Looking Beyond the Allen & Heath Qu-6 38-Input Digital Mixer? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The Allen & Heath Qu-6 delivers 38 inputs and 24 outputs with 96kHz processing for professional audio. If you are searching for allen heath qu 6 38 in 24 out 96khz digital alternatives, you may need a different form factor or channel count. This mixer offers extensive routing and tactile control in a large chassis. Its size and complexity suit large venues but may overwhelm smaller setups.
You might prefer a smaller footprint or fewer inputs for mobile DJ gigs. Some users need wireless stage box flexibility or integrated Bluetooth streaming. The alternatives listed here share core digital mixing capabilities with the Qu-6. They overlap in features like DSP effects, USB connectivity, and multi-channel processing. This guide compares these options based on their published specifications. You will see how each model handles channel density, connectivity, and physical dimensions. The goal is to help you find a controller that matches your specific technical requirements.
Our top pick: Allen & Heath Qu-6 38-Input Digital Mixer.
Comparing Qu-6 Alternatives by Specs
Pyle 10-Channel Bluetooth Audio Mixer
The Pyle PMX510 offers a significantly smaller footprint at 16.5 inches long, compared to the Qu-6’s 28.6 inches. It provides six XLR inputs and Bluetooth connectivity, making it suitable for DJs needing portable mixing. However, it lacks the Qu-6’s extensive 38-input capacity and motorized faders. You trade professional routing options for a compact unit with integrated MP3 playback. This mixer is best for performers who prioritize wireless streaming and basic DSP effects over high-channel counts. It fits smaller setups where space is limited, but it does not support the complex I/O expansion or multi-format recording features found in the Allen & Heath model.
Allen & Heath CQ Digital Stage Box Mixer
The Allen & Heath CQ-20B is a wireless-focused digital mixer designed for smaller stages. It weighs 9.7 pounds and measures 17.7 inches in length, offering greater portability than the heavy Qu-6. This unit relies on Bluetooth for control and SD card recording, eliminating the need for a large touchscreen interface. You gain flexibility in stage box setups but lose the tactile control of 25 motorized faders. The CQ-20B is ideal for users who prioritize wireless operation and compact design. It is not suitable for large-scale productions requiring the Qu-6’s 38 inputs and 24 outputs. Choose this if you need a lightweight solution for intimate venues or mobile performances.
MIZISNR 8-Channel Digital Audio Mixer
The MIZISNR PW-808 is an 8-channel digital mixer designed for portability, measuring just 14.6 inches long. It includes Bluetooth and USB connectivity, along with integrated DSP effects and MP3 playback. This unit is much lighter at 7.7 pounds than the Qu-6, making it easy to transport. You sacrifice channel count and professional routing capabilities for a budget-friendly option. It is best for mobile DJs and small venue operators who need straightforward analog control with digital features. The MIZISNR does not offer the high-fidelity processing or extensive I/O of the Qu-6. Select this mixer if you prioritize compact size and basic effects over professional-grade multi-channel mixing.
Boeska M8 8-Channel Digital Audio Mixer
The Boeska M8 is an 8-channel digital mixer that includes 48V phantom power, a feature not explicitly listed for the Qu-6’s standard inputs in this context. It measures only 1.69 inches in height and width, making it extremely compact. Bluetooth and USB connectivity are included for streaming and recording. This unit is suitable for small live setups or recording sessions with condenser microphones. You give up the Qu-6’s large touchscreen and extensive fader count for a minimal footprint. The Boeska fits users who need phantom power and wireless features in a tiny package. It is not designed for complex productions. Choose this if your workflow requires limited channels and high portability.
