Allen & Heath AH-M-DL-DANTE128-A – 128x128 Dante Audio Networking Card for dLive & Avantis

Product Overview

The Allen & Heath AH-M-DL-DANTE128-A is a 128x128 Dante audio networking card engineered for dLive and Avantis mixing systems, delivering 128 bidirectional channels at 96 kHz over a single card slot. As a plug-and-play Dante expansion module for professional live sound and commercial AV installation, it operates at both 48 kHz and 96 kHz with full AES67 compatibility for interoperability across standards-based IP audio networks. The card supports Dante Domain Manager (DDM) for enterprise-grade network segmentation, multi-subnet routing, and advanced security authentication. For integrators deploying large-scale dLive or Avantis systems, the DANTE128 card is the definitive Allen & Heath Dante networking solution.

Product Description

The AH-M-DL-DANTE128-A installs directly into any I/O port on Allen & Heath dLive C-Class, dLive S-Class, and Avantis consoles, providing 128 bidirectional channels of Dante audio without requiring an external device or breakout box. Two RJ45 ports handle primary and secondary Dante audio streams for redundant network operation, while a dedicated third RJ45 port serves as an AES67 control network connection, keeping audio and control traffic on separate logical paths.

The Internal Network Bridge Switch allows engineers to seamlessly toggle between the dLive or Avantis control network and the Dante control network on the fly, simplifying deployments where both systems share infrastructure. Dante Domain Manager compatibility enables large-scale deployments with routing across network sub-segments, user authentication, and centralized management—features critical for permanent commercial AV installations in airports, convention centers, performing arts venues, and broadcast facilities.

At 96 kHz operation, the card maintains 128 channels in both directions, making it suitable for the highest-resolution professional audio workflows. The card is constructed in metal with a red and black finish consistent with Allen & Heath's dLive family aesthetics, and mounts via four screw points on the rear of the host device. Standard network hardware compatibility means no proprietary switches are required—the DANTE128 works with managed gigabit Ethernet infrastructure already common in commercial installations.

Key Features

• 128 Bidirectional Dante Channels — Full 128x128 I/O at 48 kHz or 96 kHz over two RJ45 ports for maximum network audio density
• dLive and Avantis Compatibility — Direct slot installation on dLive C-Class, dLive S-Class, and Avantis mixing consoles
• AES67 Interoperability — Standards-based audio-over-IP protocol support for third-party system integration
• Dante Domain Manager Ready — Enterprise security, multi-subnet routing, and centralized user authentication for large facility deployments
• Primary and Secondary Audio Ports — Redundant RJ45 Dante audio ports protect against single-point network failure
• Dedicated Control Network Port — Separate RJ45 port isolates Dante control traffic from audio network for cleaner signal routing
• Internal Network Bridge Switch — On-the-fly switching between dLive/Avantis and Dante control networks without cabling changes
• Plug-and-Play Operation — No complex configuration required; works with standard managed gigabit Ethernet hardware
• Proprietary Bus Power — Powered entirely from the host console slot; no external power supply needed

Typical Applications

• dLive and Avantis commercial installation with large-scale Dante audio networks
• Permanent AV systems in performing arts venues, conference centers, and broadcast facilities
• Multi-surface dLive deployments requiring distributed Dante routing via DDM
• Enterprise AV infrastructure with managed security and authentication requirements
• High-channel-count touring rigs where Dante networking replaces copper analog stagebox runs

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Allen & Heath consoles accept the DANTE128 card?

The AH-M-DL-DANTE128-A is compatible with dLive C-Class, dLive S-Class, and Avantis mixing consoles. It installs into any available I/O port on those systems.

How many Dante channels does this card provide?

The card provides 128 bidirectional channels—128 inputs and 128 outputs—operating at either 48 kHz or 96 kHz.

Is Dante Domain Manager (DDM) required to use this card?

No. DDM is optional but recommended for enterprise deployments requiring multi-subnet routing, user access controls, and centralized device management. The card functions without DDM in standard single-subnet Dante networks.

Does the card support AES67?

Yes. The AH-M-DL-DANTE128-A is AES67 compatible, enabling interoperability with third-party AoIP devices and systems that do not use native Dante protocol.

What is the Internal Network Bridge Switch?

It is a hardware switch on the card that allows the engineer to toggle between the host console's control network and the Dante control network, eliminating the need for separate physical network paths.

Does this card require special network switches?

No. The DANTE128 works with standard managed gigabit Ethernet switches. No proprietary hardware is required, though proper QoS configuration on managed switches is recommended for best performance.

Can multiple DANTE128 cards be used in a single dLive system?

Yes. dLive systems with multiple I/O ports can accept multiple expansion cards simultaneously, including additional DANTE128 cards or cards of other types, subject to the host system's slot availability.