ALLEN & HEATH DX168 User Manual

DX168 Getting Started Guide
AP11129 Issue 2


DX168
The DX168 is a portable, rugged I/O Expander for the Allen & Heath dLive and
SQ digital mixing systems. It provides 16 remote controlled mic/line preamps
and 8 XLR line outputs. It connects to the mixer over a single Cat5e cable.
A second DX168 or a DX164-W can be connected when running in Cascade
mode. Alternatively, a redundant connection can be made to compatible
hardware.
The DX168 can be operated horizontally with the connectors facing upward or
sideward, or vertically to save space on stage. It can also be mounted in a 19”
rack or fligthcase using the optional AB1608-RK19 kit. A hard-wearing padded
polyester carry case is also available, A&H part number AP9932.
Front panel
 Input sockets Balanced XLR mic/line inputs with +48V Phantom Power
indicator. The preamps are built into the DX168 and their Gain, Pad and +48V
are controlled from the mixer via the DX link.
The +48V indicator detects voltage at the socket whether supplied by the
DX168 or received from an external source.
 Output sockets Balanced XLR outputs operating at nominal +4dBu
level.


ALLEN & HEATH DX168 Specifications

General

Sample Rate	96 kHz
Bit Depth	24-bit
Inputs	16
Outputs	8
Power Supply	100-240V AC, 50/60 Hz
Type	Audio Expander
Channels	16 in, 8 out
Compatibility	Allen & Heath dLive, Avantis
AD/DA Conversion	24-bit

Summary

Front Panel Overview

Input Sockets

Balanced XLR mic/line inputs with +48V Phantom Power indicator and preamp control.

Output Sockets

Balanced XLR outputs operating at nominal +4dBu level.

Side Panel Ports and Vents

DX A EtherCon Port

For connection to the mixing system, carrying audio, preamp control, and status data.

DX B EtherCon Port

For daisy chaining or cable redundancy. Supports Redundant or Cascade modes.

Mains Power Input

IEC connector and fuse for universal voltage PSU (100-240V AC). Secure cable with P-clip.

Vents

Ensure good ventilation at sides/back. Avoid obstruction, dirt, or liquid ingress.

Cables

Connection Diagrams

Redundant Mode

Connects to compatible hardware for 2-cable redundancy. Requires dLive firmware V1.5+.

Cascade Mode

Connects a second DX168 or DX164-W. Requires dLive firmware V1.6+.

Specifications

Mic/Line XLR Inputs

Balanced XLR, +48V phantom power, fully recallable preamps with adjustable gain, pad, and impedance.

Analogue XLR Outputs

Balanced, relay-protected outputs operating at +4dBu nominal level.

Operating Conditions

Operating temperature range from 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F).

Power and Dimensions

100-240V AC power, 20W consumption. Dimensions 410x190x185mm, 4.6kg.