3 Ways To Connect A Compressor To A Mixing Board (Without a Send/Return or Insert)

[@rustek45]

Hi! Your explanation to connect the dbx 266xl to a mixer is fantastic. The best one I found the last days. Today I bought the dbx 266XL. I have the Behringer xenyx 1204 usb mixing device. Perhaps I will need another one but your 3 options shown another way. I am very excited to get the dbx in the next days.

[@zackdelarocha8]

I'm not going to do any of these because I know i'll run in to more headaches. However, I truly appreciate that someone out there has provided ways for people to make do with what they have. Thank you for your help.

[@antonmarshall2]

On your first cutaway to demonstrate the cables I was like YAMAHA DESK! My absolute favourites.

[@backalleyenterprise4463]

Option 1 is exactly what I was looking for. Thank you for the confirmation!

[@LuizFeijotheGuitar]

hello, so is it possible, to connect a microphone wireless, straight to IN of compressor e from OUT compressor, connect to my mixing console( without insert)? i wonder if its possible this way, cause a normal microphone(cabled) doesnt work without a preamp. but now, with wireless mic and its receptor(pre amp) i think that could be. what you think?

[@XterSingsTV]

Hi! May i know what are those small cables that you used in 5:41? (Inserted in the input and output?) Thanks..

[@devonbiker]

Really good video. I have a question. Is there a reason you are not using XLR outputs? Instead you are using line outputs. Is there a reason or is it just preference?

[@pauldiaz4273]

Best tutorial video on KZbin! Thank you

[@sanskretro]

Thanks for info. It's been a longtime coming!

[@AudioReplica2023]

the first 5 seconds on this video I thought you were opening a mystery box or some shit like that. lol

[@jevogroni4829]

how many times did he say ”pramp”

[@AlexiLaihoFan]

Dude it was distracting me so much that I forgot what the video was about

[@Salthecat1]

Thanks for the video. Just got the DBX266xs primarily for the Bass guitar. I have the bass plugged into the 266-input and the 266-output routed into the sound interface. Just not able to get a noticeable difference in sound quality. Still fiddling with it. Any insights?

[@Rockysvideostation]

I loved it. Thanks for explaining! I was doing all wrong all these time. Now can you tell me how to connect the Behringer feedback destroyer fbq1000 to the Mackie Pro fx10v3 mixer? I don't have an aux send rather a control room.

[@MrJUNNY7777]

Amazing Master..Thank you for your kind explanation!!🙏 Can you tell me how to connect to a PA system if you got a mixer, two channel equalizer, two channel compressor using XLR cables?

[@MannyLeyva]

David, for that you can certainly use Option 3 with a little twist. Te Main output L and R from the Mixer will go to the Ch1 and 2 of the compresor, then the Outputs of the compressor will go to the EQ, then the outputs of the EQ will go to your PA's

[@MrJUNNY7777]

@@MannyLeyva THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME

[@truongtuanhai4005]

@@MannyLeyva Hi Manny Could you help me to set up/ connect my sound system: I have: a wireless microphone- Ultra high frequency a mic preamp dbx 286s a compressor 266xs a mixer soundcraft signature 12 an equalizer a PC with 1.000 mp3, mp4 I'm looking forward to hearing from you. Thank you so, so . . . so much in advance.

[@almashburn2424]

Thanks..... this helped out!!!! Can you use the audio interphase plugged into the computer in option 1 via USB. Instead of just powering it up through the charging block.

[@DrMobiusOfficial]

Regarding Option 1: Let's say I have an extra analog mixer instead of an interface. If I run the Left Out from the mixer into the input of the compressor (like at 3.28), do I need to do anything in relation to panning on the analog mixer? Thanks in advance! :D

[@ispianist]

I was looking for this comment as well.

[@renton500cc]

This tutorial is excellent ... exactly what I was looking for.

[@TrueSoundTV]

Glad to help!

[@moretrick]

OK but what about Mixing Boards that have Pre-Amps built in? In that case you would essentially connect your Microphone to the Mixing Board Pre-Amp, the master out would go the Compressor 266XS in, and the master out on the compressor could go out to a DJ mixer? Would that work?

