Allen & Heath CQ Digital Stage Box Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This allen heath cq 20b digital mixer wifi review focuses on a compact stage box designed for mobile setups. The unit combines a 24x24 USB interface with built-in 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi connectivity. It offers sixteen mic or line inputs, including eight combo jacks, plus two stereo line inputs. The device also features stereo Bluetooth input and 24x24 SD card record and playback capabilities. Weighing 9.7 pounds, it measures 17.7 inches in length. This configuration allows for direct digital recording without additional hardware.
What stands out
- Built-in dual-band Wi-Fi for wireless control and streaming
- 24x24 USB interface for direct computer connection
- 24x24 SD card record and playback functionality
- Stereo Bluetooth input for auxiliary audio sources
Who it fits
Good fit for
This mixer suits mobile DJs and small venue operators who need a self-contained digital solution. The stage box format and rack-mountable design make it easy to transport and install in tight spaces. Users who require high channel counts without external stage boxes will appreciate the sixteen inputs. The dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth options provide flexible connectivity for modern wireless setups and auxiliary playback.
Who should skip it
You should look at another option if you need a traditional analog mixing experience. This unit is strictly a digital mixer with no analog knobs for real-time gain or EQ adjustments. If you require a larger format with more physical controls, this compact stage box may feel limiting. Users who prefer tactile feedback over screen-based control might find the interface less intuitive than conventional analog consoles.
Verdict: The Allen & Heath CQ-20B is a capable digital stage box for users who prioritize connectivity and recording features. It fits well into mobile and small venue environments where space and flexibility are key.
Key specs explained
16 Mic or Line inputs
You get sixteen channels for microphones or line-level sources. Eight of these are combo jacks, accepting both XLR and TRS connections. This flexibility lets you plug in dynamic mics, condenser mics, or instruments without needing extra adapters. It simplifies your signal chain for live performances or recording sessions.
Built-in 2.4GHz/5GHz Wi-Fi
The mixer connects wirelessly to your devices using dual-band frequencies. You can control settings and stream audio without tangled cables. Dual-band support helps maintain a stable connection in crowded RF environments. This is essential for mobile DJs who need quick setup and reliable control from a distance.
24x24 USB interface
This specification indicates twenty-four input channels and twenty-four output channels via USB. You can record multi-track audio directly to a computer or send individual outputs to different destinations. It allows for complex routing and high-channel-count integration with your digital audio workstation for professional production.
Stereo Bluetooth input
You can stream audio wirelessly from smartphones or tablets directly into the mixer. This allows you to play backing tracks, podcasts, or client requests without physical cables. It adds convenience for live sets and events where quick source switching is necessary for engaging performances.
9.7 pounds weight
The unit weighs nine point seven pounds, making it portable for travel. It is light enough to carry in a standard gig bag but heavy enough to feel sturdy. This balance suits mobile DJs who transport gear frequently. It ensures durability without adding excessive burden to your load-out process.
Design and build overview
The listing describes this unit as a stage box format mixer. It is rack mountable, which suggests it is designed for permanent or semi-permanent installation in standard equipment racks. The dimensions are listed as 17.7 inches in length, 10.2 inches in width, and 9.8 inches in height. The weight is 9.7 pounds. These measurements indicate a compact footprint that fits well in tight spaces, such as the back of a van or a small studio corner. The color is specified as clear, which is an unusual finish for professional audio gear and may affect how it blends into a visual setup.
According to the listing, the physical build supports its role as a digital interface. The rack-mountable design means you likely need compatible rails or brackets for secure installation. The clear casing might show internal components or wiring more visibly than opaque black units, which could be a consideration for aesthetic preferences in public-facing events. The size allows it to sit on a shelf or be mounted, providing flexibility for mobile DJs who need to transport and set up gear quickly. The weight is moderate, making it manageable for one person to move, though the rack-mount feature implies it stays put once installed. This combination of size and mounting options targets users who prioritize space efficiency and organized cable management.
Setup and everyday use
Setting up this Allen & Heath CQ-20B involves connecting it to your audio network. The built-in 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi allows for wireless control. You can manage inputs and outputs remotely without running long control cables. The stereo Bluetooth input provides a simple way to stream music directly into the mixer. This is useful for background tracks or playback sources during events. The unit acts as a stage box, which means it sits near the sound source or stage area. It connects to your main system via the digital interface. The 24x24 USB interface enables recording and playback. You can record sessions directly to an SD card. This feature supports both recording and playback functions. The rack-mountable design simplifies installation in standard equipment racks. You do not need a separate stand for basic operation. The compact dimensions, measuring 17.7 inches in length, help save space. Weighing 9.7 pounds, it is portable enough for mobile DJs but sturdy for fixed installs. Daily use involves selecting from the sixteen mic or line inputs. Eight combo jacks handle dynamic mics, condensers, and instruments. Two stereo line inputs add flexibility for external sources. The digital nature of the mixer means you control levels and effects through software. This reduces the need for physical faders on the unit itself. The clear color finish is a cosmetic detail that does not affect performance. Overall, the setup is straightforward for users familiar with digital stage boxes. The connectivity options support both wireless and wired workflows.
