Allen & Heath ZED-24 24-Channel Mixer vs Allen & Heath AH-IP-6 OLED 6 Knob: Spec Comparison
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This comparison of the allen heath zed 24 24 channel mixer vs ah ip 6 OLED 6 knob highlights two distinct tools from the same brand. Both units are built by Allen & Heath for professional audio environments. The primary difference lies in their function. The ZED-24 is a large mixing console for live sound and recording. The AH-IP-6 is a small remote controller for adjusting parameters on other devices. You need to decide if you require a full mixer or a compact control surface.
Key differences
| Aspect | Allen & Heath ZED-24 24-Channel Mixer | Allen & Heath Compact OLED Remote |
|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Large rack-mountable mixer (25.4 inches high) | Compact handheld remote |
| Channel Count | 24 channels (16 mic, 16 line, 2 stereo) | Not listed |
| Connectivity | USB audio interface | Not listed |
| Weight | 23.1 pounds | 5 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Allen & Heath ZED-24 24-Channel Mixer if
- You need a complete mixing solution with multiple inputs for microphones and instruments.
- You require a built-in USB audio interface for recording to a computer or mobile device.
- You want dedicated hardware controls like MusiQ EQ and auxiliary outputs for each channel.
Choose Allen & Heath Compact OLED Remote if
- You already have a mixer and need a portable remote to adjust settings from a distance.
- You need a lightweight device that is easy to carry to gigs or studio sessions.
- You want a dedicated OLED display and six knobs for quick parameter changes without a full console.
Verdict: The ZED-24 is the clear choice for users who need a standalone mixing console with extensive connectivity. The AH-IP-6 serves as a specialized remote for those who already have a system and want compact control. Your decision depends on whether you need a mixer or a controller.
Allen & Heath ZED-24 vs AH-IP-6
System Type
The Allen & Heath ZED-24 is a 24-channel touring quality mixer designed for live sound and recording. It features DuoPre XLR microphone preamps and a full channel strip with EQ and auxiliary outputs. In contrast, the Allen & Heath AH-IP-6 OLED is a compact remote controller with six knobs. It is not a mixer itself but a control surface intended to manage other Allen & Heath equipment. You need to decide if you require a full mixing console or a supplementary control device for your existing setup.
Connectivity
The ZED-24 offers extensive connectivity options. It includes a routable stereo-in stereo-out USB connection that is class compliant, allowing direct connection to Mac, Windows, and mobile devices without drivers. It also provides XLR microphone inputs, line inputs, insert sockets, and multiple auxiliary outputs for monitors and effects. The AH-IP-6 OLED connects via USB to control compatible mixers. It lacks the audio inputs and outputs found on the ZED-24. If you need to connect microphones and instruments directly, the ZED-24 is the only choice.
Form Factor
Size and weight differ significantly between these two products. The ZED-24 is a large, heavy unit measuring 18.3 inches in length, 25.4 inches in height, and 3.9 inches in width. It weighs 23.1 pounds, making it a substantial piece of gear for touring or fixed installations. The AH-IP-6 OLED is described as compact and weighs only 5 pounds. Its small footprint makes it easy to mount or place on a desk. You should choose the ZED-24 for a primary mixing station or the AH-IP-6 for a portable control solution.
Audio Processing
The ZED-24 provides comprehensive audio processing features. Each mono channel includes a 100Hz high pass filter and a 3-band MusiQ EQ with a swept mid-frequency control. It also has insert sockets for external compressors or equalizers. The AH-IP-6 OLED does not process audio signals itself. It sends control data to adjust parameters on a connected mixer. If you need built-in equalization, filtering, and dynamic processing for each channel, the ZED-24 is essential. The AH-IP-6 relies entirely on the mixer it controls for these functions.
Channel Count
The ZED-24 supports 24 channels, including 16 microphone inputs, 16 line or instrument inputs, and two stereo inputs. It also handles USB audio and main mix outputs. This allows you to mix a large number of sources simultaneously. The AH-IP-6 OLED has no channel inputs. It is a remote controller with six knobs. It does not accept audio signals. You cannot use the AH-IP-6 to mix audio sources directly. The ZED-24 is the only option if you need to manage multiple audio channels on a single device.
Which Allen & Heath Gear Fits You
Live sound engineers needing full mixing
You need the ZED-24 for its 24-channel capacity and DuoPre XLR preamps. It provides 69dB of gain and phantom power for condenser microphones. The 100Hz high-pass filter and MusiQ EQ let you sculpt vocals and instruments precisely. Class-compliant USB connectivity allows driver-free recording and stereo return on Mac, Windows, and mobile devices without extra setup.
Users requiring external processor integration
The ZED-24 includes insert sockets on every mono channel and the main mix. This allows you to connect external compressors or graphic equalizers for dynamic or tonal shaping. Pre-fade and post-fade auxiliary outputs enable separate monitor mixes or signal routing to external effects units. These features give you complete control over signal processing for complex live setups.
Those needing compact remote control
The AH-IP-6 OLED is a compact remote controller designed for portability. Weighing only 5 pounds, it is significantly smaller and lighter than the ZED-24. Its small footprint makes it ideal for users who need to adjust mixer parameters from a distance without occupying valuable stage or booth space. The OLED display provides clear visual feedback for remote operation.
