The ZED‑428 is a large analog mixing console in the “ZED Max / 4‑Bus” line from Allen & Heath, designed for live sound, recording, and larger scale audio setups.
It offers a robust feature set combining high channel capacity, flexible signal routing, and high quality preamps and EQ. It is suitable for bands, churches, theaters, and audio production setups where many inputs and auxiliary buses are needed.
Key Features and Specifications:
| Feature | Description / Value |
|---|---|
| Channels / Inputs | 24 mono mic/line channels + 2 dual stereo inputs |
| Mic Preamps (DuoPre) | Uses DuoPre two‑stage mic/line preamps, offering ~69 dB of gain, with distributed gain control and low noise |
| EQ / MusiQ | 4‑band EQ per mono channel, with two sweepable midbands, using Allen & Heath’s “MusiQ” tuned EQ curves for musical instrument equalization |
| Aux / Sends | 6 auxiliary sends (configured: 2 pre‑fade, 2 post‑fade, 2 switchable pre/post) |
| Subgroups / Buses | 4 subgroups (4‑bus architecture) to allow sub‑mixing and processor insertion |
| USB Audio Interface | Configurable USB in / out (stereo) for sending and returning audio between the mixer and a computer; routes can be set (e.g. main mix, aux, matrix) |
| Direct Outputs | Each mono channel provides a direct output (post‑EQ) for multitrack recording or routing to external devices |
| Phantom Power | +48 V phantom power individually switchable for channels, supporting condenser microphones |
| Meters & Indicators | Peak/signal LEDs per channel, bar meters for main and subgroup outputs, mute and solo (PFL) indications |
| Routing / Matrix | 2 × matrix outputs; ability to send select signals to USB or mix bus |
| Construction / Controls | 100 mm faders (ALPS), sturdy build, individual vertical PCBs, metal hardware mounting for knobs and controls for durability |
| Performance Specs | Frequency response, distortion, headroom and noise figures typical of a high-end analog console (e.g. mic to main output: 20 Hz – 20 kHz ±0.5dB, THD ~0.004% at nominal levels) |
| Physical Size / Weight | Dimensions ~ 36.6" × 5.1" × 22.1" (≈ 93.0 × 12.9 × 56.0 cm) |