Description
Refurbished & Recapped: This 163X has been modified with high-value bipolar capacitors in the audio path, new film capacitors to replace the old ceramic caps, and an upgraded power supply with much larger reservoir caps. The results are remarkable
The basic character of the 163X remains intact but the operating window (the range within which the compressor sounds at its best) is much larger and the overall sound is much cleaner. The difference between this and a standard 163X is not subtle – it’s a big change
Vintage compressor from dbx. The 163X is a 1/2U single-channel “Over Easy” compressor which can be linked to a second 163X, to make a stereo compressor, or a 463X Noise Gate
When linked to a 463X, the pair can act as a stereo noise gate or a stereo compressor, depending on which unit is selected as master. With one of each unit you have the option of stereo compression or gating
The 163X has an additional high-impedance (Hi-Z) input on the front panel ideal for use as a DI (direct injection) input. The Over-Easy is a favourite with bass guitarists for this reason – it has a dedicated high impedance DI input and is one of the best bass compressors around. The DI input has a level trim on the back panel
dbx describes the 163X as “the Simplest Compressor in the World”. The instructions say to match the output level with the input level using the gain trim, then to push the slider over to whatever level of compression is desired
What the manual doesn’t say is that this is a great-sounding compressor with a big, dirty, squashy sound. The 163X is the polar opposite of a modern, bland VCA compressor. The 163X is what the Americans call a “Color” piece – it certainly colours the sound and is superb for bass guitar, electric guitar or keyboards. The 163X is also ideal for adding character as a parallel compressor
On test, I found the 163X to be quite addictive – it’s as close to a “Universal Improver” box as I’ve ever found. It adds colour that is hard to replicate and is simplicity itself to use. I’d like to try using it in parallel with a clean signal or a second compressor to see what can be achieved – I think it’d be amazing
“Like I said, it rocks when your re-compressing a track. If I’m looking for the pumping effect, then this is the box!”
“HELL YES they are more than worthwhile. I think they are wonderful. They are aggressive and not great on every sound of course, but they usually sound great, especially on drums and vocals”
“Always loved that thing on bass. It thwacky (strong attack, not expansive like an 1176) sounding on drums, but it’s still cool. Works nice on vocals too”
