Allen & Heath SQ-5 Digital Mixer, 48 Input Channels, 7" Capacitive Touchscreen, Automatic Mic Mixing, 32×32 USB Audio Interface, Black

Excellent mixer. Small footprint. Half the weight of my previous QU-24.Note: Best used with 2412 or other A&H stagebox.

I've had this console for a few months now, time for a review!Pros:96kvery low latency32 channel USB interface16 channel direct to USB drive recordingsounds VERY cleanlarge touchscreenbuild quality is top notchoption card slots supporting 64x64 I/O (Waves SoundGrid, Dante, Slink)DEEP processing (similar to plugins)48 input channels in a 19" rack (needs optional I/O)24 output channels (needs optional I/O)built in work light is awesomeCons:no AES inputsnot enough DEEP processing plugins available (current Tube emulation is great)accessories are pricey (tablet bracket, rack ears, cover)doesn't fit in most 19" rack mount flight cases designed for mixers due to it's heightI own the following:Soundcraft Si ExpressionBehringer X32Allen & Heath Qu-16, GL-2200, MixWizard 16:2DXI work on the following often:Avid venueMidas Pro SeriesM32I'd take an SQ over anything but a Venue or Midas Pro series desk, yes I'd take it over the M32 as well.Allen & Heath have really put together an excellent console that should have a very long life ahead with planned updates. I'm really looking forward to more DEEP processing units, specifically a multiband comp, de-esser, and a maybe some vintage compressors.

This thing is awesome, particularly if you use it as an audio interface. The sound quality that comes out of is just a WOW! It's extremely customizable, which will allow you to use it your way. I don't regret a bit spending a little bit more for it. Now, i don't have to worry about buying audio interfaces, for I've all in one: a mixer, an audio interfaces, and plugins/FX.

There are numerous reports on their forums that people cannot get reliable multi-tracking to work. Last night I tried formatting in another manner recommended by a user on their forum but it did nothing for me - I'm getting about 10 errors/minute no matter how fast the drive is.Tried purchasing a plug-in bit could not interact with the credit card field. I followed their advice and tried on another computer and got the exact same error but the dimwit I was communicating with insisted the problem was on my side. I kept having to repeat myself so I am pretty sure the problem is on their side. Again the forum is full of people complaining about the shop, they couldn't even just give me a code if I made a direct payment. I think for $5,000 it ought to come fully equipped especially if making purchases are so arduous and/or impossible.As it stands this is a good mixer but features are missing and represents very poor value for money and customer service is no help (only two times I contacted them I have been left frustrated).

nice