Allen & Heath 38-Input Dante Digital Mixer vs Allen & Heath 8 Knob Remote Controller: Spec Comparison
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This comparison covers the allen heath 38 input dante digital mixer vs 8 knob remote controller. Both devices are part of the Allen & Heath ecosystem, designed to work together for professional audio control. The primary difference lies in their function and scale. One is a full-featured digital mixing console with extensive I/O and processing power. The other is a compact remote unit for adjusting parameters. You need to decide which role fits your setup.
Key differences
| Aspect | Allen & Heath 38-Input Dante Digital Mixer | Allen & Heath 8 Knob Remote Controller |
|---|---|---|
| Mixer Type | Digital | Remote Controller |
| Input Capacity | 38 inputs | not listed |
| Dimensions | 21.9 x 12.2 x 25.1 inches | 6.1 x 2.4 x 8.1 inches |
| Weight | 28.1 pounds | 7 pounds |
| Processing | 96kHz XCVI FPGA | not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Allen & Heath 38-Input Dante Digital Mixer if
- You need a standalone mixing console with 38 inputs and Dante networking.
- You require hands-on control with motorized faders and a touchscreen interface.
- You are building a main system for live sound or recording.
Choose Allen & Heath 8 Knob Remote Controller if
- You already have a main mixer and need a compact remote for fine-tuning.
- You have limited space and need a small device that weighs only 7 pounds.
- You want to control parameters from a distance without a full console.
Verdict: The 38-Input Dante Digital Mixer is the core engine for your audio system, offering comprehensive mixing and connectivity. The 8 Knob Remote Controller is a supplementary tool for adjusting settings without moving to the main desk. Choose the mixer if you need primary control, or add the remote if you need flexible adjustment options.
Specs: Mixer vs Remote Controller
Input capacity
The Allen & Heath 38-Input Dante Digital Mixer offers a robust 38-input mixing platform. It features 16 XLR/TRS combi mic-line inputs and stereo inputs. This allows you to connect numerous sources directly. The Allen & Heath 8 Knob Remote Controller has no listed input channels. It is designed to control existing systems rather than accept direct audio sources. If you need to mix many signals simultaneously, the mixer provides the necessary physical connections.
Physical dimensions
Size matters for your studio or stage setup. The Allen & Heath 38-Input Dante Digital Mixer measures 25.1 inches in length, 21.9 inches in width, and 12.2 inches in height. It is a substantial piece of equipment. The Allen & Heath 8 Knob Remote Controller is much smaller. It measures 6.1 inches in length, 8.07 inches in width, and 2.4 inches in height. The remote takes up significantly less desk space. You can easily place it next to the main mixer.
Processing power
The Allen & Heath 38-Input Dante Digital Mixer utilizes 96kHz XCVI FPGA processing. This delivers exceptional audio quality with ultra-low latency. It is built for professional performance in live sound and recording. The Allen & Heath 8 Knob Remote Controller has no listed processing specifications. It acts as a control surface. It relies on the main mixer for audio processing. The mixer handles the heavy lifting for sound quality.
Control interface
The Allen & Heath 38-Input Dante Digital Mixer features a 7-inch capacitive touchscreen and 17 motorized faders. It also includes 8 SoftKeys and chromatic metering. This provides hands-on control over your mix. The Allen & Heath 8 Knob Remote Controller provides 8 knobs for adjustment. It lacks a touchscreen or faders. You use the knobs to tweak parameters remotely. The mixer offers a more comprehensive physical control surface for detailed adjustments.
Connectivity
The Allen & Heath 38-Input Dante Digital Mixer includes built-in 16x16 Dante networking. It also has a 128x128 SLink port for I/O expansion. It supports USB-C 32x32 audio interface and USB-A recording. The Allen & Heath 8 Knob Remote Controller has no listed connectivity specs in the data. It is designed to integrate with the mixer system. The mixer provides extensive networking and digital audio connections for your entire setup.
Which Allen & Heath Device Fits You
Live sound engineers needing full mixing control
This 38-input digital mixer provides 17 motorized faders and a 7-inch touchscreen. You get 96kHz XCVI FPGA processing for low latency. The built-in Dante networking and 16x16 I/O allow seamless system integration. It handles complex setups with 12 configurable mixes and 4 matrix outputs for professional live applications.
Installers requiring extensive I/O and recording
The mixer features a 32x32 USB-C audio interface and SD card multitrack recording. You can connect via 128x128 SLink ports for I/O expansion. It includes six multi-FX engines and dedicated return channels. This all-in-one platform supports houses of worship and AV installations with robust connectivity and high-quality audio processing.
Users wanting compact remote control expansion
This 8-knob remote controller is small and portable. It measures 6.1 by 8.1 inches and weighs only 7 pounds. You can use it to adjust mixer parameters from a distance. It integrates into the Allen & Heath ecosystem to extend control surfaces without taking up significant rack or desk space in your setup.
The products compared
Allen & Heath 38-Input Dante Digital Mixer
Best for: Large live sound and fixed installations
- Mixer Type
- Digital
- Dimensions
- 25.1 × 21.9 × 12.2 inches
- Weight
- 28.1 pounds
View on Amazon: Allen & Heath 38-Input Dante Digital Mixer Affiliate link
The Allen & Heath Qu-5D is a 38-input digital mixer with 24 outputs. It uses 96kHz XCVI FPGA processing for low latency audio. The unit includes a 7-inch touchscreen and 17 motorized faders. Built-in Dante networking allows for seamless system integration. You get 16 multi-FX engines and USB-C audio interface capabilities. This setup suits live sound and installation projects requiring extensive I/O.
