1. Introduction
dLive is a distributed digital mixing system providing a uniquely flexible solution for any live sound application. It separates the mix engine from the control surface, putting the audio and processing where it is needed, and offering a host of control and audio networking possibilities. Refer to the Allen & Heath website to find out more about dLive.
The MixRack is the heart of any dLive system. It houses the XCVI processing core complete with audio I/O, control and audio networking ports. It is typically connected to a dLive Surface, but can also be controlled at the same time as or even without a Surface using a laptop or iPad, Allen & Heath IP remotes or third party controllers via TCP/IP. The system can be expanded by adding up to 3 DX32 modular racks, and is compatible with the ME personal mixing system.
A diagram illustrates the dLive system architecture. A central 'MixRack' unit is shown. It connects to a 'Surface' (control surface) via a 'gigaACE' link. The MixRack also connects to 'Expander' units. Other connection points from the MixRack include 'IP remotes', 'Personal mixing' systems, and 'Apps and Software'. The MixRack has multiple 'I/O Ports' capable of handling digital audio protocols like Dante, MADI, and Waves SG. The diagram shows the MixRack having 3x I/O Ports, each supporting 128x128 channels, and 2x I/O Ports for general use. Expander units also have I/O ports.
1.1 dLive MixRacks
There are 3 sizes of dLive MixRack available: DM32, DM48, and DM64. They feature the same mix engine and differ only in the number of analogue I/O. All models can work with the full 128 channels by adding DX expanders or patching digital sources.
dLive MixRack features at a glance:
- XCVI 160x64 FPGA core
- 96kHz sample rate, 96bit accumulator
- Class leading, ultra-low latency 0.7ms
- 128 Input Channels with full processing
- 64 Mix Outputs with full processing
- DEEP processing embedded channel plugins
- Configurable 64 bus architecture (group, FX, aux, matrix, mains)
- LR, LCR and up to 5.1 mains mode
- 16 RackFX with dedicated stereo returns
- Multiple PFLs
- 16 DCAs
- Built-in signal generator, RTA and spectrogram
- Dual redundant, hot swappable power supply
- Flush front panel with ultra quiet fan
- Reversible rack ears design
dLive MixRack Models
The dLive MixRack series includes three models, each differing in their analogue input and output capabilities:
- DM32: 32 mic/line inputs, 16 XLR outputs, 7U rack space.
- DM48: 48 mic/line inputs, 24 XLR outputs, 8U rack space.
- DM64: 64 mic/line inputs, 32 XLR outputs, 10U rack space.
Diagrams show the rear panels of the DM32, DM48, and DM64 MixRacks. Common elements include multiple rows of XLR connectors for Mic/Line inputs, rows of XLR connectors for Line outputs, and I/O Ports (labeled I/O Port 1, I/O Port 2, I/O Port 3). Network ports, gigaACE ports, DX link ports (DX1, DX2, DX3, DX4), an ME port, Word Clock I/O, a Phones jack, and power supply units (labeled Power 1 and Power 2) with IEC mains inlets and On/Off switches are present. Some models have different quantities of Mic/Line inputs and Line outputs, and different physical sizes (7U, 8U, 10U).
2. Installing the MixRack
2.1 Free standing
The MixRack can be operated as a freestanding unit for shelf or floor operation. Ensure that its plastic feet are fitted and that there is adequate air flow around the unit. It must not be covered in any way. Always stand the unit on a firm flat surface away from any soft furnishings or carpet.
2.2 Rack mounting and flight casing
The DM32, DM48, and DM64 are designed as 19-inch rack mount units, occupying 7U, 8U, and 10U of rack space respectively. The plastic feet may need to be removed before rack mounting; retain them for future use. For rental, touring, and other portable use, a professional-grade flight case with a shock-mounted internal rack frame is recommended.
Ensure natural convection of airflow around the unit by allowing good ventilation below, in front of, and behind the unit. Rack equipment known to produce significant heat should not be mounted directly below the unit. Forced convection via a rack-mounted fan-tray may be desirable in situations where space is restricted and ambient air temperature is high.