FULODE 12-Channel Bluetooth Audio Mixer
The FULODE MIX-12 offers 12 channels, which is fewer than the Qu-6’s 38 inputs but more than many compact alternatives. It measures 18.9 inches long and weighs 14.3 pounds, providing a middle ground in size. Bluetooth and USB connectivity are standard, along with DSP effects and MP3 playback. This mixer is designed for users needing higher channel counts without the full scale of a professional console. You trade the Qu-6’s motorized faders and advanced routing for a simpler interface. It is best for live performances requiring moderate channel counts. The FULODE unit is suitable for beginners or professionals needing basic digital mixing. It does not match the Qu-6’s processing power or I/O expansion options.
SHEHDS DMX384 Digital Stage Light Controller
The SHEHDS DMX384 is a digital stage light controller, not an audio mixer. It provides 384 DMX channels for managing complex lighting setups. This unit is designed for DJs who need dedicated lighting control without external software. It measures 24.4 inches long and 5.7 inches high. You cannot use this device for audio mixing. It serves a completely different function than the Allen & Heath Qu-6. If you need to control stage lights, this controller offers extensive channel management. It is not an alternative for audio mixing tasks. Choose this only if your primary requirement is lighting control. It does not handle audio inputs, outputs, or mixing functions.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Allen & Heath Qu-6 38-Input Digital Mixer
Best for: professional live sound and recording workflows
- Mixer Type
- Digital
- Dimensions
- 28.6 × 26.2 × 12.5 inches
- Weight
- 37.6 pounds
View on Amazon: Allen & Heath Qu-6 38-Input Digital Mixer Affiliate link
The Allen & Heath Qu-6 is a 38-input digital mixer with 96kHz processing. It offers 24 mic-line inputs, 12 mixes, and 4 matrix outputs. The unit includes a 7-inch touchscreen and 25 motorized faders. You get 6 multi-FX engines and USB-C connectivity. It suits live sound, recording, and AV applications needing flexible routing.
Pros
- 38-input platform with 24 XLR/TRS combi inputs
- 96kHz XCVI FPGA processing for ultra-low latency
- 7-inch capacitive touchscreen with 25 motorized faders
- 6 multi-FX engines with dedicated returns
- USB-C 32x32 audio interface and SD card recording
Cons
- Large footprint at 28.6 inches in length
- No Bluetooth connectivity listed in specifications
- Dante networking requires the Qu-6D model variant
Good fit if
- You need a high-channel-count digital mixer for complex routing
- You require motorized faders and tactile control for live sound
- You want integrated multitrack recording via USB or SD card
Skip if
- You require Dante networking on this specific Qu-6 model
- You need a compact rackmount solution for tight spaces
- You prefer a standalone DJ controller with onboard stems
Verdict: The Allen & Heath Qu-6 38-Input Digital Mixer provides robust channel count and tactile control for professional live sound and recording. It fits engineers who need extensive routing and high-fidelity processing in a single unit.
Pyle 10-Channel Bluetooth Audio Mixer
Best for: Live sound and DJ setups needing six XLR inputs
- Channels
- 10-channel
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth, USB, XLR
- Features
- Effects, MP3 Player
- Intended Use
- Recording
- Mixer Type
- Digital
- Included Accessories
- Microphone
View on Amazon: Pyle 10-Channel Bluetooth Audio Mixer Affiliate link
The Pyle PMX510 is a 10-channel digital mixer with six XLR combo inputs. It includes Bluetooth 5.0 streaming, USB MP3 playback, and a built-in microphone. DSP effects like echo and reverb are available via the LED display. Phantom power and low-cut switches support professional studio or stage use. This compact unit suits DJs and live performers needing wireless connectivity and direct PC recording.
Pros
- 10 channels with six XLR combo inputs
- Bluetooth 5.0 and USB MP3 playback
- DSP effects including echo and reverb
- +48V phantom power and low-cut switches
Cons
- No dedicated remote control included
- Includes only one microphone
- Bluetooth version limited to 5.0
Good fit if
- You need six XLR inputs for microphones
- You want wireless Bluetooth audio streaming
- You require DSP effects for live sound
Skip if
- You need more than ten channels
- You require analog-only signal paths
- You need a dedicated remote control
Verdict: Pyle 10-Channel Digital Audio Mixer fits performers who need six XLR inputs and Bluetooth streaming. It suits DJs requiring DSP effects and USB recording.
