Allen & Heath DX168- 16 In/8 Out - Digital Stagebox

The Allen & Heath DX168 is a rugged digital stagebox designed for use with dLive, Avantis, SQ, and AHM-64 systems. It delivers sixteen XLR mic/line inputs with individually switchable 48V phantom power and eight balanced XLR line outputs. Each input features a clear phantom power LED for fast visual reference, making setup easier on stage or in the studio.

Connection to your mixer is handled by a single Cat5e cable, while dual EtherCon ports allow for either redundant backup or daisy-chained cascade configurations. Housed in a tough steel chassis with rubber bumpers and a built-in carry handle, the DX168 is ready for demanding live environments. An optional rackmount kit offers additional flexibility for fixed installations.

The DX168 adds 16 recallable mic preamps and 8 line outputs to your compatible Allen & Heath system. Each preamp provides +5 to +60dB gain in 1dB steps, while all settings can be saved and recalled directly from your mixer. Whether you’re running a single stagebox or expanding with more DX units, it seamlessly integrates into your workflow and increases available inputs and outputs without additional processing load.

Reliable digital connection

Using one Cat5e cable, the DX168 connects directly to your digital mixer’s SLink or DX port, carrying high-resolution 96kHz audio and control data. With up to 100 metres of cable supported, it gives you flexibility to place the stagebox wherever you need it. The secondary DX port allows either redundant operation for added reliability or cascade connection for linking multiple expanders in series.

Portable and durable build

Built for life on the road, the DX168 features a robust steel frame with protective rubber bumpers. It’s compact enough to place discreetly on stage yet sturdy enough to handle regular transport and touring. The integrated carry handle makes it easy to move between venues, while an optional rackmount kit gives installation flexibility for permanent systems.

Clean, consistent sound

The DX168’s high-quality mic preamps deliver transparent, low-noise performance with a maximum input level of +30dBu. Relay-protected outputs prevent unwanted pops or clicks during power-up, and a wide dynamic range ensures clear signal transfer from stage to console. With 96kHz sampling and full recallability, the DX168 provides consistent results every time you connect.

Features

• 16 recallable mic/line inputs with +48V phantom power
• 8 balanced line outputs with relay protection
• Dual EtherCon ports for redundant or cascade mode
• Compatible with dLive, Avantis, SQ, and AHM-64 systems
• Connects using a single Cat5e cable up to 100m
• Rugged steel chassis with rubber bumpers
• Carry handle for easy transport
• Optional rackmount kit for permanent installation

Specifications

• Inputs: 16 XLR mic/line with +48V phantom power
• Outputs: 8 XLR line
• Input Sensitivity: -60dBu to +15dBu
• Analog Gain: +5 to +60dB (1dB steps)
• Maximum Input Level: +30dBu (pad in)
• Input Impedance: >4kΩ (pad out), >10kΩ (pad in)
• Output Impedance: <75Ω
• Nominal Output Level: +4dBu
• Maximum Output Level: +22dBu
• Residual Output Noise: -92dBu (20Hz–20kHz)
• THD+N: 0.002%–0.003% (0dBu, 1kHz)
• Sample Rate: 96kHz
• Power Supply: 100–240V AC, 50/60Hz, 35W max
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 35°C
• Dimensions (W x D x H): 398.6mm x 189mm x 182.1mm
• Weight: 4.75kg