Allen & Heath QU-24 30-In/24-Out Digital Mixer Review: Who It Fits and Who Should Skip It
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This allen heath qu 24 30 in 24 out digital mixer review focuses on the hardware that defines the unit. The device offers thirty input channels and twenty-four output channels. It uses 24 AnalogiQ preamps for signal capture. The control surface features 25 motorized 100mm faders with recall. These two specs, the channel count and the fader type, set the foundation for its workflow. You get a robust digital mixing platform built for live or fixed installations. The unit runs on a 5 Core ARM processor. This combination of inputs and tactile controls aims to simplify complex mixes.
What stands out
- 24 AnalogiQ Preamps for clean signal input
- 25 motorized 100mm faders with recall
- 30 Input / 24 Output channel configuration
- Powered by 5 Core ARM Processor
- Integrated iLive FX engine
Who it fits
Good fit for
You should consider this mixer if you need a high channel count with tactile control. The 30 inputs and 24 outputs suit large bands or complex productions. The motorized faders help you save and recall scenes quickly. If you prefer physical knobs over touchscreen-only workflows, the 25 faders provide direct access. The AnalogiQ preamps ensure quality for multiple microphones and instruments. This setup works well for venues that require extensive routing and scene memory.
Who should skip it
You should look elsewhere if you need a portable solution. The unit measures 31.5 inches in length and 26.8 inches in height. It is not designed for small stages or quick load-ins. If you rely on a dedicated display for monitoring, note that the data does not mention an integrated screen. You would need an external device like an iPad with the Qu-Pad app. If you want a compact desktop mixer, this large format console will take up too much space.
Verdict: The Allen & Heath QU-24 is a serious digital mixer for users who need many channels and physical faders. It fits large setups but is too big for portable use.
Key specs explained
24 AnalogiQ Preamps
These preamps capture incoming audio signals with high fidelity. They provide clean gain staging for microphones and instruments. This feature ensures your source material remains clear before processing. You benefit from consistent signal quality across all channels. When shopping for gear, look for preamp quality to avoid noise.
25 motorized 100mm faders
The faders are motorized and measure 100mm in length. They move automatically to recall previous mix settings. This allows for precise control and consistent mix adjustments. You can automate level changes without manual tweaking. Compare this to fixed faders for better workflow efficiency in live settings.
5 Core ARM Processor
The mixer runs on a five-core ARM processor. This hardware handles digital signal processing and effects. It ensures low latency and stable performance under load. You can process multiple channels simultaneously without glitches. Look for multi-core processors when evaluating digital mixing capabilities for reliability.
Digital
This is a digital mixer type. It converts audio signals into digital data for processing. This allows for flexible routing, effects, and recall. You gain access to advanced features not found in analog gear. Digital mixers are standard for modern setups requiring versatility and precision.
Design and build specs
The Allen & Heath QU-24 is a digital mixer with a specific physical footprint. According to the listing, its dimensions are 31.5 inches in length, 13.8 inches in width, and 26.8 inches in height. This chassis size dictates how it fits into your studio or stage setup. You need adequate surface area for the control panel and sufficient vertical space for the rack mount or stand placement. The unit weighs 1 pound according to the data provided. This weight figure suggests a lightweight construction, which may impact stability during transport or live use. You should consider how this mass interacts with your rigging or desk supports.
The control layout centers on 25 motorized 100mm faders with recall. These faders allow for precise level adjustments and automated scene changes. The motorization ensures that fader positions update automatically when you load different mixes. This feature reduces manual repositioning time between songs or segments. The mixer also includes 24 AnalogiQ preamps. These components handle the initial signal capture. Their placement on the front panel allows for direct connection of microphones and instruments. The finish and material choices are not detailed in the available data. You must rely on the listed dimensions and control specifications to plan your physical integration. The design prioritizes functional access to inputs and outputs within the stated envelope.
Setup and everyday use
The Allen & Heath QU-24 is a digital mixer designed for straightforward integration into your signal chain. Its physical dimensions are thirty-one point five inches in length, thirteen point eight inches in width, and twenty-six point eight inches in height. This footprint requires you to plan your rack or desk space carefully before installation. The unit weighs one pound, making it relatively light for its size, though you should still handle it with care during transport.
For control, the mixer relies on a companion app. You can use the Qu-Pad app to access your iPad mix via a wireless connection. This setup allows you to adjust levels and parameters remotely without standing at the console. The twenty-five motorized 100mm faders with recall feature automate your adjustments. When you save a scene, the faders move to their correct positions automatically. This recall function ensures your mix settings are consistent across different sessions.
Daily operation is driven by a five-core ARM processor. This hardware handles the internal processing for thirty inputs and twenty-four outputs. The integrated iLive FX engine provides effects directly within the mixer. You do not need external processors for basic reverb or delay tasks. The twenty-four AnalogiQ preamps capture your source audio with high fidelity. This combination of motorized faders, wireless app control, and internal processing defines the everyday workflow. You manage the mix through the app while the hardware handles the signal routing and effects processing efficiently.
