The Allen & Heath AB168 is a portable remote AudioRack stagebox designed to expand the input and output capacity of Allen & Heath digital mixing systems. Featuring 16 remote-controlled microphone preamps and 8 balanced XLR outputs, the AB168 connects to compatible mixers using Allen & Heath’s dSNAKE protocol over a single Cat5e cable, allowing stage I/O to be positioned up to 100 metres from the mixing console. Its rugged portable design, built-in carry handle, and flexible expansion options make it ideal for live sound, houses of worship, theatres, touring productions, education facilities, and fixed installations.

Key features

• 16 remote-controlled XLR mic/line inputs
• 8 balanced XLR line outputs
• dSNAKE digital audio transport over Cat5e
• Up to 100m remote placement from mixer
• 16 recallable microphone preamps
• Phantom power indicators on every input
• -20dB input pads for line-level sources
• Expander port for daisy-chaining compatible AudioRacks
• ME Personal Mixing System compatibility
• Automatic firmware synchronization
• Portable stagebox format with carry handle
• Optional 4U rack-mount kit available

Overview

Included Content

• AB168 AudioRack stagebox
• Integrated carry handle
• IEC power cable
• User documentation

Creative Tools

• Single-cable stage-to-FOH digital audio transport
• Remote preamp control directly from the mixer
• Daisy-chain support for larger I/O configurations
• ME Personal Mixing System integration
• Automatic firmware updates from connected consoles
• Portable deployment for temporary productions
• Optional rack installation for permanent systems
• Eliminates bulky analogue multicore snakes
• Flexible stage positioning up to 100 metres away

Ideal For

• Live sound reinforcement
• Touring and rental companies
• Houses of worship
• Theatres and performing arts venues
• Corporate AV installations
• Schools and universities
• Broadcast and streaming facilities
• Users of Allen & Heath Qu, SQ and Avantis systems
• Applications requiring portable remote stage I/O