Allen & Heath Qu-3 and Qu-3D: The Same Powerful Mixing Platform in a Compact Format
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Allen & Heath Qu-3 and Qu-3D: The Same Powerful Mixing Platform in a Compact Format · Source: Allen & Heath
With the new Allen & Heath Qu-3 and Qu-3D digital mixers, you get upgraded hardware, 96 kHz XCVI processing, flexible I/O, and improved workflow features.
All about the Qu Series:
The beauty of digital consoles is their ability to work with signals in a multitude of ways for mixing and monitoring applications. Using their extensive background in this area, Allen & Heath has created the most compact console designs possible, without compromising on features or the audio quality you’d expect from the renowned manufacturer.
Allen & Heath Qu-3 and Qu-3D
Using just nine faders (banked into 6 layers), the new Qu-3 and Qu-3D mixers are able to offer the same platform as the flagship Qu-7 with 36 inputs, 12 mixes, four mix matrices, and six effects engines, each with a set of stereo returns. Designed for environments where space isn’t abundant, the lightweight, desktop-friendly form factor of the Qu-3 makes it ideal for compact touring rigs.
With a 128×128 SLink connection, the Qu-3 provides access to the Everything I/O platform, which includes extensive multitrack recording via SD card or the built-in 32×32 USB-C audio interface. Also, the mic preamps and conversion are the exact same standard as the rest of the Qu series, so smaller doesn’t mean a step down in quality.
With the Qu-3D, you get a 16×16 Dante interface, which can be increased to 32 channels by means of an optional upgrade module. This provides flexible network audio support for installations and broadcast systems. Meanwhile, the familiar touchscreen interface, eight assignable SoftKeys, and dedicated controls let you operate the Qu-3 with the same degree of fluidity.
Useful additions also include built-in feedback reduction and gain assist, which streamline your workflow and require fewer peripherals in your setup, while the 32-channel mic mixer offers a dedicated solution for speech-based setups. Overall, the Qu-3 is not only more compact but more affordable as well, allowing a wider range of users to work on the high-quality Qu digital mixing platform.
Allen & Heath Qu Series: A Complete Revamp with Dante Options (19 May, 2025)
The new Allen & Heath Qu Series of live digital mixers brings 16, 24, and 32-fader variants with Dante interface options in each case.
Just when you thought Allen & Heath was slipping behind competitors like Behringer and Yamaha, think again. The Qu Series has undergone a revamp, now in three different sizes with Dante support.
Allen & Heath Qu Series
At the core of the new Qu Series is the 96 kHz FPGA engine with DEEP processing support. In each variation, you get 38 inputs to mix, which includes a total of 32 mono or linkable inputs and 3 stereo inputs. In addition, the Qu Series has 12 internal mixes with six mono or linkable mixes, six stereo mixes, and the main LR mix.
What’s more, there are four mono or linkable matrices and six stereo effects engines with dedicated returns, as a 128×128 Intelligent SLink port designed for Everything I/O stageboxes and interfaces. The Qu Series also becomes a 32×32 USB audio interface when connected via USB.
Here’s a basic rundown of the different models in the Qu Series:
- Qu-5: 16 preamps, 12 line outputs, 16 faders, rack mountable
- Qu-5D: 16 preamps, 12 line outputs, 16 faders, rack mountable, 16×16 Dante interface
- Qu-6: 24 preamps, 16 line outputs, 24 faders
- Qu-6D: 24 preamps, 16 line outputs, 24 faders, 16×16 Dante interface
- Qu-7: 32 preamps, 20 line outputs, 32 faders
- Qu-7D: 32 preamps, 20 line outputs, 32 faders, 16×16 Dante interface
Pricing and Availability:
The Allen & Heath Qu Series is currently available for pre-order. Get it at Thomann.*
More about the Allen & Heath Qu Series:
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3 responses to “Allen & Heath Qu-3 and Qu-3D: The Same Powerful Mixing Platform in a Compact Format”
Good but if they really want to compete and get customers again make your prices lower
yes they need to bring price down
I read the A&H QU24 is one of the biggest selling mixers ever. I see them at worship services all the time. The bigger A&H desks are everywhere for live shows. I think A&H are competing just fine.
I’ve used a QU16 every day for ten years . It sounds fantastic, it’s easy to use, well spec’d, built like a tank, worth every penny. I’d pick up a QU5 tomorrow except my QU16 is still in perfect condition. I’ll upgrade sometime soon for the 96kHz audio.