Hello there, We had this installed in our venue to limit the level going to the PA speakers to comply with our noise limiter for the council.
We have now dismantled and discontinued our PA system due to lack of use in total this has run for 48hrs total. so like new !
It was stored in a data cabinet when in use locked and in a smoke damp free room. perfect condition.

The 266XS combines two processors per channel:

• Compressor — controls dynamic range (evens out loud/quiet signals)
• Expander/Gate — reduces background noise or mic bleed when the signal drops below a threshold

Typical uses:

• Smoother vocals in live sound
• Tightening bass guitar dynamics
• Adding punch to kick/snare
• Controlling podcast or streaming audio
• Cleaning up noisy microphones

Main features

• 2 independent channels or stereo-linked operation
• dbx’s OverEasy® soft-knee compression
• AutoDynamic attack/release
• Expander/gate section
• Balanced XLR and TRS I/O
• Sidechain inserts
• LED gain reduction metering

Sound character

The 266XS is generally considered:

• Clean and punchy
• Slightly “classic live sound” sounding
• More forgiving than ultra-clinical compressors
• Better for utility and control than “vintage coloration”

It’s not a boutique studio compressor, but for the money it’s very usable.

Good applicationsVocals

Very common for live vocals:

• Ratio around 3:1–4:1
• Medium attack
• Auto release
• A few dB of gain reduction

Drums

Can add punch to kick/snare:

• Faster attack
• Higher ratio
• Gate helps reduce cymbal bleed

Bass guitar

Excellent budget bass compressor:

• Smooths peaks
• Adds sustain
• Keeps levels consistent

Streaming / podcasting

Still useful with hardware mixers and interfaces.

Specs (highlights)AttributeValueChannels2Compression Ratio1:1 to ∞:1Gate Ratio1:1 to 4:1Frequency Response20Hz–20kHzDynamic Range>114 dBInputs/OutputsXLR + 1/4" TRSRack Size1U