dbx Pro 262 operation manual Front Panel, Output Level dB

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Front Panel

OverEasy® Switch: OverEasy® provides a smooth transition from the com- pressor’s linear region to the compressed region. This smooth transition greatly reduces compression artifacts and allows faster attack times and higher com- pression ratios while still maintaining the natural characteristics of the signal. The switch lights to indicate OverEasy® processing is enabled. Figure 1 below illustrates the the input/output relationships for OverEasy® operation. Figure 2 illustrates the same for hard knee operation. When conventional hard knee pro- cessing is desired, disable the OverEasy® function

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OUTPUT LEVEL (dB)

+20

+15

+10

+5

0

5

10

15

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1:1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2:1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4:1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

:1

 

 

 

 

 

 

R

RED

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

E

 

 

 

 

 

B

 

Above Threshold

 

 

 

 

M

 

 

 

 

 

 

A

 

 

 

 

 

E

E

N

 

OverEasy Range

 

R

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

G

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Below Threshold

15 10 5 0 +5 +10 +15 +20

INPUT LEVEL (dB)

1:1 Unity

 

+20

RED

 

 

Above Threshold

(dB)

+15

2:1

 

 

 

LEVEL

+10

20:1

+5

OUTPUT

 

4:1

0

:1

 

 

 

-5

Rotation Point Threshold

 

-10

 

 

 

GREEN

 

-15

Below Threshold

-15 -10 -5 0 +5 +10 +15 +20

INPUT LEVEL (dB)

Fig. 1 -OverEasy®

Fig. 2 - Hard Knee

THRESHOLD LEDs: These three LEDs indicate the relationship of the input signal level to the threshold of compression. The green “below” (-) LED is on when the signal is below threshold and the red “above” (+) LED is on when the signal is above threshold. When the 262 is switched to OverEasy® mode, the amber “O” LED is on when the signal is in the OverEasy® region (See Figure 1).

COMPRESSION RATIO Control: This control selects the ratio between input and output levels for signals above the threshold. Rotate this control clockwise to increase the amount of compression from 1:1 (no compression) up to infini- ty:1 (no increase in output level, regardless of input level increases above threshold); further clockwise rotation increases compression into the INFINI- TY+™ region, up to a maximum of -1:1 (i.e., a 1dB increase in input level above threshold causes a 1dB decrease in output level). In the INFINITY+™ region, the 262 inverts the program dynamics for special effects. Figures 1 and 2 illustrate input/output slopes corresponding to various compressor/limiter ratio settings.

OUTPUT GAIN Control: Adjust this control to vary the amount of fixed gain (up to ±20 dB) in the 262’s output amplifier stage. The OUTPUT GAIN control does not interact with the threshold of compression.

GAIN REDUCTION Meter: This 8-segment LED meter indicates the amount of gain reduction due to compression/limiting, ranging from 0 to 30 dB.

STEREO COUPLE Switch and LED: This switch changes the 262 from two independent compressors into a stereo compressor. In Stereo mode, Channel 1

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Contents Compressor Limiter Declaration of Conformity Table of Contents Warranty and Introduction Warranty IntroductionInspection and Front Panel InspectionFront Panel Operation Front Panel Output Level dBRear Panel and Connections Rear Panel Operation ConnectionsOperating Notes Using the Threshold ControlUsing the Compression Ratio Control Operating NotesOperating Notes and Applications ApplicationsMixing Board Applications Patch BaySound Reinforcement Fattening Kick Drums and Compressing Other Drums Raising a Signal Out of a Mix Preventing Tape SaturationPreventing Digital Overload Raising Average Level in PA Systems 262 as a Line AmplifierIncreasing Sustain Stereo Couple Compressor Limiter Harman International Company

262 specifications

The DBX Pro 262 is a highly regarded professional audio processor that excels in delivering versatile signal processing capabilities. Designed for both live sound and studio environments, the Pro 262 combines high-quality dynamics processing, filtering, and precision mastering features, making it a powerful tool for audio engineers and producers.

One of the standout features of the DBX Pro 262 is its dual-channel design, allowing users to process two different audio signals independently. This makes the device particularly well-suited for a variety of applications, from live concerts to studio recordings. Each channel is equipped with a comprehensive set of controls, including threshold, ratio, attack, release, and gain make-up, allowing for precise dynamic control over the audio signals.

The Pro 262 employs advanced VCA (Voltage Controlled Amplifier) technology, which delivers transparent compression without colorizing the audio. This technology is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the original sound while ensuring that levels are controlled efficiently. Additionally, the unit features a peak limiter that safeguards against unwanted distortion by preventing signals from exceeding a set threshold.

Another notable characteristic of the DBX Pro 262 is its inclusion of a full parametric equalizer. The EQ section provides users with up to 12 bands of adjustable frequency bands, enabling detailed shaping of the audio signal. This precision EQ allows for effective problem-solving in both live performance and studio mixing environments.

In terms of connectivity, the Pro 262 comes with balanced XLR inputs and outputs, ensuring that the signal integrity is maintained throughout the audio chain. It also features a sidechain input, which allows users to set up external control for dynamic processing based on different input signals.

The unit is designed with an intuitive, user-friendly interface that allows engineers to make quick adjustments during live performances. LED meters provide real-time feedback on levels and gain reduction, ensuring that users can monitor performance at a glance.

Overall, the DBX Pro 262 is not just a versatile processor; it is a reliable tool that brings professional-grade dynamics processing and equalization to a wide range of audio applications. Its cutting-edge technologies make it a must-have for any audio professional seeking to elevate their sound quality and creative expression.