IMPORTANT - Read before starting

Safety instructions

Before starting, read the Important Safety Instructions printed on the sheet supplied with the equipment. For your own safety and that of the operator, technical crew and performers, follow all instructions and heed all warnings printed on the sheet and on the equipment panels.

System operating firmware

The function of this product is determined by the firmware (operating software) that runs it. Firmware is updated regularly as new features are added and improvements made.

ⓘ Check www.allen-heath.com for the latest version of firmware for the product or the host system.

Software licence agreement

By using this Allen & Heath product and the software within it you agree to be bound by the terms of the relevant End User Licence Agreement (EULA), a copy of which can be found at www.allen-heath.com/legal. You agree to be bound by the terms of the EULA by installing, copying, or using the software.

Further information

Please refer to the Allen & Heath website for further information, knowledgebase and technical support. For more information on setup and mixing functions please refer to the Firmware Reference Guides available for download at www.allen-heath.com.

You can also join our Allen & Heath Digital Community to share knowledge and information with other users.

General precautions

• Protect the equipment from damage through liquid or dust contamination. 
• If the equipment has been stored in sub-zero temperatures allow time for it to reach normal operating temperature before use at the venue. Recommended operating temperature is 0 to 40 degrees Celsius.
• Avoid using the equipment in extreme heat and direct sunlight. Make sure the ventilation slots and fans are not obstructed and that there is adequate air movement around the equipment.
• Clean the equipment with a soft brush and dry lint-free cloth. Do not use chemicals, abrasives or solvents. Do not use lubricant or contact cleaner on faders.
• It is recommended that servicing is carried out only by an authorised Allen & Heath agent. Contact details for your local distributor can be found on the Allen & Heath website. Allen & Heath do not accept liability for damage caused by maintenance, repair or modification by unauthorised personnel.

Register your product

Register your product online at www.allen-heath.com/register.

Warranty

A limited manufacturer's warranty applies to this product, the conditions of which can be found at www.allen-heath.com/legal.

Packed items

Check you have received the following:

• AHM matrix processor
• This Getting Started Guide
• Safety Sheet
• IEC mains lead
• Phoenix connectors with strain relief - 1x 10-pin, 16x 3-pin (AHM-16), 24x 3-pin (AHM-32)

Introduction

AHM-16 and AHM-32 are audio matrix processors for sound management and installation. They are designed for audio distribution, paging, conferencing, speaker processing in a multitude of environments including corporate, hospitality, education, event and multi-purpose venues, retail, theatres, cruise ships, sports venues.

The AHM processor is complemented by an extended ecosystem of remote audio expanders, remote controllers, interfaces, apps and software. A family of portable, rack-mountable or wall-mount audio expanders is available with a choice of proprietary point-to-point Layer-2 or Dante transport protocols.

A range of IP remote controllers is available for volume control, music source selection, preset recall and more. AHM can also integrate with third party devices over GPIO, TCP/IP, or industry standard control systems. The Custom Control editor and app from Allen & Heath offer more control options and custom user interfaces for multiple users and device types, with kiosk and BYOD capability.

AHM-16 features

AHM-16 features at a glance:

• 16x16 processing matrix
• 8x8 local analogue I/O
• I/O Port for expansion or audio networking, up to 128x128
• Dante 96kHz optional cards (AES67 and DDM ready)
• 16 configurable processing outputs – up to 16 mono / 8 stereo zones
• Sound management tools
  • Automatic Mic Mixer
  • ANC (Ambient Noise Compensation)
  • Priority ducking
  • 8-band PEQ, dynamics and delay on every input and zone
  • Speaker processing with x-over filter, delay, limiter and PEQ
• 96kHz FPGA core with ultra-low latency
• Compatible with Allen & Heath IP1, IP6, IP8 remote controllers
• 2x2 local GPIO plus networkable GPIO interface
• Front panel screen and 4x programmable SoftKeys
• 4 user profiles
• Event scheduler

AHM-32 features

AHM-32 features at a glance:

• 32x32 processing matrix
• 12x12 local analogue I/O
• I/O Port for expansion or audio networking, up to 128x128
• Dante 96kHz optional cards (AES67 and DDM ready)
• 32 configurable processing outputs – up to 32 mono / 16 stereo zones
• Sound management tools
  • 4x Automatic Mic Mixer
  • AEC (Acoustic Echo Cancellation)*
  • FBS (Feedback Suppression)*
  • ANC (Ambient Noise Compensation)
  • Priority ducking
  • 8-band PEQ, dynamics and delay on every input and zone
  • Speaker processing with x-over filter, delay, limiter and PEQ

*with optional module

• 96kHz FPGA core with ultra-low latency
• Compatible with Allen & Heath IP1, IP6, IP8 remote controllers
• 2x2 local GPIO plus networkable GPIO interface
• Front panel screen and 8x programmable SoftKeys
• 16 user profiles
• Event scheduler

Installing AHM-16 / AHM-32

Free standing

For free standing or shelf operation, apply the adhesive plastic feet to the positions indicated below.

Ensure adequate air flow around the unit. It must not be covered in any way. Always stand the unit on a firm flat surface away from any soft furnishings or carpet.