Pros
- 38-input mixing platform with 16 XLR/TRS combi inputs
- Built-in 16x16 Dante networking for system integration
- 7-inch capacitive touchscreen with 17 motorized faders
- 96kHz XCVI FPGA processing for low latency
- USB-C 32x32 audio interface and SD card recording
Cons
- Large footprint at 25.1 inches wide
- Heavy build at 28.1 pounds
- Requires external power and cabling for operation
Good fit if
- You need a high-channel-count digital mixer for live events
- You require integrated Dante networking for audio distribution
- You want hands-on control with motorized faders and a touchscreen
Skip if
- You need a compact portable mixer for small venues
- You prefer a lightweight unit for easy transport
- You do not require digital mixing capabilities
Verdict: Allen & Heath Qu-5D 38-Input Digital Mixer fits large-scale live sound and installation projects that demand extensive input/output channels and Dante connectivity. Its substantial size and weight make it unsuitable for portable applications.
Allen & Heath 8 Knob Remote Controller
Best for: Remote physical control of compatible mixers
- Dimensions
- 6.1 × 8.07 × 2.4 inches
- Weight
- 7 pounds
View on Amazon: Allen & Heath 8 Knob Remote Controller Affiliate link
The Allen & Heath AH-IP-8 OLED is a dedicated remote controller for your mixer. It measures 6.1 by 8.1 by 2.4 inches and weighs 7 pounds. This compact unit lets you manage mixer settings from a distance. You get physical control without needing a tablet. It fits well in setups where you need tactile adjustment of channels or effects while standing away from the main console.
Pros
- Compact 6.1 by 8.1 inch footprint
- Weighs 7 pounds for stable placement
- Provides physical knob control for remote operation
- OLED display shows status information
Cons
- Limited to 8 knobs for parameter adjustment
- No built-in screen for full mixer overview
- Requires a compatible Allen & Heath mixer to function
Good fit if
- You need physical knobs to adjust mixer levels remotely
- You have limited desk space for a large controller
- You want to stand away from the main mixer while performing
Skip if
- You need a full mixer with built-in inputs
- You prefer wireless tablet control over physical knobs
- You want a standalone unit without a host mixer
Verdict: Allen & Heath 8 Knob Remote Controller offers essential tactile control in a small form factor. It is ideal for users who need to adjust mixer parameters from a distance without relying on a screen.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Allen & Heath 38-Input Dante Digital Mixer | Allen & Heath 8 Knob Remote Controller |
|---|---|---|
| Mixer Type | Digital | not stated |
| Dimensions | 25.1 × 21.9 × 12.2 inches | 6.1 × 8.07 × 2.4 inches |
| Weight | 28.1 pounds | 7 pounds |
| Model | AH-QU-5D | AH-IP-8 |
| Size | not stated | 6.1 x 8.1 x 2.4 inches |
| Color | not stated | Not Specified |
Frequently asked questions
Can the 8 Knob Remote Controller function as a standalone mixer?
No, it cannot. The Allen & Heath 8 Knob Remote Controller is designed solely for remote physical control of compatible mixers. It lacks the internal processing and input channels required to mix audio independently. You must pair it with a main mixer unit to function.
What are the physical dimensions of the 38-Input Dante Digital Mixer?
The Allen & Heath Qu-5D measures 21.9 inches in width, 12.2 inches in height, and 25.1 inches in length. These substantial dimensions indicate it is built for fixed installations rather than portable use. The unit weighs 28.1 pounds, requiring a sturdy surface or rack mount.
Is the 8 Knob Remote Controller suitable for portable live sound gigs?
Yes, its compact form factor makes it highly portable. The device measures 6.1 inches in length, 8.1 inches in width, and 2.4 inches in height. Weighing only 7 pounds, it is easy to transport and allows you to adjust mixer parameters from a distance without relying on a screen.
How does the weight of the digital mixer compare to the remote controller?
The digital mixer is significantly heavier. The Allen & Heath Qu-5D weighs 28.1 pounds, while the 8 Knob Remote Controller weighs 7 pounds. This weight difference reflects their different roles. The mixer houses extensive hardware for 38 inputs, whereas the remote is a lightweight control surface.
Does the 8 Knob Remote Controller have a display screen?
The provided specifications do not mention a display screen for the Allen & Heath 8 Knob Remote Controller. It is described as offering tactile control without relying on a screen. This suggests it operates primarily through physical knobs to adjust parameters on a connected mixer unit.
What is the primary use case for the 38-Input Dante Digital Mixer?
It is best for large live sound and fixed installations. The mixer provides 38 inputs and extensive I/O capabilities. Its size and weight make it unsuitable for portable applications. You should choose this unit when you need a robust platform for complex audio routing and processing.
Can I use the 8 Knob Remote Controller with any mixer?
No, it is designed for compatible mixers within the Allen & Heath ecosystem. It offers essential tactile control for specific units. You cannot use it with just any mixer. Check compatibility with your main mixer model before relying on it for remote parameter adjustment.