Dbx 266 XL Compressors

Dbx 266 XL compressors

Most compressors/gates provide less than musical compression, coupled with gating that swallows transients—or closes early, cutting off decay and reverb tails. The superb engineering in the 266XL ensures that both its compression and gating provide versatility and excellent sonic performance in situations where other compressors/gates typically produce undesirable processing artefacts.

AutoDynamic™ Attack and Release controls

When using the 266XL’s AutoDynamic™ Attack and Release controls, artists and engineers will find that the centre settings deliver classic dbx compression, while the full control range produces voicings that extend from slow “levelling” to aggressive “peak” limiting.

The Auto Dynamic™ circuitry continuously adjusts the actual attack and release times to optimally match the program material. Since users aren’t restricted to using the Attack and Release controls only in “peak” operation, they can tailor the response of the 266XL for individual tracks, mixed program material, special effects or system protection. As a result, production studios can use the versatile 266XL to replace multiple “single-purpose” limiters while sound reinforcement users can standardize on the 266XL for all of their applications.

ultra-smooth

The Dbx 266 XL Compressors is advanced gate circuitry that uses a completely new, program-dependent timing algorithm to produce ultra-smooth release characteristics—even with complex signals, such as voice or reverb decays. dbx engineers went on to take advantage of the wide dynamic range and high precision of the dbx® VCA to design in an extra-wide threshold range and ensure top gating performance for each application.

precision LED displays

Separate precision LED displays for gain reduction, compression threshold and gate threshold allow quick, accurate setup, while the 266XL’s intuitive operation lets users easily smooth uneven levels add sustain to guitars, squash drums or tighten up mixes.

Compatibility between channels

In Stereo couple mode, the Channel 1 controls become Master controls, and Channel 2 follows precisely to ensure a rock solid stereo image—even with high amounts of compression. Professionals and newcomers will find that the 266XL sets up rapidly and musically the first time it is used, and every time thereafter.

true dbx audio performance and reliability

The dbx® Dbx 266 XL Compressors are the result of an intensive engineering and product development effort aimed at taking advantage of the latest and best advances in manufacturing technology to deliver true dbx audio performance and reliability to our customers at the lowest possible cost. The 266XL puts a completely new level of compressor/gate performance within everyone’s reach.

Recommended for: Portable, Tour, Studio.

Dbx 266 XL Compressors

Specifications

The BEHRINGER DBX 266XL is a dual-channel compressor/limiter/gate designed to enhance the dynamics and control of your audio signals. Popular among musicians, sound engineers, and home studio enthusiasts, it offers a versatile feature set for both live sound and recording applications. This comprehensive preview dives into the functionalities, specifications, applications, and user considerations of the DBX 266XL, providing you with the information needed to decide if it’s the right choice for your audio processing needs.

Core functionalities:

• Dual-channel operation: Processes two separate audio signals simultaneously, ideal for stereo sources or independent processing of individual instruments.
• Compressor: Controls the dynamic range of your audio by attenuating signals exceeding a specific threshold (compression threshold). This evens out volume fluctuations, tames peaks, and increases overall loudness without distortion.
• Limiter: Prevents your signal from exceeding a user-defined maximum level (limiting threshold). This protects your sound system from clipping and distortion, particularly important for live sound applications.
• Gate: Mutes audio signals below a specific level (gate threshold). This eliminates unwanted noise, such as hum, hiss, or microphone bleed, during quiet passages.

• Compression Section:
  • Threshold control: Sets the level at which compression starts to take effect.
  • Ratio control: Determines the amount of gain reduction applied to signals exceeding the threshold. Higher ratios result in more aggressive compression.
  • Gain reduction meter: Provides visual feedback on the amount of compression being applied.
  • Auto mode: Automatically adjusts attack and release times for program-dependent compression that adapts to different audio sources.
  • Manual mode: Offers independent controls for attack and release times, allowing for more precise control over the compression envelope.
• Limiting Section:
  • Threshold control: Sets the maximum level your signal can reach.
  • Output level control: Adjusts the overall output level of the processed signal.

• Gate Section:
  • Threshold control: Sets the level below which the gate mutes the signal.
  • Range control: Determines the amount of attenuation applied to signals below the threshold.
  • Fast/slow attack and release: Selects the speed at which the gate opens (attack) and closes (release) in response to the audio signal.
• Additional Features:
  • Stereo/Dual mode: Allows for linked stereo or independent dual-channel operation.
  • Balanced XLR and TRS connectors: Provide professional-grade connectivity for a wide range of audio equipment.
  • Illuminated switches and LED meters: Enhance visibility in low-light environments.
  • Rugged metal chassis: Ensures durability for portable use.

• Live Sound:
  • Taming dynamics of vocals, instruments (e.g., bass, drums)
  • Protecting sound systems from clipping
  • Eliminating microphone bleed and stage noise
• Recording:
  • Smoothing out vocal performances
  • Controlling instrument transients
  • Reducing background noise in recordings
• Broadcasting:
  • Maintaining consistent audio levels for voiceovers and interviews
  • Controlling dynamics of pre-recorded material