At Winter NAMM 2010, Allen & Heath will announce two new models for the iLive digital mixing series: the iDR-16 3U MixRack and the iLive-R72 rackmountable control surface. Together, the new models make for a lightweight digital live mixing system.

Both the iDR-16 MixRack and iLive-R72 control surface connect using Allen & Heath’s Audio Control Ethernet (ACE) link, which allows for audio communication over a single CAT5 cable up to 120 m in length.

The iDR-16 MixRack provides 16 mic / line inputs and 8 XLR outputs in a 3U frame, with additional 8 x 8 I/O available on the iLive-R72 surface. Like the company's other MixRacks, the iDR-16 features the 64 x 32 RackExtra DSP mix engine that provides processing for 64 channels, 32 mixes, and 8 stereo effects processors.

There is also a Port B option slot for further audio networking possibilities with ACE, EtherSound, MADI, ADAT, and Aviom interfaces; a built-in network switch; and MIDI ports at each end that allow for remote control using laptops, touch tablets, and MIDI devices. The iDR-16 is compatible with the Allen & Heath PL Series remote controllers and iLive Editor software.

Now for the iLive-R72 -- this compact control surface can be fitted in a universal 19-inch rack and offers a similar iLive fader strip layout with 12 faders in 2 banks and 6 layers, providing a total of 72 color-assignable channel ID control strips. A built-in touch screen provides easy access to the processing, memory, and system configuration.

Allen & Heath expects to ship the iDR-16 and iLive-R72 in February of 2010.