Allen & Heath QU-16 16ch Digital Mixing Console

Allen & Heath Qu-16 Digital Mixing Console

The Allen & Heath Qu-16 is a compact digital mixing console designed for live events, corporate productions, houses of worship, streaming applications, studio recording, and AV installations. Combining professional audio performance with an intuitive touchscreen interface, the Qu-16 provides powerful mixing capabilities in a portable and easy-to-deploy format.

With 16 microphone preamps, onboard effects processing, motorized faders, and integrated multitrack recording capabilities, the Qu-16 serves as a complete mixing solution for a wide range of production environments.

Professional Mixing for Live and Installed Audio

The Qu-16 features 16 AnalogiQ microphone preamps that deliver low-noise performance, minimal distortion, and transparent audio reproduction. These digitally controlled preamps offer precise gain adjustment and provide the flexibility required for speech reinforcement, live music, panel discussions, and worship services.

Additionally, the mixer supports 16 mono inputs, three stereo inputs, and a variety of output configurations, including mono and stereo mix buses. This flexibility allows engineers to manage front-of-house, monitors, overflow rooms, recording feeds, and broadcast mixes from a single console.

The compact footprint also makes the Qu-16 well suited for meeting spaces, small venues, educational facilities, and mobile production systems.

Integrated Recording, Streaming, and DAW Control

The Qu-16 includes a built-in 24×22 USB audio interface, enabling multitrack recording directly to a Mac or PC. Engineers can record live performances, virtual soundchecks, rehearsals, and presentations without additional hardware.

Additionally, computer playback channels can be assigned directly to input channels for streamlined production workflows. The console also supports MIDI over USB and Ethernet, allowing integration with popular digital audio workstations through HUI and Mackie Control protocols.

For streaming applications, users can send a dedicated stereo mix directly to streaming software, simplifying online event and content production workflows.

Advanced Processing and Effects

The Qu-16 incorporates processing technology derived from Allen & Heath’s professional touring systems. Each channel includes comprehensive dynamics processing, parametric EQ, and routing control for detailed mix management.

The console also features four stereo RackFX engines with dedicated return channels. Available effects include reverbs, delays, chorus, phaser, flanger, and modulation processors. Because FX returns do not consume standard input channels, engineers retain maximum channel capacity while enhancing their mix.

A full-color touchscreen, dedicated controls, and 100mm motorized faders provide fast access to critical functions. As a result, the Qu-16 delivers an efficient workflow for both experienced audio professionals and users transitioning from analog consoles.