In simple terms, the S16 Stagebox is the "input/output expansion module" for a digital audio mixing console, specifically for the Allen & Heath dLive series.
Think of it as a giant, heavy-duty, multi-channel snake, but instead of carrying analog audio signals, it transmits high-quality digital audio over a single, thin network cable.
The Core Purpose: Extending Your Mixer's Reach
The primary reason for using an S16 Stagebox is to get your mixer's inputs and outputs closer to the sound source (like the stage) and further from the noisy mixing position (Front of House).
Here’s a breakdown of its key functions:
1. Inputs (Capturing Sound from the Stage):
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The S16 provides 16 high-quality, programmable microphone preamps on XLR inputs.
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This is where you plug in all the microphones from the drums, guitars, vocals, and other instruments on stage.
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By placing the S16 on stage, you can run very short microphone cables from the instruments to the box, which preserves signal quality and reduces stage clutter.
2. Outputs (Sending Sound Back to the Stage):
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It has 8 XLR outputs.
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These are used to send signals back to the stage, most commonly for:
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Stage Monitors: Sending separate mixes to the wedge monitors so each musician can hear themselves.
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Front of House Feed: Sending the main mix to the main PA system amplifiers.
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Recording Feed: Sending a mix to a recording device.
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3. Digital Connectivity (The Magic Link):
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The S16 connects to a dLive Mix Surface (like the S7000 or S5000) or a Dante network using a single gigabit Ethernet cable (like Cat5e/6/7).
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This single cable carries all 64 channels of audio (in and out) between the stagebox and the mixer, plus control data and power for the stagebox itself. This eliminates the need for a massive, heavy, and expensive analog multicore snake.
Key Benefits of Using an S16 Stagebox
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Cleaner Signal Path: Short analog cable runs on stage mean less noise, interference, and signal loss.
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Massive Reduction in Cable Bulk: One thin network cable replaces a thick, heavy analog snake that could have 50+ individual cables.
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Flexibility and Scalability: You can have the mixer in one location (Front of House) and the stagebox on stage, or even use multiple stageboxes for larger events. It also integrates seamlessly with Dante for audio networking.
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High Quality: It uses the same high-end preamps and conversion as the rest of the dLive ecosystem, ensuring excellent sound quality.
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Remote Control: The engineer at the mix position can remotely control the preamp gain, phantom power, and polarity for every input on the stagebox.
A Practical Scenario: Live Concert
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On Stage: All the microphones and DI boxes are plugged into the S16 Stagebox.
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The Link: A single, long Ethernet cable runs from the S16 on stage, through the venue, back to the Front of House position.
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At Front of House: The Ethernet cable plugs into the dLive Mix Surface. The sound engineer now has access to all 16 microphone inputs and can send mixes back to the 8 outputs on the stagebox.
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On Stage (again): The outputs of the S16 are connected to the power amplifiers for the main PA speakers and the stage monitor wedges.
Who Uses It?
The S16 is a workhorse for:
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Live Sound Engineers in clubs, theaters, and on touring rigs.
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Churches and Houses of Worship.
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Installation Venues like conference centers and performing arts schools.
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Mobile DJs and production companies who need a robust and scalable system.
In summary: The S16 Stagebox is a critical component that allows a digital mixer to function optimally in a live sound environment by placing the inputs and outputs where they are needed most, using a simple and reliable digital connection.
