The Allen & Heath XDR16 is a multi-functional digital expander unit designed to serve as a remote-controlled input/output hub for compatible digital mixing consoles, such as those in the Allen & Heath dLive and SQ series. It functions as a stage box, providing premium microphone preamplifiers and additional output channels at the point of performance, thereby allowing a main mixer to be positioned at FOH (Front of House) while minimizing the length of analog cable runs. This setup preserves signal integrity by converting analog inputs to digital audio immediately at the stage, transmitting all channels via a single Cat5e or fiber optic cable using Allen & Heath's proprietary DX protocol. The XDR16 is engineered to deliver the same sonic quality and reliability as the preamps in its companion mixing surfaces, making it a critical component for expanding the physical footprint and channel count of a modern digital mixing ecosystem.

This unit provides sixteen high-quality, fully controllable microphone/line inputs, each equipped with a high-headroom, low-noise preamp featuring switchable phantom power, polarity reverse, and a high-pass filter. It also offers eight balanced analog outputs for sending mixed signals to stage monitors, front fills, or recording devices. The connection between the XDR16 and the main mixing console is a robust, low-latency digital link that can be extended over long distances without signal degradation. This architecture not only streamlines stage cabling but also allows the mixer’s operator to remotely control every parameter of the connected preamps—including gain, phantom power, and filters—directly from the console's surface or via network control software.

Built for the demands of live touring and installation, the XDR16 features a rugged all-steel chassis with internal shielding to ensure reliable operation in electrically noisy environments. Its design emphasizes both durability and ease of setup, with clear metering on each input channel and a straightforward interface for local monitoring and configuration. The unit is a key element in creating a scalable, high-performance audio network, enabling engineers to manage large input lists from a central position with total recallability and digital precision. The Allen & Heath XDR16 effectively bridges the gap between analog sources on stage and the digital processing power of a modern mixing system, offering a seamless expansion of I/O capabilities for professional audio applications.