Allen & Heath AH-M-SQ-SDANTE64-A Dante Module for SQ Mixers and AHM-64 Audio Processor

Product Overview

The Allen & Heath AH-M-SQ-SDANTE64-A is a 64x64 Dante option module for SQ series digital mixing consoles and the AHM-64 audio processor, enabling full Dante network audio integration at both 48 and 96 kHz sample rates. The card installs in the SQ expansion bay and connects to Dante networks through two locking EtherCON ports supporting redundant and switch operating modes. It delivers bidirectional 64-channel audio transport over standard Cat5e/Cat6 cabling, with support for Dante Domain Manager for enterprise network management. The SQ-SDANTE64 is the definitive solution for connecting SQ and AHM-64 systems to Dante-based commercial AV, enterprise audio, and broadcast infrastructure.

Product Description

Once installed in the SQ expansion bay, the M-SQ-SDANTE64-A card presents the host console or processor as a fully functional Dante network node. Up to 64 channels in each direction can be routed across the network using standard Dante Controller software, allowing integration with any Dante-certified device on the network including amplifiers, stage boxes, conference systems, and recording workstations. The dual EtherCON ports can be configured in switch mode for daisy-chaining or redundant mode for failover protection, providing the flexibility to match any network topology.

Sample rate switching between 48 and 96 kHz ensures compatibility with existing Dante networks regardless of the rate at which other devices operate. For SQ consoles running at 96 kHz, the card maintains full 96 kHz operation across the network link. The internal control network bridge feature allows the Allen & Heath network control protocol to share the same physical cabling as audio, reducing infrastructure requirements in permanent installations. Support for Dante Domain Manager enables IT administrators to enforce device enrollment, manage routing permissions, and segment audio across network domains in enterprise and broadcast environments.

The card's multitrack recording capability allows all 64 Dante channels to be captured simultaneously to a computer running Dante Virtual Soundcard or similar software, enabling virtual soundcheck workflows and archive recording from live or installed sound systems. For commercial AV integrators deploying SQ consoles in networked facilities, the M-SQ-SDANTE64-A is the most direct path to full Dante integration without replacing the host system.

Key Features

• 64x64 Dante Audio Channels — Full bidirectional 64-channel I/O over standard Cat5e/Cat6 Ethernet
• Dual Sample Rate (48/96 kHz) — Switchable to match existing Dante network configurations
• Two Locking EtherCON Ports — Configurable in redundant or switch mode for network topology flexibility
• Redundant Network Mode — Dual-link failover protects live audio in mission-critical installations
• Internal Control Network Bridge — Allen & Heath control traffic and audio share the same network cabling
• Dante Domain Manager Ready — Enterprise-grade network management for device enrollment and routing control
• Multitrack Recording Support — 64-channel simultaneous capture to DAW over the network
• Compatible with SQ Series and AHM-64 — One module covers both the SQ console family and the AHM-64 processor

Typical Applications

• Commercial AV Networked Installations — Integrate SQ consoles into Dante-based distributed audio systems
• Enterprise Audio Networks — Connect SQ and AHM-64 to Dante infrastructure in corporate and campus environments
• Live Sound Production — Enable digital splits for FOH, monitors, and broadcast from a single SQ console
• Broadcast Facilities — Route console audio across facility networks with redundancy and DDM control
• Houses of Worship — Network audio routing between stage, FOH, and recording with a single Cat6 run
• Multitrack Studio Recording — Capture 64 channels from an SQ console to a DAW without dedicated interface hardware

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Which SQ models does the M-SQ-SDANTE64-A support?

The card is compatible with the full SQ series including SQ-5, SQ-6, and SQ-7 consoles, as well as the AHM-64 audio matrix processor. Confirm slot availability on your specific unit before ordering.

What is the difference between switch mode and redundant mode?

In switch mode, the two ports connect to different network nodes allowing daisy-chain topologies. In redundant mode, both ports carry identical audio; if the primary link fails, the secondary takes over with no audio dropout.

Can the M-SQ-SDANTE64-A operate at 96 kHz on a Dante network?

Yes. The card supports 96 kHz operation. Note that Dante channel counts may be reduced at 96 kHz depending on network bandwidth and device configurations, consistent with standard Dante behavior.

Does this card require Dante Domain Manager?

No. Dante Domain Manager is an optional enterprise management tool. The card functions on standard Dante networks using Dante Controller without DDM.

Is professional installation required?

The option card should be installed by a qualified technician or authorized Allen & Heath service center. Incorrect installation may void the warranty.

Can I use the M-SQ-SDANTE64-A alongside other option cards in the same SQ console?

SQ consoles have a single expansion bay. Only one option card can be installed at a time. Verify which option cards are supported in your specific SQ model.