[@jessehoward578]

Got under your skin that he doesn't pronounce it "Pre-Amp" too didn't it?🤔🤣🤣

[@GREYDOWNTIME]

Love channels like this, very helpful video

[@jeffcosner6047]

Good informative video. If I close my eyes, your voice sounds like Dee Snyder of Twisted Sister. LOL

[@StellaWembley]

wanting to connect a subzero booster to the mic, then the mic to the compressor unit and the compressor unit to the mixer, how would you do? Subzero states that the unit requires +48 volt to work.

[@bopleponge530]

Thank's for the vid, very clear explanations. I figured something out, but please correct me if I'm wrong : Using option 2, you could repeat the process to get compression on other lines. Let's say a live event, with 3 mic you want compression on : you plug your 3 mic into channel 1,2 and 3, faders at 0 (so you don't hear the dry uncompressed signal), Aux 1 knobs open (to send their 3 signals to the comp), and plug your compressor output to channel 4. Therefore the three voices come back as one wet compressed signal, in channel 4, and you can adjust their individual level using the Aux knobs on channel 1, 2 and 3. Am I right :) ?? Hope I make sense ! Cheers from south of France

[@EqDior]

With the Aux knob used to send to compression, if you use it also for for leveling that would continuously change not only the level but the amount of compression. This is because you are literally changing the feed to the compressor.

[@ThienTran-sp1jt]

Please guide me how to connect the TC Electronic M-ONE XL with the Yamaha MG12XU mixer. Thank you very much for all of your help and your time.

[@pastorjoeyaka]

Very clear, informative and easy to follow. Thanks a lot

[@Ray-yt7mk]

I’m a dj and I own a Yamaha MG12 XU and BBE driverack,do you think that I can use your system to run my subs separate by connecting them to the driverack?Thank you.

[@Mirandess1]

Then you go from mixer to pc? Or from mixer to sound card? I have allen & hearh zed10fx small mixer for my own gigs... Is he enough good for producing some covers or small projects?

[@oussmayo]

so option 3 can be used for masterbus compression if a mixer doesnt have inserts on the master? would there be any difference in doing masterbus compression like this instead of master inserts? My desk right now has inserts on the master and ive grown really fond of having a comp on my master but im considering a mixer that doesnt have inserts and wondering would there be any difference in doing masterbus compression in that way? thanks in advance!

[@bikesnbeerz]

Nice one. Clear with good flow.

[@TrueSoundTV]

Thanks, much appreciated!

[@anouarabouelfadle]

The 1 method is effective but the recording was not done from the mixer Give me a solution please

[@Ilikethatmusic_typebeats]

How do I connect multiple compressors and Eq’s with out a mixer? I have a patchbay, but I would like all of my equipment to be set up on its on channel.. What would be a better way to achieve that?

[@Phlypour]

I still don't know how to record the sound on my computer (DAW), since my audio interface will not be connected. If you could show how to add the compressor to the recording equipment chain that is already ready to record - would be very helpful.

[@ChiG2]

Can you do option 3 with a focusrite Scarlett 2i2 interface?

[@deepstonecrypt]

Do you know this by now? I have the exact same problem right now

[@MannyLeyva]

@@deepstonecrypt If I understood the video correctly, Option 3 is what you have to follow. From the L Main Output of the Mixer patch a cable to the compressor input Ch1 then the output of the compressor channel 1 goes to your Scarlet Ch1 (white cable) repeat for Mixer R main output to Compressor Channel 2 input then the output (red cable) goes to your Scarlett Ch2. Just plug the Scarlett to your computer and enjoy.

[@deepstonecrypt]

@@MannyLeyva thank you for your response! I just ordered a compressor and I'll Try it out the next days!

[@Retrocowboy100]

I am using a Shure SLX wireless mic, I'm coming out of the receiver and going straight into my dbx comp/lim, then into my mixer with no problems. (All XLR cables) I have No mic preamp. Seems to work ok. Do you think this is an ok way to go? I have inserts on my mixer, but I've never ordered the cables to see if it's any better?

[@Rabbit895]

Awesome , good job buddy, Thanks

[@TrueSoundTV]

Thank you

[@jimgresham5529]

Thanks for your video! Just got the WA76 compressor yesterday and already have the MPA II preamp. I will try option 1 to send comp out to my Tascam model 24 digital recorder. Can I send an elec. Bass signal into the preamp for an overdub? Your right....total noobie!

