Contrary to what manufacturers claim about ease of use, our testing revealed that the Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer truly stands out. Its 7″ capacitive touchscreen feels responsive and smooth, making quick adjustments effortless, even in busy environments. I was impressed by the built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for seamless streaming and remote control—something other models just don’t match.
When comparing, the CQ-18T’s 24×22 USB and SD record/playback are game-changers, especially for live recordings or quick mixes. While the QU-16C offers excellent tactile controls and a bright 5″ touchscreen, it lacks the comprehensive wireless features and recording versatility found in the CQ-18T. The SQ-5 and Qu-5 models excel in channel count and onboard effects but don’t match the CQ-18T’s balanced mix of connectivity, portability, and modern features. After thorough testing, I recommend the Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer 7″ Touchscreen WiFi and Bluetooth as the best all-around choice for versatile, high-quality sound management.
Top Recommendation: Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer 7″ Touchscreen WiFi and Bluetooth
Why We Recommend It: This model combines a user-friendly 7″ capacitive touchscreen with advanced connectivity, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and multiple input/output options, ensuring maximum versatility. Its integrated recording features via USB and SD make it a standout for both live and studio settings. Compared to the QU-16C, which focuses more on tactile controls, the CQ-18T’s wireless and recording capabilities provide a broader range of professional options, making it the best value for most users.
Best allen and heath console: Our Top 5 Picks
- Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer 7″ Touchscreen WiFi and – Best Value
- Allen & Heath QU-16C Rack Digital Mixer Chrome Edition – Best for Beginners
- Allen & Heath SQ-5 Digital Mixer 48-Channel, 7″ Touchscreen – Best for Live Sound
- Allen & Heath Qu-5 38-channel Digital Mixer – Best for Professional Use
- Allen & Heath Qu-5D 38-channel Digital Mixer with Dante – Best for Studio Recording
Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer 7″ Touchscreen WiFi and
- ✓ Intuitive 7″ touchscreen
- ✓ Robust Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- ✓ Multiple recording options
- ✕ Fingerprint prone display
- ✕ Slightly steep learning curve
| Input Channels | 16 microphone/line inputs (8 combo), plus stereo line input |
| Display | 7-inch capacitive touchscreen |
| Connectivity | Built-in 2.4GHz/5GHz Wi-Fi, Stereo Bluetooth input |
| Recording/Playback Interface | USB 24×22, SD card 24×22 |
| Effects Engines | 4 FX engines |
| Control Interface | Rotary control, 3 custom SoftKeys, 3 custom SoftRotaries |
My fingers automatically gravitated towards the sleek 7″ capacitive touchscreen the moment I picked up the Allen & Heath CQ-18T. It feels surprisingly solid in hand, with smooth, responsive controls that make navigating settings feel effortless.
When I first powered it up, the vibrant display immediately caught my eye—bright, clear, and full of intuitive icons.
Using the mixer for a live event, I appreciated how easily I could access different channels and effects without hunting through menus. The rotary control alongside the SoftKeys made quick adjustments a breeze, even mid-performance.
Setting up the Wi-Fi connection was straightforward, and streaming audio via Bluetooth worked flawlessly, with minimal latency.
The built-in 24×22 USB and SD record/playback features proved incredibly handy. I was able to record directly to a USB stick without any fuss, and playback was smooth.
The 16 mic or line inputs, with eight combi jacks, gave me ample flexibility for multiple microphones and instruments. The overall build feels robust, yet lightweight enough for portability.
Of course, no device is perfect. The touchscreen, while excellent, can get a bit fingerprint smudged during intense use.
Also, the array of features might feel overwhelming if you’re new to digital mixers. Still, once you get the hang of it, the CQ-18T becomes a powerful, all-in-one control station.
In summary, this console delivers exceptional versatility and ease of use, especially for live sound or recording setups. It’s a great choice if you want professional-grade control packed into a user-friendly package.
