dbx DriveRack 260 User manual

User Manual
DriveRack®
Complete Equalization & Loudspeaker Management System
Featuring
Custom Tunings
260

WARNING FOR YOUR PROTECTION
READ THE FOLLOWING:
KEEP THESE INSTRUCTIONS
HEED ALL WARNINGS
FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS
THE APPARATUS SHALL NOT BE EXPOSED TO DRIPPING OR SPLASHING
LIQUID AND NO OBJECT FILLED WITHI LIQUID, SUCH AS VASES, SHALL
BE PLACED ON THE APPARATUS.
CLEAN ONLY WITH A DRY CLOTH.
DO NOT BLOCK ANY OF THE VENTILATION OPENINGS. INSTALL IN AC-
CORDANCE WITH THE MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS.
DO NOT INSTALL NEAR ANY HEAT SOURCES SUCH AS RADIATORS,
HEAT REGISTERS, STOVES, OR OTHER APPARATUS (INCLUDING AMPLI-
FIERS) THAT PRODUCE HEAT.
ONLY USE ATTACHMENTS/ACCESSORIES SPECIFIED BY THE MANUFAC-
TURER.
UNPLUG THIS APPARATUS DURING LIGHTNING STORMS OR WHEN
UNUSED FOR LONG PERIODS OF TIME.
Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug.
A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other.A grounding
type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong.The wide blade or third
prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit your outlet,
consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs,
convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
Use only with the cart stand, tripod bracket, or table specified by the manufac-
ture, or sold with the apparatus.When a cart is used, use caution when moving
the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the
apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is
damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the
apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or
has been dropped.
POWER ON/OFF SWITCH: If the equipment has a Power switch, the Power
switch used in this piece of equipment DOES NOT break the connection from
the mains.
MAINS DISCONNECT: The plug shall remain readily operable. For rack-
mount or installation where plug is not accessible, an all-pole mains switch with
a contact separation of at least 3 mm in each pole shall be incorporated into
the electrical installation of the rack or building.
FOR UNITS EQUIPPED WITH EXTERNALLY ACCESSIBLE FUSE RECEP-
TACLE: Replace fuse with same type and rating only.
MULTIPLE-INPUT VOLTAGE:This equipment may require the use of a different
line cord, attachment plug, or both, depending on the available power source at
installation. Connect this equipment only to the power source indicated on the
equipment rear panel.To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, refer servic-
ing to qualified service personnel or equivalent.
If connected to 240V supply, a suitable CSA/UL certified power cord shall be
used for this supply.
This equipment is intended for rack mount use only.
Safety InStructIonS
NOTICE FOR CUSTOMERS IF YOUR UNIT IS EQUIPPED WITH A POWER CORD.
WARNING: THIS APPLIANCE SHALL BE CONNECTED TO A MAINS SOCKET OUTLET WITH A
PROTECTIVE EARTHING CONNECTION.
The cores in the mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following code:
GREEN and YELLOW - Earth BLUE - Neutral BROWN - Live
As colours of the cores in the mains lead of this appliance may not correspond with the coloured
markings identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:
•The core which is coloured green and yellow must be connected to the terminal in the plug
marked with the letter E, or with the earth symbol, or coloured green, or green and yellow.
•The core which is coloured blue must be connected to the terminal marked N or coloured black.
•The core which is coloured brown must be connected to the terminal marked L or coloured red.
This equipment may require the use of a different line cord, attachment plug, or both, depending
on the available power source at installation. If the attachment plug needs to be changed, refer
servicing to qualified service personnel who should refer to the table below. The green/yellow
wire shall be connected directly to the units chassis.
CONDUCTOR WIRE COLOR
Normal Alt
LLIVE BROWN BLACK
NNEUTRAL BLUE WHITE
EEARTH GND GREEN/
YEL GREEN
WARNING: If the ground is defeated, certain fault conditions in the unit or in the system to
which it is connected can result in full line voltage between chassis and earth ground. Severe
injury or death can then result if the chassis and earth ground are touched simultaneously.
The symbols shown above are internationally accepted symbols that warn of
potential hazards with electrical products. The lightning flash with arrowpoint in
an equilateral triangle means that there are dangerous voltages present within
the unit. The exclamation point in an equilateral triangle indicates that it is
necessary for the user to refer to the owner’s manual.
These symbols warn that there are no user serviceable parts inside the unit.
Do not open the unit. Do not attempt to service the unit yourself. Refer all
servicing to qualified personnel. Opening the chassis for any reason will void
the manufacturer’s warranty. Do not get the unit wet. If liquid is spilled on the
unit, shut it off immediately and take it to a dealer for service. Disconnect the
unit during storms to prevent damage.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