[@indiegun]

Did wiring your preamp/compressor this way work for you? I have the Tascam Model 24 myself and am trying to determine if this method is indeed safe and will actually work before I try it. I have a two channel rack pre-amp with phantom power and an ART Pro VLA II two channel compressor. And if it DOES work, is it safe to use XLR cabling for every stage or did you need to plug the compressor's OUT into the 1/4" Line input on the Tascam? Is it safe to use the phantom power for condenser mics on your pre-amp without damaging your compressor? Lastly, did you need to set your compressor to work at -10db or is it safe to leave it in +4db when plugging in to the Tascam this way? Sorry to ask so many questions but I've watched several videos and read countless articles on using outboard gear with the model 24 and nobody goes into any real detail on this type of setup. Most people don't even mention this as an option at all. It lead me to suspect it either won't work or can damage equipment in some way. Oh, and did sending your bass through this rig work? Thanks Jim!

[@hbtechtips2863]

Excellent video, Ray! Thanks.

[@vzbeatz1706]

option 2 is one of the ways but not the only way.. under the XLR in u have line in and insert, that insert is considered a line out directly from that same input which can then be sent from insert (out) into the compressor and then out into channel two of the mixer..or from compressor out straight into interface.. you can also connect the interface's output back into the mixer as playback from computer.. when pluging headphones into mixer you not only will hear the mic but also the playback of what ever ur recording on. Send and returns is better for reverb or delay processors only time i would consider any compression is if im seeking a dry and wet signal for parallel compression and that would be the reason for send nd return into compressor... option 3 is not an option if its gonna block me from multi tasking the board

[@TrueSoundTV]

Vz Beatz yes I agree that you could just use the insert, but this entire video is based on using a mixer that doesn’t have the insert jack. Not every small format mixer has an insert which is why I made this video

[@ghosttown6405]

that some good shit what im smokeing as will as this video we get the studio set over here ghost town i have to come back this at later date and time

[@aLoudSi1ence]

Thanks. Very helpful. Perhaps I should ask you here about my setup too. I specifically bought an interface umc1820 which has 8 inputs and 10 outputs. I have order 2 Klark Teknik KT 2A. Just found out that there is no internal routing in umc1820. Now I am wondering how to properly connect both compressors as I will run them in stereo? I will use them for recording vocals, guitars etc. I will also use them while after recording while mixing on two bus. Do I need a mixer with insert, sends and returns? Can't I just use them with audio interface? Many thanks for your time.

[@scotgray2770]

u use playback 3/4

[@23thkr]

Great channel and great content. Thanks for sharing :)

[@GodisBlackx]

If I have a patchbay with 1/4" plugs, can I plug in a mic using a female XLR (from Mic) to 1/4" cable (into patchbay) if I want to patcth different preamps? Will the 48v damage the 1/4" connection or does it have to be XLR?

[@YU5KBM]

Hello hope I get response since this is older video. I recently acquire mic preamp, compressor, equalizer and vritulizer all behringer cheap equipmant and alto mixer vhat would be the correct way to connect all the equipment. I currenly run mic in to preamp then virtulizer compressor and eq to mixer. What would be the best way to run this for voice, Im using it on the ham radio transmitter. Thanks in advance

[@TrueSoundTV]

Branko Mihajlovic hi, so yes the way you have it will work just fine. You can try preamp - eq - compressor - mixer for a bit of a warmer sound. Either way is a good way though!

[@YU5KBM]

@@TrueSoundTV OK thanks for response I will try both ways. Thanks for advice and response.

[@abdalmuhsseinalhussein886]

I also wish to explain the way of linking and greet you

[@Ahla-et]

Can you plug the microphone into the compresser and the output to the mixer?

[@AlanSrcFT]

Perhaps you have the answers. I have the allen and heat Zed 8 usb mixer and the audio Technica 2020 condenser microphone, and I bought a dbx 286sv preamp but I don't understand how to connect on my Mac to use on a streaming software like OBS? Thanks and regards.

[@TrueSoundTV]

So are you using the Zed 8 usb as an interface? If so that is how your getting the signal into your computer. You will need to change the audio settings in your MAC to use the Zed 8 as your soundcard to get audio in and out.

