The gigaACE audio networking card (M-DL-GACE) is one of several audio networking options that can be fitted to any Allen & Heath dLive or Avantis I/O Port. It provides a 128x128ch 96kHz gigaACE point-to-point link to another dLive or Avantis mixing system. It also enables connection from a dLive system to the DX Hub or GX4816 expander.

The gigaACE is Allen & Heath’s proprietary protocol for transporting Audio and Control over Ethernet, using standard CAT cables. It allows very low latency and cable redundancy without any audio dropout. gigaACE can also tunnel the dLive/Avantis TCP/IP control network over the same connection, for example to enable control of either of the two systems by a single laptop.

The gigaACE card offers a cost-effective and simple solution for digital split applications, replacing the copper multicore / analogue splitters of the past. In a typical FoH / Monitor configuration, the inputs of a dLive or Avantis system are sent to a second system where independent trim, processing and mixing is applied.

The gigaACE is a truly plug ‘n play protocol: no computer is required for the setup of gigaACE connections. Simply plug the cable between any two dLive/Avantis systems and set the patch and clock settings directly on the mixer.