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dbx 266xs - Compressor/Gate

BH #DB266XS • MFR #DBX266XSV
9 reviews
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dbx 266xs - Compressor/Gate
Key Features
  • Dual Channel
  • Stereo or Dual-Mono
  • Classic dbx "Auto" Mode
  • Side Chain Insert
The 266xs from dbx is a dual channel compressor/gate that when added to a live sound rig or studio, will deliver more polished, professional sound. The unit can function either as a stereo processor or in dual mono mode and features all the usual controls required for this kind of processor.

The unit provides the ability to smooth out uneven levels, add sustain to guitars and fatten up drums. It also makes it easy to bring vocals to the front of a mix. For simplified operation the Overeasy compression technology returns smooth and musical performance, while the exclusive AutoDynamic attack and release controls puts great sound within easy reach.

The processor has true RMS power summing and features quality input and output connectors. Comprehensive visual feedback is provided by gain reduction metering and backlit switches.

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dbx 266XS Overview

The 266xs from dbx is a dual channel compressor/gate that when added to a live sound rig or studio, will deliver more polished, professional sound. The unit can function either as a stereo processor or in dual mono mode and features all the usual controls required for this kind of processor.

The unit provides the ability to smooth out uneven levels, add sustain to guitars and fatten up drums. It also makes it easy to bring vocals to the front of a mix. For simplified operation the Overeasy compression technology returns smooth and musical performance, while the exclusive AutoDynamic attack and release controls puts great sound within easy reach.

The processor has true RMS power summing and features quality input and output connectors. Comprehensive visual feedback is provided by gain reduction metering and backlit switches.

Error proof operation to smooth uneven levels, add sustain to guitars, fatten drums or tighten up mixes
New gate timing algorithms ensure the smoothest release characteristics
Program-adaptive expander/gates
Great sounding dynamics control for any type of program material
Separate precision LED displays for gain reduction, compression threshold and gate threshold allow quick, accurate setup
Stereo or dual-mono operation
Balanced inputs and outputs on 1/4" TRS and XLR connectors
Side Chain insert
Classic dbx "Auto" mode
UPC: 691991401244

dbx 266XS Specs

Function
Compressor/gate
Number of Channels
2
Inputs
2 x XLR (pin 2 hot)
2 x 1/4" TRS phone
Input Impedance
>40kΩ balanced, >20kΩ unbalanced
Maximum Input Level
>+22dBu, balanced or unbalanced
Outputs
2 x XLR(pin 2 hot)
2 x 1/4" TRS phone
Output Impedance
@ +4dBu: 100Ω balanced, 50Ω unbalanced
@ -10dB: 1kΩ balanced, 500Ω unbalanced
Maximum Output Level
>+21dBu balanced/unbalanced into 2kΩ or greater
>+18dBm balanced/unbalanced into 600Ω
Other Connectors
Side Chain
Type: 1/4" TRS phone, Normalled: Ring = Output (send); Tip = Input (return)
Impedance: Tip = >10kΩ (input), Ring = 2kΩ (output)
Maximum Levels: >+22dBu (tip/input), >+20dBU (ring/output)
Compression Threshold
-40dBu to +20dBu
Compression Ratio
1:1 to infinity:1, variable
Attack Time
Scalable program-dependent AutoDynamic
Release Time
Scalable program-dependent AutoDynamic
Slope
OverEasy or hard knee, selectable
Make-up Gain
-20dB to +20dB
Gate Threshold
-60dBu to +15dBu
Ratio
1:1 to 4:1 expansion
Gate Rate
Attack: <100µSec (from maximum depth)
Release: Program dependent
Frequency Response
FR: 20Hz to 20kHz, +0/-0.5dB
Bandwidth: 0.35Hz to 9okHz, +0/-3.0dB
Dynamic Range
>114dB, unweighted
Noise
<-93dBu, unweighted (22kHz measured bandwidth)
THD + N
<0.02% typical on any amount of compression @ 1kHz
Crosstalk
<-95dB, 20Hz to 20kHz
CMRR
>40dB, typical, >55dB @ 1kHz
Operating Temperature
32°F to 113°F (0°C to 45°C)
Power Requirements
100~120VAC 50/60Hz
15W maximum power consumption
Dimensions
19 x 5.75 x 1.75" (483 x 146 x 45mm)
Weight
4.84 lb (2.19kg)
Specialties
SMPTE IMD: <0.2%
Packaging Info
Package Weight
6.7 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
21.9 x 11.3 x 2.6"

dbx 266XS Reviews

Not a mic processor

By Matthew
Rated 1 out of 5
Date: 2024-10-18

We needed a single rack unit two channel mic processor for a radio studio. We ordered this thinking it had a mic pre-amp in it. It does not have a mic pre-amp. It only supports line level inputs. We attempted to facilitate an exchange with B&H unsuccessfully. We are now stuck with this unit that we have no use for.

Simple setup easy to use.

By Carlos
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2020-01-14

Great sound right off w/ no effort. Drill down further to get better sound.

See any errors on this page?

What would i gain by converting to dbx 266 from ...

What would i gain by converting to dbx 266 from my current alesis 3630?
Asked by: Edward
Both compressors offer the same settings with the dbx 266xs offering better quality according to some customers.
Answered by: David M
Date published: 2022-05-03

question

Can this device help me, to have the same volume always from my tv to the speakers.?
Asked by: jesus
The DBX unit is a dual channel unit generally recommended for professional music recording/production. The unit also features a Gate and Expander. Most features not required for your application. The Rolls SL33B is a popular product for your application, and can be connected between TV and receiver, or TV and powered speakers. https://bhpho.to/2qGDGNG
Answered by: Jeff P.
Date published: 2022-05-03

question

would an audio gate alone control help in a 4mic clip on mic situation that is very interactive?
Asked by: richard
First of all the gate function is designed to keep the signal muted until a level you choose to open the channel. This would not help the clip at all. If, on the other hand if you were to use the compressor side of the dbx you may be able to adjust the input and output to eliminate the clipping altogether. I would suggest adjusting the output of each channel so each channel will not exceed the headroom on the mixer, then send the combined signal into the dbx and use the compressor to clamp down on the signal a bit. There is training available for this. I am using my 266xs to make a talk show with four funny ladies, who laugh a lot and loudly fit into the available headroom while recording for broadcast. without the compressor the laughing just clips so badly the recordings are not able to be used.
Answered by: Jerry I.
Date published: 2020-01-02

question

Does this supply phantom power?
Asked by: Moses
I doubt that it supplies phantom power as it appears to be intended only for line level circuits, not mics. the selection choice is between pro (+4) and consumer (-10) levels for the rear panel XLRs
Answered by: David S.
Date published: 2018-08-28

question

Does this just help in recordings, or is there a clear difference in live speaking as well?
Asked by: Jeff S.
I use it for recording only, but I believe it would work as well for live speaking as well. The adjusted sound would just go directly to speakers instead of the recorder.
Answered by: Dennis D.
Date published: 2018-08-28
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