Turtlerock Forum

I have the need for a stereo buss comp and have the opportunity to get either a Smart C2 or a DBX 160SL for pretty much the same price ($2,200usd) The Smart is a used unit in great condition from a mate's studio and the DBX is brand new. The DBX retails for around $4,500 usd so it's very good deal.

I'll be using it live as well as in the studio. I know the sound of the Smart/SSL type comp and dig it. I have always seen the DBX on big tours at FOH, most recently on the Keith Urban tour, but have never used on myself.

Any thoughts from anyone with experience with either unit?

C2 for sure, probably the better deal, plus it has stepped controls.

being a C2 owner, I thought you'd chime in Heath :-)

TimS wrote:being a C2 owner, I thought you'd chime in Heath :-)

Yeah they are a good workhorse type comp, just gotta use it gently for best results. I know I paid more than Kris will though, pretty good deal providing the dollar does'nt hit 40c.

smart all the way.. i use both all the time. most pa's are full of dbx. our pa's are, my live rider is, most pa companies have dbx. most dont have the smart stuff.

it is usually more expensive and most live guys havent used the smart (they also cant help operators who dont know the unit as they dont really know the unit themselves).

i have been told by pa riggers "thats a studio thingy, not really good live, you cant hear what it does". and there saying thats a bad thing..

The 160SL is the blue unit. i tend to smash this thing to hard and make a mess of live mixes with it (when used as he main system compressor). i prefer the purple one 162SL (its cheaper) its more forgiving and i get better results.. i prefer the smart to both..