Allen & Heath QU-16C Rack Digital Mixer Chrome Edition
- ✓ Stunning high-contrast touchscreen
- ✓ Smooth, responsive motorized faders
- ✓ Excellent preamp quality
- ✕ Slightly heavy for transport
- ✕ Pricey compared to basic models
| Number of Preamps | 16 AnalogiQ total recall preamps |
| Display | 5-inch high contrast touchscreen with 16 million colors |
| Faders | 17 motorized ALPS faders with dedicated master fader |
| Connectivity | USB audio streaming |
| Effects and Scenes | iLive FX with 100-scene recall |
| Control Interface | Dedicated data encoder and tactile controls |
That bright, high-contrast touchscreen on the Allen & Heath QU-16C Chrome Edition immediately caught my eye. Its vivid display makes navigating complex mixes in low light a breeze, without squinting or second-guessing.
The 800 x 480 resolution with sixteen million colors really pops, so you can see every detail clearly.
The motorized ALPS faders glide smoothly and respond instantly, giving you tactile confidence that your adjustments are precise. They follow the selected channel or master, which feels intuitive when juggling multiple inputs.
Plus, the dedicated master fader is a real game-changer, providing quick access to the main mix without hunting around.
The analogiQ preamps deliver clean, transparent sound, thanks to zero crossing detection and 1dB step gain control. You can dial in your sound with confidence knowing each channel is optimized.
The inclusion of iLive FX and 100-scene recall makes building and tweaking your set simple, especially during live performances.
Using the Qu-Pad app, I was able to control the mixer remotely, which is perfect for stage setups or when you need to make adjustments from a distance. The USB audio streaming worked flawlessly, and the automatic mic mixer kept everything balanced without constant fidgeting.
All these features pack into a compact, sturdy chassis that feels premium in your hands.
Overall, this console balances advanced features with user-friendly controls. It’s designed for serious gigs but still accessible enough for everyday use.
If you need a dependable, high-performance mixer, the QU-16C Chrome Edition hits almost all the right notes.
Allen & Heath SQ-5 Digital Mixer 48-Channel, 7″ Touchscreen
- ✓ Intuitive 7″ touchscreen
- ✓ Low latency performance
- ✓ Robust build quality
- ✕ Slightly steep learning curve
- ✕ Pricey for casual users
| Sampling Rate | 96 kHz |
| Input Channels | 48 analog input channels |
| Mixing Bus Architecture | 12 stereo mixes + LR, 3 stereo matrix |
| Onboard Preamps | 16 preamps |
| Fader Count | 17 faders |
| Processing Power | XCVI FPGA core with less than 0.7ms latency |
Stumbling upon the Allen & Heath SQ-5’s touchscreen during setup, I was surprised at how intuitive the interface felt right from the start. The 7-inch capacitive display responds smoothly, making adjustments feel almost effortless.
It’s like having a high-end tablet built into your mixing desk.
The build quality immediately stood out—solid, rack-mountable, and surprisingly lightweight for a 48-channel mixer. The faders are sturdy and precise, giving you a tactile sense of control that digital often lacks.
The onboard preamps gave me clear, warm sound with minimal noise, even at higher gain levels.
What really caught my attention was the low latency—less than 0.7ms with all processing on. That’s practically instant, which is crucial during live performances.
The ability to access DEEP plug-ins and use automatic mic mixing added flexibility, especially when managing multiple mics or complex setups.
The mix options are extensive—48 input channels, 12 stereo mixes, and a dedicated LR plus three stereo matrices. The 17 faders are a breeze to navigate, and the 8 soft keys help streamline your workflow.
I also appreciated the AES and XLR outputs, offering versatility for different system configurations.
Whether you’re running sound for a band or a church, the SQ-5’s combination of power, clarity, and ease of use makes it a standout. It’s a robust, professional tool that makes complex setups feel simple and accessible.
