The dbx 120X subharmonic synthesiser and bass processor was designed to enhance and enrich the low-frequency content of audio signals, particularly in the context of music recording and sound reinforcement.
The dbx 120x featured innovative technology for its time. It employed subharmonic synthesis, a process that generated low-frequency harmonics from the existing audio signal. This effectively allowed users to create and enhance deep, powerful bass frequencies, making it an invaluable tool for music producers and sound engineers looking to give their mixes a more substantial low-end presence.
The unit was known for its robust build quality, which made it a reliable workhorse in studios and live sound environments. Its straightforward interface made it accessible for both professionals and enthusiasts, and its ability to add depth and warmth to audio sources, especially in the lower frequency range, contributed to its popularity.
The dbx 120x played a significant role in shaping the sound of many iconic recordings from the 1980s and beyond, including but certainly not limited to Alanis Morrisette’s iconic record, Jagged Little Pill. Its impact can still be felt in modern music production, as it set the standard for bass enhancement and subharmonic synthesis in the industry.
While technology has evolved since the 1980s, the original dbx 120x remains a piece of audio history, a testament to innovation in the world of sound processing, and a reminder of the impact it had on the way we experience and appreciate music.