Allen & Heath QU-SB Portable 18-In/14-Out Digital Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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The Allen & Heath QU-SB Portable 18-In/14-Out Digital Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared list helps you find the right mixer. You might look for allen heath qu sb portable 18 in 14 out digital alternatives if you need a different form factor or channel count. The QU-SB offers a compact 21.7-inch width and 12-pound weight, making it highly portable for touring musicians. Its 32x32 USB audio interface and wireless iPad control allow for direct multitrack recording and remote mixing. These specs make it a strong choice for live sound engineers who need professional digital processing in a small package.
However, you may prefer a different size, connectivity option, or control interface. Some users need rack-mountable designs, while others prioritize tactile analog knobs over digital screens. The alternatives on this list were chosen because their specifications overlap with the QU-SB’s core capabilities. Each pick shares key attributes such as digital mixing, USB interfacing, or specific channel counts. This guide compares 6 options based strictly on their published technical data. You can evaluate each model’s dimensions, input/output configuration, and built-in effects to determine which best fits your specific setup requirements.
Our top pick: Allen & Heath Qu-SB Portable Digital Mixer.
How Each Alternative Compares
Soundcraft Ui24R 24-Channel Digital Mixer
The Soundcraft Ui24R offers 24 channels, which is more than the QU-SB’s 18 inputs. It uses a rack-mountable form factor, making it suitable for fixed installations rather than portable gigs. While the QU-SB includes a 32x32 USB interface for multitrack recording, the Ui24R focuses on high channel density in a smaller footprint. You should choose this if you need more inputs and do not require the QU-SB’s specific iPad-centric workflow or its internal effects engines. It sacrifices the QU-SB’s tactile control surface for a purely digital, tablet-controlled experience.
Yamaha 20-Channel USB Mixer with Effects
The Yamaha MG20XU is an analog mixer, unlike the digital QU-SB. It provides 20 inputs, offering slightly more connectivity than the QU-SB’s 18. It lacks digital effects engines and remote control capabilities, relying instead on physical knobs for operation. This model is ideal if you prefer tactile control and analog reliability over digital features. It includes USB recording but does not support the QU-SB’s multitrack USB interface or wireless iPad control. Choose this if you want a straightforward, non-digital mixing experience with basic effects and USB connectivity.
Mackie ProFX 30-Channel Analog Mixer
The Mackie ProFX30v3 is a 30-channel analog mixer, significantly higher than the QU-SB’s 18 inputs. It is designed for live bands needing extensive channel counts and tactile analog control. Unlike the QU-SB, it does not offer digital effects engines or remote iPad control. It includes Bluetooth and USB connectivity for streaming and recording. This model is best for users prioritizing physical knobs and high channel density over digital flexibility. It sacrifices the QU-SB’s portability and digital features for a larger, more robust analog mixing solution suitable for larger live performances.
Pyle PMX508 8-Channel Bluetooth Mixer
The Pyle PMX508 is an 8-channel mixer, much smaller than the QU-SB’s 18 inputs. It is designed for small setups, offering Bluetooth streaming and USB recording. Unlike the QU-SB, it lacks a 32x32 USB interface and remote control capabilities. It includes built-in effects and an MP3 player, making it suitable for basic live events or studio sessions. This model is ideal if you need portability and simplicity over extensive channel count and digital features. It sacrifices the QU-SB’s professional mixing capabilities for a compact, user-friendly device with wireless connectivity.
Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer
The Allen & Heath CQ-18T is a digital mixer with 18 inputs, matching the QU-SB’s channel count. It features a touchscreen and Wi-Fi connectivity, differing from the QU-SB’s iPad-centric control. It lacks the QU-SB’s 32x32 USB interface for multitrack recording. This model is best for users who prefer a touchscreen interface and robust digital connectivity. It sacrifices the QU-SB’s specific remote control workflow for a more integrated touchscreen experience. Choose this if you value tactile touchscreen control and Wi-Fi connectivity over the QU-SB’s iPad app integration.
Hercules T7 Motorized DJ Controller
The Hercules T7 is a DJ controller, fundamentally different from the QU-SB mixer. It features motorized 7-inch platters for tactile vinyl-style scratching, unlike the QU-SB’s mixing controls. It is designed for two-deck DJ performance, not multi-channel audio mixing. It lacks the QU-SB’s inputs, outputs, and digital effects engines. This model is ideal for performance DJs seeking tactile control and portability. It sacrifices all mixing capabilities for specialized DJ performance features. Choose this if you need a dedicated DJ controller rather than a multi-channel audio mixer for live sound or recording.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Allen & Heath Qu-SB Portable Digital Mixer
Best for: compact digital mixing with iPad control
- 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 portable digital mixer featuring 18 inputs and 14 outputs. It uses a Qu-32 core with 32 x 32 USB audio interface capabilities. You get four FX engines and support for up to 11 monitor mixes. The unit weighs 12 pounds and measures 21.7 inches wide. It suits users needing compact professional control with wireless iPad management.
