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 XLR input and output connectors with an electronically balanced output alongside the 1/4" jacks, a selectable OverEasy / Hard Knee curve, true RMS level detection, a hardwired system bypass switch, an input ground-lift switch, front-panel stereo coupling for pairing with a second 160XT or 160X, and a 19-segment gain reduction display. This unit has been recapped, serviced, and function-tested by the seller, a professional electronic musical instrument technician. It also has a Jensen JT-123-DBX output transformer installed (see below).
Working Condition
- Fully tested and confirmed working.
- Configured for 115V operation. It also operates on Japanese 100V mains, where it has been used here.
- Serial number: 771602816
Modification: Jensen JT-123-DBX Output Transformer Installed
- A Jensen JT-123-DBX output transformer (marked "JT-123-DBX 7259") is installed on the main circuit board, in the position the 160XT board provides for an output transformer. dbx drilled the board to accept one, and the factory manual lists Jensen Transformers as a source for compatible transformers. The JT-123-DBX is Jensen's 1:1 line output transformer with a pinout modified for dbx equipment.- Jensen's published specifications: quadfilar windings, 50% nickel core, distortion 0.018% typical at 20Hz and +4dBu, bandwidth -3dB at 0.1Hz and 180kHz, and it drives 600 ohm loads to +24dBu at 20Hz.
- According to the dbx manual, a transformer in this position makes the output balanced and floating, with no ground reference.
- Apart from the transformer and the capacitor replacement described below, there are no circuit modifications.
Recap — Electrolytic Capacitors Replaced
The unit was working properly as received, but given its age, the electrolytic capacitors in the power supply section and the audio signal path have been replaced with new, high-quality parts as preventive maintenance:
- Power supply section: Rubycon ZLH series
- Audio signal path: Nichicon and Toshin Kogyo (Japanese audio-grade capacitors)
Additional Servicing
- All switch and control contacts have been cleaned.
- The chassis exterior has been cleaned.
- New power plug: the original plug has been replaced with a new Panasonic 3-pin grounded plug (NEMA 5-15P / Type B).
Cosmetic Condition
- This unit shows its age cosmetically. Scratches and general signs of use are present — see photos for the full picture.
- No unusual odors.
- Photos are of the actual unit you will receive.
Included
- The unit only. The AC power cable is hardwired (permanently attached) to the unit and fitted with a new Panasonic 3-pin grounded plug (NEMA 5-15P / Type B) — the standard plug in the US, Canada, and Japan. Buyers in other regions will need a plug adapter.
- 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, modifications, 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!
| Listed | 17 days ago |
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| Condition | Good (Used) Good condition items function properly but may exhibit some wear and tear.Learn more |
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