Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer vs Allen & Heath Qu-SB Portable Digital Mixer (2026): Key Differences
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When you compare the allen heath cq 18t digital mixer 7 vs qu sb portable 18 in 14 out, you see two distinct approaches from Allen & Heath. Both units are digital mixers offering four built-in effects engines and robust USB audio interfaces. The main difference lies in control and connectivity. The CQ-18T features a local 7-inch touchscreen with Wi-Fi. The Qu-SB relies on iPad control and offers a 32x32 USB interface with dSnake expansion. You must choose based on your preferred control method and input needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer | Allen & Heath Qu-SB Portable Digital Mixer |
|---|---|---|
| Control Interface | 7-inch capacitive touchscreen with rotary controls | Designed for iPad control; no local screen |
| USB Audio Interface | 24x22 | 32x32 |
| Connectivity | Built-in 2.4GHz/5GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth | dSnake remote audio port for expansion |
| Physical Dimensions | 16.9 x 12.2 x 7.9 inches | 10.6 x 21.7 x 10.6 inches |
| Weight | 10.3 pounds | 12 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer if
- You prefer a standalone unit with an integrated 7-inch touchscreen for direct operation
- You need built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for wireless streaming or connectivity
- You want a lighter and more compact footprint for easier transport
Choose Allen & Heath Qu-SB Portable Digital Mixer if
- You require a 32x32 USB interface for extensive multitrack recording
- You plan to use an iPad as your primary control surface
- You need dSnake expansion capabilities for larger stage setups
Verdict: The CQ-18T is the better choice if you want a self-contained mixer with a local touchscreen and wireless features. The Qu-SB suits users who already use iPads for control and need higher channel count via USB or dSnake expansion. Your decision depends on whether you prioritize local control or mobile integration.
CQ-18T vs Qu-SB Comparison
Input Capacity
The Allen & Heath CQ-18T offers 16 mic or line inputs, with eight combi jacks, plus a stereo line input. The Allen & Heath Qu-SB provides 16 mono inputs using TRS and XLR connectors, along with one stereo TRS input. Both mixers support the same number of primary mono channels. The CQ-18T emphasizes combi inputs for flexibility, while the Qu-SB uses a mix of TRS and XLR. You get the same channel count for your sources in both cases, making them equivalent for standard live setups requiring sixteen inputs.
USB Audio Interface
The Allen & Heath CQ-18T features a 24x22 USB audio interface, allowing you to route 24 inputs and 22 outputs through your computer. The Allen & Heath Qu-SB includes a 32x32 USB audio interface, providing significantly more I/O for recording and playback. This higher channel count on the Qu-SB allows for more complex multitrack recording scenarios without needing external interfaces. If you need to record many channels simultaneously, the Qu-SB offers superior connectivity. The CQ-18T is sufficient for smaller setups, but the Qu-SB wins for high-channel-count needs.
Connectivity Options
The Allen & Heath CQ-18T includes built-in 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi, along with stereo Bluetooth input. This allows for wireless control and direct audio streaming from mobile devices. The Allen & Heath Qu-SB is designed for iPad control and supports dSNE remote audio port expansion for up to 38 additional inputs. While the CQ-18T offers convenient wireless audio and control features, the Qu-SB focuses on wired expansion and dedicated tablet control. The CQ-18T provides more versatile wireless options for modern setups.
Physical Dimensions
The Allen & Heath CQ-18T measures 12.2 inches in width, 7.9 inches in height, and 16.9 inches in length. The Allen & Heath Qu-SB is larger, measuring 21.7 inches in width, 10.6 inches in height, and 10.6 inches in length. The CQ-18T has a more compact footprint in terms of width, which may fit better in smaller spaces. However, the Qu-SB is wider but shallower. The CQ-18T is generally easier to fit into tight rack or desk spaces, offering a slight advantage in compactness for portable or small venue use.
Output Configuration
The Allen & Heath CQ-18T does not explicitly list specific output configurations in the provided data, focusing instead on its USB interface capabilities. The Allen & Heath Qu-SB provides 12 on-board mix outputs, including LR, four mono mixes, and three stereo mixes, plus one stereo matrix output. This extensive output routing allows for complex monitor mixes and zone paging directly from the unit. The Qu-SB offers more dedicated hardware outputs for flexible system deployment, giving it a clear advantage for larger or more complex audio systems.
Which Allen & Heath Mixer Suits You
Users needing local touchscreen control
The CQ-18T features a 7-inch capacitive touchscreen with rotary controls and soft keys. This allows you to adjust settings directly on the unit without relying on a tablet. Its compact dimensions of 12.2 inches wide and 10.3 pounds weight make it easy to transport and set up for live performances or studio sessions.
Professionals requiring extensive I/O channels
The Qu-SB includes a 32x32 USB audio interface, offering significantly more channels than the CQ-18T. It also provides 12 on-board mix outputs and one stereo matrix out. This high channel count supports complex monitoring setups and multitrack recording, making it ideal for larger venues or detailed production environments.
Teams using iPad for remote mixing
The Qu-SB is designed for iPad control, allowing you to manage the mixer remotely. It features a dsNake port for remote audio expansion up to 38 inputs. This flexibility lets you place the core unit away from the stage while maintaining full control from a tablet, streamlining your workflow during live events.
