Allen & Heath Avantis Digital Mixer User Manual

1. Introduction

The Allen & Heath Avantis is a 64-channel, 42-bus, 96kHz digital mixer designed for professional audio applications. It offers extensive processing capabilities and flexible routing options, making it suitable for live sound, broadcast, and studio environments. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your Avantis mixer.

Figure 1.1: Front view of the Avantis digital mixer, showcasing its dual touchscreens, fader banks, and control surface.

2. Safety Information

Please read and understand all safety instructions before operating the Avantis mixer. Failure to do so may result in electric shock, fire, or damage to the equipment.

• Power Supply: Use only the specified power supply and ensure it is connected to a grounded outlet.
• Ventilation: Do not block ventilation openings. Ensure adequate airflow around the unit to prevent overheating.
• Moisture: Do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. Do not place objects filled with liquids on the unit.
• Servicing: Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Do not attempt to open or repair the unit yourself.

3. Setup

3.1 Unpacking and Inspection

Carefully remove the mixer from its packaging. Inspect the unit for any signs of damage that may have occurred during transit. Retain the original packaging for future transport or storage.

3.2 Physical Connections

The Avantis mixer features various input and output connections on its rear panel. Ensure all connections are secure before powering on the unit.

• Power: Connect the supplied power cable to the AC inlet and a suitable power source.
• Audio Inputs: Connect microphones and line-level sources to the XLR and TRS inputs.
• Audio Outputs: Connect to amplifiers, speakers, or recording devices via the XLR and TRS outputs.
• Network: Use the network ports for connecting to dLive expanders, personal monitoring systems, or for remote control.
• Word Clock: Connect to external word clock devices for synchronization.

Figure 3.1: Rear panel of the Avantis mixer, displaying the XLR inputs and outputs, network ports, and power connection.

3.3 Initial Power-On

1. Ensure all audio connections are made and secure.
2. Connect the power cable.
3. Press the power button located on the rear panel.
4. Allow the system to boot up. The touchscreens will display the user interface once ready.

4. Operating

4.1 Control Surface Overview

The Avantis features a highly intuitive control surface with dual 15.6-inch Full HD touchscreens, 12 faders, and dedicated rotary controls for quick access to parameters.

Figure 4.1: Top-down view of the Avantis control surface, highlighting the dual touchscreens and fader layout.

4.2 Basic Navigation

• Touchscreens: Use the touchscreens to navigate menus, adjust parameters, and view metering.
• Faders: Control channel levels, mix sends, and group levels.
• Rotary Controls: Adjust specific parameters displayed on the touchscreens or assigned functions.
• SoftKeys: Customizable buttons for quick access to frequently used functions.

4.3 Input/Output Routing

The Avantis offers flexible routing capabilities. Access the routing matrix via the 'Routing' tab on the touchscreen to assign inputs to channels, and channels to mixes, groups, and outputs.

4.4 Processing and Effects

Each channel and mix features a comprehensive suite of processing tools, including EQ, dynamics (compressors, gates), and effects. The Avantis dPack upgrade provides additional dLive processing options like Dyn8 and DEEP Compressors.

• EQ: Adjust frequency response using the parametric EQ on each channel.
• Dynamics: Apply compression, gating, and limiting to control signal dynamics.
• FX: Access a library of built-in effects (reverbs, delays, modulations) and assign them to channels or mixes.

4.5 Scene Management

Save and recall complete mixer configurations using scenes. This is useful for different songs, acts, or setups within a performance.

1. Navigate to the 'Scenes' menu on the touchscreen.
2. Select an empty slot or an existing scene to save/recall.
3. Use the 'Save' or 'Recall' options as needed.

5. Maintenance

5.1 Cleaning

Regular cleaning helps maintain the performance and appearance of your mixer.

• Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe down the surface.
• For touchscreens, use a screen-specific cleaner and a microfiber cloth.
• Avoid abrasive cleaners, solvents, or excessive moisture.

5.2 Firmware Updates

Allen & Heath periodically releases firmware updates to improve performance, add features, and fix bugs. Check the official Allen & Heath website for the latest firmware and update instructions.

5.3 Storage

When not in use, store the mixer in a cool, dry environment, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. If transporting, use a dedicated flight case to protect the unit.

6. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Avantis mixer.

• No Power:
  • Check the power cable connection at both the mixer and the outlet.
  • Ensure the power switch is in the 'On' position.
  • Verify the power outlet is functional.
• No Sound Output:
  • Check master output faders and mute buttons.
  • Verify routing from channels to main outputs.
  • Ensure external amplifiers/speakers are powered on and connected correctly.
• Input Signal Not Detected:
  • Check input cable connections.
  • Ensure input gain is set appropriately.
  • Verify phantom power is enabled for condenser microphones.
• Touchscreen Unresponsive:
  • Try restarting the mixer.
  • Ensure the screen is clean and free of debris.

If the issue persists, contact Allen & Heath support or a qualified service technician.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

8.1 Warranty Information

The Allen & Heath Avantis mixer comes with a limited manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Allen & Heath website for detailed terms and conditions regarding coverage, duration, and limitations.

8.2 Technical Support

For technical assistance, product registration, or service inquiries, please contact Allen & Heath customer support through their official website or the contact information provided in your product documentation. When contacting support, please have your product model and serial number ready.

Allen & Heath Official Website: www.allen-heath.com