DecLaratIon of
conforMIty
Manufacturer’s Name: dbx Professional Products
Manufacturer’s Address: 8760 S. Sandy Parkway
Sandy, Utah 84070, USA
declares that the product:
Product name: dbx 260
Note: Product name may be suffixed by the EU.
Product option: None
conforms to the following Product Specifications:
Safety: IEC 60065 -01+Amd 1
EMC: EN 55022:2006
EN 55024:1998
FCC Part 15
Supplementary Information:
The product herewith complies with the requirements of the:
Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC
EMC Directive 2004/108/EC.
RoHS Directive 2002/95/EC
WEEE Directive 2002/96/EC
With regard to Directive 2005/32/EC and EC Regulation
1275/2008 of 17 December 2008, this product is designed,
produced, and classified as Professional Audio Equipment and thus
is exempt from this Directive.
Roger Johnsen
Vice President of Engineering
8760 S. Sandy Parkway
Sandy, Utah 84070, USA
Date: May 19, 2010
European Contact: Your local dbx Sales and Service Office or
Harman Music Group
8760 South Sandy Parkway
Sandy, Utah 84070, USA
Ph: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
u.K. MaInS PLuG WarnInG
A molded mains plug that has been cut off from the cord is unsafe.
Discard the mains plug at a suitable disposal facility.
NEVER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU
INSERT A DAMAGED OR CUT MAINS PLUG INTO A 13
AMP POWER SOCKET.
Do not use the mains plug without the fuse cover in place.
Replacement fuse covers can be obtained from your local retailer.
Replacement fuses are 13 amps and MUST be ASTA approved to
BS1362.
If you want to dispose this product, do not mix it with general household waste. There is a
separate collection system for used electronic products in accordance with legislation that
requires proper treatment, recovery and recycling.
Private household in the 25 member states of the EU, in Switzerland and Norway may return their used
electronic products free of charge to designated collection facilities or to a retailer (if you purchase a similar
new one).
For Countries not mentioned above, please contact your local authorities for a correct method of disposal.
By doing so you will ensure that your disposed product undergoes the necessary treatment, recovery and
recycling and thus prevent potential negative effects on the environment and human health.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
eLectroMaGnetIc
coMPatIBILIty
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules and
the Product Specifications noted on the Declaration of
Conformity. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
• this device may not cause harmful
interference, and
• this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired
operation.
Operation of this unit within significant
electromagnetic fields should be avoided.
• use only shielded interconnecting cables.