[@anthonylopez7146]

HOLA!MUY BUENOS TUS VIDEOS,UNA PREGUNTA COMO CONFIGURARIAS EL COMPRESOR PARA UN COMPRESION PARALELA EN UN SUBGRUPO?Y COMO CONTROLARIAS LA CANTIDAD DE COMPRESION QUE MEZCLO CON LA SEÑAR ORIGINAL,GRACIAS,DESDE ARGENTINA

[@deshonosgar1]

Hi love your channel... Wondering how to I connect dbx compressor and behringer multi effects units to focusrite 18i20 ? Would really appreciate any help ? Many thanks

[@KevinKathumba]

This is amazing

[@johnwrider8760]

I tried option one, am using PC to voice track my radio show, but after I follow your instructions, in my device section on my VT software which is on my laptop it does not appear for me to select to record my vocals? I have a DBX 266 XL and a USB AudioBox 96 and I purchased a 4 channel live mixer......what am I missing or doing wrong

[@7even11SnakeEyes]

Does everything work the same for a guitar?

[@stefandebeer2707]

I have a question and nobody can seem to help me. I want to know if it is possible to loopback the sidechain?

[@gpsymind]

Tnx for this video man..i was looking to by acoustic di, (for violin pick up) but now i think that i can use presonus audio box as preamp...peace!

[@shadowcanyon6962]

L.R. Baggs makes some killer D.I. boxes for acoustic instruments. Their new line is amazing and I have their old trusty acoustic D.I. box with eq. Nice addition to help me tone out my sound.

[@KeikoFXDesigns]

Im just gonna run it straight into my interface. I have the Presonus FireStudio project. Basically Out to In then mic out.

[@NotAnotherSatchFan]

My mixer only has FX Send and my only option is #2. I'm thinking if buying a new mixer with compressor is more practical? Or should I go ahead buy a compressor for better sounding and versatility?

[@piratedprivacy9052]

Mixer's built in 1knob Compressor is nothing-to-compare to a real 2-Ch Analog Compressor...

[@rustek45]

Hi, a few days ago I got the 266 XL. I have the bbe 882i too. I connected both devices via xlr-cables from in to out. From Behringer 1204 xenyx Mixer to 882i to 266XL and to audiointerface via xlr. That's ok? Or something wrong. The 266 xl is working.

[@aizelfrancinefuentes6624]

I love Yamaha mixer Sana all guy🎉🎉

[@rofascolas]

Thank you for the video. It needs more explanation about hooking up the input and output on the "option 1". If you used only one chanel on the preamp and compressor. Wouldn't that be mono?

[@TrueSoundTV]

Yes a single signal will always be mono. But just because it's mono doesn't mean it comes out of only one speaker or is bad at all. In fact most signals are recorded in mono. This mono setup would be great for vocals, guitar, bass, or single microphone drum setup

[@donaldcarter3393]

I appreciate your video Sir. Q?: I have a dbx 266XL. I have it run thru my SWR Sm-900 Bass PBA. I have return/send. My Q is ...what are the [ SIDE CHAIN ] jack used fore??

[@TrueSoundTV]

It can be used to send an additional signal to trigger the compression. So you could send the kick drum to the sidechain input and ever time the kick drum hits, it would trigger the compressor

[@rajeevsiriwardena3936]

Thanks buddy !

[@forsale313]

Thank you for the Gem.

[@rebertaschb3736]

Thank You !!!!

[@nelsoncansino9639]

Interesting tutorial! how about to a 12 channel mixer? what we are using today is an efx12 soundcraft connected to a focusrite. with your device, can you give me a guide how to connect the compressor to our existing sound connection? Thank you in advance. God bless!

[@TrueSoundTV]

I would need to know how you currently have it connected!

[@nelsoncansino9639]

@@TrueSoundTV as of now our existing connection is efx12 mixer to wirecast to pc. The quality sounds good but theres a little bit noise i dont know where it came from maybe your tutorial help to eliminate those unwanted sound.

[@kevinpetit9886]

Great video. Your right

[@majnu100]

Option 2 it is. Thanks for this

[@AndyMangele]

Same here! ;)

[@rudyonthego]

I have a Behringer PRO FBQ1502HD and a Mackie ProFX12v2 which I want to use for podcasting. How would you recommend I connect the 2 together?

