Allen & Heath DX168

The Allen & Heath DX168 is a rugged, portable 96 kHz expander that adds remote inputs and outputs to dLive, Avantis, SQ, and 96 kHz Qu mixing systems. Sixteen recallable mic preamps and eight XLR outputs connect to the mixer over a single Cat5e cable up to 100 meters long, replacing a heavy analog snake with one lightweight network cable.

Highlights

• 16 XLR mic/line inputs with fully recallable preamps
• 8 balanced, relay-protected XLR line outputs
• Analog gain from +5 to +60 dB, -20 dB pad, and phantom power LED per input
• 96 kHz operation
• Single Cat5e connection up to 100 m via EtherCon ports
• Portable with carry handle; optional 4U rack mounting kit

Allen & Heath DX168: Put Your Inputs on Stage

Traditional analog snakes are heavy, expensive, and can pick up noise over long runs. The DX168 puts the mic preamps right on stage, converts audio to digital, and sends it to the mixer over a single network cable. That means cleaner sound, faster setup, and far less weight to carry. Because the preamps are remotely recallable from the console, gain settings are saved with your show.

DX168 System Compatibility

The DX168 works with Allen & Heath dLive, Avantis, and SQ systems, as well as 96 kHz Qu models. On dLive, up to six DX168 units can connect directly for up to 96 remote inputs and 48 remote outputs. On SQ, two units can be daisy-chained from the SLink port, and a DX Hub expands the system further. Update your mixer to the latest firmware before connecting.

Setting Up the DX168

Place the DX168 on stage near the performers, connect microphones and DI boxes to its inputs, and connect monitor wedges or in-ear transmitters to its outputs. Run one Cat5e cable from the DX168’s EtherCon port to the mixer’s DX or SLink port. Set gain and phantom power from the console, and save everything with your scene.

What to Pair With the DX168

Pair the DX168 with an Allen & Heath SQ, Avantis, or dLive console, quality shielded Cat5e or Cat6 cable with EtherCon connectors, and a rack kit if you want to install it permanently. A DX Hub lets larger systems connect multiple expanders.

Why Use a Digital Stage Box?

Digital stage boxes save time and money on every event. One lightweight cable replaces a heavy multicore snake, setup and teardown are faster, and remote gain control means the engineer can adjust preamps from the mix position. For churches and venues, a stage box makes it easy to move inputs between stage locations, and for touring production, it reduces truck space and weight.

Allen & Heath DX168 FAQ

Which mixers work with the DX168? Allen & Heath dLive, Avantis, SQ, and 96 kHz Qu models.

How far can it be from the mixer? Up to 100 meters over a single Cat5e cable.

Allen & Heath DX168 Specifications at a Glance

• Inputs: 16 XLR mic/line, recallable preamps
• Outputs: 8 balanced XLR, relay-protected
• Gain: +5 to +60 dB; -20 dB pad
• Sample rate: 96 kHz
• Connection: Cat5e via EtherCon, up to 100 m
• Weight: 4.8 kg
• Mounting: portable; optional 4U rack kit

Who Buys the Allen & Heath DX168

• Churches with SQ or dLive systems
• Production and rental companies
• Theaters and performing arts centers
• Live music venues

Why Buy the Allen & Heath DX168 From Metro Sound & Lighting

Metro Sound & Lighting isn’t a catalog-only retailer. We design, install, and service sound systems in-house, so our team can plan your Allen & Heath network, install stage boxes and cabling, and support your system after installation. We offer B2B and integrator pricing for churches, schools, and venues.

Browse more options in our Remote I/O category, or see the full specifications on the official Allen & Heath DX168 product page.