DBX Expander


I have recently acquired a Teac reel to reel and although it's a great machine, soundwise, it just doesn't measure up to CD or LP's in my system. I have a chance to purchase a DBX sound expander that I'm told greatly enhances the sound of the tape. I have no experience with this box at all. Does anyone have any knowledge of what this does?
markus1299

Showing 1 response by edbeta1

In the early 70s, I had a small, box-sized dbx unit for a short time, which I never used for tape recording noise reduction, but I discovered through trial and error that it did a fantastic job of cleaning up the distortions and surface noise on 78rpm records in real-time........I do not mean impulse or scratch noise, but rather the annoying distortions caused by having played the records previously with worn needles, as well as the inherent way 78s of the pre-war era basically just sound bad to start with.......It seemed to make those noises disappear, and the music, previously difficult to hear because of the continuous noise, would come through loud and clear, almost like magic...........I would have never believed it if I hadn't heard it for myself..........Unfortunately, I traded it in at my audio dealer for a dbx3bx, expecting it to be a "bigger and better" version of the one I had........Of course, I discovered it was a totally different animal and did not perform the functions of the little box, but I kept it because I enjoyed what it did to improve the dynamic range of LPs and FM broadcasts........I would just like to know if anyone can confirm for me what the model number was, as I cannot remember if it was the 117 or the 119, as I am considering picking one up, since they are very reasonably priced on ebay, and also if anyone can confirm its use for eliminating 78rpm surface noise......Sometimes I think I may have dreamt it because the improvement was so sensational........I mean, it practically made an unlistenable record sound almost brand-new........ Any responses would be appreciated......My email address [email protected] you in advance for any help........