The products compared
Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer
Best for: Standalone digital mixing with touchscreen
- Mixer Type
- Digital
- USB Audio Interface
- 24x22 USB interface
- Built-In Effects
- 4x FX engines
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth
- Features
- Touchscreen
- Dimensions
- 16.9 × 12.2 × 7.9 inches
View on Amazon: Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer Affiliate link
The Allen & Heath CQ-18T is a digital mixer featuring a 7-inch capacitive touchscreen and dual-band Wi-Fi. It offers 16 mic or line inputs and a 24x22 USB audio interface. You get four FX engines and stereo Bluetooth input. This unit weighs 10.3 pounds and measures 16.9 inches long. It suits users needing robust connectivity and local control without a separate tablet.
Pros
- 7-inch capacitive touchscreen with rotary controls
- Built-in 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi
- 24x22 USB audio interface
- 16 mic or line inputs
- 4 FX engines
Cons
- No mention of a dedicated remote app
- Heavier than portable tablet-based mixers
- Limited to 4 FX engines
Good fit if
- You want local touchscreen control
- You need built-in Wi-Fi
- You prefer a standalone unit
Skip if
- You require a tablet-only workflow
- You need extensive mobile app control
- You prioritize ultra-lightweight portability
Verdict: The Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer fits users who want a standalone digital mixer with a built-in touchscreen and Wi-Fi. It is ideal for setups where a tablet is not the primary control method.
Allen & Heath Qu-SB Portable Digital Mixer
Best for: iPad-controlled live sound monitoring
- Mixer Type
- Digital
- USB Audio Interface
- 32 x 32 USB Audio Interface
- Built-In Effects
- 4 FX engines, ilive FX library
- Form Factor
- Portable
- Dimensions
- 10.6 × 21.7 × 10.6 inches
- Weight
- 12 pounds
View on Amazon: Allen & Heath Qu-SB Portable Digital Mixer Affiliate link
The Allen & Heath QU-SB is a compact digital mixer built for iPad control. It features a Qu-32 core with 18 inputs and 14 outputs. You get 32x32 USB audio interface capabilities and 4 FX engines. Its portable form factor weighs 12 pounds. This unit suits live sound engineers needing reliable monitor mixes and direct multitrack recording via USB drives.
Pros
- 18 inputs and 14 outputs for versatile routing
- Qu-32 core provides 32 input channels
- Supports up to 11 monitor mixes
- 32x32 USB audio interface functionality
- Direct multitrack recording on USB drives
Cons
- Requires iPad for full control interface
- No built-in touchscreen display
- Heavier than some ultra-portable alternatives
Good fit if
- You need extensive monitor mix options
- You rely on iPad for mixing control
- You require direct multitrack USB recording
Skip if
- You prefer a built-in touchscreen
- You need a lighter portable unit
- You want standalone desktop operation
Verdict: The Allen & Heath QU-SB Portable Digital Mixer delivers professional Qu-32 power in a portable chassis. It fits engineers who prioritize monitor mixing depth and USB recording over standalone display convenience.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer | Allen & Heath Qu-SB Portable Digital Mixer |
|---|---|---|
| Mixer Type | Digital | Digital |
| USB Audio Interface | 24x22 USB interface | 32 x 32 USB Audio Interface |
| Built-In Effects | 4x FX engines | 4 FX engines, ilive FX library |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth | not stated |
| Form Factor | not stated | Portable |
| Features | Touchscreen | not stated |
| Dimensions | 16.9 × 12.2 × 7.9 inches | 10.6 × 21.7 × 10.6 inches |
| Weight | 10.3 pounds | 12 pounds |
| Model | AH-CQ18T | AH-QU-SB |
Frequently asked questions
Which mixer is better for standalone use without a tablet?
The Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer is designed for standalone operation. It includes a built-in touchscreen and Wi-Fi, allowing you to control the mixer directly on the unit. This makes it ideal if you do not want to rely on an external tablet for your primary control method.
Which unit is more portable for live sound monitoring?
The Allen & Heath Qu-SB Portable Digital Mixer is built for portability and iPad-controlled monitoring. It delivers professional mixing power in a compact chassis. Engineers who prioritize monitor mixing depth and USB recording capabilities will find this unit better suited for mobile setups than the larger CQ-18T.
How do the physical dimensions compare between the two mixers?
The CQ-18T measures 12.2 inches in width and 16.9 inches in length. The Qu-SB is wider at 21.7 inches but shorter in length at 10.6 inches. You should consider your rack space or table size, as the Qu-SB has a different footprint despite both being digital mixers.
What is the weight difference between the CQ-18T and Qu-SB?
The Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer weighs 10.3 pounds. The Allen & Heath Qu-SB Portable Digital Mixer is slightly heavier at 12 pounds. Both units are relatively light for digital mixers, but the CQ-18T is the lighter option if you are moving gear frequently.
Does the CQ-18T support Bluetooth connectivity?
Yes, the Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer includes Bluetooth connectivity. This feature allows you to stream audio wirelessly to the mixer. The Qu-SB does not list Bluetooth in its attributes, so you must use wired connections or other methods for audio input with that unit.
Which mixer is best for users who prefer local touchscreen control?
The CQ-18T is the best choice for local touchscreen control. It features a 7-inch capacitive touchscreen with rotary controls and soft keys. You can adjust settings directly on the unit. The Qu-SB is designed for iPad control, so it lacks this built-in display interface for direct adjustment.