In January 2024, we explored the breadth of Allen & Heath’s mixing console lineup in our blog From Stage to Studio: A Symphony of Allen & Heath Mixing Consoles. At the time, the Qu series already had a strong reputation for reliability and intuitive workflows. Now, Allen & Heath has taken that foundation and reimagined it for today’s engineers and AV professionals.

The result? The next-generation Qu series — a family of mixers that combines 96kHz processing, advanced workflow tools, and seamless integration into Allen & Heath’s Everything I/O ecosystem.

 

The Qu Redefined

The new Qu series comes in three frame sizes — Qu-5, Qu-6, and Qu-7 — each available with or without Dante (D models). This modular approach ensures a mixer that scales with your needs, whether you’re outfitting a touring rig, an education facility, or a corporate AV installation.

More than just an upgrade, the new Qu is a complete redesign that modernizes the beloved series while keeping the workflow familiar.

 

96kHz Processing Power

At the heart of the new Qu is Allen & Heath’s 96kHz XCVI Core, a processing engine derived from their flagship consoles. This brings:

• Ultra-low latency for precise monitoring.
• Higher fidelity audio to capture every detail.
• DEEP Processing readiness, allowing engineers to access boutiQue-style processing directly inside the console without relying on external plug-ins.

For live engineers and studio professionals alike, this means uncompromising performance in a compact footprint.

 

Smarter Workflow, Faster Setup

Allen & Heath designed the new Qu for speed and adaptability. Highlights include:

• A responsive touchscreen UI with per-channel displays and chromatic meters.
• Four fully customizable fader layers that adapt to any workflow.
• Assignable SoftKeys for Quick access to critical functions.
• Feedback and Gain Assistants to automate setup and keep systems protected.

These features reduce setup time, safeguard mixes, and ensure consistency from venue to venue.

 

Connectivity and Recording

The Qu series excels at integration and recording flexibility:

• SLink port compatibility enables seamless connection to Allen & Heath’s Everything I/O ecosystem, from stageboxes to expanders.
• Dante-enabled models (Qu-5D, Qu-6D, Qu-7D) provide 16×16 Dante networking, ideal for installations and touring systems.
• Built-in recording tools include:
  • 32×32 USB-C audio interface
  • SD card multitrack recording
  • USB-A stereo playback and record

This makes the Qu as powerful in the studio as it is on stage.

Applications Across Markets

The new Qu is built to adapt across markets:

• Live Sound: Compact yet powerful, ideal for clubs, houses of worship, and regional venues.
• AV Integration: Dante connectivity and SLink expandability make it a versatile choice for corporate, education, and multipurpose spaces.
• Recording & Broadcast: Multitrack recording options and DEEP Processing deliver pro-level tools without the need for external hardware.

 

Comparing the Qu to the Allen & Heath Ecosystem

Within Allen & Heath’s portfolio, the Qu fits as a bridge between entry-level digital consoles and higher-end systems like the SQ, Avantis, and dLive.

As we wrote in our January 2024 blog, the original Qu opened doors for engineers looking for digital mixing without the learning curve. This new generation continues that mission — but raises the bar with advanced processing, smarter tools, and flexible networking.

 

Conclusion: The Qu Advantage

The Allen & Heath Qu series is more than just a mixer — it’s a platform built for flexibility, performance, and growth. Whether you’re mixing a worship service, managing a corporate AV installation, or recording in the studio, Qu delivers the sound Quality and workflow that engineers expect from Allen & Heath.

At Mainline, we’re proud to represent Allen & Heath and bring this new generation of Qu mixers to our partners and clients.

Contact us to schedule a demo of the new Qu series and experience firsthand how it can transform your next project.