Qu-32 aims high while staying small

A 32-fader Qu series digital mixing console forms the latest addition to Allen & Heath’s product line-up. The 38 in/28 out Qu-32 joins the smaller Qu-16 and Qu-24 desks, sharing the same key features as the rest of the series. A compatible portable audio rack for GLD and Qu series mixers has also been released, allowing users to position I/Os up to 120m from the mixer.

The design goal of the Qu series was reportedly to provide dedicated fader per mic input channels in a compact footprint. Standout features include total recall of settings (motorised faders and digitally controlled preamps), Qu-Drive multi-track recorder, dSnake for remote I/O and personal monitoring, and multi-channel USB streaming. Also onboard is a 7-inch touchscreen, 33 motorised faders, the manufacturer’s iLive FX Library, and iPad support via the iOS Qu-Pad control app. The on-board software also reportedly provides levels of user access that can be customised and protected by passwords to cope with multiple users wanting different setups at different times.

I/O capabilities include 32 mic/line inputs, three stereo inputs, 24 mix outputs – including two stereo matrix mix outputs and four stereo groups – patchable AES output with a further two-channel ALT output, dedicated talkback mic pre input and two-track output.

The accompanying AB168 I/O rack provides a direct extension connection to the main mixing system. Featuring 16 mic preamps with phantom power indicators and eight XLR line outs, the AB168 uses the dSnake protocol, making it compatible with Qu and GLD mixing systems.

The unit connects to a mixer over a Cat-5 cable or via AR2412 using a secure dSnake EtherCon port. A second Ethernet port is on-board for daisy chaining to another AB168 or for connection of a ME personal mixing system.

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