Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer vs Allen & Heath ZED-22FX 22-Channel Analog Mixer: Spec Comparison
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We compare the allen heath cq 18t digital mixer 7 vs zed 22fx 22 channel analog mixer to help you decide. Both units deliver studio-quality sound and include built-in effects for live performance. The main difference lies in their architecture. The CQ-18T is a digital mixer with a touchscreen and wireless connectivity. The ZED-22FX is an analog console with extensive physical controls. You need to choose based on your preferred workflow and channel count.
Key differences
| Aspect | Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer | Allen & Heath ZED-22FX 22-Channel Analog Mixer |
|---|---|---|
| Mixer Type | Digital | Analog |
| Channel Count | 18 inputs (16 mic/line, 1 stereo line) | 22 inputs (16 mic, 16 line/inst, 3 stereo) |
| Control Interface | 7” capacitive touchscreen with rotary control | Physical knobs and faders |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi and Bluetooth | USB audio interface |
| USB Interface | 24x22 | Stereo-in stereo-out |
| Built-In Effects | 4x FX engines | 16 tweakable FX types |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer if
- You prefer a digital workflow with a 7-inch touchscreen interface.
- You need Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for wireless monitoring.
- You require a high-channel-count USB interface for recording.
Choose Allen & Heath ZED-22FX 22-Channel Analog Mixer if
- You want a larger 22-channel analog console for more inputs.
- You prefer tactile physical controls over a touchscreen.
- You need pre-fade and post-fade auxiliary sends for monitor mixes.
Verdict: Choose the CQ-18T if you want a compact digital mixer with modern wireless features and a touchscreen. Select the ZED-22FX if you need more analog channels and prefer traditional physical controls with extensive auxiliary routing.
Digital vs Analog Mixer Specs
System Type
The Allen & Heath CQ-18T is a digital mixer, offering modern signal processing and flexible routing options typical of digital architectures. In contrast, the Allen & Heath ZED-22FX is an analog mixer, providing a traditional signal path that many users prefer for its straightforward operation and tactile control. The choice between digital and analog depends on your preference for software integration versus hardware simplicity. The CQ-18T leverages digital technology for its touchscreen interface and USB capabilities, while the ZED-22FX relies on analog circuitry for its preamps and equalization, ensuring a different sonic character and workflow for your setup.
Channel Count
Input capacity differs significantly between these two units. The Allen & Heath ZED-22FX offers 22 channels, including 16 mic or line inputs and stereo options, making it suitable for larger ensembles or complex setups. The Allen & Heath CQ-18T provides 16 mic or line inputs, with eight combi jacks, plus a stereo line input. If you need to connect more microphones or instruments simultaneously, the ZED-22FX gives you four additional mono channels. This extra headroom allows for greater flexibility when mixing larger groups without needing external splitters or additional mixers.
Built-In Effects
Both mixers include onboard effects, but the variety differs. The ZED-22FX features a studio-quality multi-FX unit with 16 different, tweakable effects types, including reverbs, delays, and modulation, with tap tempo functionality. The CQ-18T includes four FX engines. While the CQ-18T provides essential effects for live performance, the ZED-22FX offers a broader palette of 16 distinct effect types. This variety allows for more nuanced sound sculpting on the ZED-22FX, which can be advantageous for vocal processing or creating atmospheric textures during a set. The number of effect types is higher on the analog unit.
Connectivity
Wireless connectivity is a key differentiator. The CQ-18T includes built-in 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi, along with stereo Bluetooth input, allowing for wireless streaming and control. The ZED-22FX does not list Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities in its specifications. If you rely on wireless monitoring or streaming audio sources directly to the mixer, the CQ-18T is the superior choice. The ZED-22FX focuses on wired connections, including a class-compliant USB interface for computer and mobile device connectivity, but lacks the wireless options found in the digital CQ-18T.