Pros
- 18 inputs including 16 mono and 1 stereo
- 14 outputs with 12 on-board mix and 1 stereo Matrix
- 32 x 32 USB audio interface for multitrack recording
- 4 FX engines with ilive FX library
- Supports up to 11 monitor mixes
Cons
- Requires an iPad for primary control interface
- Limited to 4 FX engines compared to larger mixers
- No built-in touchscreen display
Good fit if
- You need a compact digital mixer with extensive I/O
- You prefer wireless control via iPad
- You require multitrack recording capabilities
Skip if
- You need a built-in touchscreen for operation
- You prefer analog mixing over digital
- You require more than 18 input channels
Verdict: The Allen & Heath QU-SB Portable Digital Mixer delivers professional 18-input digital mixing with wireless iPad control. It fits musicians and engineers who prioritize portability and multitrack recording in a compact form factor.
Soundcraft Ui24R 24-Channel Digital Mixer
Best for: Rack-mounted high-channel digital mixing
- Channel Count
- 24 Input
- Mixer Type
- Digital Audio Mixer
- Dimensions
- 24 × 22 × 10 inches
- Weight
- 4.63 pounds
View on Amazon: Soundcraft Ui24R 24-Channel Digital Mixer Affiliate link
The Soundcraft Ui24R is a 24-channel digital audio mixer designed for rack mounting. It measures 22 inches wide, 10 inches high, and 24 inches long, weighing 4.63 pounds. You get laptop or tablet control for signal processing. The blue and silver unit offers extensive input capacity. It suits users needing a high-channel count mixer that integrates into a rack setup.
Pros
- 24-channel input capacity
- Rack-mountable form factor
- Laptop or tablet control
- Onboard signal processing
Cons
- Large physical footprint at 24 inches long
- Requires external device for control
- No built-in touchscreen display
Good fit if
- You need 24 channels of input
- You are building a rack system
- You prefer remote control via tablet
Skip if
- You require a portable desktop mixer
- You want a built-in display
- You need a compact footprint
Verdict: Soundcraft Ui24R 24-Channel Digital Mixer fits users who need high channel counts in a rack-mountable format. It is ideal for installations where remote control via a tablet is acceptable.
Yamaha 20-Channel USB Mixer with Effects
Best for: High-channel analog mixing with USB recording
- Channel Count
- 20
- USB Audio Interface
- USB
- Built-In Effects
- SPX digital effects
- Channel Equalizer
- 3-band
- Connectivity
- USB Audio Interface, USB
- Dimensions
- 20.6 × 8.39 × 8.39 inches
View on Amazon: Yamaha 20-Channel USB Mixer with Effects Affiliate link
The Yamaha MG20XU is a 20-input analog mixer with a USB audio interface and built-in SPX digital effects. It features studio-grade D-PRE preamps, 3-band EQ with high-pass filters, and 1-knob compressors. This rugged, metal-chassis unit weighs 16.7 pounds. It suits users needing multiple inputs and basic digital processing without complex digital routing.
Pros
- 20 input channels for extensive connectivity
- Built-in SPX digital effects processor
- USB audio interface for recording
- Studio-grade D-PRE preamps for clear sound
- Rugged powder-coated metal chassis
Cons
- Analog signal path lacks digital networking
- No touchscreen or LCD display
- Heavier build at 16.7 pounds
Good fit if
- You need a high channel count for live sound
- You prefer analog controls over digital menus
- You require USB recording capabilities
Skip if
- You require digital mixing and networking
- You need a lightweight, portable unit
- You want touchscreen interface control
Verdict: The Yamaha MG20XU 20-Input Analog Mixer fits users who prioritize channel count and analog reliability over digital features. It is a solid choice for live setups requiring USB recording and basic effects.
Mackie ProFX 30-Channel Analog Mixer
Best for: Live bands needing analog control
- Channel Count
- 30
- Mixer Type
- Analog
- USB Audio Interface
- 4x4 USB interface
- Built-In Effects
- 24 onboard effects
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth, USB Audio Interface, USB
- Intended Use
- Recording
View on Amazon: Mackie ProFX 30-Channel Analog Mixer Affiliate link
The Mackie ProFX30v3 is a 30-channel analog mixer designed for full bands and small venues. It features Onyx preamps for clean gain and 24 onboard effects with tap tempo control. The 4x4 USB I/O allows you to record four tracks simultaneously. This unit offers big-desk control without a digital menu. It suits users who need extensive analog routing and straightforward operation for live or recording settings.
