dbx DBX266XSV

dbx 266xs Professional Audio Compressor/Gate User Manual

Model: DBX266XSV

1. Увод

The dbx 266xs Compressor/Gate is a professional audio dynamics processor designed to enhance sound quality in studio, touring, and portable PA sound systems. It incorporates patented Overeasy® compression technology for smooth, musical performance and AutoDynamic™ attack and release controls for ease of use. This versatile unit supports both stereo and dual-mono operation, offering flexibility for various audio applications. It features professional-grade XLR and 1/4" TRS inputs and outputs, along with comprehensive visual feedback through gain reduction metering and backlit switches.

The 266xs is engineered to manage uneven audio levels, add sustain to instruments like guitars, and enhance drum sounds. It also effectively brings vocals forward in a mix, ensuring greater clarity and presence. This compressor is a valuable tool for achieving a polished and professional sound.

Фронт view of the dbx 266xs Compressor/Gate

Слика 1: Предња страна view of the dbx 266xs Compressor/Gate, showing controls for two independent channels.

2. Безбедносне информације

Please read and understand all safety instructions before operating this device. Retain this manual for future reference.

  • Ризик од струјног удара: Do not open the unit. There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
  • Извор напајања: Connect the unit only to the specified power supply (100-120V~ 50/60Hz, 15 Watts).
  • Влага: Да бисте смањили ризик од пожара или електричног удара, не излажите ову опрему киши или влази.
  • вентилација: Обезбедите одговарајућу вентилацију. Не блокирајте вентилационе отворе.
  • Пласман: Не постављајте уређај близу извора топлоте или на директној сунчевој светлости.
  • Чишћење: Чистите само сувом крпом.
Позади view of the dbx 266xs Compressor/Gate with safety warnings

Слика 2: Задња страна view of the dbx 266xs, showing input/output connections and safety warnings.

3. Карактеристике

The dbx 266xs Compressor/Gate offers a range of features designed for professional audio processing:

  • Свестрано повезивање: Equipped with quality XLR and 1/4" TRS inputs and outputs for seamless integration into various audio setups.
  • Enhanced Vocal Clarity: Optimizes vocals to stand out with improved clarity and presence in a mix.
  • Професионални учинак: Utilizes patented Overeasy® compression technology and AutoDynamic™ attack and release controls for smooth, musical performance.
  • Sidechain Insert: Provides an option for tightening and clarifying frequencies, particularly useful for instruments like bass and kick drum.
  • Comprehensive Visual Feedback: Features separate precision LED displays for gain reduction, compression threshold, and gate threshold, enabling quick and accurate setup.
  • Разноврсна примена: Ideal for both studio recording and live performances, enhancing instruments and providing a polished, cohesive mix.
  • Dual-Mono or Stereo Operation: Can be configured for two independent mono channels or linked for stereo processing.
  • Program-Adaptive Expander/Gate: Ensures smooth release characteristics.
dbx 266xs marketing image highlighting features and applications

Figure 3: Marketing image illustrating key features and typical applications for the dbx 266xs.

4. Подешавање

4.1 Физичка инсталација

The dbx 266xs is designed for standard 1U rack space installation. Its dimensions are 1.75" H x 5.75" D x 19.00" W. Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit when mounting in a rack.

4.2 Везе

The rear panel of the 266xs provides all necessary audio input and output connections. Each of the two channels features independent inputs, outputs, and sidechain inserts.

  • Улази: Connect your audio source (e.g., mixer output, microphone preamplifier) to the 1/4" TRS or XLR inputs. Both balanced and unbalanced connections are supported.
  • Излази: Connect the processed audio signal from the 1/4" TRS or XLR outputs to your next device in the signal chain (e.g., power amplifier, recording interface).
  • Sidechain Insert: Use the 1/4" TRS sidechain insert jack to connect external processing devices (e.g., EQ, de-esser) that will control the compressor/gate. This is a Tip-Ring-Sleeve (TRS) jack where Tip is Send (output) and Ring is Return (input).
  • Снага: Connect the supplied AC power cord to the IEC power inlet on the rear panel and then to a suitable AC power outlet (100-120V~ 50/60Hz).
Rear panel connections of the dbx 266xs

Слика 4: Детаљно view of the rear panel, showing XLR and 1/4" TRS inputs/outputs and sidechain inserts for both channels.

5. Упутство за употребу

The dbx 266xs features intuitive controls for each of its two independent channels. Understanding these controls is key to achieving desired audio dynamics.

5.1 Expander/Gate Controls

  • Праг: Sets the level below which the gate will begin to attenuate the signal. Adjust this to eliminate unwanted noise or bleed.
  • однос: Determines the amount of attenuation applied once the signal falls below the threshold. Higher ratios result in more aggressive gating.
  • Gate LED: Indicates when the gate is active.

5.2 Compressor Controls

  • Праг: Sets the level above which compression begins. Signals exceeding this level will be compressed.
  • однос: Controls the amount of compression applied. A ratio of 2:1 means that for every 2dB the input signal goes over the threshold, the output will only increase by 1dB.
  • Overeasy® Button: Engages dbx's patented Overeasy compression, providing a smoother, more natural compression curve. When disengaged, the compression is hard-knee.
  • напад: Determines how quickly the compressor reacts to signals exceeding the threshold. "Fast" settings react almost instantly, while "Slow" settings allow initial transients to pass through.
  • Издање: Controls how quickly the compressor returns to its normal state after the signal falls below the threshold. "Fast" settings result in quick release, while "Slow" settings provide a more sustained effect. The 266xs features AutoDynamic™ attack and release for simplified operation.
  • Излазно појачање: Adjusts the overall output level of the processed signal to compensate for gain reduction caused by compression.
  • Мерач смањења појачања: A series of LEDs indicating the amount of gain reduction (compression) being applied in dB.

