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Allen & Heath CQ-18T Compact 18-Channel Digital Mixer with Touchscreen

BH #ALAHCQ18T • MFR #AH-CQ18T
4 reviews
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Allen & Heath CQ-18T Compact 18-Channel Digital Mixer with Touchscreen
Key Features
  • 16 Mic/Line Inputs + 2 x 1/4" Inputs
  • 2 x XLR Main + 6 x 1/4" Mix Outputs
  • 7" Capacitive Touchscreen Interface
  • 24x22 USB-B Audio Interface
Mix and record with the Allen & Heath CQ-18T, a compact digital mixer featuring 96 kHz FPGA processing, wireless control via built-in Wi-Fi, and SD/USB audio recording and playback, well suited for bands, producers, and AV rental houses. Use it as a main mixer in a small venue or a sub mixer on a larger stage.
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Allen & Heath CQ-18T Overview

From Manufacturer

Mix and record with the Allen & Heath CQ-18T, a compact digital mixer featuring 96 kHz FPGA processing, wireless control via built-in Wi-Fi, and SD/USB audio recording and playback, well suited for bands, producers, and AV rental houses. Use it as a main mixer in a small venue or a sub mixer on a larger stage.

The CQ-18T mixer utilizes a 7" capacitive touchscreen interface to easily navigate and control the robust mix engine that comes complete with several assistants to help your mixes sound their best including a gain assistant, feedback assistant, FX assist engine, and Automatic Mic Mixer (AMM). Take control of the full complement of channel strip effects like EQ, compression, and gating that's available on every channel, and set up several sub mixes for monitoring and effects. The CQ-18T features 16 mic/line XLR/combo XLR-1/4" inputs, a pair of balanced 1/4" TRS inputs, and two XLR main outputs as well as six 1/4" mix outputs. There are also two assignable headphone outputs. The mixer ships with a 12 VDC power supply.

Hardware Features
  • 16 Mic/Line preamps, (8 XLR + 8 Combo XLR-1/4" TRS)
  • Balanced stereo line input, (2 x 1/4" TRS)
  • Main LR, (2 x XLR)
  • 6 x Monitor Mixes, (6 x 1/4" TRS)
  • 2 x Assignable headphone outputs, (2 x 1/4" TRS)
  • 24 x 22 USB-B interface
  • 24 x 22 SD record/playback
  • Stereo USB record/playback with dedicated input channel
  • Stereo Bluetooth playback with dedicated input channel
  • 4 x FX Assist engines
  • 3 x Custom Softkeys
  • 3 x Smart Rotaries
  • Dual Footswitch connection
  • 7” Capacitive touchscreen with associated rotary control
  • Built-in dual band 2.4G/5G AC Wi-Fi with auto channel select
Software Features
96 kHz Processing Engine

  • Under the hood is a powerhouse of processing with Allen & Heath’s renowned 96 kHz FPGA technology. Including brand new smart tools and FX to get you a better mix, faster.

Quick and Complete Channels

  • Quick Channels offer instrument and application specific processing. Dial in a full channel of processing with a single knob. Switch to a Complete Channel for advanced tweaking.

Gain Assistant

  • CQ’s gain assistant saves you time by automatically and accurately setting preamp gain for you. It can then keep an eye on your preamp levels to prevent nasty peaks.

Feedback Assistant

  • Find and remove feedback frequencies at setup using fixed mode, and then watch out for feedback throughout the show across all outputs with live mode.

FX Assist Engines

  • Including brand new signal-conscious reverb and delay units which dynamically respond to signal to always sit correctly in the mix.

AMM

  • Improve clarity and reduce background noise for speech applications without needing to lift a finger. Available on every input.

Remote Apps

  • Control the mixer from (almost) anywhere with free apps for Windows, Mac, Android and iOS. CQ-MixPad gives the engineer complete control anywhere in the room and CQ4You allows the performer to adjust only their mix and hear exactly what they need to.

Allen & Heath CQ-18T Specs

Key Specs
Max I/O Capacity
18x Input / 6x Output
Number of Analog Input Channels
18
Number of Mic Preamps
No
Number of Analog Output Channels
6
Faders & Level Adjustment
No
Built-In Effects
4x Stereo Effect (Type Unspecified)
Analog Inputs
8x XLR 3-Pin Balanced Mic/Line Input
8x Combo XLR-1/4" Balanced/Unbalanced Mic/Line Input
2x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Input (1 Stereo Pair)
Analog Outputs
2x XLR Main Output
6x 1/4" Mix Output
2x 1/4" Headphone Output
Digital I/O
1x RJ45 (Network)
USB I/O
USB-A
USB-B
Wireless
Wi-Fi
Rack Mountable
Yes
Mixer
Max I/O Capacity
18x Input / 6x Output
Number of Analog Input Channels
18
Number of Mic Preamps
No
Number of Analog Output Channels
6
Mix Routing
1x Stereo Main LRC
6x Mono Bus
Groups
No
Presets
No
Display
7" Touchscreen (Backlit)
Faders & Level Adjustment
No
Signal Processing
Input Polarity
Normal/Reverse
Dynamic Processing
Compressor, Gate
Solo/Mute
Solo, Mute per Input Channel, Bus, Master
Built-In Effects
4x Stereo Effect (Type Unspecified)
Automatic Mic Mixing
Yes
Digital Audio
Sample Rates
96 kHz
Connectivity
Analog Inputs
8x XLR 3-Pin Balanced Mic/Line Input
8x Combo XLR-1/4" Balanced/Unbalanced Mic/Line Input
2x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Input (1 Stereo Pair)
Analog Outputs
2x XLR 3-Pin Balanced Main Output (1 Stereo Pair)
6x 1/4" TRS Balanced/Unbalanced Mix Output
2x 1/4" TRS Unbalanced Stereo Headphone Output
Phantom Power
+48 V
Digital I/O
1x RJ45 (Network)
MIDI I/O
No
USB I/O
1x USB-A (Audio Playback, Audio Streaming, External Memory, Service)
1x USB-B 2.0 (Host Connection)
USB I/O Capacity
24x Input / 22x Output
Wireless
Wi-Fi
External Display I/O
No
Recording
Max Multitrack Recording
24 Tracks
Media Support
SD
Compatibility
OS Compatibility
Android/iOS
Power
Input Power
12 VDC at 4 A
100 to 240 VAC, 50 / 60 Hz
Physical
Rack Mountable
Yes
Rackmount Size
6 U (with Non-Included Hardware)
Operating Conditions
32 to 104°F / 0 to 40°C
Dimensions
13.6 x 9.5 x 3.5" / 34.6 x 24.2 x 8.8 cm
Weight
6.6 lb / 3 kg
Packaging Info
Package Weight
10.15 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
16.5 x 12.2 x 8.4"

