Allen & Heath DX168 Portable DX Audio Expander 16 × 8 XLR
The Allen & Heath DX168 is a rugged 96kHz portable audio expander offering 16 mic preamps and 8 XLR line outputs, connecting to dLive, Avantis, or SQ systems via a single Cat5e EtherCon cable, with an optional 4U rack kit for fixed installation.Overview
The Allen & Heath DX168 is a rugged, 96kHz portable expander engineered for adding remote I/O to dLive, Avantis, and SQ mixing systems. Each unit provides 16 mic preamps with independent phantom power LED indicators and 8 XLR line outputs, connected via a single Cat5e EtherCon cable. Its rubber-bumpered chassis is built to withstand stage-floor operation, while an optional 4U rack mounting kit enables fixed-installation deployment in rental, education, houses of worship, and corporate AV environments.
Key Features
- 16 mic preamps on XLR with independent phantom power LED indicators
- 8 XLR line outputs
- 96kHz audio over a single Cat5e EtherCon cable
- Dual locking EtherCon ports for redundancy or daisy-chaining
- Rugged design with rubber bumpers for stage-floor use
- Carry handle for easy transport; optional 4U rack mount kit available
- Compatible with dLive, Avantis, and SQ systems
Specifications
- Type: Portable DX Audio Expander
- Inputs: 16 × XLR Mic/Line with phantom power
- Outputs: 8 × XLR Line
- Sample Rate: 96kHz
- Connectivity: 2 × locking EtherCon (Cat5e), dLive / Avantis / SQ
- Color: Black
- Weight: 4.58 kg
- Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Why Buy from Procure.ae
Procure.ae delivers professional Allen & Heath audio equipment to system integrators, rental companies, and institutional AV buyers across the UAE and wider GCC. Request a quote for the DX168 or ask about multi-unit project discounts.
FAQ
Q: How many DX168 units can be added to a dLive system?
A: Up to 6 DX168 units can connect directly to a dLive system (4 via the MixRack, 2 via the Surface). More units can be added via a DX Link card or DX Hub.
Q: Is the DX168 compatible with SQ and Avantis mixers?
A: Yes. Two units can be daisy-chained directly to an SQ or Avantis SLink port, with further expansion possible through DX Link cards and DX Hubs.
Description
Overview
The Allen & Heath DX168 is a rugged, 96kHz portable expander engineered for adding remote I/O to dLive, Avantis, and SQ mixing systems. Each unit provides 16 mic preamps with independent phantom power LED indicators and 8 XLR line outputs, connected via a single Cat5e EtherCon cable. Its rubber-bumpered chassis is built to withstand stage-floor operation, while an optional 4U rack mounting kit enables fixed-installation deployment in rental, education, houses of worship, and corporate AV environments.
Key Features
- 16 mic preamps on XLR with independent phantom power LED indicators
- 8 XLR line outputs
- 96kHz audio over a single Cat5e EtherCon cable
- Dual locking EtherCon ports for redundancy or daisy-chaining
- Rugged design with rubber bumpers for stage-floor use
- Carry handle for easy transport; optional 4U rack mount kit available
- Compatible with dLive, Avantis, and SQ systems
Specifications
- Type: Portable DX Audio Expander
- Inputs: 16 × XLR Mic/Line with phantom power
- Outputs: 8 × XLR Line
- Sample Rate: 96kHz
- Connectivity: 2 × locking EtherCon (Cat5e), dLive / Avantis / SQ
- Color: Black
- Weight: 4.58 kg
- Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Why Buy from Procure.ae
Procure.ae delivers professional Allen & Heath audio equipment to system integrators, rental companies, and institutional AV buyers across the UAE and wider GCC. Request a quote for the DX168 or ask about multi-unit project discounts.
FAQ
Q: How many DX168 units can be added to a dLive system?
A: Up to 6 DX168 units can connect directly to a dLive system (4 via the MixRack, 2 via the Surface). More units can be added via a DX Link card or DX Hub.
Q: Is the DX168 compatible with SQ and Avantis mixers?
A: Yes. Two units can be daisy-chained directly to an SQ or Avantis SLink port, with further expansion possible through DX Link cards and DX Hubs.
Specifications
Brand
Allen & Heath
Product Type
Portable Dx Expander
Storefront L1
Audio Video
Storefront L2
Dj Live
Storefront L3
Dj Controllers
Weight (Spec)
4.58
Color (Spec)
Black
Country of Origin
United Kingdom
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I choose a portable DX168 over a fixed expander?
The DX168 is built for touring and temporary setups where you need a rugged, self-contained audio expander that travels with your rig. Its 16 mic preamps and 8 outputs fit in a compact chassis without sacrificing durability or professional connectivity.
How does the single Cat5e connection simplify cabling?
One EtherCon cable carries all 16 mic inputs and 8 line outputs plus full network control to your dLive, Avantis, or SQ console. This eliminates dozens of separate analog cables, reducing setup time and clutter in touring and temporary venues.
What makes the DX168 rugged enough for touring?
The portable design with a compact 5U-class chassis and reinforced casing withstands road transport, frequent setup/teardown, and the vibration of touring venues. Professional-grade connectors and LED status indicators ensure reliability on stage and in field applications.
Can I permanently install the DX168 in a venue?
Yes, the optional 4U rack kit allows you to mount the DX168 as a fixed installation in a server room, control booth, or equipment closet. This flexibility makes it suitable for both touring and permanent installations.
What sample rates and audio quality does the DX168 support?
The DX168 operates at up to 96 kHz, delivering professional broadcast and live sound quality. This ensures minimal latency and pristine audio fidelity whether you are recording, mixing, or broadcasting.
How do I know if all 16 preamps and 8 outputs are functioning correctly?
The DX168 includes LED indicators for power, network connectivity, and channel status. These visual cues let you quickly troubleshoot connections and confirm all I/O is active before a performance.
What lead time should I expect for a DX168 delivery?
Lead times depend on availability and your location. Contact Procure.ae with your order to receive a delivery estimate for the UAE or GCC region.
Does Procure.ae help with setup and configuration?
Procure.ae can provide guidance on integration, cabling, and system configuration. Reach out to our team to discuss your specific touring or installation scenario.
How many inputs and outputs does the DX168 provide?
The DX168 delivers 16 mic preamps with phantom power and 8 XLR line outputs, expandable through additional ports on compatible dLive, Avantis, and SQ systems.
What cable and connector types does it use?
The DX168 connects via a single Cat5e EtherCon cable to your mixing console. Mic inputs and line outputs are XLR connectors for industry-standard compatibility.
Is the optional 4U rack kit easy to install?
The 4U rack kit integrates the DX168 into standard server racks and control room installations. For detailed installation instructions and configuration, contact Procure.ae.
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