Allen & Heath DT168 Dante Audio Expander
- 16 remote-controlled mic preamps with up to 60dB gain
- 8 balanced XLR line outputs with relay protection
- Supports both 96kHz and 48kHz Dante audio networking
- Primary and Secondary Dante ports with locking EtherCon connectors
- Portable stagebox design with rugged rubber bumpers and carry handle
- Compatible with Allen & Heath dLive, Avantis, SQ, Qu, and AHM systems
- Remote preamp control via DT Preamp Control software
- AES67 compatible and Dante Domain Manager ready
- Redundant or switched network operation
- Optional 19-inch rack mount kit available
The Allen & Heath DT168 is a professional Dante audio expander designed to add high-quality remote I/O to compatible Allen & Heath mixing and audio management systems. Offering 16 microphone inputs and 8 line outputs in a rugged, portable stagebox format, the DT168 delivers exceptional audio performance for live sound, installed audio, houses of worship, education, corporate venues, and rental applications.
16 High-Performance Microphone Preamps
The DT168 features 16 premium Allen & Heath microphone preamps, providing up to 60dB of gain for microphones and other input sources. Each input includes phantom power indication and a -20dB pad for accommodating line-level devices, ensuring maximum flexibility across a wide range of audio applications.
8 Professional Line Outputs
Eight balanced XLR line outputs provide reliable signal distribution to amplifiers, powered loudspeakers, processors, and other audio devices. The outputs feature relay protection for enhanced system reliability and operational security.
High-Resolution Dante Connectivity
Designed for modern networked audio systems, the DT168 supports both standard 48kHz and high-fidelity 96kHz Dante operation. This flexibility allows users to optimize network performance while maintaining exceptional audio quality throughout the signal chain.
Primary and Secondary Dante ports provide options for switched networking or full redundancy, ensuring reliable operation in mission-critical environments. Secure locking EtherCon connectors further enhance durability and network stability.
Ideal for Portable and Installed Applications
Built in a convenient stagebox format, the DT168 can be deployed directly on stage or installed within equipment racks. Durable rubber bumpers protect the unit in demanding live sound environments, while the integrated carry handle makes transport quick and easy.
Weighing just 4.8kg, the DT168 is an ideal solution for portable production companies, touring applications, educational facilities, corporate venues, and houses of worship requiring flexible remote I/O capabilities.
Optional Rack Mount Installation
For permanent installations and centralized equipment rooms, an optional 4U rack mounting kit allows the DT168 to be securely installed in standard 19-inch equipment racks while maintaining easy access to all connections.
Exceptional Dante Audio Quality
The performance of any Dante network depends heavily on the quality of its connected I/O. The DT168 combines Allen & Heath's acclaimed preamp design with high-performance 96kHz converters to deliver outstanding sonic performance across Dante networks, ensuring transparent audio capture and reproduction in professional environments.
Comprehensive Remote Preamp Control
The DT168 supports direct preamp control from compatible Allen & Heath systems including dLive, Avantis, SQ, Qu, and AHM platforms. Users can remotely adjust gain settings, phantom power, and pad controls directly from their console or processor interface.
For third-party Dante systems, the free DT Preamp Control software for Windows and macOS provides remote management of multiple DT168 and DT164-W expanders. The software enables detailed control of analogue gain, phantom power, and pad settings for each input channel.
Scalable Dante Network Expansion
The DT168 is designed to scale with growing system requirements. Up to 32 expanders can be connected to compatible Allen & Heath systems equipped with Dante connectivity, providing extensive remote I/O capacity across large venues and distributed audio environments.
The unit can also operate within third-party Dante ecosystems, making it an excellent choice for stadiums, campuses, performance venues, and enterprise-wide audio networks requiring high channel counts across multiple locations.
Broad System Compatibility
The DT168 integrates seamlessly with Allen & Heath dLive, Avantis, SQ, Qu, and AHM platforms when equipped with compatible Dante interfaces. It can also be incorporated into third-party Dante-enabled systems, offering a versatile solution for expanding audio network capabilities while maintaining centralized control.
Built for Professional Audio Environments
Combining premium microphone preamps, high-resolution Dante networking, robust construction, and flexible deployment options, the Allen & Heath DT168 provides a reliable and scalable solution for professional audio applications where remote I/O, portability, and exceptional sound quality are critical.
