dbx 160X - Page 4

160XT
INTRODUCTION
Introduction
Congratulations on purchasing the dbx Model 160XT Compressor/Limiter.
We recommend you take a moment and read through the manual as it
provides information that will assist you from system installation to opera¬
tion to special applications.
We have added a few new features to the dbx Model 160XT while main¬
taining the performance and ease of operation of its predecessor, the dbx
160X. We have added:
□ XLR-type Input and Output Connectors - because the 3-pin XL con¬
nector has been recognized as the most durable and widely used
connector for professional applications.
□ Balanced Output - can drive a 6000 load to +24dBu and provides
common-mode rejection of unwanted noise in the audio path such
as RF and 60Hz components.
□ True Power Summing - When two 160XT units are slaved together,
the RMS energy of the signal presented to the slave unit is summed
with the RMS energy of the signal presented to the master unit to
prevent phase cancellation of the two signals from causing unmusi¬
cal compressor action. Note: a 160X unit can also be used with the
same results as long as the 160XT is used as the master unit.
□ Input Ground-Lift Switch - for isolation between shield ground and
signal ground. Useful when troubleshooting hum (AC line interfer¬
ence).
Other features include:
□ OverEasy®/Hard Knee Selection - allows selection between our fa¬
mous OverEasy compression curve and the classic “Hard Knee”
curve popularized by the original dbx 160,161 and 162.
□ True RMS Level Detection - senses the power in the program in a
musical manner, much as the ear does, giving results superior to
peak or average detection.
□ Hardwire System Bypass Switch - allows the audio to pass even if
the unit is unplugged, and is also useful for comparing the proc¬
essed and unprocessed signal.
□ Front Panel Stereo Coupling Switch - couples two 160XTs or a
160XT and a 160X together for stereo operation at the push of a but¬
ton.
□ 19 Segment Display - for high resolution monitoring of True RMS in¬
put and output levels.
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