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Harman dbx 160SL User Manual

Harman dbx 160SL
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Stereo
Compressor/Limiter
160SL
Owner’s Manual
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Harman dbx 160SL Specifications

General IconGeneral
TypeCompressor/Limiter
Input ConnectorsXLR, 1/4" TRS
Output ConnectorsXLR, 1/4" TRS
Sidechain I/O1/4" TRS
Maximum Input Level+24dBu
Threshold Range-40dBu to +20dBu
Attack Time0.1ms to 100ms
Power SupplyInternal
Power Requirements100-240V AC, 50/60Hz
ControlsThreshold, Ratio, Attack, Release, Output Gain
MeteringLED Metering
Frequency Response20Hz to 20kHz, +0/-0.5dB
Input Impedance20k Ohms (Balanced), 10k Ohms (Unbalanced)

Summary

Important Safety Information

General Safety Warnings

CAUTION, ATTENTION, and general warnings regarding shock and exposure.

Electrical Safety Instructions

Wiring codes, grounding, and plug safety for mains connection.

Protection and Operation Guidelines

Instructions on use, cleaning, ventilation, and power.

Electromagnetic Compatibility

Device conformity to EMC standards and operating conditions.

UK Mains Plug Warning

Safety precautions for UK mains plugs and fuses.

Declaration of Conformity

Manufacturer's declaration of product compliance with directives.

Introduction to the dbx 160SL

Why You Need A Compressor

Explains the need for compression due to dynamic range limitations and signal quality.

The Difference Between Compressors and Limiters

Differentiates compressors and limiters based on threshold and gain reduction behavior.

Compression and Limiting Effects

Visualizes the effects of compression and limiting on signal levels.

Attack, Release, and Peak Stopping

Discusses attack/release times and PeakStopPlus limiter technology.

Connecting the dbx 160SL

Connection Steps and Precautions

Outlines connection procedures, rack mounting, and power on.

Basic Compressor Setups

Illustrates two basic ways to set up the compressor for processing.

dbx 160SL Front Panel Controls

Compression Characteristics

OverEasy and Hard Knee modes for compression.

Threshold and Compression Controls

Adjusting signal level for compression and the amount of gain reduction.

Input and Output Level Settings

Controls for input signal monitoring and output gain adjustment.

Automatic and Manual Timing

Auto switch for program-dependent attack/release and manual controls.

Peak Limiting Control

Stop Level control for setting maximum peak output levels.

PeakStopPlus Limiter Operation

Details the two-stage PeakStopPlus limiter and its LED indicator.

Sidechain Functionality

Activating and using the sidechain input for external triggering.

Bypass and Output Gain

Hard-wire relay bypass and output gain adjustment.

Peak and VU Metering

Peak LED indicator and VU Meter functions for signal monitoring.

Meter Selection Modes

Switching VU meter display between input, output, and gain reduction.

Stereo Coupling and Power

Linking channels for stereo operation and power status indicator.

dbx 160SL Rear Panel

Audio Input and Output Connectors

Details on XLR connectors, balanced/unbalanced operation.

Pin 1 Lift Switch

Function of the switch to lift input pin 1 for ground loop isolation.

Output Unbalance Switch

Switching outputs to unbalanced and the resulting level drop.

Ground Switch Operation

Referencing output transformer center tap to chassis ground.

Sidechain Send/Return Connectors

Using sidechain for external control, relay-selected path.

Grounding Posts

Chassis and Signal Ground binding posts for flexible grounding.

AC Power Connections

AC power switch, connector, voltage verification, and consumption.

Output Option Panel

Details on optional digital output modules.

Specific Applications of the dbx 160SL

Smoothing Audio Levels

Adjusting microphone and instrument levels for better consistency.

Enhancing Mix Presence

Raising tracks in a mix and using EQ to prevent feedback.

System Protection and Optimization

Preventing tape saturation and protecting loudspeakers.

Line Amplifier Use

Utilizing the 160SL as a gain-boosting line amplifier.

Sidechain Applications

Frequency-Weighted Compression

Using EQ in the sidechain for frequency-specific gain control.

Vocal and Instrument Processing

De-essing vocals and increasing instrument sustain via sidechain.

Filtered Level Detection

Using filters in the detector circuit for selective compression.

Speaker Systems and Broadcast

Application in multi-way systems and broadcast pre-emphasis.

Anticipated Compression

Using a delay line for zero-attack compression effects.

Common Studio and Live Setups

Connecting to mixing boards, instruments, patch bays, and sound reinforcement.

Technical Support and Factory Service

Obtaining Technical Assistance

Contacting dbx Customer Service for support.

Factory Service Return Process

Procedures for returning the unit for repair.

dbx Product Warranty Information

Details on warranty validity and coverage.

dbx 160SL Block Diagram

dbx 160SL Specifications

Input and Output Specifications

Connector types, impedance, maximum levels, and CMRR.

Sidechain Interface Details

Sidechain send/return connector types and input levels.

System Performance Metrics

Bandwidth, noise, dynamic range, THD+N, IMD, crosstalk.

Compressor and Limiter Settings

Threshold range, ratio, attack/release modes, and types.

Limiter Stage and Timing Specifications

Details on limiter stages, attack, and release times.

Function Switches and Indicators

Operation of bypass, sidechain, auto, PeakStopPlus switches and LEDs.

Metering Indicators and Controls

VU meter modes and indicators for threshold, sidechain, auto, bypass.

Optional Modules and Power Supply

Digital output module and power supply specifications.

Physical Dimensions and Weight

Unit dimensions, weight, and shipping weight.

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