Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (39)
$365.00
Amazon
4.8 (14)
$349.00
Reverb
5.0 (25)
$325.00 1 available Used
Thomann
5.0 (4)
$259.00
Gear4Music
£239.00

Average Price: $335

Standard/Professional

$100

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "dbx 560A 500 Series Compressor/Limiter (x2)". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Elevate your studio's dynamic control with the dbx 560A 500 Series Compressor/Limiter. This powerhouse draws its lineage from the iconic 160A, renowned in studios globally. Designed to seamlessly integrate with any 500 Series rack, the 560A offers unparalleled versatility, from gentle peak smoothing to intense compression. Its unique OverEasy® compression and negative ratios open up a realm of sonic possibilities, making it a must-have tool for both subtle dynamic adjustments and aggressive tonal shaping. Craft your sound with precision, whether on stage or in the studio, with the dbx 560A.

Key Features:

  • Based on the studio-standard 160A
  • Two compression modes for versatile application
  • Automatic, program-dependent attack and release times for intuitive use
  • OverEasy® compression for smooth transitions
  • Infinity compression ratios to manage extreme peaking
  • Negative ratios for creative sound shaping
  • Perfect for both studio recording and live sound applications

Product specs

Processor Type VCA Compressor
Number of Channels 1
Controls Threshold, Ratio
Threshold -30dB to 20dB
Ratio 1:1 to infinity: 1, to -1:1
Frequency Response 20Hz-20kHz
Module Slot Size Single
Power Usage 60mA per power rail
Depth 6"
Weight 1.3 lbs.

FAQs

What type of compressor is the dbx 560A 500 Series Compressor/Limiter?

The dbx 560A is a VCA compressor, which is known for its versatile and precise dynamic control, making it suitable for a wide range of studio applications.

How many channels does the dbx 560A 500 Series Compressor/Limiter have?

The dbx 560A is a single-channel compressor/limiter, ideal for processing individual tracks or mono signals.

What are the main control options available on the dbx 560A 500 Series Compressor/Limiter?

The dbx 560A features controls for Threshold and Ratio, allowing you to adjust the dynamic range and compression intensity from -30dB to 20dB and 1:1 to infinity:1, respectively.

What is the frequency response of the dbx 560A 500 Series Compressor/Limiter?

The dbx 560A has a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, ensuring it can handle the full range of audio frequencies for transparent compression.

How does the dbx 560A 500 Series Compressor/Limiter fit into a 500 series rack?

The dbx 560A is designed to fit into a single module slot of a 500 series rack, making it a compact and efficient addition to your studio setup.

Vintage King

Vintage King

VK Shootout: Vintage dbx 160 vs. dbx 560a and Plug-ins

Video thumbnail for VK Shootout: Vintage dbx 160 vs. dbx 560a and Plug-ins by Vintage King

VK Shootout: Vintage dbx 160 vs. dbx 560a and Plug-ins

Vintage King

Vintage King

Video thumbnail for dbx 560a Sound Demo by Bonedo Synthesizers

dbx 560a Sound Demo

Bonedo Synthesizers

Bonedo Synthesizers

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional build quality and sound at an affordable price

  • Features like Overeasy, I/O and GR meters enhance usability

  • Program dependent attack/release for quick setup

  • Transparent compression without "sounding compressed"

  • Versatile across percussive elements and dynamic sources

  • Comparable to industry standards like the 160a

  • Simple operation, easy for beginners and professionals

  • Fits in a 500 series chassis, adding to studio flexibility

  • Aggressive sound character, likened to an 1176 or Distressor

  • Perfect for drums and percussive sounds, adding punch and clarity

CONS

  • May cause low end roll-off, requiring EQ adjustment afterward

  • Meters can be extremely bright, which some users may find distracting

Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 4 Reviews and 7 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
patchwilliam

Good, Simple Compressor

It's hard to mess up with this thing. You only have controls for Threshold and Ratio to adjust so it's dead easy to use and you won't sit there over thinking things and second guessing all your choices. Very affordable at only about $250. Definitely punches above it's class at that price. I keep this unit at the end of my signal chain to tighten up the changes that I make with my EQ and package everything back together nicely. I run it pretty gently for vocals.

From Gear Setup
adamspade

500 series of the 160a

What else is there to say? One of the best compressors ever made will now fit in your 500 series chassis. If you aren't familiar with the 160a, a quick search will show you nothing but praise for these. Good value.

fuzzywallz

Mine is modded by Zenproaudio

I swear this particular unit (with this mod) sounds more aggressive than my 160xt; so I just use it appropriately...Sounds more like an 1176 and/or an older 160. Love it on loud lead vocals, snare and I am still experimenting. Distressor-like is also a fair comparison, I guess.

skymanbeatz

Perfect on drum's

Perfect on drum's and every percussive sound.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kevin Parker uses dbx 560A 500 Series Compressor/Limiter (x2)

Kevin Parker

Singer, Guitarist

Tame Impala

...
Verified via YouTube

Seen on the THE SLOW RUSH video at around the 1:30 mark.

See how Kenny Beats uses dbx 560A 500 Series Compressor/Limiter (x2)

Kenny Beats

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video at 0:26 you can that Kenny has 2 of these in his 500 series lunchbox.

See how Darren Korb uses dbx 560A 500 Series Compressor/Limiter (x2)

Darren Korb

Guitarist, Drummer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video at [4.06] we can clearly see a shot of his 500 series rack with a DBX 560a which is a 500 series clone of the DBX 160a.

Album Usage

The dbx 560A 500 Series Compressor/Limiter (x2) 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 560A 500 Series Compressor/Limiter (x2), it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

Show yours
patchwilliam

patchwilliam

Gear IQ 270

G

ghost_ryder

Gear IQ 52

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