Allen & Heath DX168 Stage Box

The Allen & Heath DX168 is a rugged, 96kHz portable expander. It adds remote I/O to a dLive, Avantis, or SQ system, or to the AHM-64 audio matrix processor. Each unit features 16 mic preamps, with independent Phantom Power LED indicators. Additionally, each one includes 8 XLR line outs.

The DX168 connects via a single Cat5e cable. This links it to the dLive Surface, MixRack, SQ mixer, Avantis mixer, or an upstream DX168, through a secure EtherCon port. A second locking EtherCon port also provides redundant connection to compatible hardware. Alternatively, you can daisy-chain it to a downstream DX168 for extra remote I/O.

Key Features

• 16 mic preamps on XLR with Phantom Power status LEDs
• 8 XLR line outs
• Compatible with dLive S Class and C Class hardware
• Cascade mode for daisy-chaining 2 DX168 units for additional I/O
• Redundant DX connection to compatible dLive hardware
• Plug and Play — no IP addressing required
• Compatible with CAT5e (or higher) cables up to 100m
• Rugged rubber bumpers and integrated carry handle
• Optional 19-inch rack mount kit available
• Compatible with SQ, Avantis, dLive, and AHM-64 systems

Rugged, Flexible Deployment

The DX168’s rugged design, with hard-wearing rubber bumpers, lets it sit directly on the stage floor during performances. At just 4.8kg and fitted with a sturdy carry handle, it offers real convenience and portability. As a result, it suits rental, education, houses of worship, and many other environments. Additionally, an optional 4U rack mounting kit lets you install it in industry-standard 19-inch racks instead.

The DX168 scales differently depending on the system it’s paired with. For example, up to 6 units can connect directly to a dLive system — 4 via the MixRack and 2 via the Surface. Together, these give up to 96 remote inputs and 48 remote outputs, on top of what the MixRack and Surface already provide. More units can also join via the dLive DX Link card or DX Hub.

For Avantis, 2 units can daisy chain directly to an SLink port. Up to 16 DX168 units are supported via DX Link card and DX Hubs. For SQ, 2 units connect directly to an SLink port. Meanwhile, a DX Hub extends this to 8 units, freely patched across the SQ’s 48 input channels. For AHM-64, 2 units connect directly via SLink. A DX Hub then supports up to 8 units, patched across the AHM-64’s 64 input channels.