Allen & Heath SQ5+ 48-Channel Digital Mixer

Modern live production demands more than channel count alone—it requires speed, flexibility and processing power that can adapt to changing workflows in real time. The Allen & Heath SQ5+ 48-channel digital mixer is built around a 96kHz XCVI FPGA core that delivers ultra-low latency performance, phase-coherent mixing and extensive routing flexibility for demanding live sound, installed audio and recording environments. Designed as an evolution of the SQ platform, the SQ5+ combines expanded processing power with a redesigned 9" capacitive touchscreen interface, integrated RackUltra FX processing and Allen & Heath’s DEEP processing architecture for advanced channel shaping directly within the console. Its compact footprint, 17 motorized faders and scalable SLink ecosystem make it well suited for touring rigs, houses of worship, corporate AV systems and mid-sized venues that require professional audio performance without sacrificing portability or workflow efficiency.

96kHz XCVI Processing With Ultra-Low Latency

At the center of the SQ5+ is Allen & Heath’s XCVI FPGA processing core, operating at 96kHz with a system latency of less than 0.7 ms for highly responsive live mixing and monitor applications. The engine supports 48 input processing channels alongside stereo main LR, 12 configurable mono/stereo group and aux mixes, four FX sends and six linkable matrix outputs, giving engineers the flexibility to manage complex productions with confidence. By maintaining phase alignment and coherence across the signal path, the SQ5+ preserves clarity and imaging even during large channel counts and demanding routing configurations. Whether mixing front-of-house, monitors or multitrack playback sessions, the console’s processing architecture is designed to remain stable, fast and consistent under real-world production workloads.

RackUltra FX and Integrated DEEP Processing

The SQ5+ expands the platform’s processing capabilities with eight internal FX engines and four dedicated RackUltra FX engines with dedicated stereo return channels, featuring advanced Allen & Heath algorithms designed for modern live production. Effects such as Spaces Reverb, Plate Reverb, Saturator and Amp+Cab processing provide studio-style depth and tonal shaping directly within the console, reducing reliance on external processors and outboard racks. The mixer also supports Allen & Heath DEEP processing, allowing engineers to integrate premium compressor, preamp and channel processing models directly into input and mix channels without adding additional latency. Advanced vocal tools including Vocal Tuner, Vocal Shifter and harmonizer processing further expand the console’s utility for contemporary live performance and worship applications.

Expanded Touchscreen Workflow and Hands-On Control

Designed for fast navigation during live production, the SQ5+ features a redesigned user interface centered around a larger 9" capacitive touchscreen display that improves visibility and workflow efficiency across mixing, routing and effects management tasks. Seventeen 100 mm motorized faders operate across six customizable channel strip layers, allowing engineers to configure the surface around specific production needs while maintaining quick access to critical channels and mixes. Eight assignable SoftKeys streamline common workflow functions, while configurable chromatic channel meter LEDs improve visual feedback in fast-paced environments. Its compact chassis also supports optional 19" rack mounting, making the SQ5+ particularly effective for portable touring systems, flypacks and mobile production setups.

Flexible Connectivity for Live and Installed Audio

Built to integrate into a wide range of professional audio systems, the SQ5+ includes 16 local XLR mic/line inputs, 12 XLR outputs, stereo line inputs, AES3 digital output and a 128x128 Intelligent SLink port for expansion with Allen & Heath stage boxes and networked audio systems. A built-in 32x32 USB-B audio interface supports multitrack recording and playback directly with Mac and PC systems at 48kHz or 96kHz, while SQ-Drive functionality enables stereo or multichannel playback and recording directly to USB media through the USB-A connection. The mixer also supports optional Dante, Waves, MADI and additional expansion card formats through its 64x64 option card slot, allowing the SQ5+ to scale into larger installed, broadcast and touring audio infrastructures as production requirements evolve. Remote network control through Allen & Heath control apps further expands operational flexibility for front-of-house, monitor and installed audio workflows.

Compact SQ Mixing for Modern Production Workflows

Combining high-resolution FPGA processing, expanded onboard effects, scalable connectivity and an efficient control surface, the SQ5+ is designed to meet the needs of modern live production environments where flexibility and reliability are essential. Its compact footprint makes it especially attractive for portable systems and space-conscious installations, while the advanced processing architecture provides the depth and routing power required for demanding professional applications. From houses of worship and corporate AV systems to touring productions and multitrack recording workflows, the Allen & Heath SQ5+ digital mixer delivers powerful SQ-series performance in a streamlined and production-ready format.

Allen & Heath SQ5+ 48-Channel Digital Mixer: FAQ

What is the Allen & Heath SQ5+ designed for?
The SQ5+ is designed for professional live sound, installed audio, worship, touring and recording applications that require advanced routing, high channel counts and low-latency digital mixing.

What is new in the SQ5+ compared to the previous SQ5?
The SQ5+ adds expanded processing power, a larger 9" capacitive touchscreen with a redesigned interface, RackUltra FX processing and updated surface styling while retaining the SQ platform’s 96kHz XCVI FPGA core architecture.

Can the SQ5+ record multitrack audio directly to a computer?
Yes. The SQ5+ includes a built-in 32x32 USB audio interface for multitrack recording and playback with Mac and PC systems at up to 96kHz.

Does the SQ5+ support stage boxes and network expansion?
Yes. The mixer features a 128x128 Intelligent SLink port for connection to Allen & Heath stage boxes and expansion systems, along with support for optional Dante, Waves and MADI networking cards.

What types of effects and processing are included in the SQ5+?
The SQ5+ includes eight internal FX engines and four dedicated RackUltra FX engines with studio-style reverbs, saturation, amp simulation and advanced vocal processing tools. It also supports Allen & Heath DEEP processing for integrated compressor and preamp modeling directly within the console.