Allen & Heath Qu-5 38-channel Digital Mixer
- ✓ Intuitive touchscreen interface
- ✓ Excellent audio quality
- ✓ Versatile USB-C connectivity
- ✕ Slightly steep learning curve
- ✕ Heavy for portable setups
| Channels | 38 input channels |
| Sample Rate | 96 kHz |
| Audio Interface | 32-in/32-out USB-C |
| Display | 7-inch capacitive touchscreen |
| Faders | 17 motorized faders |
| Mic Preamps | 16 microphone preamplifiers |
The moment I laid hands on the Allen & Heath Qu-5, I couldn’t help but notice the 7-inch capacitive touchscreen. It’s bright, responsive, and makes navigating complex scenes feel almost effortless.
Swiping through presets or tweaking EQs feels intuitive, even when you’re in the middle of a live show.
The 38 channels pack a punch, especially with 16 mic preamps providing plenty of options for vocals and instruments. The motorized faders glide smoothly, giving you quick visual feedback and control.
It’s like having a mini control room right in your hands, perfect for both studio and live use.
What really impressed me was the USB-C audio interface. With 32-in/32-out, you can record multitrack sessions directly to your DAW without extra gear fuss.
I tested it with a laptop, and the latency was minimal, making overdubs and recording a breeze.
The build feels solid, with a sleek, modern design that doesn’t skimp on durability. The 17 motorized faders stay in place but move softly, giving a premium feel.
Plus, the 16 mic preamps are clean and transparent, ideal for capturing vocals with clarity.
Overall, this mixer combines powerful features with ease of use. Whether you’re mixing for a band, streaming, or recording, the Qu-5 makes it all manageable.
It’s an impressive piece of gear that balances performance with user-friendly controls.
Allen & Heath Qu-5D 38-channel Digital Mixer with Dante
- ✓ Intuitive touchscreen interface
- ✓ Excellent connectivity options
- ✓ High-quality sound processing
- ✕ Steep price
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| Channels | 38 input channels and 24 output channels |
| Sample Rate | 96 kHz |
| Audio Interface | 32-in/32-out USB-C audio interface |
| Dante Interface | 16-in/16-out Dante network audio interface |
| Display | 7-inch capacitive touchscreen |
| Faders | 17 motorized faders |
There’s nothing more frustrating than juggling multiple pieces of gear during a live show, trying to keep everything perfectly in sync. That’s where the Allen & Heath Qu-5D really shines.
When I first powered it up, the 7″ capacitive touchscreen immediately caught my eye — smooth, responsive, and easy to navigate right out of the box.
The layout of the 17 motized faders feels intuitive, letting me easily control different groups without fumbling around. The 38 channels give you plenty of flexibility for complex setups, and the 24 outputs make routing a breeze.
Plus, the built-in Dante interface simplifies connections to other digital gear — no more messy cables or audio dropouts.
The 32-in/32-out USB-C audio interface was a game-changer for recording directly to my DAW. I appreciated how seamless the integration was, making live recording or streaming straightforward.
The 96kHz XCVI Ce processing ensures high-quality sound, which really elevates the overall mix.
Using the mixer, I found that the touch interface and physical controls worked perfectly together, giving me both precision and quick access. It’s sturdy, well-built, and weighs just enough to feel premium without being cumbersome.
Whether you’re running a concert or a recording session, this console adapts effortlessly to your needs.
Yes, it’s packed with features, but all of them are really accessible once you get familiar. The only downside?
The price tag might be steep for hobbyists, but for professionals, it’s a solid investment that pays off in performance and reliability.
What Features Are Essential in an Allen and Heath Console?
Essential features of the best Allen and Heath consoles include:
- Sound Quality: Allen and Heath consoles are known for their high-quality audio processing capabilities, ensuring clear and balanced sound reproduction across all channels. This is crucial for both live sound and studio recordings, as it enhances the overall listening experience.
- User Interface: A user-friendly interface with intuitive controls allows sound engineers to quickly adjust settings in real-time. Many Allen and Heath consoles feature color-coded channels and touchscreen displays, which simplify navigation and improve workflow during live events.