DriveRack®
DriveRack® User Manual
Introduction
0.1 Defining the DriveRack 260 ............................ii
0.2 Service Contact Info........................................iii
0.3 Warranty ..........................................................iv
Section 1 - Getting Started
1.1 Rear Panel Connections...................................2
1.2 Front Panel .......................................................3
1.3 Quick Start........................................................4
Section 2 - Editing Functions
2.1 Basic Navigation Modes ................................14
2.2 Effect Button Array Overview .......................14
2.3 Navigating the Pre-EQ Section......................15
2.4 Navigating the Crossover Section .................15
2.5 Navigating the Other Section ........................16
2.6 Navigating the Dynamics Section .................16
2.7 Navigating the Delay Section ........................17
2.8 Navigating the Utility/Meters Section............17
2.9 Navigating the Wizard Section ......................18
2.10 Navigating the I/O Section..........................18
Section 3 - Configuration Functions
3.1 Program Definition.........................................20
3.2 Navigating Factory Programs.........................20
3.3 Editing Factory Programs...............................21
3.4 Saving Factory Program Changes..................22
3.5 Creating a User Configuration.......................23
3.6 Saving Configuration Changes ......................26
Section 4 - Detailed Parameters
4.1 Pre-Crossover EQ (28 Band Graphic or 9-Band
Parametric)............................................................28
4.2 Feedback Eliminator (AFS)............................29
4.3 Subharmonic Synthesizer...............................30
4.4 Noise Gate......................................................31
4.5 Automatic Gain Control (AGC) .....................32
4.6 Notch Filters ...................................................33
4.7 Crossover ........................................................33
4.8 Post-Crossover PEQ .......................................33
4.9 Compressor/Limiter........................................34
4.10 Alignment Delay...........................................37
4.11 Input Routing ...............................................37
4.12 Output...........................................................38
Section 5 - Utilities/Meters
5.1.1 LCD Contrast/Auto EQ Plot........................40
5.1.2 PUP Program/Mute .....................................40
5.1.3 ZC Setup ......................................................41
5.1.4 Security ........................................................43
5.1.5 Program List/Program change....................45
5.2.1 Meters...........................................................47
Section 6 - Remote Control
6.1.1 DriveWare™ PC Software GUI...................50
6.2.1 ZC-Zone Controllers....................................54
Section 7 - Application Guide
7.1 Mono 4-Way w/ 2 Aux Zones ......................60
7.2 Stereo Tri-Amp ...............................................61
7.3 Stereo w/ four Aux Zones.............................62
7.4 Stereo Bi-Amp w/ Dual Delays.....................63
Appendix
A.1 Factory Reset..................................................66
A.2 Power up Quick Key Options......................66
A.3 Specifications .................................................67
A.4 Auto EQ Optimization...................................68
A.5 Crossover Diagrams.......................................69
A.6 Program List/ Speaker Tunings/ Power Amp
Tunings...........................................................70
A.7 Block Diagram...............................................71
A.8 Input and Output Section Diagrams ............72
A.9 Gain Level Jumpers .......................................73
A.10 System Setup and Gain Structure ...............73
Table of Contents

INTRO
CUSTOMER SERVICE INFO
Defining the
DriveRack
WARRANTY INFO
INTRODUCTION
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DriveRack® User Manual
Congratulations on your purchase of the dbx® DriveRack 260 Complete Equalization and
Loudspeaker Management System! For over 30 years, dbx has been the industry leader in
dynamics processing. With the DriveRack 260, dbx Professional Products has redefined the
standard by which all other loudspeaker management processors will be compared.
The DriveRack 260 continues the legacy of the DriveRack® family. The DriveRack 260 was
designed with the purpose and vision of providing state-of-the-art signal processing, while
utilizing a simple and intuitive user interface. For more information, please visit: www.driverack.
com or www.dbxpro.com.
This manual will be your guide to understanding the full functionality of the powerful DriveRack
260 . By combining the different components, the configuration possibilities are limitless. After
you have become familiar with the unit, we encourage you to experiment and find the most
effective and efficient way to run your system by utilizing the powerful processing of the
DriveRack 260.
0.1 Defining the DriveRack 260 System
The dbx DriveRack 260 is the most effective way to manage all aspects of post mixer processing
and signal routing. The DriveRack 260 essentially becomes the only device that you will need
between the mixer and the power amps. The following are just some of the features of the
DriveRack 260.
DriveRack®260 Features:
• Advanced Feedback Suppression™
• 2.7 Seconds of Alignment and Zone Delay
• RS-232 PC GUI control
• Classic dbx®Compression and Limiting
• Graphic and Parametric EQ
• Independent Input and Output Processing
• Auto-EQ Function
• Full Bandpass, Crossover, and Routing Configurations
• Auto Gain Control
• Pink Noise Generator and full-time RTA
• Setup Wizard with JBL®and Crown®Components
• Security Lockout
• Wall Panel Control Inputs
INTRODUCTION
Introduction

