Equivalent to the stand-alone dbx® 160XT, the 903's features make it possible to achieve large amounts of compression without undesirable side effects. The 903 uses patented, true RMS detection to provide audibly superior compression and limiting.

The 903 also uses dbx's patented OverEasy® soft-knee threshold for a smooth onset of compression.

Rear panel access to the the RMS detector allows the compressor to be triggered by signals other than the audio input. Negative compression ratios are also available for special effects.