The classic dbx 160XT single-channel VCA compressor/limiter — a studio standard known for punchy drums, solid bass, and dbx's famous OverEasy soft-knee compression. The XT adds electronically balanced XLR input and output alongside the 1/4" jacks, with both outputs active simultaneously and driven by separate circuitry. 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

• Rear-panel voltage selector switch for 120V or 240V operation, so this unit can be used almost anywhere in the world without a step-down transformer.
• Fully tested and confirmed working at 100V (Japanese mains) and at 120V. The 240V setting has not been bench-tested here, as 240V mains is not available at my workshop — please take this into account if you intend to run it at 240V.
• 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: 911602370

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 I use on every dbx 160-series unit I service. With the power supply and signal path renewed, this unit is ready for many more years of reliable studio use.

Additional Servicing

• All internal contacts — switches, connectors, and internal terminals — have been thoroughly cleaned.
• The chassis and front panel were disassembled and cleaned inside and out.
• No circuit modifications of any kind, apart from the capacitor replacement described above.

Rear Panel / Connections — 100% Original

• Electronically balanced XLR input and output — the XT's line driver delivers a higher output level than the 160X.
• 1/4" jack input and unbalanced 1/4" output. The XLR and jack outputs run in parallel from separate circuitry, so you can choose the cleaner balanced output or the slightly warmer unbalanced one — or use both at once.
• Detector (sidechain) input jack — drive the detector from an EQ for de-essing or frequency-conscious compression. Unlike the barrier-strip 160X, there are no detector straps to go missing, so this unit compresses correctly out of the box.
• Strapping jack for stereo coupling with a second 160XT / 160X via a TRS cable.

Cosmetic Condition

• This unit shows its age cosmetically. Scratches and general signs of use are present across the chassis, rack ears, and cover — 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.