Allen & Heath CQ Digital Stage Box Mixer
Best for: Wireless stage box setups with SD recording
- 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
View on Amazon: Allen & Heath CQ Digital Stage Box Mixer Affiliate link
The Allen & Heath CQ-20B is a 20-channel digital mixer designed for flexible stage setups. It features 16 mic or line inputs and two stereo line inputs. You get built-in 2.4GHz/5GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for wireless control. The unit includes a 24x24 USB interface and SD card recording. It is rack-mountable and weighs 9.7 pounds.
Pros
- 16 mic/line inputs plus two stereo line inputs
- Built-in dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
- 24x24 USB audio interface capability
- SD card record and playback support
- Rack-mountable stage box format
Cons
- No physical display screen for local monitoring
- Limited to 20 channels, fewer than the Qu-6
- Heavier at 9.7 pounds than some compact rivals
Good fit if
- You need wireless control via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
- You want a rack-mountable stage box format
- You require SD card recording without extra gear
Skip if
- You need more than 20 input channels
- You prefer a mixer with a built-in display
- You want a lighter unit under 9 pounds
Verdict: Allen & Heath CQ-20B Digital Mixer offers solid wireless control and recording for smaller stages. It suits users who prioritize flexibility over high channel counts. It is not ideal for large-scale productions needing more inputs.
MIZISNR 8-Channel Digital Audio Mixer
Best for: Small venue DJs needing portable mixing
- Channels
- 8 Channel
- Audio Interface
- USB Audio Interface
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth, USB
- Features
- Effects, MP3 Player
- Intended Use
- Professionals, Recording
- Woofer Size
- 8-Inch
View on Amazon: MIZISNR 8-Channel Digital Audio Mixer Affiliate link
The MIZISNR PW-808 is an 8-channel digital mixer designed for DJ sets and live audio. It features 99 built-in DSP effects, a 7-band main EQ, and Bluetooth connectivity for wireless music streaming. You get USB playback for MP3 files and phantom power for condenser mics. This unit suits small venues or mobile DJs who need portable, versatile mixing with integrated effects and straightforward analog controls.
Pros
- 8 channels with independent gain, EQ, and pan controls
- 99 built-in DSP effects for sound shaping
- 7-band main output EQ adjustment
- Bluetooth streaming up to 33 feet
- USB playback for MP3, WAV, and WMA files
Cons
- Limited to 8 channels compared to larger professional racks
- No Dante or network audio connectivity
- No dedicated display screen for parameter monitoring
Good fit if
- You need a compact mixer for small gigs
- You want built-in effects without external gear
- You prefer Bluetooth streaming for background music
Skip if
- You require more than 8 input channels
- You need Dante networked audio integration
- You rely on a dedicated LCD display
Verdict: MIZISNR 8-Channel Digital DJ Mixer fits mobile DJs and small venue operators who prioritize portability and integrated DSP effects over extensive channel count or network connectivity. It offers a practical balance of analog control and digital features for straightforward setups.
Boeska M8 8-Channel Digital Audio Mixer
Best for: Small live setups with condenser mics
- Channels
- 8 Channel
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth, USB
- Features
- 48V Phantom Power
- Intended Use
- Karaoke, Professionals, Recording
- Mixer Type
- Digital
- Dimensions
- 1.69 × 6.18 × 1.69 inches
View on Amazon: Boeska M8 8-Channel Digital Audio Mixer Affiliate link
The Boeska M8 is an 8-channel digital mixer designed for studio and live use. It features six XLR mic inputs with 48V phantom power, supporting condenser microphones. You get Bluetooth and USB connectivity for MP3 playback and wireless streaming. The unit includes a 16-preset DSP effects engine and a 5-band master EQ. Its compact dimensions make it suitable for portable setups or small stage environments.
