3.1 Basic Connections
The 166xs has balanced inputs and outputs, and can be used with any line-level device. Some
common examples include: mixing consoles, musical instruments, patch bays and other signal
processors. For more specific cabling information, refer to Installation Considerations, page 12.
For all connections, refer to the following steps:.
1. Turn Off all equipment before making any connections.
2. Mount the 166xs in a 1U rack space (Optional).
The 166xs requires one rack space (height) and 1 rack space (width). It can be mounted
above or below anything that doesn’t generate heat, since it requires no special ventilation.
Ambient temperatures should not exceed 113°F when equipment is powered.
Caution: Never remove the cover. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.
3. Make connections via XLR or 1/4” TRS jacks according to your requirements.
Typical patch points include: a mixer’s channel or subgroup inserts when using the 166xs on
individual instruments or tracks; the mixer’s main outputs or bus inserts when mixing; an
instrument preamp’s effects loop when using the 166xs for guitar or bass; main outs of a
submixer (e.g., keyboard mixer) as the signal is sent to main mixer; between a DAT’s
output and an analog cassette input. When using a chain of processors, the 166xs may be
placed either before or after effects or dynamic processors. However, if you are using the
166xs for speaker protection, the compressor should be as close to the amplifier as possible in
the signal chain. We recommend you use common sense and experiment with different
setups to see which one provides the best results for your needs.
NOTE:
Never connect the 166xs input to the speaker output of an instrument or power
amplifier.
4. Power On the unit: Securely connect the AC power cord to the unit and mains power.
NOTE:
Check the line voltage. The unit is shipped for 115V or 230V operation. Refer to the
unit’s rear panel to verify your unit’s precise line voltage.
Using the SIDECHAIN INSERT
The SIDECHAIN INSERT can be used to control the compressor or the expander/gate by signals
other than the audio input (via an auxiliary device, such as an equalizer). Common Sidechain
applications include keyed gating, frequency-sensitive gating and frequency-weighted
compression. These topics are covered in detail in the Operating Notes section of this manual.
Certain Sidechain applications may require special cabling.
Section 3
Making Connections
10
dbx 166xs
Section 3 - Making Connections