The products compared
Allen & Heath ZED-24 24-Channel Mixer
Best for: Complex live sound and studio recording setups
- Channels
- 24-channel
- Connectivity
- USB
- Dimensions
- 18.3 × 3.9 × 25.4 inches
- Weight
- 23.1 pounds
View on Amazon: Allen & Heath ZED-24 24-Channel Mixer Affiliate link
The Allen & Heath ZED-24 is a 24-channel touring mixer with USB I/O. It features DuoPre XLR preamps with 69dB gain and MusiQ 3-band EQ. The unit includes routable stereo USB for driver-free recording on Mac, Windows, or mobile devices. Weighing 23.1 pounds, it offers extensive connectivity with 16 mic and 16 line inputs. This mixer suits users needing robust analog signal processing and flexible routing options for live or studio use.
Pros
- 16 XLR mic inputs with DuoPre preamps providing up to 69dB of gain
- Class-compliant USB connection for driver-free recording on mobile devices and computers
- MusiQ 3-band EQ with swept mid frequency for precise tonal shaping
- Pre-fade and post-fade auxiliary outputs for custom monitor and effects mixes
- Insert sockets on every mono channel and main mix for external processors
Cons
- Heavy build at 23.1 pounds makes transport difficult
- Large footprint measures 18.3 inches long and 25.4 inches high
- No mention of Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming
Good fit if
- You need a high channel count for complex live sound setups
- You require driver-free USB connectivity for recording on various devices
- You want dedicated pre-fade aux outputs for custom monitor mixes
Skip if
- You need a lightweight mixer for frequent travel
- You prefer a compact unit with a smaller physical footprint
- You require built-in Bluetooth for wireless audio streaming
Verdict: The Allen & Heath ZED-24 24-Channel Mixer delivers professional-grade channel count and routing flexibility for users who prioritize analog signal integrity and extensive connectivity over portability.
Allen & Heath Compact OLED Remote
Best for: Specific parameter control
- Weight
- 5 pounds
View on Amazon: Allen & Heath Compact OLED Remote Affiliate link
The Allen & Heath AH-IP-6 OLED is a compact remote controller designed for touring and studio use. It features a black finish and weighs 5 pounds. This unit provides physical control over mixer parameters. It suits DJs who need tactile adjustment without a full mixer interface. The compact size allows for easy integration into existing setups.
Pros
- Compact form factor for portable setups
- OLED display for clear feedback
- Weighs 5 pounds for stability
- Black finish matches standard gear
Cons
- Only 6 control knobs
- No integrated mixer channels
- Heavier than basic adapters
Good fit if
- You need tactile control for a specific mixer
- You have limited rack space
- You prefer physical knobs over software
Skip if
- You need a full mixing console
- You require more than 6 parameters
- You need a lightweight travel accessory
Verdict: Allen & Heath AH-IP-6 Compact Remote offers essential tactile control for users who already have a mixer. It fits professionals needing specific parameter adjustment without a full interface.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Allen & Heath ZED-24 24-Channel Mixer | Allen & Heath Compact OLED Remote |
|---|---|---|
| Channels | 24-channel | not stated |
| Connectivity | USB | not stated |
| Dimensions | 18.3 × 3.9 × 25.4 inches | not stated |
| Weight | 23.1 pounds | 5 pounds |
| Color | Grey/Red | Black |
| Model | AH-ZED24 | AH-IP-6 |
| Size | not stated | Compact |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Allen & Heath ZED-24 a standalone mixer or a controller?
The Allen & Heath ZED-24 is a standalone analog mixer. It features 24 channels with full channel strips, including EQ and auxiliary outputs. It does not require software to function. The unit connects via USB for digital interfacing. It is designed for professional live sound and studio recording setups where analog signal integrity is prioritized.
What are the physical dimensions of the ZED-24 mixer?
The ZED-24 measures 18.3 inches in length, 25.4 inches in height, and 3.9 inches in width. It weighs 23.1 pounds. The chassis is colored grey and red. These dimensions indicate a large, heavy unit suitable for permanent installations or touring rigs where portability is secondary to channel count and routing flexibility.
Does the AH-IP-6 OLED remote have its own power supply?
The provided specifications do not list a separate power supply for the AH-IP-6 OLED remote. It is described as a compact remote with six knobs. It weighs 5 pounds and is black. It is intended to provide tactile control for specific parameters on an existing mixer rather than operating as an independent audio interface.
Can the AH-IP-6 replace the ZED-24 for mixing audio?
No, the AH-IP-6 cannot replace the ZED-24. The ZED-24 is a 24-channel mixer with preamps and EQ. The AH-IP-6 is a compact remote control unit. It offers essential tactile adjustment for users who already have a mixer. It fits professionals needing specific parameter adjustment without a full interface, not primary mixing.
What connectivity options does the ZED-24 offer?
The ZED-24 offers USB connectivity. This allows it to interface with digital audio workstations. It also includes standard analog inputs and outputs typical of a 24-channel mixer. The USB connection supports digital recording and playback. This connectivity complements its analog signal path for users who need extensive routing flexibility.
Which device is better for complex live sound setups?
The ZED-24 is better for complex live sound setups. It delivers professional-grade channel count and routing flexibility. It includes DuoPre XLR microphone preamps and full channel strips. The AH-IP-6 is a remote control accessory. It is best for specific parameter control on an existing system, not for handling complex live sound mixing directly.