The dbx 208 is a classic compressor/expander (compander) tape noise reduction system. In recording, it compresses the input signal by a factor of 2:1, reducing the dynamic range of the program to fit conveniently within the limits of the tape recorder. High-level signals are reduced so the maximum recording level can be set well below the point of tape overload, while quiet passages are increased in level to place them on the tape above the hiss level or electronic background noise floor of the equipment.
During playback, the expander recreates a precise mirror image of the original input, preserving full dynamic range but eliminating the hiss that normally accompanies the tape recording process. The dbx 208 is one of the most effective noise reduction systems available, introducing no unwanted audible side effects.
The dbx 208 professional tape noise reduction system consists of eight noise reduction modules, each containing independent record and playback electronics, mounted in a 5¼” standard rack panel. A ninth (spare) module occupies a dummy slot for instant availability if a substitution is necessary. Its simultaneous record/playback capability allows the noise-reduced, decoded program to be played back from tape through the monitors while recording is in progress, eliminating the need to switch the noise reduction system between record and playback modes.
This self-contained system has a built-in power supply. Signal cables are supplied with 27-pin gold connectors that mate with the dbx 208 system and XLR-3 connectors on the other end. The supplied cables are 10 feet long. Inputs can be fed from any balanced or unbalanced source up to 5 k ohms, while the unbalanced outputs will drive any line or load, including standard 600-ohm lines and equipment. Screwdriver-adjustable record and playback level controls are accessible on the front panel for convenient system level balancing.
The front panel controls include a power on/off switch, noise reduction or bypass switches on each channel, and LED function indicators. When the front panel switch is in bypass mode, the noise reduction circuitry is hard-wired out of the system. Rear panel connectors allow for direct bypassing using male and female connectors.
Designed for use with any multi-track tape recorder, the dbx 208 enables recordists to produce a master tape that fully preserves the dynamic range of live music while eliminating audible tape hiss and distortion caused by tape overload. The dbx 208 tape noise reduction system is intended for installation between the mixer or microphone preamplifier outputs and the tape recorder’s line-level inputs. It requires no controls or operating adjustments in use. Compact and lightweight, it is easily transportable for field recordings or location work. Tapes recorded using the dbx 208 can be played back on any dbx professional tape noise reduction system.
dbx 208 Features
- Fully compatible with all dbx professional studio noise reduction systems
- Modular design with spare plug-in module to eliminate downtime
- More than 30 dB noise reduction
- 10 dB additional recorder headroom
- No level match tones required
- Balanced inputs with 27-pin gold-plated connectors, unbalanced outputs (same connectors)