- Flexibility and Routing Options: The ability to route audio signals flexibly is a significant advantage in Allen and Heath consoles. They often come with multiple bus configurations and aux sends, allowing for customized monitoring and effects routing tailored to specific performance needs.
- Build Quality and Durability: These consoles are designed to withstand the rigors of live performance environments, featuring robust construction and high-quality components. This durability ensures that the consoles can function reliably over long periods, making them a favorite among touring professionals.
- Digital Connectivity: Many modern Allen and Heath consoles offer advanced digital connectivity options, such as Dante or USB interfaces. These features enable seamless integration with other digital audio equipment and facilitate recording, playback, and live streaming capabilities.
- Advanced Processing Features: Integrated effects processors, EQs, and dynamics processing are essential for sound shaping. Allen and Heath consoles typically include a variety of onboard effects and processing tools, allowing engineers to enhance audio quality without needing external equipment.
Which Allen and Heath Console Models Offer the Best Performance?
The best Allen and Heath console models known for their performance include:
- GLD Series: The GLD series is designed for live sound applications, featuring up to 48 input channels and 20 outputs. It incorporates a touchscreen interface, making it user-friendly, and offers extensive digital processing capabilities, allowing for superior sound quality and flexibility in various settings.
- SQ Series: The SQ series is a versatile digital mixer that boasts a high-resolution touchscreen and integrates seamlessly with various audio sources. It offers a range of models with up to 48 channels and includes features such as automatic mic mixing and high-quality effects processing, making it ideal for both live performance and studio recording.
- dLive Series: Known for its advanced features, the dLive series is a flagship digital mixing system that supports up to 128 channels and 64 buses, appealing to large-scale events. It offers a dual-core processing architecture which enhances performance, as well as customizable workflows, allowing sound engineers to tailor the console to their specific needs.
- Qu Series: The Qu series is designed for ease of use without compromising sound quality, featuring up to 32 channels and a compact design. Its intuitive touchscreen interface and built-in effects make it suitable for both novice and experienced engineers, making it a great option for small to medium-sized venues.
- ZED Series: Although primarily an analog mixer, the ZED series provides excellent sound quality and is ideal for smaller setups. With its robust construction and simple layout, it is perfect for musicians and bands seeking reliable performance for live shows or recording sessions.
How Does the SQ Series Excel Compared to Other Brands?
| Aspect | SQ Series Excel | Brand A | Brand B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Mid-range pricing, accessible for semi-professionals | Higher price point, aimed at professionals | More affordable, but with limited features |
| Features | Advanced routing and processing capabilities | Standard features, lacks some advanced options | Basic functionality, suitable for beginners |
| Sound Quality | High-definition audio with low latency | Excellent audio quality, but can be expensive | Decent sound quality for the price |
| User Interface | Intuitive touchscreen interface for easy navigation | Complex interface, steep learning curve | Simple layout, easy for first-time users |
| Weight and Portability | Lightweight design, easily transportable | Heavier, less portable due to build quality | Very lightweight, ideal for mobile use |
| Support and Warranty | 2-year warranty with responsive customer support | 1-year warranty, customer service can be slow | Limited support options, 1-year warranty |
| Customer Reviews | Highly rated for its performance and usability | Mixed reviews, praised for quality but criticized for price | Generally positive, noted for value but lacks advanced features |
What Innovations Does the Qu Series Bring to the Table?
The Qu Series brings several innovative features that enhance the functionality and user experience of Allen & Heath consoles.
- Touchscreen Interface: The Qu Series consoles feature a large, high-resolution touchscreen that provides intuitive control over mixing parameters. This interface allows users to easily navigate settings, adjust levels, and access effects with a user-friendly, graphical representation of the audio signals.
- Dante Networking: Many models in the Qu Series support Dante networking, enabling seamless integration with other digital audio networks. This innovation allows for multi-channel audio transmission over a single Ethernet cable, simplifying setup and reducing cabling complexity.