Pros
- 30 channels of analog control
- 24 onboard effects with tap tempo
- 4x4 USB I/O for four-track recording
- Onyx preamps for clean gain
Cons
- Analog-only design lacks digital flexibility
- No built-in touchscreen interface
- Bluetooth connectivity limited to FX+ model
Good fit if
- You need extensive analog channel count
- You prefer tactile control over menus
- You require multi-track USB recording
Skip if
- You need digital signal processing
- You require a touchscreen interface
- You want a compact portable unit
Verdict: Mackie ProFX30v3 30-Channel Analog Mixer fits bands needing high channel counts and straightforward analog control. It suits users prioritizing tactile operation and multi-track recording over digital features.
Pyle PMX508 8-Channel Bluetooth Mixer
Best for: small live events and studio sessions
- Channels
- 8-Channel
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth, USB, XLR
- Features
- Effects, MP3 Player
- Intended Use
- Recording
- Mixer Type
- Digital
- Included Accessories
- Microphone
View on Amazon: Pyle PMX508 8-Channel Bluetooth Mixer Affiliate link
The Pyle PMX508 is an 8-channel digital mixer with XLR, 1/4", and RCA inputs. It features Bluetooth 5.0 streaming, USB recording, and DSP effects. The unit includes phantom power and an LED display. It suits small live events or studio sessions where wireless connectivity and compact size matter.
Pros
- 8-channel configuration with XLR and RCA inputs
- Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless audio streaming
- USB port for MP3/WAV playback and recording
- Built-in DSP effects including echo and reverb
- +48V phantom power for condenser microphones
Cons
- Only 8 input channels limit scalability
- No mention of dedicated app control for mixing
- Basic LED display lacks detailed channel feedback
Good fit if
- You need a compact mixer for small venues
- You require Bluetooth streaming for background music
- You want USB recording capabilities for sessions
Skip if
- You need more than 8 input channels
- You require advanced digital mixing software control
- You need a rack-mountable form factor
Verdict: The Pyle 8-Channel Bluetooth Digital Mixer fits small setups needing wireless streaming and USB recording. It suits users prioritizing portability over extensive channel count.
Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer
Best for: Users needing touchscreen and Wi-Fi
- 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 with a 7-inch touchscreen and dual-band Wi-Fi. It offers a 24x22 USB audio interface and four FX engines. You get Bluetooth input and SD recording capabilities. This unit suits users needing a compact, feature-rich mixer with modern connectivity options for live sound or studio work.
Pros
- 7-inch capacitive touchscreen with rotary controls
- 24x22 USB audio interface
- Built-in 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi
- 4 FX engines for processing
Cons
- Heavier build at 10.3 pounds
- Larger footprint than compact alternatives
- No dedicated remote control included
Good fit if
- You need a touchscreen interface for quick adjustments
- You require dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity
- You want a digital mixer with USB recording
Skip if
- You prefer a purely analog signal path
- You need a lightweight, portable unit under 5 pounds
- You do not want to use a touchscreen
Verdict: The Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer fits users who value a large touchscreen and robust digital connectivity. It is ideal for setups where Wi-Fi and USB interfacing are priorities.
Hercules T7 Motorized DJ Controller
Best for: Tactile vinyl-style scratching and two-deck DJ performance
- Dimensions
- 13.8 × 25.7 × 3.5 inches
- Weight
- 11.2 pounds
View on Amazon: Hercules T7 Motorized DJ Controller Affiliate link
The Hercules DJ T7 Motorized Controller is a dual-deck DJ performance unit equipped with two motorized platters and removable 7-inch vinyl records. It features a central mixer layout, measures 25.7 by 13.8 by 3.5 inches, and weighs 11.2 pounds. If you need physical vinyl-style tactile control and dedicated scratching slipmats in a portable setup, this unit fits your workflow.
Pros
- Two motorized platters with separate 7-inch vinyl records and slipmats
- Central mixer layout with built-in fader module
- Includes a carry bag and two extra scratching slipmats
- Weighs 11.2 pounds for portable transport
Cons
- Two-deck DJ format lacks multi-channel live sound audio inputs
- No integrated touchscreen display or wireless app control listed
Good fit if
- You want motorized platters with 7-inch vinyl discs for tactile scratching.
- You need an all-in-one DJ setup complete with an included carry bag.
- You prefer a central DJ mixer layout with physical faders.
Skip if
- You need a multi-channel live sound mixer with numerous microphone inputs.
- You require wireless mixing control or built-in touchscreen operation.
