Allen & Heath AH-DLIVE-DX32 dLive DX32 Modular Expander

Allen & Heath DX32 – Modular 32-Channel I/O Expander for dLive, Avantis, and SQ

The Allen & Heath DX32 is a modular remote I/O expander that adds scalable analog and digital connectivity to dLive, AHM-64, Avantis, and SQ mixing systems. Featuring four 8-channel modular slots, the DX32 accepts any combination of Allen & Heath input and output cards, allowing integrators to configure the unit precisely for the I/O mix required by each installation. With up to 32x32 channels of uncompressed audio at 96 kHz over a dual redundant Cat5 link, the DX32 is engineered for reliability in permanently installed venues where downtime is not an option. Its redundant, hot-swappable power supply adds a second layer of operational security for mission-critical applications.

Product Description

The DX32's four 8-channel card slots can be populated with Allen & Heath's range of input and output modules, covering standard XLR mic/line I/O, AES3 digital I/O, and other format options. This modular approach means a single DX32 chassis can serve as a mic input expander at one location and a monitor output node at another, eliminating the need for format-specific hardware at each stage pocket or distribution point.

Fully recallable mic preamps (when fitted with analog input cards) deliver -60 to +15 dBu input sensitivity, +5 to +60 dB gain in 1 dB steps, and an active -20 dB pad. Maximum input level reaches +30 dBu with the pad engaged. Analog outputs are relay-protected with a maximum output level of +22 dBu and a noise floor of -92 dBu (20 Hz–20 kHz), providing clean sends to amplifiers, monitors, and recording systems.

The DX32 communicates with the host mixer or MixRack via dual redundant Cat5 links, which carry audio, control, and power-status data. If the primary link fails, the secondary link takes over automatically, maintaining audio continuity. The system latency for a DX hop is 8 additional samples (approximately 0.08 ms at 96 kHz), keeping total system latency well below audible thresholds. Firmware updates are applied automatically when the system powers up, eliminating manual firmware management across distributed DX units.

Key Features

• 4 x 8-Channel Modular Card Slots — Fully configurable I/O format per slot; mix analog, AES3, and other card types in a single chassis to match any venue requirement
• Up to 32x32 Uncompressed Audio at 96 kHz — High-resolution audio transport without compression artifacts, maintaining full fidelity across the distributed system
• Dual Redundant Cat5 Links — Automatic failover from primary to secondary link maintains audio continuity in the event of a cable or port failure
• Redundant Hot-Swappable Power Supply — Dual power supply bays allow one PSU to be replaced while the unit remains operational, eliminating maintenance downtime
• Automatic Firmware Updates — DX32 receives firmware updates from the host system on power-up, eliminating manual version management across multi-unit installations
• Fully Recallable Preamps — Gain, pad, and phantom power settings stored per scene and recalled from the connected dLive, Avantis, or SQ console surface
• Rack or Floor Operation — Standard 19-inch rackmount form factor; also suitable for shelf or floor deployment in infrastructure closets and stage pockets
• Compatible with dLive, Avantis, AHM-64, and SQ — Single hardware platform serves across Allen & Heath's professional mixing ecosystem

Typical Applications

• House of worship distributed I/O expansion at stage, balcony, and broadcast locations
• Auditorium and performing arts center multi-zone audio distribution
• Broadcast studio multi-source input aggregation with redundant connectivity
• Multi-purpose room and conference center installed AV systems requiring scalable I/O
• Government and corporate all-hands room audio infrastructure with failover requirements

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Allen & Heath mixing systems are compatible with the DX32?

The DX32 is compatible with Allen & Heath dLive, Avantis, AHM-64, and SQ Series systems. It connects to a dLive MixRack, Avantis console, AHM-64 processor, or SQ console via the DX port using standard Cat5 cable.

What I/O cards can be installed in the DX32?

The DX32 accepts Allen & Heath's range of 8-channel modular I/O cards including standard XLR analog input/output cards and AES3 digital I/O cards. Card combinations can be mixed freely across the four slots.

How does the dual redundant Cat5 link work?

The DX32 maintains two separate Cat5 connections to the host system. Audio flows over the primary link under normal operation. If the primary link fails, the system automatically switches to the secondary link without interrupting audio.

Can I replace a power supply while the DX32 is in operation?

Yes. The redundant power supply module is hot-swappable. One PSU can be removed and replaced while the unit continues operating on the second PSU, with no audio interruption.

How are firmware updates managed across multiple DX32 units?

The DX32 receives firmware updates automatically from the host mixer when the system powers up. If a firmware mismatch is detected, the update is applied without manual intervention, which simplifies maintenance in multi-expander installations.

What is the audio latency through the DX32?

Each DX32 hop adds 8 samples of latency. At 96 kHz, this is approximately 0.08 ms per DX hop. Total system latency from MixRack XLR input to XLR output is 0.7 ms, with additional latency per DX hop in the chain.

Is the DX32 suitable for permanent installation?

Yes. The DX32's modular I/O design, redundant power, automatic firmware updates, and dual redundant network links make it well suited for permanent installation in houses of worship, auditoriums, broadcast facilities, and corporate AV systems.