The classic dbx 160X single-channel VCA compressor/limiter — a studio standard known for punchy drums, solid bass, and dbx's famous OverEasy soft-knee compression. This is a completely unmodified example that has been fully recapped and function-tested by the seller, a professional electronic musical instrument technician.

Working Condition

• Fully tested and confirmed working at 100V (Japanese domestic unit).
• Will also operate at 115V, but for long-term use a step-down transformer is recommended.
• All functions verified: Threshold, Compression Ratio, OverEasy, Output Gain, Bypass, Slave, Display switching, and both LED meter arrays.
• Compression and gain reduction metering confirmed working across the full control range.
• All pots and switches operate smoothly — no scratchiness, no crackle, no intermittent contacts.
• Serial number: 70907557
• Full Recap — All Electrolytic Capacitors Replaced

The unit was working properly as received, but given its age, every electrolytic capacitor has been replaced with new, high-quality parts as preventive maintenance:

• Power supply section: Rubycon ZLH series
• Audio signal path: Nichicon FG "Fine Gold", Toshin Kogyo UTSJ series, and Toshin Kogyo KA series (all Japanese audio-grade capacitors)

This is the same specification used on the other 160X units I have serviced. With the power supply and signal path renewed, this unit is ready for many more years of reliable studio use.

Detector Straps Installed

• The factory detector straps (DET IN to SIGNAL INPUT) are present and correctly installed on the rear barrier strip.
• This matters: many used 160X units arrive with these straps missing, which leaves the sidechain disconnected and results in no compression at all. This unit compresses correctly out of the box.

Rear Panel / Connections — 100% Original

• Completely stock rear panel: 1/4" TRS Signal Input and Signal Output jacks, plus the original barrier strip terminals (jacks and barrier strip are wired in parallel).
• Separate DET IN terminals for external sidechain use — remove the straps to drive the detector from an EQ for de-essing or frequency-conscious compression.
• STRAPPING jack for stereo coupling with a second 160X / 160XT via a TRS cable.
• No connector modifications of any kind — the unit is exactly as dbx built it, apart from the capacitor replacement described above.

Cosmetic Condition

• This unit shows its age cosmetically. Scratches and paint chipping/wear are present on the rack mount ears, the top cover, the sides, and the bottom panel — see photos for the full picture.
• No unusual odors.

Included

• The unit only — the AC power cable is hardwired (permanently attached) to the unit.
• No manual, original box, or other accessories.

Shipping

• Ships from Japan via EMS (Japan Post) — tracked, insured, and carefully boxed.
• Import duties and taxes:
• —— US buyers : duties are prepaid by us (DDP) and already included in the shipping cost. Nothing extra to pay on delivery.
• —— All other countries : import duties, VAT, and handling fees are the buyer's responsibility.
• We ship to as many countries as possible. If your country is not listed, please message us before purchasing — we will check shipping rates for you.

Return Policy

• This item is sold "As-Described" — returns for reasons of preference or change of mind are not accepted.
• If the item arrives damaged or differs from the description, please contact us within 7 days of delivery and we will work with you to resolve the issue.
• All condition details and included items are fully disclosed above — please read the description and review all photos carefully before purchasing.

Please feel free to ask any questions!