Before You Buy This Mixer
Owning this stage box requires careful network planning. You need a stable Wi-Fi environment to utilize the dual-band connectivity effectively. Check your existing routers to ensure they support the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands without interference. Since it functions as a digital mixer, you must verify that your control devices are compatible with the Allen & Heath ecosystem. The rack-mountable design suggests a semi-permanent setup, so ensure your rack space accommodates its 17.7-inch length and 9.8-pound weight. Regularly update the firmware to maintain optimal performance with the 24x24 USB interface. This unit fits alongside other options by offering a compact, integrated solution for mobile DJs who prioritize wireless control and direct recording capabilities over traditional analog workflows.
Check before you buy
- Verify your Wi-Fi router supports dual-band connectivity for stable control.
- Check rack space dimensions against the 17.7-inch length and weight.
- Ensure your control devices are compatible with the Allen & Heath app.
- Confirm your USB interface supports 24x24 channels for recording needs.
The product at a glance
Allen & Heath CQ Digital Stage Box Mixer
Best for: Stage box installations with Wi-Fi needs
- Channels
- 16 Mic or Line inputs
- Audio Interface
- 24x24 USB interface
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth
- Mixer Type
- Digital
- Dimensions
- 17.7 × 10.2 × 9.8 inches
- Weight
- 9.7 pounds
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The Allen & Heath CQ-20B is a rack-mountable digital mixer designed for stage box applications. It features 16 mic or line inputs, including eight combo jacks, plus two stereo line inputs. Connectivity includes built-in dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. It also serves as a 24x24 USB interface and supports SD card recording. This unit weighs 9.7 pounds and measures 17.7 inches in length.
Pros
- 16 mic or line inputs with eight combo jacks
- Built-in 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi
- Stereo Bluetooth input
- 24x24 USB interface capability
- Rack mountable stage box format
Cons
- No mention of a dedicated display screen
- No mention of remote app control
- Heavier build at 9.7 pounds
Good fit if
- You need a stage box format mixer
- You require dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity
- You want rack-mountable installation
Skip if
- You prefer a lightweight portable unit
- You need a built-in display screen
- You require remote app control
Verdict: The Allen & Heath CQ-20B Digital Mixer fits users who need a robust, rack-mountable stage box with dual-band Wi-Fi and extensive I/O. It suits those who prioritize physical connectivity and SD recording over portable weight or app control.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Allen & Heath CQ Digital Stage Box Mixer |
|---|---|
| Channels | 16 Mic or Line inputs |
| Audio Interface | 24x24 USB interface |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth |
| Mixer Type | Digital |
| Dimensions | 17.7 × 10.2 × 9.8 inches |
| Weight | 9.7 pounds |
| Size | 9.75 |
| Color | Clear |
| Model | AH-CQ20B |
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum number of audio channels this stage box supports?
The Allen & Heath CQ-20B supports a 24x24 USB interface configuration. This means it can handle twenty-four inputs and twenty-four outputs simultaneously. You get sixteen dedicated mic or line inputs, with eight of those being combo jacks. This setup allows you to connect various microphones and instruments directly without additional adapters.
Does this mixer include wireless connectivity for remote control?
Yes, it features built-in dual-band Wi-Fi for wireless management. The unit supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands to ensure stable connections. You can control inputs and outputs remotely without running long control cables. This allows you to adjust levels and settings from a distance using a compatible device.
Can I connect Bluetooth audio sources to this mixer?
Yes, the device includes a stereo Bluetooth input. You can wirelessly stream music or other audio sources directly into the mixer. This feature allows you to play backing tracks or media without needing physical cables. It integrates seamlessly with the digital signal processing for immediate playback.
Is the Allen & Heath CQ-20B suitable for rack mounting?
Yes, it is designed as a rack-mountable stage box. The dimensions are 17.7 inches in length, 10.2 inches in width, and 9.8 inches in height. This form factor allows it to fit into standard equipment racks for semi-permanent or permanent installations. It provides a secure and organized setup for your audio gear.
What is the weight of this digital mixer stage box?
The unit weighs 9.7 pounds. This weight reflects its robust build quality and internal components. It is heavier than portable mixers due to its fixed stage box design. The solid construction helps minimize vibration and ensures stability during live performances or fixed installations.
What types of input connectors are available on the front panel?
You get sixteen mic or line inputs in total. Eight of these are combo jacks that accept both XLR and TRS connections. This flexibility allows you to plug in dynamic mics, condenser mics, or line-level instruments directly. You do not need extra adapters to switch between different source types.
Does this model support SD card recording?
The product data does not explicitly list SD card recording capabilities. However, it is described as a digital mixer with extensive I/O. You should verify specific recording features in the full manual. The primary focus is on its role as a stage box with robust connectivity options.