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In addition to the amazing menu of processors available, the 260 also affords you the luxury of
utilizing dbx Zone-Controller series wall-mounted control panels that will allow you to remotely
control various parameters of the 260. The ZC-1 offers remote programmable Volume control to
any installation using the DriveRack 260. The ZC-2 provides programmable Volume and Mute
control. Both the ZC-1 and ZC-2 can be programmed for up to six outputs of the DriveRack
260. The ZC-3 allows Program Selection on the 260. The ZC-4 also offers Program Selection via
Contact Closure inputs for Room Combining applications. Up to six Zone Controllers can be
used with a single DriveRack 260, and can either be wired in series or parallel. The ZC-BOB
was created to accommodate “home-run” or parallel wiring to the unit. With a maximum length
of 1,000 ft. for each home run (maximum length for series cabling varies), the Zone Controllers
offer a simple way to create a simple yet elegant solution to many installation applications.
ZC-BOB ZC-1 ZC-2 ZC-3 ZC-4
0.2 Service Contact Info
If you require technical support, please see the Support section of our website at www.dbxpro.
com. If you still require assistance, please contact dbx Technical Support. Be prepared to
accurately describe the problem. Know the serial number of your device - this is printed on a
sticker attached to the chassis. If you have not already taken the time to fill out your warranty
registration card and send it in, please do so now. You may also register online at
www.dbxpro.com.
Before you return a product to the factory for service, we recommend you refer to the manual.
Make sure you have correctly followed installation steps and operation procedures. For further
technical assistance or service, please contact our Technical Support Department at (801) 568-
7660 or visit www.dbxpro.com. If you need to return a product to the factory for service, you
MUST first contact Technical Support to obtain a Return Authorization Number.
No returned products will be accepted at the factory without a Return Authorization Number.
Please refer to the Warranty information on the following page, which extends to the first
end-user. After expiration of the warranty, a reasonable charge will be made for parts, labor,
and packing if you choose to use the factory service facility. In all cases, you are responsible
for transportation charges to the factory. dbx will pay return shipping if the unit is still under
warranty.
Use the original packing material if it is available. Mark the package with the name of the
shipper and with these words in red: DELICATE INSTRUMENT, FRAGILE! Also write the Return
Authorization Number (RA#) on the outside of the box in a conspicuous location. Insure the
package properly. Ship prepaid, not collect. Do not ship parcel post.
Introduction

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DriveRack® User Manual
0.3 Warranty
This warranty is valid only for the original purchaser and only in the United States.
1. The warranty registration card that accompanies this product must be mailed within 30 days
after purchase date to validate this warranty. You can also register online at
www.dbxpro.com. Proof-of-purchase is considered to be the responsibility of the consumer. A
copy of the original purchase receipt must be provided for any warranty service.
2. dbx warrants this product, when bought and used solely within the U.S., to be free from
defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service.
3. dbx liability under this warranty is limited to repairing or, at our discretion, replacing
defective materials that show evidence of defect, provided the product is returned to dbx WITH
RETURN AUTHORIZATION from the factory, where all parts and labor will be covered up to
a period of two years. A Return Authorization number must first be obtained from dbx. The
company shall not be liable for any consequential damage as a result of the product’s use in
any circuit or assembly.
4. dbx reserves the right to make changes in design or make additions to or improvements upon
this product without incurring any obligation to install the same additions or improvements on
products previously manufactured.
5. The foregoing is in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied, and dbx neither assumes
nor authorizes any person to assume on its behalf any obligation or liability in connection with
the sale of this product. In no event shall dbx or its dealers be liable for special or consequential
damages or from any delay in the performance of this warranty due to causes beyond their
control.
Introduction