Pros
- 6 XLR inputs with 48V phantom power
- Bluetooth and USB connectivity
- 16-preset DSP effects engine
- 5-band master EQ
Cons
- Only 8 channels total
- No mention of WiFi connectivity
- Physical dimensions are small
Good fit if
- You need phantom power for condenser mics
- You want Bluetooth streaming capability
- You require basic DSP effects
Skip if
- You need more than 8 channels
- You require WiFi connectivity
- You need a large format mixer
Verdict: The Boeska 8-Channel Digital Audio Mixer suits users who need phantom power and wireless streaming in a compact unit. It fits small live setups or recording sessions where channel count is limited.
FULODE 12-Channel Bluetooth Audio Mixer
Best for: Users needing 12 channels and Bluetooth
- Channels
- 12-Channel
- Audio Interface
- USB MP3 for PC Recording Input
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth, USB, XLR
- Features
- Effects, MP3 Player
- Intended Use
- Professionals, Beginners, Recording
- Mixer Type
- Digital
View on Amazon: FULODE 12-Channel Bluetooth Audio Mixer Affiliate link
The FULODE 12-Channel mixer offers 12 input channels with XLR and Bluetooth connectivity. It includes a built-in 99 DSP processor for effects and 48V phantom power for condenser microphones. The unit features a digital display and USB MP3 playback. It suits beginners and professionals needing versatile input options for live gigs or recording sessions.
Pros
- 12-channel input capacity with XLR and line inputs
- Built-in 99 DSP effects including reverb and delay
- 48V phantom power for condenser microphones
- Bluetooth wireless connection for mobile devices
- USB MP3 playback and recording input
Cons
- Heavier build at 14.3 pounds
- Larger footprint at 18.9 inches wide
- No mention of a dedicated mobile app for control
Good fit if
- You need 12 input channels for larger setups
- You require Bluetooth connectivity for wireless audio
- You want built-in DSP effects for live performance
Skip if
- You need a compact mixer under 12 channels
- You require a lightweight unit under 10 pounds
- You need a mixer with no Bluetooth capability
Verdict: FULODE 12-Channel Bluetooth Audio Mixer fits users who need a high-channel-count mixer with wireless connectivity and DSP effects for live performances.
SHEHDS DMX384 Digital Stage Light Controller
Best for: DJs managing complex stage lighting
- Features
- DMX Control
- Mixer Type
- Digital
- Dimensions
- 24.4 × 8.8 × 5.7 inches
View on Amazon: SHEHDS DMX384 Digital Stage Light Controller Affiliate link
This SHEHDS DMX384 is a digital lighting controller with 384 channels. It features 16 sliders for direct channel control and an LED display for setup monitoring. The black aluminum alloy shell includes a three-pin cable for connecting stage lights. It supports 30 bar stacks and 6 slots for scene recording. This unit suits DJs needing precise stage lighting management alongside audio duties.
