Allen & Heath's revolutionary XCVI 96 kHz FPGA engine is designed for professionals in demanding live sound applications. The SQ-5 delivers premium high-definition audio with ultra-low latency of <0.7 ms, giving you unmatched performance and audio quality. The mixer features 16 onboard preamps and 8 stereo FX engines with dedicated return channels, as well as access to the acclaimed RackExtra FX library. 12 stereo mixes (configurable as groups or auxes) make SQ the perfect companion for in-ear monitoring setups, while Automatic Mic Mixing relieves the user in multi-mic environments. The Allen & Heath SQ-5 provides you with all the tools you need for everything from AV and corporate events to live productions and worship services.
SQ is a next-generation future-proof console powered by Allen & Heath´s 96-kHz XCVI FPGA engine. XCVI delivers superior high-definition audio quality, extremely low latency of <0.7 ms, variable bit depth for ultimate precision and noise performance, and sheer power for high channel / mix counts.
The SQ's DEEP processing architecture allows users to select boutique compressor and preamp emulations according to their style and needs. DEEP plug-ins can be embedded directly into the mixer's inputs and mix channels without system latency or installation problems.
With no less than 12 stereo mixes, extremely low latency, and both parametric and graphical EQ on every mix, SQ is the perfect companion for in-ear monitoring setups. The compactness and robust quality of the SQ offer sufficient reasons to never again switch to home monitor consoles from other locations.
The SQ-5 has all the onboard inputs/outputs you need for standalone operation. Thanks to the intelligent SLink port, the SQ-5 can also be expanded to up to 48 microphone inputs via a wide range of 96 kHz and 48 kHz rack and stagebox expanders (e.g. AB168, AR2412, AR84 and DX168). This creates a mix 'n' match solution for owners of other digital systems from Allen & Heath. You can also link your SQ directly to another SQ or even to a dLive system.
The SQ is at the heart of a growing system of apps, expanders, audio networks, personal mixers and more that you can connect to, customize and expand to your heart's content. The console is also compatible with leading audio network standards - add an audio network card like Dante or Waves to the SQ's I/O port and you can install integrated systems, provide a digital FoH / monitor split and much more.
With the integrated SQ drive, you can quickly and easily record a 96 kHz multitrack or stereo recording of the show directly to a USB stick or drive. No software setups, no sound card drivers and no additional laptops are required. SQ-Drive is also a clever way to manage pause music or single players.
An integrated 32 × 32 96 kHz audio interface is also available for multi-track recording, backing tracks or virtual sound check applications. The interface is Core Audio and ASIO compliant and has MIDI and DAW control functions.
The advanced features of SQ's Automatic Microphone Mixer (AMM) make it a premium choice for mixing conferences, podium discussions and TV shows. It's fully integrated into the mixer without any additional latency, so you don't have to send the audio to an internal DSP rack or external plug-in system.
Allen & Heath is aware of the harsh conditions in everyday touring and live environments, and these systems are treated accordingly hard during the development process. From its 3-stage all-metal chassis to the extruded aluminium light bar, SQ has enormous strength and stiffness. This not only supports the chic design but also makes these consoles durable.
With each new design, the Allen & Heath team strives to get closer to the ultimate mixing experience. SQ's dashboard is arranged around a high-resolution 7" capacitive touch screen, framed by a series of haptically appealing and illuminated encoders to create an intuitive, integrated mix of clear visual feedback and immediate, practical control. Channels and mixes can be dragged and dropped onto any channel strip, with custom naming and color-coding on the channel LCDs, so you can create a mixing environment that reflects your own workflow. Each Strip features the patented Chromatic channelmetering system that gives you instant level indication with variable brightness and color LEDs.
Allen & Heath has a well-deserved reputation for developing FX emulations that can compete with the very best plug-ins, but without the hassle. SQ is equipped with 8 stereo FX engines and features the acclaimed RackExtra library with emulations of legendary classic reverbs, gated reverbs, delays, modulators and more. All FX's have dedicated stereo returns, so you don't have to waste input channels.
SQ is fully compatible with the ME Personal Mixing System, allowing performers to take control of their own monitor mixes. Any number of ME-1 and ME-500 personal mixers can be linked via the mixer's SLink connector or via a connected remote expander.
What an excellent mixer, I came from a Behringer X18 to a Midas MR 18 to the SQ5. And the difference is substantial. Operating at 96K the dynamic range and depth of spatial sound this mixer allows access to is amazing! It can be a little cumbersome, accessing via different menus. Software, firmware could be made simpler and quicker to operate. And better visuals for RTA and the EQ, better more accurate controls within the EQ, would be useful for anybody coming from such great plug-ins as the fabfilters! But the ins and outs and the all about of this mixer are to write home about. Wonderful sonic signature. Recommended!
I have been using lower price mixers and decided to upgrade to something of higher quality, the SQ5 fitted my needs and I am very impressed, some areas are a bit confusing to me (just need to understand how signal path works, then busses), there are some very good videos that helped, overall 5/5..
Amazing product, just a shame that the production or the availability of the product is so scarce. Order mine in February, only came last week.
DV247 / Music store on the other hand, very poor service.
It is a great mixer. You have everything at your fingers for a great mix and it is very comfortable feeling to be behind the desk. You can configure mix layers in a minute to your needs. The sound is really impressive and the SLink feature works without any hassle. The visual feedback gives you the chance to make less mistakes that on older digital mixers.