1. Giới thiệu
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.

Hình 1: Mặt trước view of the dbx 266xs Compressor/Gate, showing controls for two independent channels.
2. Thông tin an toàn
Vui lòng đọc và hiểu tất cả hướng dẫn an toàn trước khi vận hành thiết bị này. Giữ lại hướng dẫn này để tham khảo sau.
- Nguy cơ điện giật: Do not open the unit. There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
- Nguồn điện: Connect the unit only to the specified power supply (100-120V~ 50/60Hz, 15 Watts).
- Độ ẩm: Để giảm nguy cơ hỏa hoạn hoặc điện giật, không để thiết bị này tiếp xúc với mưa hoặc hơi ẩm.
- Thông gió: Đảm bảo thông gió thích hợp. Không chặn các lỗ thông gió.
- Vị trí: Không đặt thiết bị gần nguồn nhiệt hoặc dưới ánh nắng trực tiếp.
- Vệ sinh: Chỉ lau sạch bằng vải khô.

Hình 2: Phía sau view of the dbx 266xs, showing input/output connections and safety warnings.
3. Tính năng
The dbx 266xs Compressor/Gate offers a range of features designed for professional audio processing:
- Kết nối đa năng: Equipped with quality XLR and 1/4" TRS inputs and outputs for seamless integration into various audio setups.
- Tăng cường độ rõ nét của giọng nói: Optimizes vocals to stand out with improved clarity and presence in a mix.
- Buổi trình diễn chuyên nghiệp: 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.
- Ứng dụng đa năng: 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.

Figure 3: Marketing image illustrating key features and typical applications for the dbx 266xs.
4. Thiết lập
4.1 Cài đặt vật lý
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 Kết nối
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.
- Đầu vào: 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.
- Đầu ra: 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).
- Quyền lực: 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).

Hình 4: Chi tiết view of the rear panel, showing XLR and 1/4" TRS inputs/outputs and sidechain inserts for both channels.
5. Hướng dẫn vận hành
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
- Ngưỡng: Sets the level below which the gate will begin to attenuate the signal. Adjust this to eliminate unwanted noise or bleed.
- Tỷ lệ: 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
- Ngưỡng: Sets the level above which compression begins. Signals exceeding this level will be compressed.
- Tỷ lệ: 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.
- Tấn công: 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.
- Giải phóng: 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.
- Đầu ra tăng: Adjusts the overall output level of the processed signal to compensate for gain reduction caused by compression.
- Máy đo độ giảm khuếch đại: A series of LEDs indicating the amount of gain reduction (compression) being applied in dB.
5.3 Kiểm soát hệ thống
- 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.
- Nút bỏ qua: Bypasses all processing for the respective channel, allowing the input signal to pass directly to the output without any compression or gating.

Figure 5: Front panel controls, illustrating the Expander/Gate, Compressor, and System controls for each channel.
6. Bảo trì
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your dbx 266xs.
- Vệ sinh: Dùng khăn mềm, khô để lau sạch bên ngoài thiết bị. Không sử dụng chất tẩy rửa dạng lỏng hoặc bình xịt vì chúng có thể làm hỏng lớp hoàn thiện hoặc các linh kiện bên trong.
- Kho: Khi không sử dụng trong thời gian dài, hãy bảo quản thiết bị ở nơi khô ráo, thoáng mát, tránh ánh nắng trực tiếp và nhiệt độ cao.
- Thông gió: Kiểm tra thường xuyên các lỗ thông gió để đảm bảo không có bụi và mảnh vụn để tránh quá nhiệt.
- Kết nối cáp: Periodically inspect all audio and power cables for wear or damage. Replace any faulty cables immediately.
KHAI THÁC. Xử lý sự cố
If you encounter issues with your dbx 266xs, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
| Vấn đề | Nguyên nhân có thể / Giải pháp |
|---|---|
| Không có nguồn điện / Thiết bị không bật |
|
| Không có đầu ra âm thanh |
|
| Âm thanh bị biến dạng |
|
| Gate not working or always open/closed |
|
| Compressor not engaging or over-compressing |
|
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. Thông số kỹ thuật
Below are the technical specifications for the dbx 266xs Compressor/Gate:
| Loại | Đặc điểm kỹ thuật |
|---|---|
| Đầu vào | 1/4" TRS and female XLR (pin 2 Hot), Electronically balanced/unbalanced, RF filtered |
| Trở kháng đầu vào | Balanced: 50kΩ, Unbalanced: 25kΩ |
| Mức đầu vào tối đa | +22dBu balanced or unbalanced |
| Đầu ra | 1/4" TRS and female XLR (pin 2 Hot), Impedance-balanced/unbalanced, RF filtered |
| Trở kháng đầu ra | Balanced: 100Ω, Unbalanced: 50Ω |
| Mức đầu ra tối đa | +21dBu balanced/unbalanced into 2kΩ or greater |
| Chèn chuỗi bên | 1/4" TRS Phone Jack (Tip=Output, Ring=Input) |
| Sidechain Impedance | Tip: 1kΩ (Output), Ring: 10kΩ (Input) |
| Máy nén | Threshold: -40dBu to +20dBu |
| Tỷ lệ | 1:1 to Infinity:1 (Selectable Overeasy® or Hard-knee) |
| Tấn công/Giải phóng | Program-dependent AutoDynamic™ |
| Bộ mở rộng/Cổng | Threshold: -60dBu to +10dBu |
| Expansion Ratio | 1:1 đến 4:1 |
| Tấn công/Giải phóng | Phụ thuộc vào chương trình |
| Hiệu suất hệ thống | Bandwidth: 0.35Hz - 90kHz (+0/-3dB) |
| Đáp ứng tần số | 0.5Hz - 160kHz (+0/-3dB) |
| Tiếng ồn | <-93dBu, unweighted (22kHz measurement band) |
| THD+N | 0.04% typical at +4dBu, 1kHz |
| Biến dạng điều chế chéo | 0.08% typical SMPTE |
| Dải động | >113dB, unweighted |
| Nhiễu xuyên âm | <-90dB, 20Hz to 20kHz |
| Từ chối chế độ chung | >40dB, typically >55dB at 1kHz |
| Khớp nối âm thanh nổi | True RMS Power Summing™ |
| Nguồn điện | 15 Watts, 100VAC 50/60Hz, 230VAC 50/60Hz |
| Hoạt động Voltage | 100-120V~ 50/60Hz or 230V~ 50/60Hz |
| Nhiệt độ hoạt động | 0°C đến 45°C (32°F đến 113°F) |
| Thuộc vật chất | Dimensions (H x D x W): 1.75" x 5.75" x 19" (4.5cm x 14.6cm x 48.26cm) |
| Đơn vị Trọng lượng | 4.84 pound / 2.19 kg |
| Trọng lượng vận chuyển | 6.6 pound / 2.99 kg |

Figure 6: Official specifications sheet for the dbx 266xs, detailing electrical and physical characteristics.
9. Bảo hành và Hỗ trợ
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 webđịa điểm.
For technical support, service, or additional information, please contact dbx customer support:
- Hướng dẫn sử dụng chính thức (PDF): Tải xuống Hướng dẫn sử dụng PDF
- dbx Webđịa điểm: www.dbxpro.com
- Phone (Sales): 1.801.568.7660
- Phone (Int'l Fax): 1.801.568.7583
- Fax (Bán hàng): 1.801.568.7662
- E-mail: khách hàng@dbxpro.com
- Địa chỉ: 8760 S. Sandy Pkwy., Sandy, Utah 84070, USA