Allen & Heath has added the xDR-16 expander unit to the iLive digital mixing family, providing remote analogue I/O expansion and networking options at FOH, on the other side of a large stage, in another room, or even in a different building during installations.

The xDR-16 has 16 analogue inputs and 8 analogue outputs connected via Allen & Heath's proprietary Audio and Control over Ethernet (ACE') link fitted in Port B of an iLive MixRack, which can be positioned up to 120 metres away on CAT5 or further on a dedicated fibre optic system.

Allen & Heath's range of audio interface and network plug-in cards can be fitted to the xDR-16 to provide additional connectivity, including EtherSound, MADI, Mini Multi-Out (Aviom' and ADAT), ACE', RockNet and Dante.

Up to two expanders can be added to a standard iLive system, providing a total of 32 inputs and 16 outputs, and the ability to fit two audio networking cards, such as a combination of MADI and Aviom, to one system. Systems implementing 'DualRack' mode or a FOH/Monitor split can support one expander if required.

The xDR-16 also features an Ethernet network port, enabling the user to plug in a laptop or wireless access point for remote control of the entire mixing system via iLive Editor control software or iLive Tweak iPhone app.