Pros
- 384 DMX channels for extensive control
- 16 sliders for direct channel adjustment
- Bright LED display for clear monitoring
- Black aluminum alloy shell for durability
Cons
- Limited to DMX lighting control only
- No audio mixing inputs included
- Bulky dimensions for small setups
Good fit if
- You need dedicated stage lighting control
- You want direct slider access to channels
- You require a durable metal build
Skip if
- You need an all-in-one audio mixer
- You prefer a compact desktop size
- You require built-in audio processing
Verdict: SHEHDS DMX384 384-Channel Controller provides dedicated lighting management for DJs who need to control complex stage setups without relying on external software.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Allen & Heath Qu-6 38-Input Digital Mixer | Pyle 10-Channel Bluetooth Audio Mixer | Allen & Heath CQ Digital Stage Box Mixer | MIZISNR 8-Channel Digital Audio Mixer | Boeska M8 8-Channel Digital Audio Mixer | FULODE 12-Channel Bluetooth Audio Mixer | SHEHDS DMX384 Digital Stage Light Controller |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Channels | not stated | 10-channel | 16 Mic or Line inputs | 8 Channel | 8 Channel | 12-Channel | not stated |
| Audio Interface | not stated | not stated | 24x24 USB interface | USB Audio Interface | not stated | USB MP3 for PC Recording Input | not stated |
| Connectivity | not stated | Bluetooth, USB, XLR | Bluetooth | Bluetooth, USB | Bluetooth, USB | Bluetooth, USB, XLR | not stated |
| Features | not stated | Effects, MP3 Player | not stated | Effects, MP3 Player | 48V Phantom Power | Effects, MP3 Player | DMX Control |
| Intended Use | not stated | Recording | not stated | Professionals, Recording | Karaoke, Professionals, Recording | Professionals, Beginners, Recording | not stated |
| Woofer Size | not stated | not stated | not stated | 8-Inch | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Mixer Type | Digital | Digital | Digital | Digital | Digital | Digital | Digital |
| Included Accessories | not stated | Microphone | not stated | not stated | not stated | Microphone | not stated |
| Dimensions | 28.6 × 26.2 × 12.5 inches | 16.5 × 2.9 × 11 inches | 17.7 × 10.2 × 9.8 inches | 14.6 × 13.8 × 3.93 inches | 1.69 × 6.18 × 1.69 inches | 18.9 × 15.4 × 4.13 inches | 24.4 × 8.8 × 5.7 inches |
| Weight | 37.6 pounds | not stated | 9.7 pounds | 7.7 pounds | not stated | 14.3 pounds | not stated |
| Model | AH-QU-6 | PMX510 | AH-CQ20B | PW-808 | M8 | MIX-12 12channel | DMX Controller |
| Size | not stated | 10 Channel | 9.75 | 8 Channel - 13.8inch | not stated | 12-Channel | 384 DMX |
| Color | not stated | Black | Clear | not stated | not stated | not stated | Black |
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Frequently asked questions
Which mixer is best for professional live sound workflows?
The Allen & Heath Qu-6 is the top pick for professional live sound and recording. It provides 38 inputs and 24 outputs with 96kHz processing. This unit suits engineers who need extensive routing and high-fidelity processing in a single, robust chassis.
What is the best option for DJs needing six XLR inputs?
The Pyle PMX510 is the best 10-channel choice for DJs needing six XLR inputs. It includes Bluetooth streaming and DSP effects. Its compact size makes it ideal for performers who require portable mixing solutions with USB recording capabilities.
Which mixer supports wireless stage box setups with SD recording?
The Allen & Heath CQ-20B is the best premium option for wireless stage box setups. It offers solid wireless control and SD recording. This mixer suits users who prioritize flexibility and compact design over high channel counts for smaller stages.
What is the best budget mixer for small venue DJs?
The MIZISNR PW-808 is the best budget option for small venue DJs. It features eight channels and integrated DSP effects. This unit prioritizes portability and analog control, offering a practical balance for straightforward setups without requiring network connectivity.
Which mixer provides 48V phantom power for condenser microphones?
The Boeska M8 is the best choice for small live setups with condenser mics. It provides 48V phantom power and wireless streaming. This compact unit fits recording sessions or live performances where channel count is limited but essential features are needed.
What is the best mixer for users needing 12 channels and Bluetooth?
The FULODE MIX-12 is the best 12-channel option for users needing high channel counts. It includes Bluetooth connectivity and DSP effects. This digital mixer is suitable for live performances where you need multiple inputs and wireless streaming capabilities.
Which device helps DJs manage complex stage lighting?
The SHEHDS DMX384 is the best DMX control device for DJs managing complex stage lighting. It provides 384 channels of dedicated lighting management. This controller allows you to handle intricate stage setups without relying on external software or computers.