Rack mounting

AHM-16 and AHM-32 are 19-inch rack mountable and occupy 1U of rack space. The plastic feet may need to be removed before rack mounting; retain them for future use.

ⓘ Ensure natural convection of airflow around the unit by allowing good ventilation in front of and behind the unit. Rack equipment known to produce a significant amount of heat should not be mounted directly above or below the unit. Forced convection by means of a rack mounted fan-tray may be desirable in situations where space is restricted, and the ambient air temperature is high.

Front Panel

1. SoftKeys

Programmable SoftKeys for local user control. Functions are assigned by the AHM System Manager software and include Input / Zone / Crosspoint Mute, Level, Preset Recall, Preset Select, Paging, Zone Source Select.

2. LCD Screen and Select buttons

The LCD screen displays information about the unit or the function selected by the front panel SoftKeys.

A splash screen is displayed at power up. Use the arrow keys to sequence through information screens such as firmware version, network settings and diagnostics. This can be useful to identify the unit IP address before connecting.

Level When a front panel SoftKey assigned to a Level is pressed, the screen will display the Input / Zone name, level and meter. Use the arrow keys to control the level.

Source Select When a front panel SoftKey assigned to a Zone Source Selector is pressed, the screen will display a list of available sources as configured in AHM System Manager. Use the arrow keys to select the source and press Sel to confirm.

The screen will then display the active source and the Zone name, level and meter. Use the arrow keys to control the level of the Zone. Press Sel again to select another source. Press the SoftKey again to exit Source Select mode.

Preset Select When a front panel SoftKey assigned to Preset Select is pressed, the screen will display a list of available Presets as configured in AHM System Manager. Use the arrow keys to select the Preset and press Sel to recall.

The screen will then display the active Preset. Press Sel again to select another Preset. Press the SoftKey again to exit Preset Select mode.

Rear Panel

1. Mic/Line Inputs

Recallable preamps on Phoenix connectors, for balanced or unbalanced microphone and line level signals. Gain, Pad and 48V are digitally controlled within the preamp.

Any socket can be patched to any of the Input Channels.

Use the provided 3-pin Phoenix connectors with strain relief for optimal cable management.

2. Line Outputs

Assignable line level, balanced outputs on Phoenix connectors. Nominal level +4dBu. The outputs are relay protected to prevent power on or off thumps.

Use the provided 3-pin Phoenix connectors with strain relief for optimal cable management.

3. Mains

IEC inlet with universal power supply (100-240V AC, 50-60Hz).

4. I/O Port

Audio interface port providing up to 128x128 I/O. Fit one of the option cards available for system expansion, distributed audio networking or system integration. Refer to www.allen-heath.com for a list of available option cards.

ⓘ For Dante audio networking, use the M-SQ-DANT32 or M-SQ-DANT64 (SQ Dante V2) card, not the original M-SQ-DANTE card.

ⓘ The I/O Port panel is also used to access DIP switch 6 for network reset of the unit to default settings. Reset occurs with switch 6 in the On position at power up. After 10 seconds, turn off the unit and move the switch back to the Off position. Do not alter the position of the other DIP switches.

5. GPIO

General purpose interface for control integration with third party hardware. Offers 2x inputs switching to ground, and 2x relay outputs on Phoenix connectors, in addition to a +10V DC output.

ⓘ Maximum current drawn from the +10V supply for all outputs combined must not exceed 200mA

Output 1 can be wired as normally closed or normally open. Output 2 is normally open.

For higher current or voltage applications, an external DC power supply may be used. This also provides total isolation between the AHM processor and external equipment.

ⓘ Maximum external supply voltage must not exceed +24V DC. Maximum current sink through any open collector output must not exceed 400mA.

Use the provided 10-pin Phoenix connector with strain relief for optimal cable management.

6. Control Network

RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port. Connect a laptop, wireless router or switch to use with the AHM System Manager, IP remote controllers, Custom Control app or TCP control. All devices on the network must have compatible IP addresses.

ⓘ To reset the network settings to factory default, see DIP switch settings in the I/O Port paragraph above.

AHM-32 Processing Expansion Module

A processing expansion module can be fitted in the AHM-32 for applications like AEC (Acoustic Echo Cancelling) or FBS (Feedback Suppression). Refer to www.allen-heath.com for a list of available modules. Follow the fitting instructions of the optional module for installation.

⚠ Installation of any optional module must only be carried out by technically skilled personnel.

Connections - Audio

For all audio connections, use CAT5e (or higher specification) STP cables up to 100m long.

ⓘ Refer to www.allen-heath.com for cable requirements, recommendations, and a list of CAT cables available to order.

Audio expanders with SLink card fitted

When an audio expander is connected, the SLink card detects the type of device and automatically switches to the relevant Allen & Heath protocol, sample rate and Ethernet speed. The table below lists compatible audio expanders. Visit allen-heath.com/everything-io/ for more information on our range of expansion options.

At connection or power up, the AHM processor will check the firmware version of the expander device and upgrade or downgrade the device to match the main unit firmware.

