Allen & Heath dLive DX012 Stagebox

Allen & Heath DX012: 12-Output 96kHz Expansion for dLive, Avantis, SQ, Qu, and AHM Systems

The Allen & Heath DX012 is a 1U remote output expander that adds 12 XLR outputs to any compatible Allen & Heath digital mixer or matrix processor. Designed for live sound, broadcast, and installed audio, the unit connects to a dLive Surface, dLive MixRack, Avantis console, SQ mixer, 96 kHz Qu model, or AHM audio matrix processor through a single Cat5e cable terminated in a locking EtherCon connector. With cable runs up to 100 m, the DX012 can sit right next to IEM transmitters and amplifier racks, eliminating long analog snakes back to front-of-house.

Switchable Analog and AES Outputs with Relay Protection

What sets this expander apart from generic output modules is its hybrid output architecture. Outputs 1–4 are fixed balanced analog line level, while outputs 5–12 switch in banks of four between balanced analog and stereo AES/EBU digital. The analog outputs feature relay-protected muting that prevents thumps and clicks during power cycling — a critical safeguard for amplifier and loudspeaker protection in live rigs. AES outputs are globally switchable between 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96 kHz sample rates from the front panel.

Network Connectivity and Cable Infrastructure

Connection to the host mixer runs over a single Cat5e cable, providing both data and clock in one lightweight run. A second locking EtherCon port supports redundant dual-cable operation or daisy-chaining a downstream DX Expander for additional remote I/O. Cascade mode allows up to two DX Expanders per DX port.

• Connection Type: Cat5e via EtherCon — single-cable data and clock transport
• Maximum Cable Length: 100 m — places the expander at the amp rack
• Network Ports: 2 locking EtherCon — redundant or cascade topology
• Cascade Capacity: up to 2 DX Expanders per DX port

Output Configuration and Signal Format

The 12 XLR outputs are arranged in three banks of four, giving engineers granular control over analog and digital signal distribution. Three preset configurations cover common deployment scenarios: all-analog for amp rack feeds, mixed analog-plus-AES for digital IEM transmitters, and AES-heavy for broadcast and recording feeds.

• Output Count: 12 XLR in 3 banks of 4
• Analog Outputs: Balanced line level, relay-protected
• AES/EBU Outputs: Stereo digital on outputs 5–12 — switchable in banks of 4
• Sample Rates: 44.1 / 48 / 88.2 / 96 kHz

Mixer and Processor Compatibility

Plug-and-play operation means the host mixer recognizes the DX012 on connection, and firmware updates are pushed automatically — no manual reflashing required.

• Compatible Mixers: dLive, Avantis, SQ, SQ+, Qu (96 kHz models)
• Compatible Processors: AHM audio matrix processors
• Form Factor: 1U rack with integrated rack-ears
• Configuration: Plug-and-play, no setup required

Engineers, Integrators, and Touring Crews Who Need Scalable Output Expansion

The DX012 is the right choice for live sound engineers running dLive, Avantis, or SQ systems who need more analog and digital outputs than the console provides on its own. Touring monitor engineers will appreciate placing the unit at the IEM rack, running a single Cat5e back to FOH, and feeding multiple stereo IEM transmitters from the switchable AES banks. Installation contractors working on houses of worship, theaters, and corporate AV spaces can extend AHM matrix outputs to remote amplifier rooms without pulling long analog multi-cores.

Allen & Heath: Cornish Engineering for the Live Sound Industry

Allen & Heath has designed and manufactured professional mixing consoles from its headquarters in Penryn, Cornwall, England, building a reputation among touring engineers, broadcasters, and installed audio professionals. The DX012 was introduced at InfoComm 2019 as part of the company's expanding DX Expander family, giving customers scalable output growth without forcing a console upgrade.