CQ-18T is the largest desktop mixer in the CQ range — ideal for gigging bands, rehearsal spaces, home recording and streaming, speech applications and corporate AV.
CQ takes Allen & Heath's renowned processing and effects, adds exciting new assistive mixing tools, and packages it all into the smallest, most affordable digital mixer series yet. Mix smarter. Work faster. Sound better.
Quick and Complete
Pick Your Mixing Style
Every input channel on CQ can be switched between two modes. Quick Channels offer instrument and application-specific processing with the ability to dial in a full channel of processing via a single knob.
Need more control? Switch to Complete Channels for advanced, in-depth tweaking of every parameter.
Gain Assistant
Faster Setups
Setting the correct gain for each channel isn't the most exciting task, and it quickly eats into setup time with multiple channels to manage. CQ's Gain Assistant quickly and accurately sets the optimal gain level for one or multiple input channels simultaneously.
It then continues to monitor levels during the performance to prevent any nasty peaks or surprises.
Feedback Assistant
Say Goodbye to Feedback
CQ's Feedback Assistant automatically detects and eliminates problem frequencies using up to 16 filters per output, so you can mix with confidence — and forget about feedback entirely.
Sound Quality
You Won't Believe Your Ears
CQ draws on technology from Allen & Heath's latest generation of live sound consoles to deliver audio quality previously unimaginable at this level of mixer. Pristine 96kHz audio is partnered with studio-grade onboard processing and an optimised suite of FX to set a new standard for what's possible with ultra-compact digital mixers.
Built-In FX
World-Class Effects
A new suite of high-quality reverb, delay and modulation algorithms with instrument-specific presets for speedy setup. The FX Assist tool automatically shapes effects and dynamically responds to your input signal — enhancing your mix, not engulfing it.
Control
DCA & Mute Groups
4 DCAs each control the level of any combination of inputs, outputs and FX for single-fader control of multiple channels. 4 Mute Groups let you mute and unmute multiple channels at once — perfect for muting a whole band between songs.
User Friendly
Intuitive Control
The 7" touchscreen and rotary control make it simple to set up and get mixing. 3 Custom SoftKeys + 3 Custom Rotaries give instant access to commonly used functions at the push of a button.
The CQ-18T also features built-in dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz Wi-Fi — connect your devices directly without needing an external router or access point.
CQ MixPad
Full remote control of the CQ-12T from a tablet or phone. Access all mixing functions, scenes and settings from anywhere in the venue on iOS, Android, Windows and macOS.
CQ4You
Personal monitor mixing app for musicians. Performers take control of their own in-ear or wedge mix independently from the front-of-house engineer.
Integrated Wi-Fi
No Router Required
The CQ-18T features built-in dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz AC Wi-Fi with automatic channel selection. Connect your devices directly to the CQ's secure Wi-Fi network — no external access point or router needed.
Multiple devices can connect simultaneously, letting engineers and performers use CQ MixPad and CQ4You at the same time.
Recording & Playback
Always Ready to Capture
CQ packs in multiple recording and playback options. The integrated USB audio interface enables easy multitrack recording, playback and streaming via your DAW. An SD card slot handles reliable multitrack recording and playback on the go.
Stereo USB key recording/playback, Bluetooth audio playback with a dedicated input channel, and Harrison LiveTrax compatibility are all included.
AMM
Perfect for Speech
The integrated Automatic Mic Mixer instantly reduces background noise and improves clarity for speech applications without lifting a finger. Available on all input channels — perfect for conferences, podcasts, debates and small-scale theatre productions.
CQ-18T Features
Inputs
- 8 × XLR mic/line inputs
- 8 × XLR/TRS Combi mic/line inputs
- 2 × TRS (stereo line input)
- Stereo Bluetooth playback input
- Stereo USB playback input
Outputs
- 2 × XLR main mix outputs
- 6 × TRS monitor outputs
- Assignable TRS headphone output
Processing
- 96kHz audio engine
- 4 FX engines
- Gain Assistant
- Feedback Assistant (up to 16 filters per output)
- Automatic Mic Mixer (AMM)
- 4 DCAs + 4 Mute Groups
- Quick and Complete channel modes
Control & Recording
- 7" capacitive touchscreen + rotary control
- 3 Custom SoftKeys + 3 Custom Rotaries
- Dual footswitch connection
- 24×22 USB-B interface (48/96kHz)
- 16×16 SD card record/playback (48/96kHz)
- Stereo USB key record/playback
- CQ MixPad + CQ4You apps
- Harrison LiveTrax compatible
- Optional 19" rack ears
