dbx 286A, Owner'S Operation Manual

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Mic Preamp/
Processor
286A
®
6
LINE OUTPUT Jack:
The 286A’s LINE OUTPUT jack accepts either balanced or
unbalanced 1/4” phone plugs. Nominal output signal levels is 0dBu into 600 Ω , and
maximum output signal level is >+21dBu into 600 Ω . Output impedance is 100 Ω
unbalanced, 200 Ω balanced. The output is tip HOT.
INSERT Jack:
The 286A INSERT jack allows you to either add an effects loop
directly into the 286A circuitry chain or take a separate mic preamp signal out.
To connect one or more external processors or effects devices (e.g., an equalizer,
delay unit, etc.) between the Mic Preamp Section and the Processing Section, insert a
1/4” TRS plug carrying the external device’s output signal fully into the 286A’s
INSERT jack; the TIP acts as a Send, carrying the signal from the Mic Preamp
Section at an impedance of 100
Ω , while the RING acts as a Return for external
devices to feed the 286A’s processing circuitry (i.e., 286A’s compressor, de-esser,
etc.). This operation requires a Y-cable. When using INSERT as a direct in to the
Processing Section, MIC GAIN control, HIGHPASS button and PHANTOM
POWER will not be active.
To use the INSERT jack to MULT the preamp out (i.e., to provide an output with a
buffered version of the signal after the Mic Preamp circuitry, but before the
Processing Section), insert a Mono 1/4” plug fully into the INSERT jack, then pull
the plug out one click. Plug the other end of the cable to the appropriate load. This
will still allow the original signal path to continue to the Processing Section without
interruption.
Note: If the plug is accidentally pushed fully into the INSERT jack, it will break off the connection between
the Mic Preamp and Processing Sections; in this case, there would be no signal at the 286A’s LINE OUT-
PUT jack.
AC Power:
Connect the AC power cord to the AC receptacle on the back of the unit.
Route the AC power cord to a convenient power outlet away from audio lines. The
unit may be turned on and off from a master equipment power switch.
The 286A can be used with any low-level microphone signal (via the MIC INPUT) or
any line-level device (via the LINE INPUT). Some common line-level devices
include: mixing consoles, electronic musical instruments, patch bays, and signal
processors. For all connections, refer to the following steps:
1. Turn Off all equipment before making any connections.
2. Mount the 286A in a rack. (Optional)
Caution: Never remove the cover. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.
The 286A requires one rack space (height) and one rack space (width). It can be
mounted above or below anything that doesn’t generate excessive heat, since it
requires no special ventilation. Ambient temperature should not exceed 113°F
(45°C) when equipment is powered.
3. Make connections via rear panel jacks and connectors according to your
requirements.
A. Connect a microphone to the MIC INPUT XLR connector or a line
level source to the 1/4” LINE INPUT jack.
Important: DO NOT connect anything other than a microphone to the MIC INPUT.
B. Connect the load (e.g., mixer, tape recorder, etc.) to the 286A’s LINE
C
ONNECTING THE
286A T
O
Y
OUR
S
YSTEM
Basic Connection