Digital Mixing Console Allen & Heath CQ-20B

Digital mixing console Allen & Heath CQ-20B – it is the epitome of advanced technology in the world of audio processing. Thanks to its compact design and wide functionality, it becomes an indispensable tool both in the recording studio and on stage during live performances. With a large number of inputs and outputs in its compact size, the CQ-20B impresses with its versatility and ability to work with audio at various levels of professional use.

Design

The design of this mixer is impressive because it was possible to place a large number of inputs and outputs in such compact dimensions. The CQ-20B has 8 inputs on XLR connectors, another 8 on combination XLR - TRS 1/4" connectors, and 2 stereo inputs on 4 TRS 1/4" connectors. This number of inputs allows you to record a large number of instruments at the same time, which is useful when recording a group. There are 8 XLR outputs, two of which are designated as main outputs, and 6 are additional for monitoring. On the left are SD, EtherCON, USB Type A, and USB Type B connectors. Two handles on the case make it easier to move the mixer, and an additional bracket allows you to install the mixer in a rack (the bracket is sold separately).

Audio interface

Digital mixing console Allen & The Heath CQ-20B boasts a built-in audio interface. It handles 48kHz or 96kHz audio, and allows for multi-channel recording and playback via USB or SD card, making it easy to capture studio-quality performances.

24x24 USB-B interface allows you to connect CQ-20B directly to digital audio stations (DAW), which makes the process of recording and playing multitracks convenient and efficient. This is especially useful for musicians and sound engineers who want to preserve every nuance of their creative process.

Effects processor

Digital mixing console Allen & The Heath CQ-20B includes a high-quality effects processor based on the technology used in the latest live sound consoles. It provides studio-quality processing and an optimized set of effects, setting new standards for ultra-compact digital mixers. Effects include Easy Verb, Echo Verb, Space Verb, Echo, Tap Delay, Stereo Delay, Beat Delay, Double Tracker, Chorus, Flanger, and Phaser.

Bluetooth and Wi-Fi

Bluetooth and Wi-Fi in the mixing console Allen & Heath CQ-20B – this is a real revolution in the world of sound engineering. Thanks to Bluetooth, it is now easy to play music directly from mobile devices, making it much easier to prepare for performances and rehearsals. This means that you can quickly listen to or check tracks without unnecessary wires.

Wi-Fi opens up new possibilities for remote sound control. With built-in dual-band Wi-Fi that automatically selects the best channel, sound engineers can control all sound parameters through the CQ MixPad app without being limited by the physical location of the console. This is especially important at live performances, where you need to quickly react to changes in sound, providing control from anywhere in the hall.

Management application

CQ MixPad Remote Control App by Allen & Heath turns a tablet or smartphone into a full control panel for the CQ-20B digital mixing console, allowing the sound engineer to move around the venue without losing control of the sound. Thanks to the wireless connection, it is possible to quickly and easily adjust sound parameters, change volume levels, and apply effects without being tied to the physical location of the console.

CQ MixPad also includes the ability to store and recall scenes, making transitions between different parts of a performance smooth and seamless. This provides sound engineers with the opportunity to be ready for any changes in the program, ensuring high-quality sound at every stage of the event.

Automatic Mic Mixer

The Automatic Mic Mixer (AMM) feature in the Allen & The Heath CQ-20B is an excellent solution for those who work with a large number of microphones at the same time. AMM automatically adjusts the volume level of the microphones, reducing background noise and improving speech clarity. This is done without the need for the intervention of a sound engineer, allowing you to focus on other aspects of the sound system. The function is available on all input channels, making the CQ-20B an ideal portable mixer for events where broadcast quality is important.

Feedback Assistant

Feedback Assistant is an extremely useful tool for sound engineers who want to achieve the perfect sound without unwanted feedback. This feature automatically detects and eliminates problem frequencies, allowing you to mix with confidence and forget about annoying hiss or hum. Feedback Assistant works in real-time, quickly responding to any changes in the audio environment that may cause feedback.

Thanks to Feedback Assistant, sound engineers can focus on the creative aspects of their work without worrying about the technical issues associated with feedback. This makes the CQ-20B not only a powerful tool for professionals, but also a reliable assistant that ensures purity and sound quality at a high level.

Dimensions

Digital mixing console Allen & The Heath CQ-20B is an ultra-compact device suitable for any situation. Its dimensions are 372 x 153.7 x 133.8 mm, and its weight is only 2.6 kg, which makes this mixer convenient for transportation.

Features

• Compact design with wide functionality
• Inputs: 8 XLR, 8 combo XLR/TRS, 4 TRS stereo
• Outputs: 2 XLR (main), 6 XLR (monitor), Alt Out
• Built-in audio interface with the ability to record and play high-quality sound via USB or SD card
• Effects processor with a wide range of studio effects
• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi support for wireless music playback and remote sound control
• CQ MixPad remote control application for convenient control of sound parameters via smartphone or tablet
• Automatic Mic Mixer function for automatic adjustment of microphone volume level
• Feedback Assistant function
• Ultra-compact dimensions and lightweight for easy transportation

User manual