle a wide range of input levels and its stereo capabilities when linked with another unit, the dbx 160xt offers flexibility and performance that meets the demands of modern recording and live sound environments.

Key Features:

  • Classic dbx compression/limiting with OverEasy® circuit
  • Intuitive threshold, ratio, and output gain controls
  • Accurate VU meter for gain reduction monitoring
  • Rugged construction for durability
  • Stereo link capability when paired with another unit
  • Ideal for various applications including vocals, drums, and more

Product specs

Brand dbx
Model 160XT Compressor / Limiter
Finish Black
Year 2000s
Categories Compressors and Limiters

FAQs

What is the primary difference between the dbx 160XT and the dbx 160X?

The dbx 160XT includes both TRS and XLR inputs, offering more connectivity options than the 160X. This makes the 160XT more versatile for different studio setups.

What type of compressor is the dbx 160XT?

The dbx 160XT is a VCA (Voltage Controlled Amplifier) compressor, known for its precise control and ability to handle dynamic range effectively.

Is the dbx 160XT suitable for vocal compression?

Yes, the dbx 160XT is well-regarded for its ability to add clarity and presence to vocals, making it a popular choice for vocal compression in studio settings.

Can the dbx 160XT be used for live sound applications?

Yes, the dbx 160XT is suitable for both studio and live sound applications, providing reliable compression to enhance audio quality in various environments.

What are the key features of the dbx 160XT compressor?

The dbx 160XT features a simple control set with at-a-glance metering, offering ease of use while delivering classic VCA compression characteristics ideal for drums, vocals, and more.

Kind Lion Sound

Kind Lion Sound

DBX 160XT On Bass - Demo

Video thumbnail for DBX 160XT On Bass - Demo by Kind Lion Sound

DBX 160XT On Bass - Demo

Kind Lion Sound

Kind Lion Sound

Video thumbnail for HARDWARE DBX 160XT vs 160VU PLUGIN | Plugin vs Hardware by Thomas van Opstal

HARDWARE DBX 160XT vs 160VU PLUGIN | Plugin vs Hardware

Thomas van Opstal

Thomas van Opstal

Video thumbnail for DBX 160XT on Kick Drum - Demo by Kind Lion Sound

DBX 160XT on Kick Drum - Demo

Kind Lion Sound

Kind Lion Sound

Video thumbnail for DBX 160XT on Snare Drum - Demo by Kind Lion Sound

DBX 160XT on Snare Drum - Demo

Kind Lion Sound

Kind Lion Sound

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

  • The dbx 160X has a barrier strip, requiring pigtail to XLR cables for balanced connections, though it also supports unbalanced TRS input and output.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The dbx 160X is favored for kick, snare, and bass, with some users noting it can be effective on guitars and vocals if used lightly.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Revive Audio offers mods for the dbx 160X to enhance performance, which may interest users looking for added versatility.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The dbx 160X is frequently compared to other compressors like the RNC, with some users preferring the dbx for its presence in high-end studios.

    Source

User experience

  • Some owners highlight the dbx 160X's ability to impart a snappy character, particularly effective for snare sounds in more aggressive settings.

    Source

Other

  • Using the dbx 160X in parallel with a Pultec EQP-1A can enhance bass-heavy tracks by adding energy and character.

    Source
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4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 7 Ratings

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redvoid

drum or bass compression pros rely on

When you see top flight studios, often the least expensive piece of rack gear in the entire room are dbx compressors. I have 2 of these, and when it comes to bass guitar, individual drum hits, or a stereo drum buss (the reason I have 2) you have to pay double or more the price to get better compression.

mikefiction

Makes drums snappy

Makes snappy meaty soup out of sloppy veggies. Vegans hate it.

They are pretty cheap so what are you waiting for?

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kurt Cobain uses dbx 160XT

Kurt Cobain

Singer, Guitarist

Nirvana

...
Verified via Livenirvana

A dbx 160XT is used on Kurt Cobain's vocal and spare vocal, in line with a Klark Teknik DN300 on each channel.

See how Kevin Parker uses dbx 160XT

Kevin Parker

Singer, Guitarist

Tame Impala

...
Verified via Synth History

Its in the rack, two units can be seen

See how Paul McCartney uses dbx 160XT

Paul McCartney

Singer, Bassist

The Beatles

...
Verified via Hog Hill Mill Blog

the DBX 160X/XT Compressor/Limiter is listed in this blog

See how Moby uses dbx 160XT

Moby

Music Producer

Hanzel und Gretyl

...
Verified via spectralplex

According to this article, Moby used the dbx 160XT during the production of 'Play'.

See how Tim Foreman uses dbx 160XT

Tim Foreman

Bassist, Composer

Switchfoot

...
Verified via Photo

Tim outlines his tour gear setup in an Instagram post: "…160xt DBX Compressor..."

See how Daniel Miller uses dbx 160XT

Daniel Miller

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Soundonsound

Dbx 160XT is included in the list of equipment at Daniel Miller's home studio.

See how Kevin Rutmanis uses dbx 160XT

Kevin Rutmanis

Bassist

Melvins

...
Verified via Photo

Kevin Rutmanis uses the dbx 160xt in his Melvins rack, as evidenced by an image taken at a show around 2002.

See how Kenji Kawai uses dbx 160XT

Kenji Kawai

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified

Kenji Kawai is confirmed to use a dbx 160xt compressor, as listed on his official website under the "Profile" section.

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 160XT, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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navin_kala

navin_kala

Gear IQ 103

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