Allen & Heath CQ-18T Mixer digital

Allen & Heath CQ-18T: Ultra-Compact Digital Mixer with Studio-Grade Sound

The Allen & Heath CQ-18T is an ultra-compact 18-in/8-out digital mixer designed for gigging bands, rehearsal spaces, home recording, streaming, and corporate AV. Drawing on technology from flagship live consoles, this model delivers pristine 96 kHz audio with onboard processing in a desktop format that fits in a backpack. As the largest desktop mixer in the CQ range, it offers the connectivity and routing flexibility needed for full-band performances and multi-mic speech. With built-in dual-band Wi-Fi, a 7" capacitive touchscreen, and a tactile control surface, first-time digital users and seasoned engineers can both work efficiently.

Smart Assistants That Do the Heavy Lifting

What stands out is its trio of intelligent processing tools. The Preamp Gain Assistant automatically sets and monitors optimal gain levels across multiple channels, preventing clipping even in lengthy sessions. With the Feedback Assistant, problem frequencies are neutralized by up to 16 filters per output, serving as a built-in safeguard during live shows. For conferences, podcasts, and panels, the integrated Automatic Mic Mixer reduces noise and improves clarity, all hands-free.

Full I/O for Live and Recording Setups

Vocalists, drummers, and instrumentalists can rely on sixteen microphone preamps, and a dedicated stereo line input supports playback sources. For outputs, XLR main outs, TRS jacks for monitor mixes, and assignable headphone outputs each allow for separate mixes — practical for portable setups.

• Inputs: 8 XLR, 8 XLR/TRS Combi, 2 TRS stereo — full band coverage with phantom power for condensers
• Outputs: 2 XLR Main, 6 TRS Monitor, 2 assignable TRS headphone — enough sends for the whole band plus engineer monitoring
• Multitrack recording and playback are available via the 24×22 USB-B interface at 48/96 kHz, ensuring seamless integration with any DAW.
• SD Recording: 24×22 at 48 kHz, 16×16 at 96 kHz — reliable standalone capture without a computer

Tactile Control with Deep Processing

The 7" capacitive touchscreen and rotary control anchor the surface, joined by three Custom Rotaries and three Custom SoftKeys, making access to common functions fast and intuitive. Input channels offer Quick mode for one-knob setups or Complete mode for advanced tweaking. Four onboard FX engines provide a wide array of instrument-specific reverb, delay, and modulation effects, and FX Assist dynamically adapts to the incoming signal.

• Internal Effects: 4 FX engines with reverb, delay, and modulation — high-quality processing without external racks
• Touchscreen: 7" capacitive with rotary control — fast navigation without needing an external tablet
• DCAs and Mute Groups: 4 of each — single-fader control over drum kits or full-stage muting
• Remote mixing is possible through dual-band 2.4G/5G AC Wi-Fi with auto channel select, eliminating the need for an external access point.

Portable Design with Rack and Case Options

Despite its compact footprint, CQ-18T is rackmountable with an optional rack ear kit, making it suitable for permanent installations. The official soft case provides lightweight protection for mobile setups. Integration with Harrison LiveTrax software brings multitrack recording and virtual soundcheck into reach for touring professionals.

• Rackmountable: Yes, via optional rack ear kit — fits standard 19" racks for installed sound
• Package Content: Power adapter included — ready to use straight out of the box
• All mic inputs offer +48V phantom power, enabling use with condenser microphones and active DI boxes.

Built for Bands, Streamers, and AV Professionals

Gigging bands, solo performers, houses of worship, podcasters, and corporate AV teams will find this model the right choice when they need a compact digital mixer with professional audio quality and intelligent processing. Sixteen preamps, six monitor sends, and onboard FX cover live and studio needs for small ensembles. Direct DAW integration via USB and standalone multitrack SD recording appeal to streamers and content creators. Corporate AV users benefit from the integrated Automatic Mic Mixer, simplifying multi-mic speech applications. The touchscreen and CQ MixPad app streamline setup for those transitioning from analog consoles.