2.3 Rack ears
The rack ears can be mounted facing either the front or rear panel to suit the application. They are secured to the sides of the MixRack with 3 screws each. Remove these screws using a Pozidriv screwdriver to remove or reposition the rack ears.
A diagram shows the side of a MixRack unit with rack ears attached. It indicates that the rack ears can be mounted to face either the front or rear panel. Screws are shown securing the ears to the chassis. An arrow points to an alternative mounting position for the rack ears on the front panel.
3. Rear Panel
A detailed diagram of the rear panel of a dLive DM32 MixRack is shown, with numbered callouts pointing to various connectors and features. The panel contains numerous XLR inputs (labeled 1), XLR outputs (labeled 2), and I/O Ports (labeled 3). Network ports, gigaACE ports, DX link ports, an ME port, Word Clock I/O, a Phones jack, and power supply units (labeled Power 1 and Power 2) with IEC mains inlets and On/Off switches are visible. Specific labels include 'Network', 'gigaACE A', 'gigaACE B', 'DX 1', 'DX 2', 'DX 3', 'DX 4', 'ME', 'Word Clock', 'Phones', 'PAFL', 'Power 1', 'Power 2', and 'AC MAINS IN'. Safety warnings and compliance logos are also present.
1 Mic/Line inputs: Recallable preamps for balanced or unbalanced microphone and line level signals. Gain, Pad, and 48V are digitally controlled within the preamp. The PP indicator lights up when phantom power voltage is detected at the socket. Any socket can be patched to any Input Channel using the I/O or Processing / Preamp screen.
2 Line outputs: Line level, balanced XLR outputs with a nominal level of +4dBu. The outputs are relay protected to prevent power on or off thumps. Signals can be patched to any output socket using the I/O screen.
3 I/O Ports: Three audio interface ports, each supporting 128x128 channels, independently assigned. These ports accept option cards for system expansion, digital mic splitting, recording, or distributed audio networking. Refer to www.allen-heath.com for a list of available option cards. iLive / GLD option cards can be used with dLive when fitted with the M-DL-ADAPT adapter, providing a 64x64 48kHz interface.
4 Network: Two RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet ports for connecting a laptop or wireless router for use with dLive Editor or iOS apps. All devices on the network must have compatible IP addresses. A recessed switch allows resetting network settings to factory default.
5 gigaACE link: MixRack to Surface link over Gigabit Ethernet. A single Cat5e (or higher) cable carries bidirectional 96kHz audio and control. Two cables can be used for redundancy.
6 DX links: Dual redundant EtherCon ports for connecting up to 2 DX expanders. A single Cat5e (or higher) cable carries 32x32 channels of 96kHz audio and control. Connect the first expander to DX1 & DX2, the second to DX3 & DX4.
7 ME: Dedicated EtherCon port for the Allen & Heath ME personal mixing system. A single Cat5e (or higher) cable carries 40 channels of 48kHz audio. Connect a ME-1 mixer for daisy chaining or a ME-U hub for power and audio distribution.
8 Word Clock I/O: BNC connectors for syncing from an external audio clock or providing a clock to other devices. Use the MixRack / Audio / Audio Sync screen to select the clock source.
9 Audio Sync Lock: Indicates that the audio is sync locked to a valid clock source. If this does not light up, check the clock source selection.
10 Phones: Standard 1/4" jack socket and level control for the built-in headphone amplifier. The output follows the PAFL selection.
11 Power Supply: Hot swappable power supply with mains IEC socket and On/Off rocker switch. To remove or replace, loosen the 4 screws and slide the PSU out. dLive MixRacks ship with one PSU fitted; a second PSU can be fitted for redundancy. The MixRack automatically switches between supplies.
4. Front Panel
A diagram shows the front panel of a dLive DM32 MixRack. Key elements include a large ventilation grille with a fan (labeled 1), a Kensington Lock slot (labeled 2), and status indicators (labeled 3). The status indicators show Power ON for the two power supplies and a 'Ready' light that illuminates when outputs are ready for audio. A warning about not obstructing ventilation openings is present.