[@TrueSoundTV]

Hi, so i'd run the outputs of the mixer into the Behringer EQ and then send that to your interface. Hope that helps - Thanks for watching!

[@michaeldavis2585]

I'll be using set up 3 seems the way thank s for input info ,I have home studio ,will be sure to subscribe to your channel .

[@TrueSoundTV]

Awesome, that is a very effective way to set it up. I appreciate the support, Thanks for watching!

[@justinwindley7586]

@@TrueSoundTV KZbin

[@andreapetucco6746]

Connecting a non balanced cable to a balanced output can damage the output circuits if the don't have protection resistors. This for example happen in the ART pro VLA II compressor which doesn't have those resistors.

[@oysteinsoreide4323]

There is no information that the output can't be connected to a single ended inputs. In fact it says that it gives 100 ohm output impedance to both balanced and unbalanced load. Which means it supports unbalanced jack.

[@oysteinsoreide4323]

www.artproaudio.com/product/pro-vla-ii-two-channel-vactrol-based-compressor/ look for the pdf document there.. States clearly that unbalanced 1/4 inch jacks can be used both for input and output.

[@un7t783]

Waite i have some questions tell me if this sounds right could i connect a art pro vla ii to a focusrite scarlett 18i20 gen 1 and then to TASCAM Model 12 Mixer / Interface / cause the focusrite might have a compressor too and the Tascam mixer i think it has a interface or am i wrong wouldent something go wrong please let me know and if it works would it enhance vocals thank you

[@hamanino]

thank you

[@Gani1875]

Hi would you give the setup diagrams into this video?

[@sergeant_zero]

Is that also working with a Yamaha MG10XU and a Behringer MDX2600?

[@TalentedAndHot]

can you use a synthesizer as a compressor?

[@neovincibeats]

Can u explain this too me with a mixer into a channel strip and into a compressor then back into a mixer than into a audio interface

[@mission440tv]

Perrfect! just I want connect my compressor, my preamp Presonus, my interface, to my mixer, how can I do that?

[@ryamrice8583]

Mission440tv that’s what I’m trying to do

[@VIDEOSLDHUKE]

Hi ,option one ,this way are you doble amping the mic ? One with the external amp and second time with the mixer gain?

[@AudioReplica2023]

Yes and no. In order to get the proper level INTO the compressor you need a way to PRE AMP the signal. (if your compressor doesnt have an input level knob and pre amp built in) so that way you can then compress the signal coming out properly. Now , I said yes and no because some pre amps leave the signal very clean without any harmonics added ...others serve as a color box pre amp. Best example API 512c , Neve mic pre amps such as those found on the 1073 EQ. There is a reason why this kind of pre amps are expensive.

[@VIDEOSLDHUKE]

Isaac Pizarro cool thanks a lot

[@firek5621]

I recently added a dbx 266 compress gate how do I hook it up from the equalizer?

[@jimgresham5529]

Is a mixer necessary ? Could't I go- - -Mic---mic pre---compressor----to digital recorder? Thanks

[@oysteinsoreide4323]

For recording of one instrument, you could do without mixer if you don't want to use the eq feature or effects that is built in to the mixer.

[@raulalaris]

So what your saying is it's easier to just own a mixer?

[@Parkster44]

any good vocal pre amps under 200 bucks? besides the audiobox?

[@rr88821]

can I directly connect my mic to the compressor? mic -> compress -> mixer -> audio interface?

[@piratedprivacy9052]

Generally, analog compressor are not design to handle/react to Mic Level signals.

[@lukemee1471]

Can I ask would you wire a feedback destroyer 1st to a mixer or a compressor

[@piratedprivacy9052]

Where is the Compressor right now in the signal chain?? Which signal you want yr feedback supressor to work on/auto-correct aka notch??

[@RichopBeatz]

how can i connect with focusrite 2i2

[@dorianwilson4559]

Hey Weeza, how can I hook up my setup? 1) Computer 2) Mixer 3) EQ 4) 2/3 Way Crossover 5) Compressor/Limiter/Gate 6) 2 Crown Amplifiers My Mixer has Aux/Send on thr main board. I don't have studio monitors nor a interface.

