The dbx 122 is a vintage two-channel Type II noise reduction system primarily designed for consumer reel-to-reel and cassette tape decks. By compressing audio during recording and expanding it during playback, it dramatically eliminates tape hiss and increases dynamic range. Key Features & Specs Type II Noise Reduction: Specifically optimized for analog tape equipment with narrower track widths and slower tape speeds. Modes: Features Record, Bypass, and Play settings. Calibration: Includes a Play Level Match control to ensure exact tracking and avoid pumping artifacts. Connectivity: Connects easily through standard RCA inputs and outputs on your tape monitor loop. Using the Device Encoding/Decoding: To encode while recording and decode while monitoring off tape simultaneously, two 122 units are technically required. Otherwise, you must record with it and play it back later using the same device. Frequency Response: Type II dbx works best on machines with flat frequency responses; deviations can cause the unit to unnaturally exaggerate the audio. Digital Simulation: For those trying to simulate the expander dynamics in the digital realm, audio engineers have found that a 1:2 expansion ratio combined with an EQ works best.