Allen & Heath CQ-18T Reviews

Great Little Console

By Drew
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2026-05-19

Got this for small footprint church use and it's worked great so far. The ability to use Mixing Station and remote control id fantastic

The Little Giant!

By Jeffrey
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2024-02-23

In the world of audio mixing, finding the perfect balance between size and functionality can be a daunting task. However, my recent acquisition, of this compact digital mixer, has proven to be a game-changer. Here’s why it’s become an indispensable tool in my audio arsenal. Compact Powerhouse: The first thing that struck me about this mixer is its compact size. It’s incredibly portable, making it perfect for on-the-go mixing, whether for live events or impromptu recording sessions. Despite its small footprint, it doesn’t compromise on functionality. Feature-Rich: This mixer is loaded with features that make it a versatile tool for any audio enthusiast. It supports various inputs and outputs, including SD and USB, providing flexibility for different audio sources and recording needs. The variety of types and connections available ensures that I can integrate it seamlessly into my existing setup. Virtual Mixing Mastery: The virtual mixing capabilities of this mixer are nothing short of impressive. It allows for precise control and manipulation of audio, enabling me to achieve the perfect sound for any project. The intuitive interface and responsive controls make the mixing process a breeze, even for complex arrangements. User-Friendly: Despite its advanced features, the mixer is incredibly user-friendly. It’s easy to navigate, and the learning curve is surprisingly gentle. This accessibility makes it suitable for both beginners and seasoned professionals, ensuring that anyone can unlock its full potential. Verdict: In conclusion, this compact digital mixer is a standout product that offers a perfect blend of portability, functionality, and ease of use. Whether you’re a professional sound engineer or a passionate audio hobbyist, this mixer is sure to elevate your audio experience. It’s a small package that delivers big results, making it a must-have tool for anyone serious about sound.

See any errors on this page?

How do you select mic/line Hi-z inputs? I played ...

How do you select mic/line Hi-z inputs? I played with the 18T at my local dealer and could not find these settings in the menus.
Asked by: DNN
The XLR inputs on channels 1-8 and XLR-1/4" inputs on channels 9-16 can be used for mic- or line-level input on the Allen & Heath CQ-18T Compact 18-Channel Digital Mixer with Touchscreen, but DI is required for Hi-Z input (instruments like a guitar and bass). Only the CQ-20T has Hi-Z inputs on channels 15-16.
Answered by: Elliot A
Date published: 2024-09-30

Can this connect to a digital stage box running ...

Can this connect to a digital stage box running cat5 instead of a snake?
Asked by: TODD
The CQ mixers can not connect to digital stage boxes or other mixers. You can digitally route tracks from your computer, via usb, a usb thumb drive, or SD card. You can also run to one of the USB ports and the SD card at the same time
Answered by: Allen & Heath Expert
Date published: 2023-09-01

Can I use the tablet to Start/Stop ...

Can I use the tablet to Start/Stop Playback/Recording from USB drive/Sd card or Bluetooth?
Asked by: Emmanuel
Yes, you can control start/stop and playback/recording for the Allen & Heath CQ-18T Compact 18-Channel Digital Mixer's USB drive and for the SD card when using the app with an iPad. The controls for playback via Bluetooth are on the mixer.
Answered by: Lisa S
Date published: 2024-10-21

Are the line inputs pro level +4 dBu or consumer ...

Are the line inputs pro level +4 dBu or consumer level -10? Thanks. Really liking how this looks.
Asked by: DNN
The Allen & Heath CQ-18T Compact 18-Channel Digital Mixer's balanced outputs are +4 dBu.
Answered by: Calvin M
Date published: 2023-09-29

Does this have a monitor output (not tablet) so ...

Does this have a monitor output (not tablet) so you can have, say, all of your meters displayed on an external screen?
Asked by: DNN
The Allen & Heath CQ-18T Compact 18-Channel Digital Mixer with Touchscreen does not have a video output.
Answered by: Calvin M
Date published: 2024-10-21

Since the 18T offers its own wifi, does it ...

Since the 18T offers its own wifi, does it provide dhcp? That is, could it become the network hub for a portable production?
Asked by: David
Yes, both the CQ18T and CQ20B's built in wifi will generate an IP address for any paired devices. Your tablet will see a network with CQ18 in the title. Join this network as you would any other network. A password for the network can be added from the CQ. You can have the network run with DHCP or with static IP addresses. It will also run across 11 channels in 2.4GHZ or 5GHZ
Answered by: Allen & Heath Expert
Date published: 2024-06-05
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