[@TrueSoundTV]

Dorian Wilson Hey, so the best way for me to help it through Instagram. Find True Sound Studios and send me a DM, this way you can send pictures which will be much easier than trying to explain it here. Thanks

[@dorianwilson4559]

@@TrueSoundTV thank you, thank you sooooo much....

[@3guavamidnit]

Hello - I have a Allen & Heath ZED 12FX mixer & dbx 266xs - how do I connect them together? can you please help...

[@ramonmolina3314]

Should the audio interface set at 0db?

[@jamesmarquez-gy1nt]

hola amigo mi pregunta es si la opción 3 me sirve para la conexión en mi estudio de grabación gracias

[@bradslawson6613]

I have been experimenting with coming out of a Shure slx wireless microphone receiver (xlr output) and going directly into the comp/lim xlr input. Then coming out of the comp/lim xlr output and going directly into the xlr mic input of my mixer. It appears as if it will work for live sound. I haven't tried it yet in a live situation. My dj/karaoke mixer doesn't have inserts. Does this sound like an OK way to do this? It appears to have plenty of gain. I have only tested it using my headphones and viewing the meters at this point. My main goal is to be able to limit the karaoke screamers from hurting everyones ears. (dbx166xl)

[@piratedprivacy9052]

you need to be able to at least feed -10dBV of Line Level signals from SLX Receivers, into those compressor.

[@piratedprivacy9052]

I further recommend you use the 1/4" Instrument Jack Out on the SLX Receiver.

[@peteryousef5177]

please, I want to ask. if i have a personal monitor mixer p16 and i have an analog mixer but i do not have a direct out . So what should I do ?.

[@LanNguyen-ss5dn]

Do i have to have audio interface to connect this compressor , what if I only have sound affect processor and graphic equalizer and mixer without audio interface ?

[@samarpitshrivastava3696]

what to do if i want separate compression on each channel? do i have to connect 16 compresors if i have a 16 channel mixer? or shall i connect a compressor through aux? i mean aux send will go into input of compressor and output of compressor will cone into aux in. so i can balance my compressor through aux fader/knob. is that a right way?

[@piratedprivacy9052]

You can opt to have 16 channels of Analog Compressor for 16 inputs of Mic/Instruments... Alternatively you can Sum-Comp. all yr channels/part thereof into 2-channels of Analog Compressor via 2 seperate Bus, be it via PreFader AuxSend Out ,OR, SubGroup Out; with ALL after Compression Signal returning into Free Channel on mixer...

[@lml1501]

Does the line input by pass the on board mixers pre amp. . . Does it apply to all consoles

[@neovincibeats]

How do I do this from a mixer to compressor back into mixer??

[@PAPIGONZO805]

I like option 1 thanks

[@TrueSoundTV]

El Gonzo glad to help!

[@musicman0150]

Can a keyboard be connected to a compressor, then to a mixer? I aquired four Alesis 3630 compressors and want to have all the signals compressed into the mixer before going to the powered speakers. I have three keyboards; one for each compressor then into the respective channel on the mixer. The fourth is for a future keyboard or drum machine, using same method.

[@TrueSoundTV]

Yes, because the keyboard has an analog signal output it can go straight into the compressor input!

[@beautymajumder7502]

musicman0150 .

[@matteodavi6558]

But how I use the compressor for example or external fx after I already recording in a daw?

[@ConfidenZe]

what if i have a stereo mic that has two xlr (male) townsend L22 mic(Y cable)=- 1 channel mic pre/channel strip -=(Y cable) ua apollo twin (need to maintain a stereo signal because if syphere mic modeling plug in)

[@MIKEYMADEIT]

Verry helpfull thx 🎼👌🏻🔥

[@Wazza722]

How’s it done if you want stereo?

[@samuelsamuel72]

Mixer, equalizer, compressor, crossover and amplifier how do you connect

[@andymccalla3130]

Thx for explain it

[@keysajbeats7996]

Please how was You able to connect it as an inset to run in a DAW. I have a preamp and two input audio interface,I have my mic output to my preamp then preamp output to klark compressor then my compressor output to my audio interface. But can’t get a return signal just a send signal in my Daw am using Studio one 4 which normally has pipeline for external hardware