Allen & Heath AH-DT-02-X – Dante Output Interface with Power Supply

Product Overview

The Allen & Heath AH-DT-02-X is a compact, rugged 2-channel Dante audio output interface that converts Dante network audio to two balanced XLR line-level analog outputs, and ships complete with a 12 VDC power supply for standalone deployment in locations without Power over Ethernet. With relay-protected outputs, +22 dBu maximum output level, and support for both 48 and 96 kHz sample rates, the DT-02-X delivers professional audio from any Dante-enabled mixing system or AHM processor to local amplifiers, zone speakers, or recording equipment. AES67 compatibility and Dante Domain Manager readiness ensure the unit integrates into both proprietary Allen & Heath networks and broader enterprise AoIP infrastructures. The locking EtherCon connector and aluminum enclosure meet the physical demands of permanent installation and live production environments.

Product Description

In distributed audio systems, the challenge of output distribution is symmetric to that of input collection: getting audio from the central Dante network to remote loudspeaker zones, amplifiers, or recording endpoints without long analog cable runs. The DT-02-X solves this at the output end, presenting two balanced XLR connectors at the remote point and receiving audio via a single Cat5e/Cat6 network cable from the Dante infrastructure.

The "-X" suffix identifies this as the variant that includes a 12 VDC power supply. This distinguishes it from the DT-02-M, which is functionally identical but omits the power supply for use in PoE-equipped installations. The DT-02-X is the correct specification when power outlets are available at the output endpoint but a PoE switch is not deployed at that location — common in older buildings, retrofit projects, or any installation where network infrastructure is present but not PoE-capable.

Output protection is provided by relay muting circuits that disengage the XLR outputs during power-up and power-down sequences, preventing thumps and transients from reaching connected amplifiers or speakers. This is a standard requirement in permanently installed audio systems where sudden loud transients can damage speakers or disturb occupants. The nominal output level is +4 dBu with a maximum of +22 dBu, appropriate for professional line-level connection to power amplifiers, DSP processors, and recording equipment.

The DT-02-X operates at both of Dante's standard sample rates (48 and 96 kHz), automatically following the master clock of the Dante network. AES67 compatibility extends interoperability to non-Dante audio-over-IP systems, making the DT-02-X usable in mixed-vendor enterprise AV infrastructures where AES67 is the common transport protocol. Dante Domain Manager support enables enterprise-grade network access control, useful in large campuses or multi-tenant facilities where audio routing permissions require administrative control.

Physical dimensions of 13 x 13.2 x 4.3 cm and a weight of 0.5 kg make the DT-02-X suitable for concealed installation inside furniture, equipment closets, or floor pockets. Pair it with one or more DT-20-X or DT-20-M input interfaces to create a complete Dante I/O node at any point in a facility.

Key Features

• Includes 12 VDC power supply — standalone deployment without PoE switching infrastructure; deployment-ready out of the box
• 2x balanced XLR outputs — relay-protected, +22 dBu maximum, +4 dBu nominal, <75 ohm output impedance
• 48/96 kHz Dante operation — follows Dante network master clock at either standard sample rate
• AES67 compatible — interoperates with non-Dante AoIP systems in mixed-vendor environments
• Dante Domain Manager ready — supports enterprise access control and network segmentation via DDM
• Relay-protected outputs — mutes XLR outputs during power events to protect downstream speakers and amplifiers
• Locking EtherCon connector — secure, vibration-resistant network connection for installation and touring
• Rugged aluminum enclosure — compact, lightweight, suitable for concealed or exposed installation
• Rubber feet included — non-slip surface for surface-mount desktop deployment

Typical Applications

• Commercial AV Dante installations — deliver Dante network audio to local amplifiers or DSPs at remote zones without analog cable runs
• Enterprise audio networking — provide local analog outputs in conference rooms, lobbies, or breakout rooms connected to a Dante network backbone
• Houses of worship — distribute audio from a central dLive or SQ mix to fill speaker zones, delay speakers, or recording recorders
• Broadcast and production facilities — feed studio monitors, IFB systems, or recording devices from a Dante distribution router
• Hotel and hospitality AV — deliver background music or paging audio to amplifiers in guest areas from a central Dante zone processor
• Allen & Heath AHM systems — provide additional analog outputs from AHM-64 or AHM-32 matrix processors at distributed locations

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the DT-02-X and DT-02-M?

The DT-02-X includes a 12 VDC power supply; the DT-02-M does not. Both are functionally and electrically identical. Specify the DT-02-X for deployments without PoE switching, or as a convenience for single-unit installations where a wall outlet is available.

What does the relay protection do?

The relay circuits disconnect the XLR output connectors from the audio path during power-up and power-down. This prevents audio thumps or transients from reaching connected amplifiers and speakers, which is important in permanent installations to protect equipment and avoid interrupting occupants.

Does the DT-02-X work with third-party Dante devices?

Yes. The DT-02-X is a standard Dante device discoverable by Dante Controller from any manufacturer. It is not exclusive to Allen & Heath systems.

What is the maximum cable run for the Dante connection?

Standard Cat5e/Cat6 Ethernet supports runs up to 100 meters (328 feet) per segment. For longer distances, use a managed network switch as an intermediate node. Fiber media converters can extend beyond that.

Can I use the DT-02-X and DT-20-X together at the same remote location?

Yes. The DT-20-X handles inputs (mic/line to Dante) and the DT-02-X handles outputs (Dante to analog XLR). Deploying both at the same point creates a full local I/O node connected to the central Dante network via two network cables (or a small managed switch).

Is the DT-02-X compatible with Dante Virtual Soundcard?

Yes. Dante Virtual Soundcard on a computer appears as a standard Dante device, and audio can be routed from it to the DT-02-X outputs via Dante Controller.