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dbx 160A

Item ID: 160A

Single-channel Compressor/Limiter

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From Our Research Team:

Classic DBX Compression, Pure and Simple!

One of the most popular compressor/limiters here at Sweetwater, the dbx 160A is the latest in the legendary dbx 160 family of signal processors. Featuring switchable OverEasy and hard-knee compression curves along with a wide range of threshold settings, the 160A can handle your toughest dynamics tasks. True RMS level detection provides some of the most natural sounding dynamics processing available. The 160A also provides an improved signal path, single front panel with integral rack ears, improved 1/4" jacks , a lighter, stronger one rack-space chassis design and more!


dbx 160A Compressor/Limiter Features:
  • OverEasy or classic hard knee compression with dbx's ultra-musical program dependent attack and release times
  • Compression Ratio variable from 1:1 through infinity :1 to negative compression
  • Precision dual RMS LED display monitors input or output and gain reduction over a wide range and calibrates for different operating levels
  • Over 60dB of gain reduction available
  • Exclusive Infinity+ compression allows negative compression
  • lndependent balanced and unbalanced outputs can drive 600 loads to +24dBm simultaneously
  • New floating balanced output stage drives any load
  • Optional output transformer capable
  • Strappable with another 160A for true RMS stereo summing operation

The dbx 160A is a versatile and musical compressor/limiter!
Specification Detail
Number of Channels 1
Controls Threshold, Ratio, Output Gain
Threshold -40dB to 20dB
Ratio 1:1 to -1:1
Frequency Response 20Hz-20kHz
Side Chain Insterts No
Inputs 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4"
Outputs 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4"
Sidechain I/O No Sidechain I/O
Rackmount Spaces 1U
Height 1.75"
Depth 6.5"
Width 19"
Weight 4.45 lbs.
Manufacturer Part Number 160AD

160A Image Gallery

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Reviews

based on 8 reviews

Exactly what I hoped it would be

by from
June 4, 2012
Music Background: Pro musician, Hobbyist home studio
Very happy. I am using this to compress a horn mix. I have used a few other compressors and this is my favorite. A little bit of compression can really tighten up the sound of a horn section and give ... read more [+]it a little more punch. I use it with very modest settings (2:1 or less ratio, no more than 5-6db gain reduction). You can't even hear that it's being compressed, but then when you bypass it the horns sound flat in comparison. I don't like the over-easy mode at all for horns, but it might be handy. The best thing about this unit, at least for what I use it for, is the metering. Using a compressor on stage with horns is often a guessing game because getting good monitoring on a loud stage while playing is close to impossible. So what I end up doing is figuring out what settings sound good with recordings and repeating the settings visually on stage. The metering makes this super easy to do. First of all, being able to have such detailed metering on the input makes it really easy to set the threshold. Having detailed metering on the gain reduction makes it easy to duplicate subtler settings on stage. I can basically adjust the threshold until I see it peaking at 4-5 lights on the gain reduction meter, and I know it will sound great. I also have a great output level meter. I would buy another one if I could fit it in my rack. close [-]

A vocal piece to the puzzle!!!

by Michael Massura from Orland Park, IL
May 30, 2012
Music Background: Studio Director, CEO
This classic compresser has made my vocal projects a success. I had a great time using this compresser on the snare to make it pop. I want you to buy this all because it is a great compresser by far. ... read more [+]Built like a tank and easy to use. Design and setup is also easy. I use this on all my client work now and am very happy with the warmness it brings to the effected Waveform. close [-]

old faithful

by Lenny from Nashville
March 23, 2007
Music Background: pro Musician
I used a 160 in my Bass rig back in the 80's
and i loved it.
I use a 160a in my Bass rig today and love it even
more. The only thing i Love more than the 160 is
my dog! (oo... read more [+]ps and the wife too!) close [-]

Solid, easy to use compressor

by from
March 5, 2007
Music Background:
I have had experience with various incarnations of the 160 for years. The 160a is an easy to use, good-sounding incarnation of the legendary dbx lineage. I use mine as a tracking compressor, and have... read more [+] used it successfully on guitar, bass, vocals... just about anything. For the price, I don't think there is much out there that can compete... a very solid performer. Sure you can find sexier comps... but you will end up paying quite a bit more for them. close [-]

Sweetwater Advice

Stuart Niven
Tested, tried, and true. The 160 compressor from dbx has been a mainstay for engineers for decades. It's simple to use and does its thing providing dynamic control with musicality. It's like a firm hug on your bass guitar signal and the brick ceiling that stops your snare drum from going through the roof! Live sound or studio, every rack should have a pair of these.
Read more reviews

Best service I've received from ANY store! Without question I will be a life long customer of Sweetwater!


Wyndell, Mckinney, TX

Also popular

See Also: Limiters , dbx , dbx Compressors / Limiters , dbx Compressors / Limiters

dbx 160A

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