Allen & Heath AH-M-SQ-MADI-A Module for SQ Mixers

Product Overview

The Allen & Heath AH-M-SQ-MADI-A is a plug-in MADI expansion module for the SQ series of digital mixing consoles, adding 64 channels of bidirectional MADI audio I/O over coaxial cable connections. It is designed to extend an SQ mixer into professional broadcast, recording, and multi-console environments where high channel counts must be transported reliably over distances that exceed standard digital snake limitations. The module supports both 48kHz and 96kHz operation, with Smux and High Speed modes for compatibility with a broad range of MADI-capable devices. Console-side error handling and external wordclock synchronization give engineers precise control over system clocking in complex signal chains.

Product Description

MADI (Multichannel Audio Digital Interface) is the professional standard for transporting up to 64 channels of digital audio over a single 75-ohm BNC coaxial cable, and the AH-M-SQ-MADI-A brings this capability directly to the SQ console platform. By installing this module into the SQ's option card slot, engineers gain a bidirectional 64-channel digital trunk that can connect the console to multitrack recorders, broadcast routers, OB van splits, or other MADI-equipped consoles without requiring additional stage boxes or analog conversion.

The module provides four BNC connectors forming two independent MADI links, allowing simultaneous connection of two separate MADI devices or a primary and redundant signal path. A dedicated BNC wordclock I/O connector enables the SQ system to lock to an external master clock or to distribute its own clock to downstream devices — critical in broadcast environments where all devices must be sample-accurate in relation to each other.

At 48kHz, the module operates in standard MADI mode, supporting up to 64 channels per link. At 96kHz, two operating modes are available: Smux, which maintains 64 channels per link by multiplexing pairs of samples, and High Speed mode, which provides up to 32 channels at full 96kHz resolution per link. The console's error handling settings manage MADI lock loss events internally, providing predictable system behavior during cable or source failures — a requirement in live broadcast and production environments where graceful degradation matters. Multichannel recording and playback workflows are supported by connecting the SQ's MADI output directly to a compatible DAW interface or hardware recorder.

Key Features

• 64x64 Channels of MADI I/O — Full bidirectional 64-channel transport over standard 75-ohm BNC coaxial cable at 48kHz.
• 48kHz and 96kHz Operation — Dual sample rate support for standard and high-resolution recording and broadcast applications.
• Smux and High Speed 96kHz Modes — Smux maintains 64-channel count at 96kHz; High Speed mode provides up to 32 channels at full 96kHz resolution per link.
• Four BNC Connectors (Two MADI Links) — Supports simultaneous connection of two MADI devices or a primary plus redundant signal path.
• Wordclock BNC I/O — Lock to an external master clock or distribute SQ clock to downstream devices for sample-accurate synchronization.
• Console-Controlled Error Handling — Configurable lock-loss behavior managed within the SQ console firmware for predictable fail behavior.
• Multichannel Recording and Playback — Connects directly to MADI-compatible DAW interfaces, multitrack recorders, and broadcast routers.
• SQ Option Card Slot Installation — Installs directly into the SQ console's expansion card slot; no external frame or power required.

Typical Applications

• Broadcast Production — Connect an SQ console to broadcast routers, OB vans, and transmission infrastructure via a single BNC MADI trunk.
• Multitrack Recording — Route up to 64 channels of pre-fader or post-fader audio from the SQ directly to a MADI-capable DAW interface or hardware multitrack recorder.
• Multi-Console Systems — Share audio between front-of-house and monitor SQ consoles, or bridge an SQ to a dLive or third-party console in a large-format production.
• Commercial AV Integration — Integrate the SQ into facility-wide digital audio distribution networks that use MADI as the backbone transport protocol.
• Live Event Production — Feed broadcast trucks, recording rigs, and video production systems directly from the SQ mix environment without additional analog-to-digital conversion.

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Which SQ console models accept the AH-M-SQ-MADI-A module?

The module is compatible with all SQ series consoles: SQ-5, SQ-6, and SQ-7. It installs into the SQ's onboard option card expansion slot.

Can this module be used to connect an SQ to a dLive system via MADI?

Yes. If the dLive system has a MADI interface installed, the SQ MADI module enables a high-channel-count digital audio link between the two consoles.

What is the maximum cable length for MADI over coaxial?

Standard 75-ohm coaxial MADI cable supports reliable transmission up to approximately 100 meters. For longer runs, MADI-over-fiber converters can extend reach significantly further.

Does the module support redundant MADI connections?

The two independent MADI links provided by the four BNC connectors can be used for primary and backup connections, but automatic failover behavior depends on the connected MADI device.

What is the difference between Smux mode and High Speed mode at 96kHz?

Smux mode keeps the channel count at 64 by multiplexing pairs of 96kHz samples into the standard MADI frame, maintaining compatibility with most MADI devices. High Speed mode sends 96kHz samples natively, which delivers lower latency but limits the channel count to 32 per link.

Is a wordclock cable required for the module to operate?

No. The module can derive its clock from the MADI input signal. The external wordclock BNC is available for installations that use a dedicated master clock source for system-wide synchronization.

Can the SQ MADI module be used for live multitrack recording to a DAW?

Yes, provided the DAW interface or audio card has a MADI input. The module outputs up to 64 channels of pre-fader or routed audio from the SQ that can be recorded directly into a MADI-capable DAW system.