When considering an upgrade from an older console like an LS9, the SQ7 offers immediate advantages. For venues currently utilizing a 32×16 analog snake, the SQ7 can integrate directly, providing a quick and significant upgrade in processing power and routing flexibility. However, to fully leverage the SQ7’s potential, especially for venues anticipating growth or requiring more complex setups for support bands and IEM systems, expanding beyond the analog snake is essential. Digital snakes like the DX168 offer a pathway to increase channel counts and streamline cabling.
The question then becomes, how does the SQ7 handle expansion with DX168 units? Here are some common scenarios and confirmations regarding the SQ7’s expandability:
Scenario 1: Analog Snake with Single DX168
Question: If we keep our existing 32×16 analog snake and add one DX168 connected to the SQ7’s SLink port, will we be able to utilize all 48 inputs and have 24 outputs (12 stereo pairs)?
Answer: Yes, that is correct. By adding a DX168 to the SQ7’s SLink port while retaining your analog snake, you effectively expand your input capacity. The 32 channels from your analog snake are complemented by the 16 inputs from the DX168, giving you a total of 48 input channels to work with. For outputs, you will have the physical outputs on the SQ7 itself, plus the outputs from the DX168, easily achieving 24 outputs which can be configured as 12 stereo pairs for monitors or other purposes.
Scenario 2: Daisy-Chained DX168s
Question: Can we connect two DX168 units in a daisy-chain configuration – SQ7 SLink -> DX168 -> DX168 – to get 64 input patch points (using 48 at a time) and 32 output patch points (using 26 at a time, accounting for 12 stereo auxes and LR)?
Answer: Yes, this configuration is also correct. The SQ7’s SLink port supports daisy-chaining DX168 units. With two DX168s, you significantly increase your patch point options. You will have access to 32 inputs from each DX168, totaling 64 input patch points. While the SQ7 allows you to use 48 inputs simultaneously, having these extra patch points provides flexibility for different stage setups and patching needs. Similarly, the combined outputs from the two DX168s and the SQ7 provide ample output patch points, easily accommodating 12 stereo aux sends, a main LR output, and additional outputs if needed.
Scenario 3: DX Hub with Multiple DX168s
Question: If we use a DX Hub and connect three DX168 units – SQ7 SLink -> DX Hub -> 3 x DX168 – could we eliminate the analog snake and have 48 inputs and 24 outputs (10 stereo aux, 2 mono aux, and LR)?
Answer: Yes, utilizing a DX Hub with three DX168 units is a valid and efficient way to create a fully digital snake system with your SQ7. This setup allows you to ditch the analog snake entirely, simplifying cabling and potentially improving audio quality by keeping the signal in the digital domain for longer. Three DX168 units will provide 48 inputs and 24 outputs directly accessible via the DX Hub and SQ7, giving you the input and output count you specified for your venue needs.
Scenario 4: Maximum Theoretical Expansion
Question: Theoretically, what is the maximum expansion? Could we use eight DX168 units – SQ7 SLink -> DX Hub -> 4 x DX168 -> DX168 – to achieve 160 x 80 patch points (128 x 64 digital plus 32 x 16 analog)?
Answer: While theoretically you could connect a large number of DX168 units, the practical limit for the SQ7 system is generally dictated by the console’s processing and routing capabilities, rather than just the number of physical connections. Connecting eight DX168s as described to achieve 160×80 patch points is not a typical or recommended configuration in a standard SQ7 setup. The SQ series is designed for scalability, but realistically, for very large input/output counts, larger consoles within the Allen & Heath range, or other brands, might be more suitable. However, for typical venue applications and even for accommodating support bands and complex IEM setups, the configurations with one to three DX168 units offer substantial expansion and flexibility for the SQ7.
Conclusion
In summary, your understanding of the SQ7’s expansion capabilities with DX168 digital snakes is accurate. The SQ7 provides a flexible platform for venues to upgrade their audio systems, allowing for incremental expansion as needs evolve. Whether you choose to start with a single DX168 to augment your existing analog snake or move to a fully digital snake system with multiple DX168 units, the SQ7 offers the versatility and performance required for modern venue sound reinforcement. The configurations you’ve outlined are indeed correct and represent practical ways to enhance your venue’s audio infrastructure with the Allen & Heath SQ7.
