The dbx 160 is a single-channel compressor/limiter.
Circuit design such as true rms level-detection and feed-forward gain reduction places the 160 in a different class from the conventional compressor/limiter.
"VU” is the common nickname for this highly regarded studio staple, famous for its simple control set and firm, distinct compression characteristics.
The dbx 160 also has unique nonlinearities not found in other VCA compressors, giving it a sonic distinction from later models.