Verdict: Hercules DJ T7 Motorized Controller gives tactile vinyl turntable control to performance DJs seeking motorized 7-inch platters and an included transport bag.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Allen & Heath Qu-SB Portable Digital Mixer | Soundcraft Ui24R 24-Channel Digital Mixer | Yamaha 20-Channel USB Mixer with Effects | Mackie ProFX 30-Channel Analog Mixer | Pyle PMX508 8-Channel Bluetooth Mixer | Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer | Hercules T7 Motorized DJ Controller |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Channel Count | not specified | 24 Input | 20 | 30 | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Mixer Type | Digital | Digital Audio Mixer | not specified | Analog | not specified | Digital | not specified |
| USB Audio Interface | 32 x 32 USB Audio Interface | not specified | USB | 4x4 USB interface | not specified | 24x22 USB interface | not specified |
| Built-In Effects | 4 FX engines, ilive FX library | not specified | SPX digital effects | 24 onboard effects | not specified | 4x FX engines | not specified |
| Channel Equalizer | not specified | not specified | 3-band | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Channels | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 8-Channel | not specified | not specified |
| Connectivity | not specified | not specified | USB Audio Interface, USB | Bluetooth, USB Audio Interface, USB | Bluetooth, USB, XLR | Bluetooth | not specified |
| Form Factor | Portable | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Features | not specified | not specified | Effects | Effects | Effects, MP3 Player | Touchscreen | not specified |
| Intended Use | not specified | not specified | not specified | Recording | Recording | not specified | not specified |
| Included Accessories | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Microphone | not specified | not specified |
| Dimensions | 10.6 × 21.7 × 10.6 inches | 24 × 22 × 10 inches | 20.6 × 8.39 × 8.39 inches | 32.3 × 17.1 × 4.4 inches | 10.4 × 11 × 2.9 inches | 16.9 × 12.2 × 7.9 inches | 13.8 × 25.7 × 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 12 pounds | 4.63 pounds | 16.7 pounds | 25 pounds | not specified | 10.3 pounds | 11.2 pounds |
| Model | AH-QU-SB | Ui24R | MG20XU | ProFX16v3 | PMX508 | AH-CQ18T | AMS-DJC-INPULSET7PREMIUM |
| Size | not specified | 24-channel | 20-Input | 16-channel | 8 Channel | not specified | not specified |
| Color | not specified | Blue and Silver | Black | Black | Black | not specified | T7 Premium |
Frequently asked questions
What are the dimensions of the Allen & Heath QU-SB?
The Allen & Heath QU-SB measures 21.7 inches in width, 10.6 inches in height, and 10.6 inches in length. It weighs 12 pounds. This compact form factor makes it suitable for musicians who prioritize portability without sacrificing professional input counts.
How does the Soundcraft Ui24R differ from the QU-SB in channel count?
The Soundcraft Ui24R offers 24 channels, which exceeds the QU-SB’s 18 inputs. It features a rack-mountable design with dimensions of 22 inches wide, 10 inches high, and 24 inches long. Weighing only 4.63 pounds, it suits fixed installations where remote tablet control is acceptable.
Is the Yamaha MG20XU a digital or analog mixer?
The Yamaha MG20XU is an analog mixer. It provides 20 inputs and includes USB audio interface connectivity for recording. It measures 20.6 inches long, 8.39 inches wide, and 8.39 inches high. Weighing 16.7 pounds, it prioritizes analog reliability and basic effects over digital features.
What connectivity options does the Mackie ProFX30v3 offer?
The Mackie ProFX30v3 provides Bluetooth and USB connectivity. It is designed for live bands needing high channel counts and straightforward analog control. The unit measures 32.3 inches long, 17.1 inches wide, and 4.4 inches high. It weighs 25 pounds and supports multi-track recording.
Does the Pyle PMX508 include a microphone?
Yes, the Pyle PMX508 includes a microphone. This 8-channel digital mixer features Bluetooth, USB, and XLR connectivity. It measures 11 inches wide, 2.9 inches high, and 10.4 inches long. It is ideal for small setups needing wireless streaming and portable recording capabilities.
What makes the Allen & Heath CQ-18T unique?
The Allen & Heath CQ-18T features a large touchscreen and robust digital connectivity. It weighs 10.3 pounds and measures 16.9 inches long, 12.2 inches wide, and 7.9 inches high. It supports Bluetooth connectivity, making it ideal for setups where Wi-Fi and USB interfacing are priorities.
What type of controller is the Hercules T7?
The Hercules T7 is a motorized DJ controller. It provides tactile vinyl-style scratching with motorized 7-inch platters. It measures 25.7 inches wide, 3.5 inches high, and 13.8 inches long. Weighing 11.2 pounds, it suits performance DJs seeking two-deck control and includes a transport bag.