Allen & Heath QU 16 - Digital mixer with 4x DSP FX

Makes mixing feel natural

Massive processing power and advanced functionality counts for nothing if you can't access the controls you need in a heartbeat. Qu-16 has a fader per mono input channel and fewer fader layers for simpler, quicker workflow. Because every mic input is presented on its own fader for fast, easy control, this makes Qu-16 the perfect mixer converts from analogto digital and those not comfortable working with several layers of faders. The True Colour Touchscreen and its dedicated rotary encoder form the heart of Qu-16's interface, providing super-fast access to all settings and parameters. Dedicated keys and screen tabs quickly guide you to meter and RTA views, FX racks, channel processing, USB audio control, scenes, setup menus and much more. Complementing the touchscreen is the SuperStrip - a set of single-function physical controls for instant access to gain, HPF, 4 band PEQ, gate, compressor, GEQ and pan. Coming from analog? Qu will make you feel at home.

Capture every detail

Qu has been designed from the ground up to deliver professional sound quality, from input to output. Qu-16 features sixteen AnalogiQ digitally controlled preamps with advanced zero-crossing detection and a padless 1 dB-step gain stage. The AnalogiQ preamp design has been refined to offer superb transparency, minimal distortion and an ultra-low noise floor, with a warm, musical sound that is missing from some digital consoles. The analog signal is captured by high-class, low latency 24 bit analog to digital converters, which are matched to 24 bit digital to analog converters to deliver the required high quality output.

Food processing and FX

Qu's RackFX dynamics and FX algorithms are derived from those used in the pro touring series. Some of the respected audio engineers have chosen to use RackFX on tour in preference to top-end plug-ins and external FX units. Qu boasts 4 stereo RackFX engines, featuring lovingly crafted emulations of legendary classic reverbs, gated reverbs, delays, modulators, flangers and more. FX are returned to the mix on dedicated return channels, so you're not tying up your mono and stereo input channels, and each Stereo FX Return has a dedicated 4 band PEQ.

Record. stream. mix.

With its built-in audio interface, Qu-16 can stream up to 24 tracks to your Mac or PC, and returns from the computer can be easily assigned to the Input channels. The interface is class-compliant on Mac OS X making it truly plug 'n play and will be recognized straight away by any DAW supporting Core Audio, including Logic, Cubase, Reaper, and Pro Tools. An ASIOTM and WDM compatible driver is available for Windows computers. Standard MIDI control is tunnelled over the USB and network connections, this can be mapped to the faders of your favorite DAW using the A&H MIDI Control app which provides easy setup and emulation of HUI or Mackie Control protocols on Mac OS X and Windows systems. Want to livestream? Easy. Just send a stereo mix over USB and your streaming software will do the rest.

Everything I/O

Qu-16 is a self-contained mixer, so if you've already got the analog cables you're good to go. But if you're thinking of trading in the multicore for a Cat5 digital snake, the built-in dSNAKE port has you future-proofed, allowing connection to a remote AB168, AR2412 or AR84 Stagebox from the Everything I/O range of remote expanders.

The strong, silent type

Made from 18 gauge, cold-rolled Zintec steel, Qu's distinctive frame is designed for strength and rigidity. Unspeakable things were done to that chassis in the lab and it's taken everything at it - even being stomped on by the resident ex-tank commander! Silence is a precious commodity in the live or studio environment, which is why nobody wants those moments of stillness ruined by whirring coming from the mix position. Qu's sleek profile generates optimal airflow through the mixer, eliminating the need for any fans.

Give performers control

Qu is fully compatible with the ME Personal Mixing System. The ME system expands available monitor mixes and gives each performer control over their own mix, leaving the engineer free to focus on the main mix.