The ZED‑436 is a high‑channel‑count analog mixing console in Allen & Heath’s 4‑Bus “ZED” series. It’s aimed at large live sound, houses of worship, touring rigs, and big fixed installations — anywhere you need many mic/line inputs, flexible routing, sub‑grouping, and USB connectivity.
It combines traditional analogue mixing workflow (lots of faders, physical knobs, inserts, etc.) with modern features like USB I/O and configurable USB send/return routing.
Key Features and Specifications:
| Spec | Value / Detail |
|---|---|
| Channels / Inputs | 32 mono mic/line channels + 2 dual stereo input channels. |
| Mic Preamps | DuoPre design (padless mic/line preamps) with ~69 dB gain range. |
| EQ | 4‑band EQ on mono channels (2 sweepable mids, with in/out bypass switch). Stereo channels also have 4‑band EQ (fixed mids). MusiQ‑tuned EQ curves. |
| Aux / Sends | 6 auxiliary sends per channel: 2 are pre‑fade, 2 are post‑fade, and 2 are switchable (pre or post). |
| Sub‑Groups / Buses | 4 sub‑groups (4‑bus architecture) to group channels for processing or routing. Also includes matrix outputs. |
| USB Connectivity | Configurable USB stereo input & output (2‑in / 2‑out) that allows routing of main mix, aux(es), matrix to/from a computer. USB return signal can be routed to main LR mix or a stereo channel. |
| Phantom Power | +48 V phantom power available on individual channels for condenser mics. |
| Faders | 100 mm (“long throw”) faders on all main input channels. |
| Direct Outputs | Each mono channel has a direct output. |
| Meters / Indicators | Channel‑level PFL/solo, peak/signal‑LEDs, bar meters for main outputs/groups. |
| Noise / Distortion / Frequency Response | Typical values: Mic‑in to main out (30 dB gain) ~ 20 Hz‑20 kHz ±0.5 / ‑1 dB. THD+N ~0.004% at unity gain, rising under higher gain. Noise floor, headroom etc., are good for this class. |
| Physical Size & Power | Large, heavy unit (≈ 22 kg), with robust construction (individual channel PCBs, metal hardware etc.). Power is universal (100‑240 VAC). |