1 Fan: Ultra-quiet fan. Ensure the ventilation opening is not obstructed.
2 Kensington Lock: A slot for fitting standard Kensington anti-theft security devices.
3 Status indicators: Power ON indicators for the 2 power supplies. The 'Ready' indicator lights up when the output sockets are ready to pass audio after power up.
5. Connect and power up
Switch on the MixRack. It takes around 15 seconds for the mix engine to start passing audio. Relays will click as outputs connect, and the 'Ready' indicator on the front panel will light up.
5.1 Surface connection
Plug a touring-grade CAT5e (or higher specification) cable up to 100m long between the dLive Surface and the MixRack's gigaACE ports. Use two cables for redundancy if required. Refer to www.allen-heath.com for cable requirements.
A diagram shows a MixRack unit (labeled ALLEN&HEATH) with CAT5e cables connecting from its gigaACE ports to a dLive Surface unit.
After switching on the Surface, the gigaACE Link/Err indicators should flash steadily. A red error indicator signifies a communication error. Check cable connections. It takes approximately 30 seconds for the Surface to take control and become responsive.
5.2 Expander connection
Plug a touring-grade CAT5e (or higher specification) cable up to 100m long between the DX Expander and the MixRack's DX ports. Use two cables for redundancy if required. Refer to www.allen-heath.com for cable requirements.
A diagram shows a MixRack unit (labeled ALLEN&HEATH) with CAT5e cables connecting from its DX ports to a DX32 Expander unit.
After switching on the DX Expander, the DX port Link/Err indicators should flash steadily. A red error indicator signifies a communication error. Check cable connections.
5.3 ME system connection
Plug a touring-grade CAT5e (or higher specification) cable up to 100m long between the MixRack ME port and the ME-1 or ME-U. Refer to www.allen-heath.com for cable requirements.
A diagram illustrates the connection of a MixRack unit to multiple ME-1 personal mixers via CAT5e cables from the MixRack's ME port.
5.4 Connect a laptop or wireless router
Connect a laptop, router, or access point to either of the Network ports to use with dLive Editor or iOS apps. Read the Release Notes and Help Files for software details.
dLive communicates over TCP/IP. All devices on the network must have compatible IP addresses. Factory defaults are:
- MixRack: 192.168.1.70
- Surface: 192.168.1.71
- Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
- Gateway: 192.168.1.254
For direct, wired laptop connections, set your laptop to a static, compatible IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.10).
For wireless connections, set your router/access point to a compatible IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.254) and its DHCP range to a compatible range (e.g., 192.168.1.100 to 192.168.1.200). Set any wireless laptop or mobile device to DHCP / 'obtain an IP address automatically'.
6. Dimensions
Three views of the MixRack chassis are shown with overall dimensions. Top view shows width (380.00mm/15") and depth (313.00mm/12.3"). Front view shows width (482.60mm/19"), height (various U sizes), and depth (442.00mm/17.4" or 434.00mm/17.1"). Side view shows depth (220.00mm/8.7") and height (24.00mm/0.9"). A table lists the specific dimensions and weights for DM32, DM48, and DM64.
