AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Allen & Heath Stage Boxes for Digital Mixers 2026
The top pick is Allen & Heath AR-84 8-Channel AudioRack Expansion Interface ($899). Allen & Heath DT02 gives you the most for the money at $336. Allen & Heath GX4816 Expander Module leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 12 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 18, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Allen & Heath AR-84 8-Channel AudioRack Expansion Interface
AR84 · Allen & Heath
16 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
- Weight3 kg
The AR84 is a solid, reliable expander for Allen & Heath's digital mixer ecosystem. It's a great solution for bands or sound engineers needing extra mic inputs without adding a full-sized mixer. If you're already invested in the A&H digital world, this rack is a seamless and professional extension of your system.
Pros
- Robust Dante protocol ensures rock-solid, low-latency audio transmission
- Allen & Heath's signature preamps deliver clean, musical gain
- Compact 1U rackmount saves valuable space on stage or in the studio
Cons
- Limited output count compared to larger format stage racks
- Cat 5 connectivity might be a bottleneck for some setups
78AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$899 now$899€799 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Allen & Heath AB-168 16-Channel Portable AudioRack Stage Box
AB168 · Allen & Heath
26 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
The AB168 is a workhorse stagebox, expanding your GLD or Qu mixer's input count with Allen & Heath's signature preamp quality and Dante networking. It’s perfect for bands and touring acts needing reliable, high-quality remote mic preamps and signal routing – just be sure you’re already in the Allen & Heath digital ecosystem.
Pros
- Robust Dante networking provides rock-solid, low-latency connectivity.
- Allen & Heath’s renowned preamps deliver clean, transparent gain.
- Compact form factor simplifies stage setup and transport.
Cons
- Limited to GLD and Qu series mixers, restricting versatility.
- Rack kit and case are optional, adding to the overall investment.
76AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,338 now$1,338€1,189 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Allen & Heath AR-2412 24-Channel AudioRack Expansion Interface
AR2412 · Allen & Heath
18 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
- Weight5 kg
This AR2412 is a workhorse for Qu console users needing more inputs and outputs. It’s a solid, reliable stage box that expands your system's capabilities significantly—ideal for bands, corporate events, and any situation needing a scalable, Dante-enabled solution.
Pros
- Robust Dante protocol ensures rock-solid, low-latency audio transmission.
- Allen & Heath’s signature preamps deliver clean, punchy gain.
- Compact 3U rackmount saves valuable space on stage or in the studio.
Cons
- Limited to Allen & Heath Qu-series consoles; not a standalone mixer.
- The Cat 5 outputs restrict flexibility compared to more modern protocols.
74AudioFu
Index↑ 11.0%since Aug 17$1,518 · Aug 17$1,686 now$1,686€1,498 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
- Weight4.75 kg
The DT168 is a seriously useful stagebox, especially if you're already in the Allen & Heath dLive or SQ ecosystem. It’s built like a tank for gigging, and the Dante connectivity makes it a breeze to expand your I/O without running tons of analog cables. Perfect for bands and touring engineers needing reliable, high-quality remote mic preamps.
Pros
- Robust rubber corners offer excellent road-worthiness for frequent travel.
- Allen & Heath's preamps deliver a clean, musical gain with low noise.
- Dante Primary/Secondary ports ensure reliable, redundant network connectivity.
Cons
- The unit's weight, while manageable, will be a consideration for solo operators.
- Limited analog connectivity compared to some larger format mixers.
73AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,351 now$2,351€2,089 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Allen & Heath DX168 16-Channel Digital Stagebox
DX168/X · Allen & Heath
13 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Size19"
The DX168/X is a serious workhorse for dLive users needing extensive input and output flexibility. It’s a game-changer for larger bands, touring rigs, or venues wanting to expand their dLive’s capabilities – just be aware it’s completely dependent on that dLive mixer for operation.
Pros
- Robust Dante protocol ensures rock-solid, low-latency audio transmission
- 100m CAT5e cable length provides exceptional flexibility for stage setups
- Allen & Heath’s renowned preamps deliver clean, punchy gain
Cons
- Relies entirely on dLive ecosystem; lacks standalone functionality
- Requires a dLive mixer for operation, increasing overall system cost
72AudioFu
Index↑ 8.8%since Aug 17$1,653 · Aug 17$1,798 now$1,798€1,598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The GX4816 is a powerhouse expander for serious touring rigs and large venues. It's a fantastic solution for dLive and SQ users needing to significantly increase their input/output count, offering that classic Allen & Heath sonic clarity and reliability. This is ideal for production companies and bands running complex setups where scalability and rock-solid performance are essential.
