1. はじめに
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.

図1: 前面 view of the dbx 266xs Compressor/Gate, showing controls for two independent channels.
2. 安全情報
本装置を操作する前に、すべての安全に関する指示をよく読んで理解してください。このマニュアルは、今後の参考のために保管してください。
- 感電の危険: ユニットを開けないでください。内部にはユーザーが修理できる部品はありません。修理はすべて資格のあるサービス担当者にご依頼ください。
- 電源: Connect the unit only to the specified power supply (100-120V~ 50/60Hz, 15 Watts).
- 水分: 火災や感電の危険を減らすため、この機器を雨や湿気にさらさないでください。
- 換気: 適切な換気を確保してください。通気口を塞がないでください。
- 配置: ユニットを熱源の近くや直射日光の当たる場所に置かないでください。
- クリーニング: 乾いた布でのみ清掃してください。

図2:背面 view of the dbx 266xs, showing input/output connections and safety warnings.
3. 特徴
The dbx 266xs Compressor/Gate offers a range of features designed for professional audio processing:
- 多彩な接続性: Equipped with quality XLR and 1/4" TRS inputs and outputs for seamless integration into various audio setups.
- 強化されたボーカルの明瞭度: Optimizes vocals to stand out with improved clarity and presence in a mix.
- プロのパフォーマンス: Utilizes patented Overeasy® compression technology and AutoDynamic™ attack and release controls for smooth, musical performance.
- サイドチェーン挿入: 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.
- 多用途アプリケーション: 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. セットアップ
4.1物理的な設置
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 接続
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.
- 入力: 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.
- 出力: Connect the processed audio signal from the 1/4" TRS or XLR outputs to your next device in the signal chain (e.g., power ampライター、録音インターフェース)。
- サイドチェーン挿入: 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).
- 力: 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).

図4:詳細 view of the rear panel, showing XLR and 1/4" TRS inputs/outputs and sidechain inserts for both channels.
5. 操作手順
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
- しきい値: Sets the level below which the gate will begin to attenuate the signal. Adjust this to eliminate unwanted noise or bleed.
- 比率: 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
- しきい値: Sets the level above which compression begins. Signals exceeding this level will be compressed.
- 比率: 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.
- 攻撃: 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.
- リリース: 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.
- 出力ゲイン: Adjusts the overall output level of the processed signal to compensate for gain reduction caused by compression.
- ゲインリダクションメーター: A series of LEDs indicating the amount of gain reduction (compression) being applied in dB.
5.3 システムコントロール
- 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.
- バイパスボタン: 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. メンテナンス
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your dbx 266xs.
- クリーニング: 本体の外装は、柔らかく乾いた布で拭いてください。液体洗剤やエアゾールは、表面や内部部品を傷める可能性があるため、使用しないでください。
- ストレージ: 長期間使用しない場合は、直射日光や極端な温度を避け、涼しく乾燥した場所に保管してください。
- 換気: 過熱を防ぐために、通気口にほこりやごみが詰まっていないことを定期的に確認してください。
- ケーブル接続: Periodically inspect all audio and power cables for wear or damage. Replace any faulty cables immediately.
7。 トラブルシューティング
If you encounter issues with your dbx 266xs, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
| 問題 | 考えられる原因 / 解決策 |
|---|---|
| 電源が入らない / ユニットがオンにならない |
|
| オーディオ出力なし |
|
| 歪んだオーディオ |
|
| 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. 仕様
Below are the technical specifications for the dbx 266xs Compressor/Gate:
| カテゴリ | 仕様 |
|---|---|
| 入力 | 1/4" TRS and female XLR (pin 2 Hot), Electronically balanced/unbalanced, RF filtered |
| 入力インピーダンス | Balanced: 50kΩ, Unbalanced: 25kΩ |
| 最大入力レベル | +22dBu balanced or unbalanced |
| 出力 | 1/4" TRS and female XLR (pin 2 Hot), Impedance-balanced/unbalanced, RF filtered |
| 出力インピーダンス | Balanced: 100Ω, Unbalanced: 50Ω |
| 最大出力レベル | +21dBu balanced/unbalanced into 2kΩ or greater |
| サイドチェーンインサート | 1/4" TRS Phone Jack (Tip=Output, Ring=Input) |
| Sidechain Impedance | Tip: 1kΩ (Output), Ring: 10kΩ (Input) |
| コンプレッサー | Threshold: -40dBu to +20dBu |
| 比率 | 1:1 to Infinity:1 (Selectable Overeasy® or Hard-knee) |
| アタック/リリース | Program-dependent AutoDynamic™ |
| エキスパンダー/ゲート | Threshold: -60dBu to +10dBu |
| Expansion Ratio | 1:1 から 4:1 |
| アタック/リリース | プログラムに依存 |
| システムパフォーマンス | Bandwidth: 0.35Hz - 90kHz (+0/-3dB) |
| 周波数応答 | 0.5Hz - 160kHz (+0/-3dB) |
| ノイズ | <-93dBu, unweighted (22kHz measurement band) |
| THD+N | 0.04% typical at +4dBu, 1kHz |
| 相互変調歪み | 0.08% typical SMPTE |
| ダイナミックレンジ | >113dB, unweighted |
| クロストーク | <-90dB, 20Hz to 20kHz |
| コモンモード除去 | >40dB, typically >55dB at 1kHz |
| ステレオカップリング | True RMS Power Summing™ |
| 電源 | 15 Watts, 100VAC 50/60Hz, 230VAC 50/60Hz |
| 営業巻tage | 100-120V~ 50/60Hz or 230V~ 50/60Hz |
| 動作温度 | 0°C ~ 45°C (32°F ~ 113°F) |
| 物理的な | Dimensions (H x D x W): 1.75" x 5.75" x 19" (4.5cm x 14.6cm x 48.26cm) |
| 単位重量 | 4.84 ポンド / 2.19 kg |
| 発送重量 | 6.6 ポンド / 2.99 kg |

Figure 6: Official specifications sheet for the dbx 266xs, detailing electrical and physical characteristics.
9. 保証とサポート
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 webサイト。
For technical support, service, or additional information, please contact dbx customer support:
- 公式ユーザーマニュアル(PDF): PDFマニュアルをダウンロード
- dbx Webサイト: www.dbxpro.com
- Phone (Sales): 1.801.568.7660
- Phone (Int'l Fax): 1.801.568.7583
- ファックス(販売): 1.801.568.7662
- メールアドレス: customer@dbxpro.com
- 住所: 8760 S. Sandy Pkwy., Sandy, Utah 84070, USA