| Model | Width x Depth x Height x Weight (Unboxed) | Width x Depth x Height x Weight (Boxed) |
|---|---|---|
| DM32 | 482.6 x 313 x 325 mm x 15kg (19" x 12.3" x 12.8" x 33lbs) | 590 x 420 x 470 mm x 17.5kg (23.2" x 16.5" x 18.5" x 38.6lbs) |
| DM48 | 482.6 x 313 x 369 mm x 17.5kg (19" x 12.3" x 14.5" x 39lbs) | 590 x 420 x 510 mm x 20kg (23.2" x 16.5" x 20.1" x 44.1lbs) |
| DM64 | 482.6 x 313 x 458 mm x 21kg (19" x 12.3" x 18" x 46lbs) | 590 x 420 x 585 mm x 24kg (23.2" x 16.5"x 23" x 52.9lbs) |
7. Technical specs
| Category | Specification | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Inputs | Mic/Line XLR Inputs | Balanced XLR, +48V phantom power |
| Mic/Line Preamp | Fully recallable | |
| Input Sensitivity | -60 to +15dBu | |
| Analogue Gain | +5 to +60dB, 1dB steps | |
| Pad | -20dB Active PAD | |
| Maximum Input Level | +30dBu (PAD in) | |
| Input Impedance | >4kΩ (Pad out), >10kΩ (Pad in) | |
| Mic EIN | -127dB with 150Ω source | |
| System | Measured balanced XLR in to XLR out, 20-20kHz, minimum Gain, Pad out, signal @ 0dB (meter) | |
| Dynamic Range | 110dB | |
| System Signal to Noise | -92dB | |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz - 30kHz +0/-0.8dB | |
| THD+N (analogue in to out) | 0.0015% @ +16dBu output, 1kHz, 0dB gain | |
| Headroom | +18dB | |
| Internal operating Level | 0dBu | |
| dBFS Alignment | +18dBu = 0dBFS (+22dBu at XLR output) | |
| Meter Calibration | 0dB meter = -18dBFS (+4dBu at XLR out) | |
| Outputs | Analogue XLR Outputs | Balanced, Relay protected |
| Output Impedance | <75Ω | |
| Nominal Output | +4dBu = 0dB meter reading | |
| Maximum Output Level | +22dBu | |
| Residual Output Noise | -92dBu (muted, 20-20kHz) -90dBu (muted, 20-40kHz) |
|
| Meter Peak indication | -3dBFS (+19dBu at XLR out) | |
| Power | Mains Voltage Operating Range | 100-240V AC, 50/60Hz |
| Mains Power Consumption | 300W max (MPS16 V1 300W)* 250W max (MPS16 V2 250W)* *MPS16 power consumption is printed under AC inlet |
|
| Temperature | Operating Temperature Range | 0°C to 35°C (32°F to 95°F) |
| Fitted with MPS16 V1 300w | 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F) | |
| Fitted with MPS16 V2 250w | 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F) | |
| Latency | 0.7 ms (MixRack XLR in to XLR out, Input to Mix) + 5 samples, Surface to Mixrack (GigaACE hop) + 8 samples, DX32 to Mixrack (DX hop) |
|
| Sampling Rate | 96kHz +/- 20 PPM | |
| ADC | 24-bit Delta-Sigma | |
| DAC | 24-bit Delta-Sigma |
Limited Three Years Manufacturer's Warranty
Allen & Heath warrants the Allen & Heath-branded hardware product and accessories contained in the original packaging ("Allen & Heath Product") against defects in materials and workmanship when used in accordance with Allen & Heath's user manuals, technical specifications and other Allen & Heath product published guidelines for a period of THREE (3) YEARS from the date of original purchase by the end-user purchaser ("Warranty Period").
This warranty does not apply to any non-Allen & Heath branded hardware products or any software, even if packaged or sold with Allen & Heath hardware. Please refer to the licensing agreement accompanying the software for details of your rights with respect to the use of software/firmware ("EULA"). Details of the EULA, warranty policy and other useful information can be found on the Allen & Heath website: www.allen-heath.com/legal.
Repair or replacement under the terms of the warranty does not provide right to extension or renewal of the warranty period. Repair or direct replacement of the product under the terms of this warranty may be fulfilled with functionally equivalent service exchange units.
This warranty is not transferable. This warranty will be the purchaser's sole and exclusive remedy and neither Allen & Heath nor its approved service centres shall be liable for any incidental or consequential damages or breach of any express or implied warranty of this product.
Conditions Of Warranty
The equipment has not been subject to misuse either intended or accidental, neglect, or alteration other than as described in the User Guide or Service Manual, or approved by Allen & Heath. The warranty does not cover fader wear and tear.
Any necessary adjustment, alteration or repair has been carried out by an authorised Allen & Heath distributor or agent.
The defective unit is to be returned carriage prepaid to the place of purchase, an authorised Allen & Heath distributor or agent with proof of purchase. Please discuss this with the distributor or the agent before shipping. Units returned should be packed in the original carton to avoid transit damage.
DISCLAIMER: Allen & Heath shall not be liable for the loss of any saved/stored data in products that are either repaired or replaced.
Check with your Allen & Heath distributor or agent for any additional warranty information which may apply. If further assistance is required please contact Allen & Heath Ltd.
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