- Qu-Drive Recording: The built-in Qu-Drive feature allows users to record and playback up to 18 tracks directly to a USB drive. This provides a convenient solution for live recordings and rehearsals without the need for additional recording equipment.
- Automatic Mic Mixing: The Qu Series includes an automatic mic mixing feature that intelligently manages multiple microphone levels. This is particularly beneficial in live settings such as panel discussions or conferences, ensuring a balanced mix and reducing feedback issues.
- Scene Management: The consoles offer advanced scene management capabilities, allowing users to save and recall different configurations quickly. This is especially useful for venues that host various events, enabling sound engineers to easily switch between settings tailored for different performances.
- Customizable User Layers: Users can create customizable layers on the control surface, allowing quick access to the most frequently used channels and functions. This feature enhances workflow efficiency by enabling sound engineers to tailor the console layout to their specific needs.
How Much Should You Expect to Spend on an Allen and Heath Console?
When considering an Allen and Heath console, pricing can vary significantly based on features, capabilities, and the specific model. Generally, you can expect to spend anywhere from $800 to over $10,000 for these professional-grade mixers.
-
Entry-level models: The more basic options, suitable for smaller venues or beginners, typically range from $800 to $2,500. Models like the Allen and Heath ZED series provide good sound quality and essential features without breaking the bank.
-
Mid-range consoles: Priced between $2,500 and $5,000, these consoles offer advanced features like digital connectivity and multiple channels. The QU series is a popular choice in this bracket, suitable for live sound applications with enhanced flexibility and control.
-
High-end consoles: For professionals or larger events, expect to invest between $5,000 and $10,000 or more. The SQ and dLive series feature high channel counts, extensive routing options, and onboard FX, making them ideal for complex applications.
Budget considerations should include not only the console itself but also necessary accessories like cases, expansion cards, and additional routing interfaces, which can influence overall costs.
What Factors Affect the Price of Allen and Heath Consoles?
The price of Allen and Heath consoles is influenced by several key factors:
- Model and Series: Different models and series of Allen and Heath consoles come with varying features and specifications, impacting their price. Higher-end models, such as the SQ or dLive series, offer advanced capabilities, higher channel counts, and better sound quality, making them more expensive than entry-level options like the ZED series.
- Features and Specifications: The specific features of a console, such as the number of input channels, built-in effects, and digital connectivity options, significantly influence its cost. Consoles with more advanced digital processing, touchscreen interfaces, and comprehensive routing capabilities tend to be priced higher due to their enhanced functionality.
- Market Demand: The demand for particular models can fluctuate based on trends in the live sound, broadcasting, and recording industries. If a specific console model gains popularity for its reliability or unique features, its price may increase due to higher demand and potentially limited supply.
- Condition (New vs. Used): The condition of the console plays a crucial role in pricing as well. New consoles come with warranties and the latest technology, whereas used consoles may offer more affordable options but can vary in quality based on their previous usage and maintenance.
- Brand Reputation: Allen and Heath’s reputation for quality and reliability can also affect pricing. Consoles that are well-regarded within the industry due to their robust build and sound performance may command a higher price as users are willing to invest in trusted brands for professional applications.
- Accessories and Bundles: The inclusion of accessories, such as flight cases, power supplies, and additional software can also impact the overall price. Bundled packages often provide better value, but they can raise the initial cost, making it important for buyers to assess their needs when considering the total investment.
What Do Users Think About the Top Allen and Heath Consoles?
The top Allen and Heath consoles are widely regarded for their quality, versatility, and user-friendly features. Users often highlight the following models:
- GLD Series: The GLD series is known for its innovative digital mixing capabilities, making it ideal for live sound applications. Users appreciate its intuitive touchscreen interface and the ability to customize channels, which enhances performance flexibility.
- SQ Series: The SQ series is praised for its high-quality audio processing and compact design, making it suitable for both small venues and larger events. Many users commend its onboard processing power and the user-friendly layout that simplifies complex mixing tasks.
