Allen & Heath AH-M-DL-AOUT-A – DX32 8-Channel Analog Line Output Module

Product Overview

The Allen & Heath AH-M-DL-AOUT-A is an 8-channel analog line output module for the DX32 Expansion Chassis, adding eight balanced analog line-level outputs to a dLive installation. The outputs are relay-protected to prevent power-on and power-off transient thumps, which is a practical requirement in installed systems with permanent speaker connections. For dLive commercial AV deployments where analog output capacity needs to be extended at a DX32 stage box or equipment rack, this module provides a direct solution without requiring external D/A conversion hardware.

Product Description

In a fully configured dLive installation, the DX32 chassis serves as the central I/O hub at the stage or in a distributed rack, with input and output modules populating its 32 slots to match the signal requirements of the venue. The M-DL-AOUT-A provides eight channels of analog line-level output from one module slot, suitable for feeding powered amplifiers, zone processors, signal distribution amplifiers, or any other line-level analog destination.

The relay protection on each output activates during power-up and power-down sequences to mute the output before and after the module electronics are stable. This prevents audible thumps from reaching connected amplifiers and speakers, which is particularly important in installed systems where the amplifiers remain permanently connected and potentially powered.

Output routing is managed from the dLive mixing surface or Director software. The module is detected automatically when installed in the DX32 chassis, and any of the dLive system's output buses — main, aux, group, matrix, or direct outputs — can be assigned to the module's eight channels. In a theater or corporate AV installation, this allows the DX32 to distribute outputs to monitor amplifiers, delay speaker zones, record feeds, and other destinations, all configured and recallable from the front-of-house surface.

Multiple M-DL-AOUT-A modules can be installed in the same DX32 chassis, and they can be combined with input modules, AES3 digital output modules, and other module types to create a complete, custom I/O configuration. This flexibility is a primary reason the DX32/dLive system is widely specified for complex installed AV environments.

Key Features

• 8 Channels of Analog Line Output — Eight balanced line-level outputs for direct connection to amplifiers, zone processors, or other line-level destinations.
• Relay Output Protection — Outputs are relay-muted during power-on and power-off sequences to prevent transient thumps reaching connected speakers.
• DX32 Module Format — Seats directly into DX32 chassis slots via internal multipin connector with no additional chassis wiring required.
• Automatic Detection — Recognized automatically by the dLive MixRack and configurable from the mixing surface or Director software.
• Full dLive Bus Assignment — Any dLive output bus (main, aux, group, matrix, direct) can be assigned to module outputs from the surface.
• Compatible with All dLive Systems — Works with dLive C Class, S Class, and System Rack configurations using DX32.
• Combinable with Other DX32 Modules — Installable alongside analog input, AES3 input, AES3 output, and other module types in the same chassis.

Typical Applications

• dLive Commercial AV Deployment — Providing analog line outputs from a DX32 chassis to amplifiers, zone processors, and distribution systems in theaters, corporate facilities, and houses of worship.
• Broadcast Applications — Feeding analog line outputs from a dLive system to broadcast consoles, recording devices, or air chains.
• Multi-Zone Distributed Audio — Distributing dLive mix buses to multiple amplified zones in a large installed venue with individual level control per zone.
• Monitor and Delay Speaker Feeds — Providing analog feeds to stage monitor amplifiers, delay speaker zones, and other distributed destinations from a central DX32 rack.

Technical Specifications

FAQ

Which chassis does the M-DL-AOUT-A fit?

This module is designed for the Allen & Heath DX32 Expansion Chassis. It is not compatible with the DX168 or other stage box formats.

What does relay output protection mean in practice?

When the DX32 powers on or off, the relay contacts open to disconnect the output before and after the module electronics are active. This prevents the amplified transients that occur during power sequencing from reaching connected amplifiers and speakers, avoiding the audible "thump" that can damage speakers in permanently wired installations.

Can I mix analog output modules with AES3 output modules in the same DX32 chassis?

Yes. The DX32 chassis accepts any combination of compatible input and output modules in its 32 slots, so M-DL-AOUT-A modules can share a chassis with M-DL-DOUT-A (AES3 output), M-DL-AIN-A (analog input), and other module types simultaneously.

How is output routing assigned on this module?

Output routing is configured from the dLive mixing surface or the dLive Director software. The module is detected automatically when installed in a DX32 chassis connected to a dLive MixRack.

What connector type does this module use for its outputs?

The specific output connector type (XLR or multipin) depends on the module's faceplate design. Consult the Allen & Heath M-DL-AOUT-A datasheet or contact Creation Networks for connector specifications prior to installation planning.

Is this module compatible with the dLive C Class, S Class, and System Rack?

Yes. The module works with any dLive system configuration that uses a DX32 expansion chassis, including C Class, S Class, and System Rack.

What warranty is included?

Allen & Heath option cards carry the manufacturer's standard limited warranty. Creation Networks provides post-purchase technical support and warranty registration assistance.