dbx 2 encoded LPs
I have had an interesting few days. Member Audiofox has had some
dbx 2 encoded LPs for sale. My first four arrived at the beginning of the week.
The dbx system is a 2/1 encoder and 1/2 expander on decode. The noise inherent in the medium is reduced. This also expands the available dynamic range. The downside is that any frequency response errors in code are doubled on playback. So from cutting amp, to cutter, mastering to LP playback and equalization everything has to be as near perfect as possible.
The dynamic range of dbx 2 encoded CDs is 90 db, so very comparable to CD.
I had never heard a dbx encoded LP before, though I have dbx 2 encoded tapes. Also when I was recording professionally on analog tape I used the dbx 1 professional system. So I have a lot of familiarity with the dbx code/encode system.
The LPs were phenomenal. You could hear no lead in and the lead out. It was silent. No groove noise, and no ticks and pops. The fidelity was excellent and there was no trace of end of side distortion, as groove modulation is reduced 50%. So this gives the pickup cartridge an easier time of it.
This experience was so successful, I have ordered five more discs from Audiofox.
These have been a nice addition to my audio museum, and a good demonstration of the power of the dbx system.