Form Factor
Physical dimensions and weight vary considerably. The CQ-18T measures 12.2 inches in width, 7.9 inches in height, and 16.9 inches in length, weighing 10.3 pounds. The ZED-22FX is much wider at 25.4 inches, taller at 18.3 inches, and deeper at 3.9 inches, weighing 23.1 pounds. The CQ-18T is significantly lighter and more compact, making it easier to transport and fit into smaller spaces. The ZED-22FX requires a larger surface area and is heavier, which may impact portability. For users prioritizing a lighter, more compact footprint, the CQ-18T is the better option.
USB Interface
The USB audio interface specifications differ in channel count. The CQ-18T features a 24x22 USB interface, allowing for extensive multitrack recording and playback options. The ZED-22FX has a stereo-in stereo-out USB connection, suitable for recording the main mix or simple stereo returns. The CQ-18T’s higher channel count on the USB interface enables more detailed multitrack recording capabilities. If you need to record individual channels separately for post-production or streaming, the CQ-18T offers more flexibility. The ZED-22FX is sufficient for basic stereo recording and playback but lacks the extensive I/O of the digital unit.
Which mixer fits your workflow best
Users needing flexible routing and digital control
The CQ-18T offers a 24x22 USB interface and SD record/playback for complex setups. Its 7-inch touchscreen with rotary controls simplifies navigation. You get four FX engines and dual-band Wi-Fi for seamless connectivity. This digital architecture suits those who prefer software-like control over physical knobs.
Performers requiring extensive channel count and analog feel
The ZED-22FX provides 22 channels with DuoPre preamps and 48V phantom power. It features a 3-band MusiQ EQ with swept mids for precise tonal shaping. You also get two pre-fade and two post-fade auxiliary sends for monitor mixes or external effects. The 16 tweakable FX types are built with in-house DSP algorithms.
Streamers and recorders wanting driver-free USB
This analog mixer includes a class-compliant stereo-in stereo-out USB connection. It requires no drivers on Mac, Windows, or mobile devices like tablets and smartphones. You can record the main mix or individual channels easily. The routable USB return allows stereo feeds back into the mix without extra hardware.
The products compared
Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer
Best for: users needing touchscreen and wireless control
- 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. It includes built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for wireless connectivity. The unit offers a 24x22 USB audio interface and SD card recording. It provides 16 mic or line inputs plus stereo line input. This setup suits users needing integrated digital control and wireless streaming capabilities.
Pros
- 7-inch capacitive touchscreen with rotary controls
- Built-in 2.4GHz/5GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- 24x22 USB audio interface
- 4x FX engines
Cons
- Heavier at 10.3 pounds
- Larger footprint at 16.9 inches
- No remote control listed
Good fit if
- You need a touchscreen interface
- You require built-in Wi-Fi
- You want SD card recording
Skip if
- You prefer analog-only operation
- You need a compact lightweight unit
- You require a remote control
Verdict: The Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer fits users who prioritize touchscreen control and wireless connectivity. It serves those needing a robust digital interface with SD recording capabilities.
Allen & Heath ZED-22FX 22-Channel Analog Mixer
Best for: Live sound setups needing 22 channels and analog control
- Channel Count
- 22-Channel
- Mixer Type
- Analog
- USB Audio Interface
- stereo-in stereo-out USB
- Built-In Effects
- 16 different, tweakable FX types
- Channel Equalizer
- 3-band MusiQ EQ with swept mid
- Auxiliary Sends
- 2 Pre-Fade, 2 Post-Fade
View on Amazon: Allen & Heath ZED-22FX 22-Channel Analog Mixer Affiliate link
The Allen & Heath ZED-22FX is a 22-channel analog mixer with onboard USB audio interface and built-in effects. It features DuoPre XLR preamps with 48V phantom power and a 3-band MusiQ EQ with swept mid. The unit includes 16 tweakable FX types and routable pre/post-fade auxiliary sends. It suits live sound engineers needing robust channel count and studio-quality processing without digital complexity.