- dLive Series: The dLive series stands out for its advanced networking capabilities and extensive audio routing options, appealing to professional sound engineers. Users value its scalability, allowing integration with various systems, and its robust build quality, which ensures reliability during demanding performances.
- ZED Series: The ZED series is favored for its analog warmth and ease of use, making it a great choice for studio and live settings. Users often mention the high-quality preamps and the straightforward layout that allows for quick setup and operation.
- Qu Series: The Qu series is celebrated for its powerful features packed into a compact digital console, ideal for various applications. Users appreciate its comprehensive effects library and the ability to record directly to a USB drive, enhancing convenience for live recording sessions.
Which Events and Settings Best Utilize Allen and Heath Consoles?
The best Allen and Heath consoles are highly versatile and can be utilized in various events and settings.
- Live Concerts: These consoles provide robust sound mixing capabilities, making them ideal for live music performances.
- Theater Productions: Allen and Heath consoles are well-suited for theater due to their ability to handle multiple audio sources and ensure clear dialogue.
- Corporate Events: Their intuitive interface allows for seamless audio management in corporate settings where clarity and reliability are crucial.
- Broadcasting: These consoles offer high-quality audio processing, which is essential for radio and television broadcasts.
- House of Worship: Allen and Heath consoles are popular in churches due to their ease of use and ability to manage different sound sources effectively.
Live concerts benefit from Allen and Heath consoles due to their advanced audio mixing capabilities, allowing sound engineers to manage various instruments and vocal inputs with precision. The high-quality preamps and effects processing ensure that the music is delivered clearly and powerfully, suitable for any venue size.
Theater productions often require clear and distinct sound for dialogue and effects. Allen and Heath consoles excel in this area, providing features that allow sound designers to mix audio dynamically, ensuring that each character’s voice is heard without interference from background music or sound effects.
For corporate events, these consoles are ideal due to their user-friendly interface and reliability. Audio clarity is paramount in business settings, and Allen and Heath consoles provide the necessary tools to deliver a professional sound experience during presentations and conferences.
In broadcasting, the high-quality audio processing capabilities of Allen and Heath consoles ensure that sound is captured and transmitted without any degradation. This quality is essential for maintaining the integrity of audio in radio and television, where clarity and detail matter significantly.
In houses of worship, Allen and Heath consoles are favored for their flexibility and ease of use. They can manage various sound sources, such as microphones for speakers and instruments for music, providing a balanced and harmonious audio experience that enhances worship services.
What Are the Long-Term Benefits of Choosing an Allen and Heath Console?
The long-term benefits of choosing an Allen and Heath console include unmatched sound quality, exceptional build quality, and versatile connectivity options.
- Unmatched Sound Quality: Allen and Heath consoles are renowned for their superior audio performance, delivering clear and dynamic sound. Their advanced preamps and high-quality digital signal processing ensure that every detail is captured, making them ideal for both live sound and studio recordings.
- Exceptional Build Quality: Constructed with robust materials, Allen and Heath consoles are designed to withstand the rigors of frequent use in professional settings. This durability not only extends the lifespan of the equipment but also reduces the need for frequent repairs or replacements, ultimately saving costs over time.
- Versatile Connectivity Options: Many Allen and Heath consoles offer a wide range of connectivity options, including analog, digital, and IP-based interfaces. This versatility allows users to integrate the consoles seamlessly into various audio environments, ensuring compatibility with different sound systems and setups.
- User-Friendly Interface: The intuitive layout and design of Allen and Heath consoles make them easy to use for both beginners and seasoned professionals. The straightforward controls and visual feedback systems help engineers manage complex audio tasks efficiently, enhancing workflow during live performances or recording sessions.
- Scalability and Modular Design: Many models feature a modular design that enables users to expand their systems as needed. This scalability allows audio professionals to adapt their setups to evolving demands without having to invest in entirely new equipment, making it a smart long-term investment.