Up to 2x dSnake 48kHz expanders can be daisy-chained over SLink, provided the first expander is an AR2412 or AB168, and the second expander is an AB168 or AR84. Connection of 2x AR2412 is not supported.

Up to 2x DX168, DX164-W, DX88 or DX012 expanders in any combination can be daisy-chained over SLink. AHM processors do not support redundant connection to DX expanders.

A DX Hub can be connected to the SLink card for further expansion with up to 8 DX expanders. It also enables a single cable link to the AHM processor in cases where multiple expanders are located on a different floor, area or building.

Audio expanders and Ethernet

All protocols listed above are point-to-point connections, Ethernet Layer 2 compliant. gigaACE operates at Gigabit Ethernet speed (1000BASE-T, IEEE 802.3ab). DX and dSnake operate at Fast Ethernet speed (100BASE-TX, IEEE 802.3u).

Layer 2 network devices and media converters can be used, provided they support the correct link speed. Typical applications include conversion to fibre optic for longer cable runs, or integration within an existing Ethernet infrastructure. Refer to the following guidelines and always test the network for functionality and reliability before putting into service. Further advice and notes on VLANs, TCP ports and bandwidth are available on the online Allen & Heath Knowledgebase and website.

ⓘ Layer 2.5 and higher protocols including Spanning Tree, Tagged Egress Packets, and Broadcast Storm Protection can cause interruption to audio data or audible clicks. Smart / managed switches may allow turning off Layer 3 or 4 functions, but as a general rule we recommend using Layer 2 devices only.

ⓘ Note that no other device should be plugged into a switch carrying gigaACE, dSnake or DX audio. Parallel connection of multiple expanders on the same switch is not possible.

Other SLink connections

The SLink card can be connected directly to another AHM processor, an SLink enabled Allen & Heath mixer such as SQ or Avantis, or a dLive system fitted with a gigaACE card. This connection enables 128x128 channels of audio.

ⓘ Set the Audio Sync options so that one device is the clock leader (set to ‘Internal’) and the other device is a clock follower (sync from SLink or I/O Port as appropriate).

ⓘ The SLink port does not tunnel control network data. Use the Network port to connect multiple AHM processors or other Allen & Heath mixers for control purposes, for example for Embedded Scene Recalls or System Manager operation.

Dante expanders with Dante card fitted

Control of the DT168 or DT164-W expanders requires an M-SQ-DANT32 or M-SQ-DANT64 (SQ Dante V2) card fitted in the I/O Port.

Use Dante Controller to patch signals between Dante devices. When a valid DT168 or DT164-W socket is routed to the AHM processor, and patched to an Input channel, System Manager will present preamp gain, +48V and Pad controls for the socket.

DT expanders should always be clock followers on the Dante network, with the AHM-64 processor typically set to ‘Preferred Leader’ and ‘Enable Sync to External’.

ⓘ Refer to the DT expander Getting Started Guide at www.allen-heath.com for further information.

Connections - Control

A computer, wireless router or switch can be connected to the Network port to use with the AHM System Manager, IP remote controllers, Custom Control app or TCP control.

For all connections, use CAT5e (or higher specification) cables up to 100m long.

ⓘ Refer to www.allen-heath.com for cable requirements, recommendations, and a list of CAT cables available to order.

AHM processors communicate over TCP/IP. All devices on the network must have compatible IP addresses. Factory defaults for AHM-16 and AHM-32 are:

IP Address 192.168.1.91 

Subnet Mask 255.255.255.0 

Gateway 192.168.1.254

ⓘ AHM processors support up to 100 TCP connections. These include any IP controller, GPIO interface, System Manager or Custom Control instance. More information is available on the online Allen & Heath Knowledgebase.

Software and apps

For direct, wired laptop connection using System Manager or the Custom Control editor, set the laptop to a static, compatible IP address, for example 192.168.1.10.

For LAN or wireless connections, including Custom Control apps, set the router / access point to a compatible IP address, for example 192.168.1.254, and its DHCP range to a compatible range of addresses, for example 192.168.1.100 to 192.168.1.200. Set any laptop, tablet or mobile device to DHCP / ‘obtain an IP address automatically’.

IP Controllers

AHM processors are compatible with the remote controllers and GPIO interfaces listed below. All devices listed here can be set to DHCP if required.

The function of the IP controllers and GPIO is configured via the AHM System Manager.

At connection or power up, the AHM processor will check the firmware version of the IP controllers and GPIO and upgrade or downgrade the device to match the main unit firmware.

Connection over WAN

For connection of System Manager or Custom Control over a WAN, TCP port 51321 and UDP port 51324 should be forwarded by the NAT to the IP address of the AHM processor.

ⓘ We strongly recommend using a secure VPN to access the local network. When connecting directly over the Internet, use a good quality firewall and NAT to block ports when not in use.

TCP Protocol

A TCP Protocol for control and interrogation of AHM parameters is available and documented at www.allen-heath.com. Clients should be configured to use TCP port 51325 (unsecured) or the TLS/TCP port 51327 depending on the External Control security options set with AHM System Manager.

ⓘ Check www.allen-heath.com for drivers or project templates for leading control systems such as Crestron or AMX.