App: DxI Codec — for dbx-I/Disc
Developer: Chen Wang
Genres: Entertainment, Utilities

DxI Codec is a precise digital emulation of the analog dbx-I/Disc noise reduction system for audio tape/LP. The software app is capable of decoding/encoding dbx-I/Disc formatted audio in digital domain. Powered by the proprietary DSP engine, the decoding/encoding can be performed in realtime, which allows for instant processing, monitoring and fine-tuning.

The built-in EQ converter can help to translate between CCIR/IEC1 and NAB/IEC2 specifications at different tape speeds.

The dual-meter display visualizes the potential dynamic range mismatch, along with a threshold slider for instant correction.

The RMS timing slider: offers optional flexibility to adjust the compander's tracking speed.

DxI Codec is a stand-alone GUI app without relying on any other DAW host. It allows the computer to serve as an external(outboard) dbx-I/Disc compatible unit in one of the following four modes:

- from Audio-In to File (a digitizer/recorder).
- from File to Audio-Out (a player).
- from File to File (an off-line processor, with batch capability).
- from Audio-In to Audio-Out (a through processor, with slight delay).

Currently supported audio file formats are:
WAV, FLAC, AIFF: up to 96k/24bit.
MP3, AAC, M4A: up to 48k/VBR.
* Excluding some proprietary variants having the common file extensions, or additional format-normalization may be required.

A VST plugin is also available as an optional software component of the application.

The software comes with embedded user manual on each major functions.

Please note that this software is suited for the Pro grade dbx type-I on reel-to-reel tape, which is not compatible with the consumer grade dbx type-II on cassette tape. However, it does come with an additional dbx type-Disc codec, which is suited for LP records.

Release notes:
- New recording is now unprocessed.
- Introduced anti-clipping feature by file saving.
- Updated embedded document.