Allen & Heath AH-M-SQ-SLINK-A – SLink Audio Interface Module for SQ Series Mixers

Product Overview

The Allen & Heath AH-M-SQ-SLINK-A is a digital audio expansion module for the SQ series mixers that adds a second independent SLink port, enabling up to 128x128 channels of bidirectional digital audio routing via Allen & Heath's dSnake, DX, GigaAce, and ME protocols over a single locking EtherCon connection. The module runs independently of the SQ mixer's internal SLink port, meaning both ports can operate simultaneously, significantly expanding the I/O capacity and protocol flexibility of any SQ installation. Switchable between 48 and 96 kHz, the SQ-SLINK-A accommodates both standard and high-resolution audio workflows. For commercial AV integrators, broadcast engineers, and tour production professionals, this module is the correct specification for SQ system expansions that require additional remote stage boxes, monitor systems, or cross-system connectivity beyond what a single SLink port can deliver.

Product Description

The SQ series mixers from Allen & Heath — the SQ-5, SQ-6, and SQ-7 — include a built-in SLink port that connects to Allen & Heath stage boxes and expanders using the dSnake, GigaAce, or ME protocols. In many installations, a single SLink port is sufficient. But as system complexity grows — multiple stage boxes, parallel monitor and front-of-house rigs, cross-system feeds to dLive or Avantis consoles, or personal monitoring systems running alongside main I/O — the single built-in port creates a bottleneck. The AH-M-SQ-SLINK-A removes that bottleneck by adding a fully independent second SLink connection.

The module installs into the SQ mixer's expansion card bay — the same bay used by other SQ option cards such as the Dante or MADI expansion modules. Correct installation requires following Allen & Heath's card installation procedure; the card is hot-pluggable under specific conditions. Once installed, the SQ-SLINK-A appears in the mixer's I/O configuration as an additional SLink port with independently assignable routing.

The 128x128 channel count represents the protocol-level maximum: the actual number of channels available from a connected device depends on the remote device's capability. A DX168 stage box, for example, provides 16 mic inputs and 8 outputs via dSnake, while a GigaAce-compatible device provides up to 64 bidirectional channels. The SQ-SLINK-A routes these channels into the SQ mixer's I/O grid, where they are available for assignment to any mixer input or output.

Protocol compatibility spans Allen & Heath's entire remote I/O ecosystem: dSnake (standard for DX stage boxes), DX (Allen & Heath's digital snake format), GigaAce (high-channel-count Gigabit Ethernet protocol for DX32R and DX168 at higher sample rates or channel densities), and ME (personal monitor mixing via ME-1 and ME-500 units). This makes the SQ-SLINK-A suitable for configurations ranging from a second stage box at a festival stage to an ME personal monitor system running parallel to the main dSnake stage box on the same SQ console.

Sample rate flexibility — 48 or 96 kHz, switchable — allows the SQ-SLINK-A to match the operating rate of the connected device and the SQ system clock. At 96 kHz, channel counts on dSnake-based devices are typically halved from their 48 kHz maximum; consult Allen & Heath device documentation for per-device 96 kHz channel counts.

Key Features

• Independent second SLink port — operates independently from the SQ's built-in SLink port; both run simultaneously
• 128x128 channel capacity — supports up to 128 channels in and 128 channels out per connection (device-dependent)
• dSnake, DX, GigaAce, and ME protocol support — compatible with the full range of Allen & Heath SLink-capable devices
• 48/96 kHz operation — switchable to match system sample rate and connected device capability
• Locking EtherCon connector — secure digital audio connection via standard Cat5e/Cat6 cabling
• Expander card form factor — installs in the SQ mixer's dedicated expansion card bay
• Multichannel recording/playback support — routes SLink channels through the SQ for DAW recording or playback workflows
• Compatible with SQ-5, SQ-6, and SQ-7 — supported across the full SQ series lineup

Typical Applications

• Commercial AV system integration — connect a second remote stage box or I/O expander to an SQ console in a fixed-installation AV system
• Live touring and event production — run a second dSnake stage box, a monitor split, or an ME personal monitor system alongside the primary FOH stage box
• dLive/Avantis and SQ system integration — use GigaAce to interconnect an SQ console with a dLive or Avantis system in a shared-infrastructure deployment
• Houses of worship — add a second stage box zone (altar, choir, overflow) to an SQ installation that is already using the built-in SLink port
• Broadcast and recording facilities — route additional digital I/O channels for multichannel recording, talkback systems, or multitrack playback
• Personal monitor systems — connect an ME system (ME-1 or ME-500) via the SQ-SLINK-A port while the primary SLink port handles the main stage box

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Which SQ models does the AH-M-SQ-SLINK-A support?

The SQ-SLINK-A is compatible with the SQ-5, SQ-6, and SQ-7. It installs in the dedicated expansion card bay present on all three models.

Does the SQ-SLINK-A replace or add to the built-in SLink port?

It adds to the built-in port. The SQ-SLINK-A runs independently, meaning both the built-in SLink port and the SQ-SLINK-A port can be used simultaneously with different connected devices.

What Allen & Heath devices can connect to the SQ-SLINK-A?

Any device supporting dSnake, DX, GigaAce, or ME protocols: DX168, DX32R, DX32, DX8, ME-1 personal monitor mixers, ME-500 personal monitor amplifiers, and other Allen & Heath SLink-compatible units.

Can I use the SQ-SLINK-A to connect an SQ mixer to a dLive or Avantis system?

Yes. GigaAce protocol supports cross-platform connectivity between Allen & Heath's SQ, dLive, and Avantis platforms, enabling shared I/O or system bridging in mixed-platform deployments.

Does the 128x128 channel count apply at all sample rates?

The 128x128 figure is the protocol maximum at 48 kHz. At 96 kHz, the channel count supported by connected dSnake devices is typically halved. Consult individual device specifications for actual 96 kHz channel counts.

Is professional installation required for the SQ-SLINK-A?

Card installation into an SQ expansion bay should follow Allen & Heath's installation procedure. While not complex, it involves handling sensitive electronics. Installation by a qualified AV technician is recommended, particularly in warranty-critical applications.

Can the SQ-SLINK-A be used for multitrack recording into a DAW?

Yes. When connected to an appropriate Allen & Heath device or using routing within the SQ's I/O grid, channels from the SQ-SLINK-A can be routed for multitrack recording via the SQ's USB or Dante expansion capabilities.