Avantis V2.0 brings a significant channel and bus count expansion, next-generation effects processing via the new RackUltra FX module and broader wireless integration to dPack-enabled systems.
Allen & Heath has released Avantis firmware V2.0, bringing a substantial update to dPack-enabled systems. With input channels expanding from 64 to 96, configurable mix busses from 42 to 56, and simultaneous Dyn8 processing instances from 16 to 24, it’s a significant step forward for demanding touring and festival environments when it comes to headroom and flexibility.
Catch up on all the latest news here.
Also landing with V2.0 is CompStortion, a DEEP emulation of a definitive hardware compressor that’s been on the wishlist for a while. With a wide range of attack and release times, distortion modes and both Smash and Brit modes on offer, it’s a versatile processor that works across vocals, guitars, drums and mix bus compression.
dPack users also get support for the new RackUltra FX module, which combines FPGA and ARM processing to bring dLive’s effects architecture to Avantis. Eight RackUltra FX engines cover reverbs, vocal processors, distortion, saturation and harmonisers – a suite that holds its own against high-end plugins and dedicated hardware. The module is available as a factory-fitted option on new units or as a service centre upgrade for existing owners.
Beyond dPack, RF integration now includes the Shure SLX-D wireless microphone system, adding to the existing lineup of supported Shure and Sennheiser systems. Smart Rotaries bring quick contextual access to preamps, effects, Dyn8s and PEQs via SoftKey, Channel Libraries now support additional parameters and mix contributions, Dyn8 units are gangable, and channels and busses can be unmuted from mute groups or DCAs.
Avantis V2.0 – what’s new at a glance
- Input channels expanded from 64 to 96 (dPack)
- Configurable mix busses expanded from 42 to 56 (dPack)
- Simultaneous Dyn8 processing instances expanded from 16 to 24 (dPack)
- CompStortion DEEP compressor emulation added to dPack
- RackUltra FX module support with 8 FX engines (dPack)
- Shure SLX-D wireless microphone system support added
- Smart Rotaries for quick contextual control of preamps, effects, Dyn8s and PEQs
- Channel Libraries updated with additional parameters and mix contributions
- Dyn8 units now gangable
- Channels and busses can now be unmuted from mute groups or DCAs
“This update lifts Avantis to new heights. I’m extremely pleased we can offer more channels, buses, and Dyn8s to dPack, while bringing dLive-class effects processing to the platform – an astounding engineering accomplishment. Plus, V2 positions Solo as the most powerful self-contained compact mixer on the market,” says Christopher Melendy, Pro Live Product Manager at Allen & Heath, speaking to what V2.0 means for the platform.
Avantis firmware V2.0 is available for download now from Allen & Heath. Australian enquiries regarding the RackUltra FX upgrade can be directed to Technical Audio Group.