Pros
- 22-channel capacity with 16 mic and 16 line inputs
- 3-band MusiQ EQ with swept mid frequency per channel
- 16 built-in tweakable FX types including reverb and delay
- 2 pre-fade and 2 post-fade auxiliary sends
- Class-compliant stereo-in stereo-out USB connection
Cons
- Heavier build at 23.1 pounds
- No Bluetooth connectivity listed
- No mobile app control available
Good fit if
- You need a high-channel-count analog mixer for live venues
- You require dedicated pre-fade auxiliary sends for monitor mixes
- You want built-in DSP effects without external hardware
Skip if
- You prefer a lightweight, portable mixer under 15 pounds
- You need digital control via a dedicated mobile application
- You require Bluetooth wireless connectivity for streaming
Verdict: The Allen & Heath ZED-22FX Analog Mixer fits sound engineers who prioritize channel count and dedicated analog processing over digital convenience. Its robust feature set supports complex live setups where physical control and pre-fade sends are essential.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer | Allen & Heath ZED-22FX 22-Channel Analog Mixer |
|---|---|---|
| Channel Count | not stated | 22-Channel |
| Mixer Type | Digital | Analog |
| USB Audio Interface | 24x22 USB interface | stereo-in stereo-out USB |
| Built-In Effects | 4x FX engines | 16 different, tweakable FX types |
| Channel Equalizer | not stated | 3-band MusiQ EQ with swept mid |
| Auxiliary Sends | not stated | 2 Pre-Fade, 2 Post-Fade |
| Phantom Power | not stated | 48V |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth | USB |
| Features | Touchscreen | Effects |
| Dimensions | 16.9 × 12.2 × 7.9 inches | 18.3 × 3.9 × 25.4 inches |
| Weight | 10.3 pounds | 23.1 pounds |
| Model | AH-CQ18T | AH-ZED22FX |
| Color | not stated | Grey/Red |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Allen & Heath CQ-18T digital or analog?
The CQ-18T is a digital mixer. It features a 7-inch touchscreen for control and includes Bluetooth connectivity. This architecture allows for flexible routing and digital signal processing, making it suitable for users who prioritize modern interface and wireless management over traditional analog hardware.
Does the ZED-22FX have built-in effects?
Yes, the ZED-22FX includes built-in effects. It is an analog mixer designed for live sound setups that require dedicated analog processing. The unit provides physical controls for managing these effects, supporting complex live setups where hands-on adjustment and pre-fade sends are essential for your workflow.
Which mixer is lighter to transport?
The Allen & Heath CQ-18T is lighter. It weighs 10.3 pounds, making it easier to carry than the ZED-22FX. The ZED-22FX weighs 23.1 pounds. The CQ-18T also has a more compact footprint with dimensions of 12.2 by 16.9 inches, compared to the ZED-22FX.
Can I control the CQ-18T via Wi-Fi?
Yes, the CQ-18T supports wireless control. It features dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity alongside its touchscreen interface. This allows you to manage mixer settings remotely. The ZED-22FX does not list Wi-Fi capabilities, relying instead on its USB connection and physical controls for operation and monitoring.
What is the channel count difference?
The ZED-22FX offers more channels. It is a 22-channel analog mixer, designed for setups needing high channel counts. The CQ-18T is a digital mixer with fewer physical channels but offers digital flexibility. The ZED-22FX supports complex live setups with its robust analog pre-fade send architecture.
Does the ZED-22FX have USB connectivity?
Yes, the ZED-22FX includes USB connectivity. It connects to computers for audio interface functions. The CQ-18T also offers digital connectivity options. However, the ZED-22FX relies on this USB link and its analog signal path, whereas the CQ-18T emphasizes touchscreen control and wireless management for its users.
Which mixer is better for touchscreen users?
The CQ-18T is better for touchscreen users. It features a dedicated 7-inch touchscreen that simplifies navigation and control. The ZED-22FX is an analog mixer with physical knobs and faders. If you prioritize a digital interface and visual feedback, the CQ-18T provides the modern control scheme you need.