5.3 Контроле система

  • Stereo Couple Button: Links Channel One and Channel Two for stereo operation. When engaged, Channel One's controls act as the master for both channels.
  • Дугме за обилазак: Bypasses all processing for the respective channel, allowing the input signal to pass directly to the output without any compression or gating.
Front panel controls of the dbx 266xs

Figure 5: Front panel controls, illustrating the Expander/Gate, Compressor, and System controls for each channel.

6. Одржавање

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your dbx 266xs.

  • Чишћење: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the unit. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols, as they may damage the finish or internal components.
  • Складиштење: Када се уређај не користи дуже време, чувајте га на хладном и сувом месту, даље од директне сунчеве светлости и екстремних температура.
  • вентилација: Редовно проверавајте да ли су вентилациони отвори чисти од прашине и остатака како бисте спречили прегревање.
  • Кабловске везе: Periodically inspect all audio and power cables for wear or damage. Replace any faulty cables immediately.

КСНУМКС. Решавање проблема

If you encounter issues with your dbx 266xs, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

ПроблемМогући узрок / решење
Нема струје / Уређај се не укључује
  • Ensure the power cord is securely connected to the unit and a live AC outlet.
  • Verify the AC outlet is functioning correctly.
Нема аудио излаза
  • Check all audio cable connections (inputs and outputs).
  • Ensure the Bypass button is not engaged if you expect processing.
  • Verify input signal presence and output gain settings.
  • Check the threshold settings for both the gate and compressor; if set too aggressively, they may mute the signal.
Изобличен звук
  • Reduce input levels to prevent clipping.
  • Adjust compressor ratio and output gain settings.
  • Ensure cables are not damaged.
Gate not working or always open/closed
  • Adjust the Gate Threshold control.
  • Check the input signal level relative to the threshold.
Compressor not engaging or over-compressing
  • Adjust the Compressor Threshold and Ratio controls.
  • Observe the Gain Reduction meter to see if compression is occurring.

If the problem persists after trying these steps, please contact dbx customer support or refer to the official user manual PDF for more detailed troubleshooting.

8. Спецификације

Below are the technical specifications for the dbx 266xs Compressor/Gate:

КатегоријаСпецификација
Инпутс1/4" TRS and female XLR (pin 2 Hot), Electronically balanced/unbalanced, RF filtered
Инпут ИмпеданцеBalanced: 50kΩ, Unbalanced: 25kΩ
Максимални улазни ниво+22dBu balanced or unbalanced
Излази1/4" TRS and female XLR (pin 2 Hot), Impedance-balanced/unbalanced, RF filtered
Излазна импедансаBalanced: 100Ω, Unbalanced: 50Ω
Мак излазни ниво+21dBu balanced/unbalanced into 2kΩ or greater
Сидецхаин Инсерт1/4" TRS Phone Jack (Tip=Output, Ring=Input)
Sidechain ImpedanceTip: 1kΩ (Output), Ring: 10kΩ (Input)
КомпресорThreshold: -40dBu to +20dBu
Ратио1:1 to Infinity:1 (Selectable Overeasy® or Hard-knee)
Напад/ОпуштањеProgram-dependent AutoDynamic™
Екпандер/ГатеThreshold: -60dBu to +10dBu
Expansion Ratio1:1 до 4:1
Напад/ОпуштањеЗависан од програма
Перформансе системаBandwidth: 0.35Hz - 90kHz (+0/-3dB)
Фреквенцијски одзив0.5Hz - 160kHz (+0/-3dB)
Бука<-93dBu, unweighted (22kHz measurement band)
ТХД+Н0.04% typical at +4dBu, 1kHz
Интермодулатион Дистортион0.08% typical SMPTE
Динамиц Ранге>113dB, unweighted
Преслушавање<-90dB, 20Hz to 20kHz
Цоммон Моде Рејецтион>40dB, typically >55dB at 1kHz
Стерео ЦоуплингTrue RMS Power Summing™
Повер Суппли15 Watts, 100VAC 50/60Hz, 230VAC 50/60Hz
Оператинг Волtage100-120V~ 50/60Hz or 230V~ 50/60Hz
Радна температура0°Ц до 45°Ц (32°Ф до 113°Ф)
ФизичкиDimensions (H x D x W): 1.75" x 5.75" x 19" (4.5cm x 14.6cm x 48.26cm)
Јединична тежина4.84 лбс / 2.19 кг
Тежина испоруке6.6 лбс / 2.99 кг
Detailed specifications table for dbx 266xs

Figure 6: Official specifications sheet for the dbx 266xs, detailing electrical and physical characteristics.

9. Гаранција и подршка

dbx products are designed and manufactured to the highest standards. For detailed warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official dbx webсајту.

For technical support, service, or additional information, please contact dbx customer support:

© 2024 dbx by HARMAN. All rights reserved.

Ask a question about this manual

Ask about setup, troubleshooting, compatibility, parts, safety, or missing instructions. Manuals+ will review the question and use this page’s manual context to help answer it.