The 166xs from dbx is a dual-channel compressor/gate/limiter that when added to a live sound rig or studio, will deliver more polished, professional sound. The unit can function either as a stereo processor or in dual mono mode and features all the usual controls required for this kind of processor.
The unit provides the ability to smooth out uneven levels, add sustain to guitars and fatten up drums. It also makes it easy to bring vocals to the front of a mix. The PeakStop limiter helps protect expensive amplifiers and speakers by providing an absolute ceiling for peak excursions or large transients that could damage the equipment.
For simplified operation the 166xs features Overeasy compression technology for smooth and musical performance, while the exclusive AutoDynamic attack and release controls puts great sound within easy reach. The processor has true RMS power summing and features quality input and output connectors. Comprehensive visual feedback is provided by gain reduction metering and backlit switches.
Error proof operation to smooth uneven levels, add sustain to guitars, fatten drums, or tighten up mixes
New gate timing algorithms ensure the smoothest release characteristics
Program-adaptive expander/gates
PeakStop limiter provides an absolute ceiling for peak excursions or large transients for protecting downstream equipment
Great sounding dynamics control for any type of program material
Separate precision LED displays for gain reduction, compression threshold and gate threshold allow quick, accurate setup
Stereo or dual-mono operation
Balanced inputs and outputs on 1/4" TRS and XLR connectors
Sidechain insert
Classic dbx Auto mode
166XS Specifications
Function Compressor/limiter/gate
Number of Channels 2
Inputs 2 x XLR (pin 2 hot)
2 x 1/4" TRS phone
Input Impedance >50kΩ balanced, >25kΩ unbalanced
Maximum Input Level >+24dBu, balanced or unbalanced
Outputs 2 x XLR(pin 2 hot)
2 x 1/4" TRS phone
Output Impedance 120Ω balanced, 60Ω unbalanced
Maximum Output Level >+21dBu balanced/unbalanced into 2kΩ or greater
>+18dBm balanced/unbalanced into 600Ω
Other Connectors Side Chain
Type: 1/4" TRS phone, Normalled: Ring = Output (send); Tip = Input (return)
Impedance: Tip = >10kΩ (input), Ring = 2kΩ (output)
Maximum Levels: >+20dBu (tip/input and ring/output)
Compression Threshold -40dBu to +20dBu
Compression Ratio 1:1 to infinity:1, variable (60dB maximum compression)
Attack Time Variable program-dependent; 3mS to 340mS for 15dB gain reduction
Release Time Variable program-dependent; 200dB/Sec to 3dB/Sec
Slope OverEasy or hard knee, selectable
Gate Threshold OFF to +15dBu
Ratio 10:1 expansion
Maximum Depth >60dB
Gate Rate Attack: <500µSec (from maximum depth)
Release: 30mS to 3Sec adjustable, (to 30dB attenuation)
Limiter Threshold Range 0dBu to +20dBu
Make-up Gain -20dB to +20dB
Frequency Response 20Hz to 20kHz, +0/-0.5dB (typical 3dB points are 0.35Hz and 110kHz, unity gain)
Dynamic Range >115 dB, unweighted
Noise <-90dBu, 22Hz to 22kHz, no weighting, unity gain
THD + N <0.04% typical on any amount of compression up to 40dB @ 1kHz
Crosstalk <-80dB, 20Hz to 20kHz
CMRR >40dB, typical, >55dB @ 1kHz
Operating Temperature 32°F to 113°F (0°C to 45°C)
Power Requirements 100~120VAC 50/60Hz US Canada Americas Only
15W maximum power consumption
Dimensions (WxDxH) 19 x 6.75 x 1.75" (483 x 172 x 45mm)
Weight 5.05 lb (2.29kg)
Specialties SMPTE IMD: <0.08% typical @ +10dBu (15dB gain reduction)
Packaging Info
Package Weight 7.05 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH) 21.8 x 11.3 x 2.5"
