Allen&Heath AB168 Qu User Manual

AB168

dSNAKE

CH 1-16

Out 1-8

ME-1 / ME-U

dSNAKE

dSNAKE In 1-16

dSNAKE Out 1-8

AB168

dSNAKE Exp 1-16

dSNAKE Exp Out 1-8

ME-1 / ME-U

AB168 AudioRack

GLD-80 + 2x AB168

32 inputs, 16 outputs on stage

Qu-16 + AB168

Access all 16 mic inputs on stage

The AB168 is a portable, rugged audio interface box for the Allen & Heath GLD and Qu digital mixing systems. It provides 16 remote controlled mic/line preamps and 8 XLR line outputs. It connects to the mixer over a single Cat5 cable using the Allen & Heath dSNAKE protocol. A second AB168 can be connected to the AB168 to expand the number of system inputs and outputs.

The AB168 is simply an audio interface. It cannot be used by itself. It must connect to the GLD or Qu mixer which is where the audio is processed.

 The AB168 is not compatible with Allen & Heath iLive Series components or ACE connection.

Refer to the GLD User Guide AP8561 and Qu User Guide AP9372 for instructions on connecting and using the AB168 with your system. Refer to the Allen & Heath web site for more information and suitable Cat5 cables.

The AB168 can be operated horizontally with the connectors facing upward or sideward, or vertically to save space on stage. It can also be mounted in a 19” equipment rack or case using the optional AB168-RK10 kit.

The diagrams below show two example applications.

Allen & Heath can provide the following CAT5e cables:

AH9650 100m drum of Etherflex cable with Neutrik EtherCon locking connectors. AH9651 20m Etherflex cable with Neutrik EtherCon locking connectors.

AB168 AP9588 issue 1

AB168 Panel Layout

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 Input sockets 16 balanced XLR mic/line

inputs with +48V Phantom Power indicator. The preamps are built into the AB168 and their Gain, Pad and 48V phantom power are remote controlled from the mixer via the dSNAKE link. The outputs of the analogue preamps are converted to digital format and transported via dSNAKE to be processed and mixed at the GLD or Qu mixer.

The sockets are numbered 1-16. On GLD, any input can be patched to any channel at the console. On Qu, sockets are mapped one-to-one to input channels.

The Phantom Power indicator detects voltage at the socket whether supplied by the AB168 or received from an external source.

 Output sockets 8 balanced XLR outputs

operating at nominal +4dBu line level. Any signal can be patched to any socket using the GLD I/O screen or Qu Setup / Output Patch / dSNAKE menu. The mixer defaults to a logical mapping of these sockets to get you started.

 Space is provided next to the sockets for

custom labelling.

 dSNAKE port Cat5 cable link to connect to

the mixer or AR2412 rack. This carries the inputs, outputs and the monitor sends to and from the AB168 as well as control for the preamps and system status. Maximum Cat5

cable length is 120m (396’) depending on cable

type.

 We recommend using EtherCon locking

connectors to prevent damage to cables or ports.

 EXPANDER port Cat5 cable link to

connect a second AB168 rack to add further mic/line inputs and XLR line outputs. It can also be used to connect to the Allen & Heath ME personal mixing system.

 Mains power input IEC connector and

fuse for the built-in universal voltage power supply unit. This accepts worldwide voltages from 100 to 240V AC 50/60Hz. Check that you have received the correct mains lead for your territory.

Secure the cable in place using the plastic P-clip. Use a T20 Torx screwdriver to refit the screw.

 Vents Ensure good ventilation at the sides

and back of the rack. Avoid obstruction of vents while operating. Avoid dirt or liquid ingress.

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 Read the Safety Instructions Sheet and information printed on the panel before operating.  By using this Allen & Heath product and the software within it you agree to be bound by the terms of

the relevant End User Licence Agreement (EULA), a copy of which can be found at: www.allen-

heath.com/legal.

AB168 2 AP9588 issue 1