Founded in 1971, dbx is a long-running manufacturer known for practical, dependable signal processing, particularly in the field of dynamics. Their products have been widely adopted in both studio and live sound environments, with a reputation for solid performance and accessible pricing relative to their capabilities.

They’re especially known for their classic compressor/limiter designs, including the dbx 160 series, the 160x, and the 165, which became staples in studios for their aggressive, musical compression character and straightforward control layout. Those units in particular helped define the dbx sound and are still referenced and used today, both in original hardware form and as inspiration for modern designs.