Allen & Heath DX168 16-In / 8-Out 96kHz Remote Expander
The Allen & Heath DX168 is a rugged, portable 96kHz remote I/O expander designed to add flexible remote connectivity to Allen & Heath dLive, Avantis, SQ, SQ+, Qu (96kHz models), and AHM audio matrix systems. Featuring 16 remote-controlled mic preamps, 8 XLR line outputs, and simple plug-and-play operation, the DX168 provides an efficient solution for expanding system I/O while maintaining exceptional audio quality and deployment flexibility.
- 16 remote-controlled microphone/line preamps
- 8 balanced XLR line outputs
- 96kHz audio operation
- Up to +60dB microphone gain
- -20dB input pad for line-level sources
- Phantom power indicators on every input
- Dual locking EtherCon DX connections
- Supports redundant and daisy-chain connection modes
- Single Cat5e cable connection to host system
- Up to 100m remote placement from the mixer
- Plug-and-play operation with automatic firmware updates
- Rugged stage-ready construction with protective rubber bumpers
- Optional 4U rack-mount kit available
- Compatible with dLive, Avantis, SQ, SQ+, Qu, and AHM systems
Expand Your System with Remote I/O
The DX168 provides a convenient and scalable way to add remote inputs and outputs to compatible Allen & Heath systems. Whether deployed in live sound, houses of worship, education facilities, conference centers, touring productions, or installed AV environments, the DX168 allows critical audio connections to be located exactly where they are needed.
By connecting to a host console or processor over a single Cat5e cable, the DX168 dramatically reduces stage cabling requirements while preserving high-quality audio performance throughout the signal path.
16 High-Performance Mic Preamps
The DX168 is equipped with 16 remote-controlled microphone preamps that deliver up to +60dB of gain for microphones and other low-level audio sources. Each input includes a dedicated phantom power indicator and a selectable -20dB pad, enabling seamless connection of both microphone and line-level signals.
The preamps are fully controlled from the connected mixer or processor, ensuring consistent gain management and simplified setup across the system.
8 Balanced XLR Outputs
Eight balanced, relay-protected XLR outputs provide reliable signal distribution to amplifiers, powered loudspeakers, recording devices, monitor systems, and other audio equipment. The relay-protected design enhances system reliability and protects downstream equipment during power-up and shutdown sequences.
Plug-and-Play Simplicity
Designed for fast deployment, the DX168 requires no manual network configuration or complex setup procedures. Simply connect the unit to a compatible Allen & Heath mixer or processor using a Cat5e cable, and the system is ready for operation.
Firmware updates are handled automatically by the connected host device, ensuring the expander remains synchronized with the latest system software while minimizing maintenance requirements.
Built for the Stage
The DX168 features a robust steel construction engineered for the demands of professional live production environments. Durable rubber bumpers protect the unit from impacts during transportation and everyday use, while the integrated carry handle makes moving and positioning the expander quick and convenient.
Weighing just 4.8 kg (10.6 lbs), the DX168 offers excellent portability for rental companies, touring engineers, educational facilities, houses of worship, and mobile production teams.
Rack-Mount or Stage Deployment
The flexible design allows the DX168 to be placed directly on the stage floor, positioned backstage, or installed in equipment racks. An optional 4U rack-mount kit enables permanent installation in standard 19-inch equipment racks, making the unit equally suitable for portable and fixed installation applications.
Maximum Placement Flexibility
The DX168 can be located up to 100 meters (328 feet) from the connected mixer or processor, allowing audio connections to be placed exactly where they are required. This flexibility simplifies cable management, reduces setup time, and improves workflow efficiency in both large and small venues.
The primary EtherCon port connects directly to a compatible host system or upstream DX expander using a single Cat5e cable, providing a simple and reliable transport solution for audio and control data.
Redundant and Daisy-Chain Connectivity
A second locking EtherCon connector enables additional deployment options, including redundant connections to supported hardware for increased system reliability. The secondary port can also be used to daisy-chain another DX expander, allowing users to expand their remote I/O capacity without additional infrastructure.
Compatible Allen & Heath Systems
The DX168 integrates seamlessly with a wide range of Allen & Heath digital audio platforms, making it a highly versatile expansion solution across multiple product families.
- Allen & Heath dLive Digital Mixing Systems
- Allen & Heath Avantis Digital Mixing Systems
- Allen & Heath SQ and SQ+ Digital Mixers
- Allen & Heath Qu Series Digital Mixers (96kHz models)
- Allen & Heath AHM Audio Matrix Processors
Ideal Applications
The Allen & Heath DX168 is ideal for live sound reinforcement, touring productions, houses of worship, educational facilities, theaters, conference venues, corporate AV installations, and broadcast environments. Its combination of high-quality remote I/O, rugged portability, flexible deployment options, and simple operation makes it an essential expansion solution for professional audio systems.
