The QU‑5 is the newer generation in Allen & Heath’s QU series of digital mixers. It combines advanced digital processing with flexible I/O, good build, and a user‑friendly interface. It’s suitable for live sound, installs, AV, bands, and studio‑like capture of performances.
Key Features and Specifications:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Processing Core | 96 kHz XCVI core, giving high sample rate, low latency, improved audio fidelity. |
| Inputs | 38 total inputs to mix: 32 mono/linkable channels + 2 dedicated stereo input channels. |
| Mic Preamps | 16 high‑quality mic/line preamps (combi XLR/TRS “combi” sockets) for analog input. Phantom power available. |
| I/O | Analog: 16 XLR/Jack combi mic/line inputs, 2 stereo line TRS inputs, talkback input. Outputs: ~12 XLR balanced outputs, TRS outputs, plus digital output (AES3). Optional Dante (“QU‑5D”) version for networked audio. Also SLink port for expansion / external I/O racks. |
| Mix / Routing | 12 mix buses (6 mono/linkable aux/group + 6 stereo aux/group), 4 mono/linkable matrix outputs, stereo main LR output. Flexible routing. |
| Effects / Processing | 6 Multi‑FX engines with dedicated stereo returns. “DEEP Processing Ready” – allowing for advanced processing (from their dLive system) or integration. |
| Control Surface / UI | 7‑inch capacitive touchscreen; 17 motorised 100mm faders; 4 customisable channel strip layers; 8 SoftKeys; configurable footswitch input; channel displays and chromatic metering on channels. |
| Recording / Playback | USB‑C interface for multichannel audio (32×32), USB‑A for stereo record/playback or file transfer; SD card slot for multitrack recording (16×16 at 96kHz, 32×32 at 48kHz) depending on usage. |
| Build / Misc Features | Optional 19‑inch rackmount kit; 12V lamp socket; global power supply; remote control via apps (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android); configurable metering LEDs. |