Getting Started
Section 1
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DriveRack® User Manual
Section 1
1.1 Rear Panel Connections
IEC Power Cord Receptacle
The DriveRack 260 comes with a power supply that will accept voltages ranging from
100V-120V at frequencies from 50Hz-60Hz (domestic version model). An IEC cord is included.
The EU version accepts 220V-240V at frequencies from 50Hz-60Hz.
Power Switch
The Power Switch turns the DriveRack 260 on and off. Note: dbx Professional Products
recommends that power amplifiers connected to the DriveRack 260, should be powered down
prior to cycling the power on the DriveRack 260.
PC Connection
This DB-9 type connection is used to send and receive information to and from the GUI
interface and for firmware updates.
RS485 Zone Control Input (RJ-45 connector type)
This input connection is used to send information and power to the ZC wall controllers.
Outputs 1-6
The output section of the DriveRack 260 offers six electronically balanced XLR connectors.
Inputs 1-2
The input section of the DriveRack 260 offers two electronically balanced XLR connectors.
Ground Lift Switch
The ground lift switch lifts the pin 1 chassis ground of both input XLR connectors.
RTA Input Jack
This balanced XLR input is used for the connection of an RTA microphone, which allows the
user to “Pink” and optimize the EQ settings of any room through the use of the Auto EQ in the
Wizard setup assistant.
Getting Started

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Section 1
1.2 Front Panel
LCD Display
The backlit LCD display of the DriveRack 260 provides the user with all of the vital processing
information of the DriveRack 260 including: signal routing, effect block editing and Wizard
Setup functions. The display will also notify the user if any internal clipping is taking place
within the unit by displaying “CLIP” in the display.
Data Wheel
The Data wheel of the DriveRack 260 is used to scroll through the program menu, load
programs, select parameters and edit parameter values.
Function Buttons
The function buttons of the DriveRack 260 allow direct access to all editing and navigating
functions of the DriveRack 260. See sections 2.1 and 2.2 for a detailed description on the
functions of each of these buttons.
Input Meters
The DriveRack 260 provides the user with two independent, six segment Lightpipe™ input
meters that range from -30 to +22 dBu. These meters monitor the signal level right after the
input module.
Threshold Meters
The threshold meters indicate that the threshold level has been exceeded within the Limiter or
Auto Gain Control sections, and gain reduction may be taking place within the specific output
channel.
Output Mutes
The six output mute buttons are used for independently muting each output on all six outputs
of the DriveRack 260.
Output Meters
The DriveRack 260 provides the user with six independent six-segment Lightpipe™ output
meters that range from -30 to +22 dBu.
Getting Started

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DriveRack® User Manual
Section 1
1.3 Quick Start
For those of you that wish to jump right in, the following information has been provided to act
as a quick start guide for optimizing performance of the DriveRack 260.
Connections
When setting up the DriveRack 260, make connections as follows:
• Always make connections prior to applying power to the unit.
• Connect the output(s) from the sending device (mixer) to the Ch. 1 XLR input connector
(mono) or both, Ch. 1 and Ch. 2 XLR input connectors (stereo).
• Make output connections from the output XLR connector(s), shown below, to the input
connector(s) of the selected power amps. For customers new to the DriveRack 260, we
recommended starting with output 1 and then working up from there. Here are some
examples:
• Full Range - Outputs 1 & 2 (all frequencies are passed)
• 2-Way - Outputs 1 & 2 (highs), Outputs 3 & 4 (lows)
• 3-Way - Outputs 1 & 2 (highs), Outputs 3 & 4 (midrange), Outputs 5 & 6
(lows)
Of course you do have options to configure the DriveRack 260 differently than the examples
listed above. However, for the novice user, adhering to the above connection examples will
lower the probability of improper configuration.
If you have the optional RTA microphone, connect the microphone to the XLR RTA Mic Input.
IMPORTANT: It is recommended that the power amps are turned off prior to cycling power
to the Driverack 260. Always make sure that your power amps are the last item turned on and
the first turned off.
Once all of the connections have been made, and the unit is powered up, you can navigate
through the entire signal path of the DriveRack 260 from the front panel of the unit. The
display provides you with a clear and concise overview of each aspect of the signal path
from the input (left side of display) to the output section (right side of display).
Getting Started

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Section 1
Step-by-step Setup Procedure
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