On top of this, Qu-Drive also provides stereo recording, patchable from any pair of Mix outputs, the Main LR (pre, post, or summed to mono) or even the PAFL bus, with 2-track stereo playback to ST3.
The Qu-16 is equipped with five cores of high efficiency ARM core processing, with dedicated ARM cores running the touchscreen display and surface, USB streaming, Qu-Drive multi-channel USB recording/playback, Ethernet and fader automation. Between them the ARM cores provide state-of-the-art processing, working in parallel to deliver extensive control, instant-on operation, and very fast response.
The mixer’s DSP farm exploits next generation dual core DSPs, giving 10 DSP cores, with 8 dedicated to the channel and mix processing alone. With so much DSP power under the hood the channel processing is only using a fraction of capacity, so Qu-16 is future-proofed, with ample room for updates and extra functionality.
The Qu-16 DSP architecture employs varied bit depths, tailored to specific algorithms, with 48 bits on critical EQ functions and a 56-bit accumulator on the mix bus where it really counts, allowing every nuance of the audio to be captured in the final mix.
Made from 18 gauge, cold-rolled Zintec steel, Qu-16’s frame is designed for strength, rigidity and ease of rack mounting. The mixer’s sleek profile generates optimal airflow through the mixer, eliminating the need for any fans.
The shape has some unexpected benefits too. The space beneath it is useful for keeping a USB drive, a talkback mic, a cue sheet and other clutter tucked out of the way.
The Qu-Pad iPad app allows adjustment of monitors on stage, as well as roaming around the venue while tweaking the PA, and then mixing a show from the heart of the audience. Qu-Pad connects to the mixer over Wi-Fi and gives instant access to all live mixing parameters and settings. It requires the connection of a Wi-Fi router or access point to the Qu-16 Network port.
The Qu-16 is fully compatible with the Allen & Heath ME personal mixing system. Any number of ME-1 personal mixers can be chained from the dSNAKE port (or from an AR2412 Stagebox if you’ve got one connected to the dSNAKE port). Each performer can be given tailored control over their own mix, leaving the engineer free to focus on the audience experience.
If you’re thinking of trading in the copper multicore for a Cat-5 digital snake, Qu-16’s dSNAKE port provides a solution, allowing connection to a remote AR2412 or AR84 Stagebox. dSNAKE is Allen & Heath’s proprietary networking solution, boasting a transport latency of just 105us over cable runs of up to 120 meters/390 feet.
An overview of the facilities of the new Qu-16:
—16 Mono Inputs (TRS + XLR)
—3 Stereo Inputs (TRS)
— 4 Stereo FX Returns
—16 Buses
—12 Mix Outputs (LR, Mono Mix 1-4, Stereo Mix 1-3)
—4 FX Engines
—AES Digital Out
—19-in Rack Mountable
—Moving Faders
—Recallable AnaLOGIQ Preamps
—Qu-Drive direct Multitrack Recording / Playback on USB drives
—800 x 480 Touchscreen
—iLive FX Library
—dSNAKE Remote Audio Port
—Compatible with ME Personal Mixing System
—Qu-Pad iPad App
—USB Audio Streaming
—DAW MIDI Control
—4 Mute Groups
—Trim, polarity, HPF, gate, insert, 4-band PEQ, compressor and delay on all Inputs
—Insert, 1/3-octave GEQ, compressor and delay on Main LR and Mono Mix outputs
—Insert, 4-band PEQ, compressor and delay on Stereo Mix outputs
—Built-in Signal Generator
—RTA with Peak Band indication
Allen & Heath
American Music And Sound