Allen & Heath AH-M-DL-AES2I8O-A AES3 Module with 2 inputs x 8 outputs w/ SRC 32kHz to 192kHz

Product Overview

The Allen & Heath AH-M-DL-AES2I8O-A is a 2-input / 8-output AES3 digital audio interface card for dLive and Avantis mixing systems. Its configuration is weighted heavily toward outputs, making it the right choice for installations where the primary requirement is driving multiple AES3 downstream devices — while still retaining two AES3 return paths for system feedback or playback. The 8 outputs operate at a switchable sample rate of 44.1, 48, 88.2, or 96kHz, and the 2 inputs feature asynchronous sample rate conversion (SRC) from 32kHz to 192kHz, allowing external AES3 sources with mismatched clocks to integrate cleanly into the dLive system.

Product Description

In many live sound and installation scenarios, the output-to-input ratio heavily favors sends: console mixes drive amplifiers, loudspeaker controllers, broadcast feeds, and recording systems, while only a limited number of AES3 return sources need to feed back into the console. The AH-M-DL-AES2I8O-A is designed for exactly this topology, providing 8 discrete AES3 outputs alongside 2 AES3 inputs with sample rate conversion in a single dLive option card slot.

The two AES3 inputs include sample rate conversion, which is a significant operational advantage. Rather than requiring every connected external device to match the dLive system's internal clock, the SRC allows sources ranging from 32kHz to 192kHz to be accepted without synchronization issues. A common use case is receiving a stereo AES3 playback feed from a media server or broadcast playout system that may operate at a different sample rate than the live console — the SRC handles this conversion transparently.

The 8 AES3 outputs can drive loudspeaker management systems, networked amplifiers, digital broadcast tie-lines, or monitoring systems simultaneously from a single card. Output sample rate switching allows the card to feed downstream equipment that operates at 44.1kHz (common in recording) or 48kHz (standard in broadcast) from the same console system. An option to sync from the first AES3 input is available in hybrid configurations where the card's input is used as the system clock reference.

Key Features

• 8 AES3 Digital Outputs — Drive loudspeaker processors, amplifiers, recording systems, and broadcast feeds with 8 simultaneous AES3 output channels from a single card slot.
• 2 AES3 Inputs with SRC — Sample rate conversion from 32kHz to 192kHz allows external sources with mismatched clocks to integrate without synchronization issues.
• Switchable Output Sample Rate — 44.1, 48, 88.2, or 96kHz, selectable to match the requirements of connected downstream devices.
• Sync from AES3 Input — Option to derive system clock from the first AES3 input for applications where the card's input is the master clock reference.
• dLive and Avantis Compatible — Installs into any option card slot on a dLive MixRack or Avantis system.
• Console-Integrated Routing — All I/O patching managed within the dLive or Avantis console software; no external configuration tools required.

Typical Applications

• Amplifier and Loudspeaker Controller Feeds — Drive up to 8 AES3-equipped amplifiers or speaker management systems from the dLive MixRack while returning a stereo reference or playback feed via the 2 AES3 inputs.
• Broadcast Integration — Send 8 mix outputs to broadcast distribution while accepting a stereo AES3 return from a broadcast router or playout system, with SRC absorbing any clock mismatch.
• Monitor System with Return Feed — Configure 8 outputs to drive in-ear monitor transmitters or stage wedge amplifiers while returning a digital confidence feed from a broadcast receiver or recording playback system.
• Digital Console Combining — Share 8 output mixes to a secondary console while receiving 2 channels of digital audio from that console for submix return or effect send.
• Fixed AV Installation — Replace analog multicore runs between the dLive MixRack and amplifier racks in permanent installations, with the 2 inputs handling system feedback or paging sources.

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does this card have only 2 inputs when it has 8 outputs?

The 2-in/8-out configuration serves installations where most AES3 connections are system outputs to amplifiers and processors, with only a minimal number of AES3 sources needing to return to the console. If more inputs are required, consider the 4-in/6-out (AES4I6O) or 6-in/4-out (AES6I4O) variants.

What does the sample rate converter (SRC) on the inputs do?

The SRC allows the card's 2 AES3 inputs to accept signals from sources operating at a different sample rate (32kHz to 192kHz) than the dLive system's internal clock. This removes the requirement for external clock synchronization between connected AES3 sources and the console.

Can the output sample rate be set differently from the console's internal sample rate?

Yes. The output sample rate is independently switchable between 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96kHz, regardless of the console's internal operating rate.

Is this card compatible with Avantis as well as dLive?

Yes. The card installs into option card slots on both dLive MixRack and Avantis systems.

What type of connectors does the AES3 card use?

AES3 (AES/EBU) connections use standard XLR connectors. The specific breakout or panel configuration depends on the dLive MixRack model and rack installation design.

Can multiple AES3 cards be installed in the same dLive system?

Yes. Multiple option cards can be installed across the available card slots in a dLive MixRack, subject to slot availability and the specific MixRack model's expansion capacity.