DBX 266xs Dual Compressor Gate - DBX266XSV

Product Overview

The DBX 266xs is a dual-channel compressor/gate that provides independent compression and gating on two channels simultaneously, suitable for home recording, project studio, live sound reinforcement, and broadcast applications requiring cost-effective dynamics control on stereo or dual-mono signal paths. Each channel provides dbx OverEasy or Hard Knee compression with continuously variable threshold and ratio controls, a PeakPlus limiter for overload protection, and an independent expander/gate section for noise reduction between program segments. A single-knob stereo link switch couples both channels for synchronized dynamics processing on stereo material.

Product Description

The DBX 266xs dual compressor/gate processes two independent audio channels with a complete dynamics control set on each channel: compressor with OverEasy or Hard Knee selection, variable threshold, ratio, attack, and release controls; a PeakPlus output limiter; and an expander/gate section with variable threshold control. The OverEasy setting provides a gradual, program-dependent transition into compression for transparent leveling of vocals and instruments, while Hard Knee provides a precise, defined compression point for more controlled, audible compression effects and peak limiting applications.

The PeakPlus limiter on each channel provides brick-wall overload protection above the limiter threshold, preventing digital clipping in recording applications and driver damage in amplified live sound systems. The expander/gate section reduces gain when the signal falls below the gate threshold, attenuating noise, hum, and signal bleed between program segments. Stereo link couples the side chain detection circuits of both channels, ensuring equal gain reduction on both channels when processing a stereo signal and maintaining stereo image stability during compression.

Each channel provides a 12-segment input level display and a 12-segment gain reduction display, giving the engineer immediate visibility of compression activity on both channels. The 266xs operates on 18V AC or 24V DC wall supply (included) and occupies a half-rack width in a standard 1U rack space. Available at Creation Networks for home recording, project studio, live sound, and broadcast applications.

Key Features

• Dual-Channel Independent Processing — Two fully independent compressor/gate channels process simultaneous mono or stereo signal paths.
• OverEasy or Hard Knee Compression — Selectable compression curve matches transparent leveling or defined, audible compression effects.
• PeakPlus Limiter — Brick-wall output limiting on each channel prevents digital overload in recording and driver damage in live sound.
• Expander/Gate — Independent gate section on each channel reduces noise and signal bleed between program segments.
• Stereo Link — Couples both channel side chains for equal gain reduction on stereo material.
• Variable Attack and Release — Manual attack and release controls provide adjustment for different program material types.
• 12-Segment Input and GR Metering Per Channel — Individual input level and gain reduction displays on each channel for complete monitoring.
• Half-Rack Format — 1U half-rack width; can be paired with a second unit in a standard 1U rack space.

Technical Specifications