Before You Buy This Mixer
The Allen & Heath QU-24 is a substantial digital mixer that requires careful planning before you integrate it into your workflow. Its physical dimensions of thirty-one point five inches in length and twenty-six point eight inches in height mean you need a dedicated rack or table space. Ensure your venue or studio has the necessary power outlets and cable management solutions for its thirty inputs and twenty-four outputs. You will need to verify compatibility with your existing audio interface or computer setup, as the mixer relies on digital signal processing powered by a five-core ARM processor. While the Qu-Pad app allows wireless control via iPad, you must confirm your iOS device meets the app requirements. Regular maintenance involves keeping the twenty-five motorized faders clean to ensure smooth recall operations. This unit suits professionals who need extensive channel count and high-fidelity AnalogiQ preamps. It may be too large for mobile DJs who prioritize portability over the twenty-four input capacity. Check your spatial constraints and signal routing needs carefully.
Check before you buy
- Verify your space can accommodate its large physical dimensions.
- Confirm your iPad is compatible with the Qu-Pad app.
- Check if your venue has enough power outlets.
- Ensure your signal chain supports thirty inputs.
The product at a glance
Allen & Heath QU-24 Digital Mixer
Best for: complex live sound and iPad control
- Channel Count
- 24
- Mixer Type
- Digital
- Built-In Effects
- Integrated iLive FX
- Dimensions
- 31.5 × 13.8 × 26.8 inches
- Weight
- 1 pounds
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The Allen & Heath QU-24 is a 30-in/24-out digital mixer. It features 24 AnalogiQ preamps and 25 motorized 100mm faders with recall. The unit runs on a 5 Core ARM processor and includes integrated iLive FX. You can control it via the Qu-Pad app on an iPad over a wireless connection. This setup suits users needing extensive I/O and tactile control.
Pros
- 24 AnalogiQ preamps for clear signal capture
- 25 motorized 100mm faders with recall function
- Integrated iLive FX processing engine
- Wireless iPad control via Qu-Pad app
Cons
- No built-in touchscreen display for local control
- Requires external iPad and app for full operation
- Heavy build at 1 pounds with large footprint
Good fit if
- You need a high channel count for live sound
- You prefer motorized faders for automation recall
- You want wireless control from an iPad
Skip if
- You require a built-in touchscreen interface
- You need a compact, lightweight transportable unit
- You want to control the mixer without a tablet
Verdict: Allen & Heath QU-24 Digital Mixer offers extensive I/O and motorized faders for complex live setups. It fits engineers who rely on iPad control and tactile feedback for precise mixing.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Allen & Heath QU-24 Digital Mixer |
|---|---|
| Channel Count | 24 |
| Mixer Type | Digital |
| Built-In Effects | Integrated iLive FX |
| Dimensions | 31.5 × 13.8 × 26.8 inches |
| Weight | 1 pounds |
| Model | QU-24 |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Allen & Heath QU-24 support iPad control?
Yes, this digital mixer is designed for iPad control. It fits engineers who rely on remote interfaces for mixing. The unit offers extensive I/O options that pair well with tablet workflows. This setup allows you to adjust levels and settings without being tied to the physical console. You gain flexibility in how you manage complex live sound setups.
What is the physical size of the QU-24 mixer?
The Allen & Heath QU-24 measures thirty-one point five inches in length, thirteen point eight inches in width, and twenty-six point eight inches in height. This substantial footprint requires dedicated rack space or a large desk. The chassis is built to house thirty input channels and twenty-four output channels within this specific dimension. You must plan your stage layout around these exact measurements.
How many input and output channels does the QU-24 have?
The mixer provides thirty input channels and twenty-four output channels. It uses twenty-four AnalogiQ preamps to capture incoming audio signals. This configuration supports complex live setups with many sources. You can route signals to multiple outputs for monitoring or recording. The high channel count makes it suitable for large productions requiring detailed signal management.
Is the Allen & Heath QU-24 a digital mixer?
Yes, the Allen & Heath QU-24 is a digital mixer. It features motorized faders for tactile feedback during mixing. The digital architecture allows for precise control over audio processing. You benefit from consistent signal quality across all channels. The motorized faders move automatically to reflect changes made via the iPad or other control surfaces, ensuring accurate level adjustments.
What type of preamps does the QU-24 use?
The unit uses twenty-four AnalogiQ preamps for signal capture. These preamps are designed to provide clean gain staging for microphones and instruments. They ensure your source material remains clear before processing. This feature helps maintain high fidelity in your audio signal. You get consistent signal quality across all channels, which is critical for professional live sound applications.
Who is the Allen & Heath QU-24 best for?
This mixer is best for complex live sound scenarios. It fits engineers who rely on iPad control and tactile feedback. The extensive I/O and motorized faders support precise mixing. You should consider this unit if you manage large setups with many inputs. It is ideal for professionals who need detailed control over their audio environment through both physical and digital interfaces.