Product Description - dbx 160x Instruction Manual

1,0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
The dbx Model 160X is a professional single
channel compressor/limiter that features an
exclusive
combination of the dbx Over Easy
and ''hard knee'' compression characteristics. dbx
. Over Easy compression permits extremely smooth,
almost inaudible transitions into compression due
to the gradual change of compression ratio around
the threshold. The 160X offers the user the choice
of using the Over Easy curve or a mathematically
precise "hard" threshold-at any compression ratio
selected . The 0'!er Easy curve, coupled with dbx's
true-RMS level detector, wide-range Blackmer
voltage-controlled amplifier (VCA) and feed-
forward circuitry, makes it
possible to achieve
large amounts of compression without adverse
audible side effects.
These features also allow the
160X
to actually be set for INFINITY+™
compression . This is a special negative compression
effect whereby the program dynamics are
inverted above the set threshold (i.e., the higher
the input level, the lower the output level).
The detectors of two Model 160X's can be
coupled so that stereo programs are compressed
with stable imaging, by means of a simple patch
cable between the two units .
The stereo coupling
can be disengaged instantly by a front panel
pushbutton .
Program-dependent attack and release times
assure natural sound
without the need for con-
tinuous manual adjustmenu.
Threshold and
compression ratios are adjustable over
a wide
range, so virtually any line level signal can be
processed effectively.
Output gain is also adjustable
over a very wide range (±20 dB)
. These features
make the Model 160X compatible with the
operating levels of virtually all professional sound
and creat ive audio equipment.
For metering , the 1 GOX provides a true A MS
dua l wide-range LED array which simultaneously
shows the an1ount of gain reduct i on up to
40
dB•
and the i nput or output level from
-40
dB to
+20 dB, depending on the setting of a front
panel switch .
T he 160X also features a true ' 'hard-wi r ed by -
pass"
switch ,
separate
detector inputs , Tip / A ing/
Slec:vc phone jacks as . w ell as barrier strip con-
nectors, balanced
active
inputs and +24 dBm
single-ended output drive capability which can be
field-modified to provide transformer or active
bal;inced operation .
T he dbx Model 160X is well suited to a broad
ranf) c of applications including tape recording ,
disc master ing, radio and TV production and
bro;idcast , live concert sound reinforcement,
mobile and theatrical production .
• Th~ I
r.nx
is c11p•b l ~ of gr••t~ r th•n 60 dB of comp,.u i on .
IMPORTANT FOR UK USERS
The wires in this mains lead are colored in
accordance with the following code:
Blue: Neutral
Brown: Live
As the
colon
of the wir•
in
the mains lead
of
this
. e pparatus may
not correspond with the
colored markings
identifying the
terminals in
your plug, proceed as follows:
The wire that is colored blue must be
connected
to
the terminal that is marked
with the letter N or colored black;
The wire that is colored brown must be
connected to the terminal that is marked
with the letter L or colored red.
Ensure that all terminals are securely
tightened and that there art no . loose strands
of wire.
WARNING
This unit must be protected by a 3-amp fuse,
preferably using a fused plug. Also, do not
remove the cover without first disconnecting
the unit from the mains supply.