DBX 166XL Compressor / Gate

Description

The DBX 166XL Compressor / Gate is a versatile dynamics processor designed to offer precise control over audio levels. Combining advanced compression and gating functionalities, the 166XL is essential for managing dynamics and enhancing sound quality in both live sound and studio environments.

Key Features:

Dual-Channel Operation: The DBX 166XL features dual channels, each with its own compression and gating functions. This design allows for independent processing of two audio signals, making it ideal for handling multiple audio sources simultaneously.
Classic dbx Compression: The 166XL utilizes dbx’s renowned compression technology, offering smooth and transparent compression with minimal distortion. Users can adjust threshold, ratio, attack, and release settings to tailor the compression effect to their specific needs.
Advanced Gate Functionality: Each channel includes a sophisticated gate section with controls for threshold, range, attack, and release. This feature helps eliminate unwanted noise and background sound, ensuring cleaner and more focused audio.
PeakStopPlus Limiting: The 166XL incorporates PeakStopPlus limiting technology, which prevents signal clipping and distortion by ensuring that audio levels do not exceed a specified threshold. This protection helps maintain audio quality and integrity.
LED Metering: Equipped with LED meters for each channel, the 166XL provides clear visual feedback on signal levels and dynamics processing. This allows users to monitor the impact of their adjustments and ensure optimal performance.
Bypass Switch: The unit includes a bypass switch that allows users to temporarily bypass the compression and gating functions. This feature is useful for comparing processed and unprocessed signals and assessing the impact of dynamics processing.
Auto Makeup Gain: The 166XL features auto makeup gain, which automatically adjusts the output level to compensate for any reduction caused by compression. This ensures that the output level remains consistent, even after dynamic processing.
Rack-Mountable Design: Designed for integration into standard 19-inch rackmount setups, the DBX 166XL is built with a durable and compact form factor suitable for both live sound rigs and studio environments.

Applications:

Live Sound: In live sound applications, the 166XL helps manage dynamic range and control audio levels, ensuring a balanced and polished sound for performances. Its gating function is particularly effective for reducing feedback and controlling background noise.
Recording Studios: The 166XL is an essential tool in recording studios, providing precise control over dynamics during tracking and mixing. Its compression and gating capabilities help shape the sound of individual tracks and improve overall mix clarity.
Broadcasting: The 166XL ensures consistent audio levels and manages dynamics in broadcasting environments, delivering clear and professional-sounding broadcasts.
Audio Installations: Ideal for permanent audio installations, the 166XL helps maintain optimal audio levels and manage dynamics in venues such as theaters, auditoriums, and conference rooms.