Jump to content

DBX 166XL vs 1066 vs 1046


Recommended Posts

  • Members

I have narrowed my choices of compressor/limters/gates down to these three. Basically, I am in the market for at least 4 channels of compressor/limiter/gate and I am looking for the best combo of quality and value (of course!). Before i open my wallet I'd like a few educated opinions on my optios...

 

The 166XL and the 1066 are very similar save the monitoring options...is there a noticeable quality difference between these two units? Likewise for the 1046?

 

My other option is to pick up a 1046 and a 1074 wich I believe will be a little more versatile. Besides the rack space, would these be a better option over the cobo of the 166xl/1066's two channels?

 

2 X 166XL?

or

2 X 1066?

or

1046 + 1074?

 

Thanks everyone.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Members

In the end, I am shooting for four channels of gate and four channels of compression/limiting. For now I can get by with a combo of 4 channels but I will want a total of 8 in the end.

 

I will be using them (live) for drums (gates and comp) and vocals (comp/lim).

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Members

gruvjack...

 

Originally posted by Strange

I will be using them (live) for drums (gates and comp) and vocals (comp/lim).

 

Of course this isn't set in stone by any means and will depend on what instruments i will have in the mix. If I only have one vocalist i'll throw a comp on a bass or kick. My purchase will be strictly for my live rack. I'd rather not bring any of my recrding gear to clubs and venues I work at. ;)

 

Originally posted by bigmike216

what about a presonus acp88?

 

I had considered the 88 but I've read quite a few mixed reviews...some praising and some citing concerns in regards to anything from a cramped 8 channels to a gate that has the tendency to be heard when in operation. I haven't found any complaints about the DBX units. All I have read on this DBX series has been positive and their price ranges are more than reasonable.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Members

If you need serious gating, I'd think dedicated gate. I never cared for any of the DBX gates. While I do like the old blackface 166's for kick's, the newer stuff doesn't gate well. I much prefer Drawmer or BSS for gating.

 

However, I love the sound of the 1046 and 1066 compression. I actually use both live regularly for everything from vocals to acoustic guitars, kicks, snares, overheads, horns, etc., and it sounds fantastic. I am a particular fan of the 1046. While simplistic (as is the 160X and 160XT) they sound amazing, and have sweet peak limiters.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Archived

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

×
×
  • Create New...