Allen & Heath QU-16 16 Channel Digital Mixer Chrome Edition ALLEN&HEATH

The Allen & Heath Qu-16 Chrome Edition is a popular and powerful 16-channel digital mixer designed for live sound, studio recording, and installations. It's known for its intuitive interface, robust feature set, and high-quality audio performance, making it a strong choice for both experienced engineers and those transitioning from analog mixers. The "Chrome Edition" distinguishes it with upgraded controls and additional software features.

Key Features:

• Channel Count:
  • 16 Mono Mic/Line Inputs (TRS + XLR) with recallable AnaLOGIQ preamps.
  • 3 Stereo Inputs (TRS).
  • 4 Stereo FX Returns.
• Buses and Mixes:
  • 16 Busses in total.
  • 12 Mix Outputs (LR, 4 Mono Mixes, 3 Stereo Mixes) all on XLR.
• AnaLOGIQ Preamps: High-performance, digitally controlled preamps with a transparent, low-noise, and musical sound, offering total recall of all settings.
• Motorized Faders: Features 17 motorized 100mm ALPS faders (16 for channels/layers, plus a dedicated master fader). These allow for instant recall of scenes, 'sends on faders' functionality, and GEQ fader flip for quick adjustments.
• Touchscreen Interface: A 5-inch (800x480 resolution) color touchscreen provides fast, intuitive access to all settings, metering, RTA views, FX racks, processing, routing, and scene management.
• Onboard DSP & Effects:
  • Equipped with 4 stereo RackFX engines featuring a library of reverbs, delays, gates, ADT, chorus, phaser, flanger, and more, derived from Allen & Heath's iLive consoles.
  • Comprehensive processing on all inputs (Trim, polarity, HPF, gate, insert, 4-band PEQ, compressor, and delay).
  • Processing on Main LR and Mix outputs (Insert, 1/3 octave GEQ, compressor, and delay).
• Qu-Drive Direct Multitrack Recording/Playback: Allows direct multitrack recording (18-channel WAV, 48kHz/24-bit) and stereo recording/playback to a USB drive without needing a computer.
• USB Audio Interface: Functions as a 24x22 USB Audio Interface for multi-channel recording and playback with a computer (Mac/PC), compatible with various DAWs.
• Wireless Control: Supports wireless mixing via the Qu-Pad iPad App and personal monitoring via the Qu-You iPhone/Android app, offering remote control from anywhere in the venue.
• Automatic Mic Mixing (AMM): A key feature for spoken word applications, allowing for automatic level control of up to 16 microphones to reduce background noise and minimize feedback.
• ProFactory Mic Presets: Optimized presets developed in collaboration with leading microphone manufacturers to speed up setup.
• Spectrogram: A visual tool to aid in feedback elimination and taming room acoustics.
• dSNAKE Remote Audio Port: Allows connection to Allen & Heath's remote AudioRacks (like AR2412, AR84, AB168) for distributed I/O, simplifying cable runs. Also compatible with the ME Personal Mixing System.
• Robust Construction: Built with an 18-gauge, cold-rolled Zintec steel frame, designed for durability and rigidity.
• Chrome Edition Specifics: Features high-contrast metallic finish rotary controls and fader caps for improved visibility in low-light conditions and enhanced tactile control, matching the premium GLD Chrome series.
• Rack Mountable: Can be desk-mounted or installed into a standard 19-inch equipment rack.

The Allen & Heath Qu-16 Chrome Edition is a highly capable and user-friendly digital mixer, popular among bands, venues, and rental companies for its excellent sound, comprehensive feature set, and intuitive workflow.