Pros
- Rock-solid build quality; feels like it can handle serious road abuse
- Allen & Heath’s renowned preamps deliver clean, transparent gain
- Seamless integration with dLive and SQ ecosystems simplifies workflows
Cons
- Price point places it firmly in the professional, high-end category
- Requires familiarity with Allen & Heath’s digital mixing workflow
62AudioFu
Index↑ 1.8%since Aug 17$4,939 · Aug 17$5,029 now$5,029€4,469 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
- Weight1 kg
The DT02 is a seriously handy little box for anyone already invested in a Dante ecosystem – think touring techs, recording studios, or houses of worship needing flexible stage connectivity. It’s a well-built, reliable way to get your analog signals into your digital mixer, and the PoE power is a real convenience. Just be aware you're locked into the Dante world.
Pros
- Incredibly compact form factor simplifies installation in tight spaces.
- Dante integration offers robust, low-latency audio transport.
- PoE power option reduces cabling clutter and complexity.
Cons
- Limited to two outputs restricts flexibility for larger setups.
- Dante infrastructure required, adding to overall system cost.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$336 now$336€299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
The DT20 is a seriously clever little box for anyone already in the Dante ecosystem. It's perfect for smaller venues, broadcast setups, or even just expanding a digital mixer's stage I/O. The build quality is solid as you'd expect from Allen & Heath, and the Dante integration makes life a whole lot easier.
Pros
- Compact size ideal for tight stage setups and discreet installations.
- Dante integration simplifies complex routing and signal management.
- PoE power option minimizes cabling clutter and installation complexity.
Cons
- Limited to two inputs restricts use for larger, more complex productions.
- Requires Dante infrastructure, adding to initial system investment.
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$336 now$336€299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
The DT22 is a seriously handy little box for anyone already using a Dante network. It's a straightforward way to add a couple of analog inputs and outputs to your digital workflow, perfect for smaller venues or extending the reach of a larger system—just be aware it's not a mixer on its own.
Pros
- Compact size ideal for tight stage setups or permanent installs
- Dante integration simplifies complex audio routing workflows
- Phoenix Euroblock connectors offer robust, secure connectivity
Cons
- Limited to two inputs/outputs restricts scalability for larger rigs
- Requires Dante infrastructure; not a standalone solution
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$449 now$449€399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight1.51 kg
The DX88-P is a seriously handy expander for those already invested in the Allen & Heath digital mixer world. It’s a solid, reliable way to add more I/O to your system, especially for permanent installations where you need a clean, dependable signal path. Perfect for houses of worship, clubs, or any venue with a fixed PA setup.
Pros
- Robust Phoenix connectors offer reliable, low-latency signal transfer.
- Compact form factor minimizes rack space usage in tight installations.
- Phantom power simplifies microphone connectivity for fixed setups.
Cons
- Limited to Allen & Heath digital mixer ecosystems; not a standalone solution.
- Rackmount kit is optional, adding to the overall investment.
50AudioFu
Index↓ 1.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,034 · Aug 17$1,023 now$1,023€909 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 12 stage boxes for digital mixers
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Allen & Heath DX164-WAllen & Heath50Stable$2,396€2,129$2,396€2,129Check ↗
- 12
Allen & Heath AH-DX012 12-Channel Output ExpanderDX012 · Allen & Heath49Stable$1,586€1,409$1,586€1,409Check ↗
Stage Boxes for Digital Mixers by the numbers
Measured across all 49 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,586 — half of all stage boxes for digital mixers here cost less.
median of 17 models · 19"–19"
median of 31 models · 0.8 kg–11 kg
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 15 stage boxes for digital mixers from the Thomann catalogue (of 49 in the category). Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What should I look for when buying stage boxes for digital mixers?
Key factors include build quality, sound characteristics, playability, brand reputation, warranty coverage, and value for money. Consider your musical style, skill level, and intended use to find the best match.
How much should I spend on stage boxes for digital mixers?
Budget depends on your needs and experience level. Beginners can find quality options for $200-500, intermediate players should consider $500-1500 range, while professionals often invest $1500+ for premium features.
Are expensive stage boxes for digital mixers worth the investment?
Higher-priced stage boxes for digital mixers typically offer better materials, craftsmanship, and performance. They're worth it if you're serious about music, perform regularly, or need professional-grade features.
What are the best brands for stage boxes for digital mixers?
Top brands combine quality, innovation, and reliability. We evaluate brands based on build quality, sound performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to recommend the best options for different budgets.
Should I buy stage boxes for digital mixers online or in-store?
Both have advantages. Online offers better prices and selection, while stores allow hands-on testing. We recommend researching online first, then testing in stores if possible. Many online retailers offer excellent return policies.





