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Allen & Heath CQ Series Mixers (CQ-12T, CQ-18T, CQ-20B) | Demo and Feature Overviewplay button

Allen & Heath CQ Series Mixers (CQ-12T, CQ-18T, CQ-20B) | Demo and Feature Overview

CQ Series Overviewplay button

CQ Series Overview

CQ Series: Getting Startedplay button

CQ Series: Getting Started

CQ Quick Channelsplay button

CQ Quick Channels

Allen & Heath

collapse expand iconDescription

The Allen & Heath CQ-18T digital mixer combines compact portability with cutting-edge performance to meet the demands of gigging bands, rehearsal spaces and home studios. Built on a 96kHz platform, this mixer delivers pristine audio quality alongside assistive tools that streamline setup and mixing. Its Preamp Gain Assistant and Feedback Assistant enhance workflow, while customizable quick and complete channel modes cater to users of all skill levels. With Bluetooth, wireless connectivity, SD and USB options, the CQ-18T offers seamless integration for live shows, virtual soundchecks and studio recordings. The tactile encoders, responsive touchscreen and optimized suite of onboard effects ensure effortless operation while maintaining uncompromised sound quality.

Quick and Complete Channel Modes

Every input on this mixer can be toggled between quick and complete modes, letting users choose the level of control they need. Quick channels provide instrument-specific processing, allowing you to dial in a polished sound with minimal adjustments. For advanced users, complete channels unlock in-depth parameters for fine-tuning dynamics, EQ and effects. This dual-mode flexibility ensures precise sound shaping, whether you're speeding through a live setup or meticulously crafting studio mixes. With quick and complete channels, users can achieve professional-grade results without sacrificing time or control.

A Digital Mixer With Preamp Gain Assistant

The CQ-18T simplifies one of the most time-consuming tasks in mixing—setting gain levels. Its Preamp Gain Assistant automatically determines optimal gain for each input channel, ensuring clean, distortion-free audio. Whether managing a single mic or multiple instruments, this feature quickly adjusts levels and continuously monitors performance to prevent unwanted peaks. By removing the guesswork from gain staging, this mixer allows engineers to focus on creative mixing rather than technical troubleshooting, delivering consistent sound quality with minimal effort.

Feedback Assistant for Problem-Free Performance

Feedback is a common challenge in live sound environments, but the CQ-18T eliminates it with its Feedback Assistant. Using up to 16 filters per output, this tool automatically detects and suppresses problematic frequencies in real time. Whether you're mixing for a crowded venue or a corporate event, the Feedback Assistant ensures clear, uninterrupted sound without manual intervention. This feature gives engineers confidence during performances, allowing them to focus on delivering exceptional audio without worrying about feedback interruptions.

A Durable Mixer for Real-World Applications

The CQ-18T is designed with portability and durability in mind, featuring a compact chassis that fits easily into backpacks or soft cases for transport. Its rugged construction ensures reliable operation in demanding environments, from rehearsal spaces to live stages. The responsive touchscreen, tactile encoders and custom keys are built for intuitive use, while its robust connectivity options—Bluetooth, SD and USB—make it adaptable for diverse setups. This mixer combines form and function to deliver uncompromised performance wherever it's needed.

Built for Gigging Bands and Home Studios

The Allen & Heath CQ-18T digital mixer is perfect for musicians, engineers and AV professionals seeking powerful yet portable mixing solutions. Its user-friendly interface, assistive tools and studio-quality sound make it ideal for live gigs, rehearsal spaces, streaming and recording. Whether you're a band dialing in your stage mix or an engineer capturing pristine audio, the CQ-18T delivers the features and reliability you need to sound your best.

Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer With 7" Touchscreen, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Connectivity
Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer With 7" Touchscreen, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Connectivity
Allen & Heath CQ-18T Digital Mixer With 7" Touchscreen, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Connectivity

collapse expand iconFeatures

  • 96kHz platform ensures pristine audio quality and studio-grade processing
  • Quick Channels provide instrument-specific settings for fast and easy mixing
  • Complete Channels allow advanced tweaking for full parameter control
  • Gain Assistant optimizes input levels to prevent peaks during performances
  • Feedback Assistant eliminates problem frequencies for feedback-free sound
  • Responsive touchscreen and tactile controls simplify the mixing experience
  • Built-in FX suite delivers reverb delay and modulation for creative options
  • Bluetooth and wireless connectivity enable flexible control from any location
  • SD and USB recording options for capturing live shows or rehearsals

collapse expand iconSpecs

  • XLR mic/line inputs: 8
  • Combi mic/line inputs: 8
  • Stereo line inputs (2x TRS): 1
  • USB stereo inputs: 1
  • Bluetooth stereo inputs: 1
  • Total analog input signals: 18
  • Total individual signals (inc. L+R for stereo): 22
  • Max. inputs (for processing and routing): 19

collapse expand iconWarranty

One year parts and labor warranty.

Featured Articles

collapse expand iconReviews

4.95

19 Reviews

100%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend

Filters
Best Uses
  1. Outdoor Events / Games16
  2. Performances16
  3. Amateur Recording9
  4. Professional Recording5
  5. Home Studio3
Cons
  1. Can't expand inputs1
  2. screen/mixer to small1
Describe Yourself
  1. Experienced10
  2. Professional Musician7
  3. Novice1
Pros
  1. Compact18
  2. Easy To Use15
  3. Excellent Sound13
  4. Versatile12
  5. Simple Controls8
  • I love the versatility of my new cq18t.

    5

    Verified BuyerVerified Buyer

    submitted7 months ago

    byRandolph

    fromWeaverville California

    Submitted as part of a sweepstakes

    I use this product to mix and record live. Our band loves the simplicity of sitting this unit on stage and having control for every musician. We really appreciate being able to record live shows and able to recall all the settings in the mixer. This unit made our lives so much easier.

  • Amazing little device that does everything

    5

    submitted8 months ago

    bySteve

    fromChicago IL

    I'm not the best at sound mixing but this thing makes it easy for me to get good mixes for everyone. The rest of the band loves having the ability to tweak their own monitor mixes. The multi track recording quality to the SD card is pretty amazing as well. I went from a 16 channel analog mackie with an avid hd 8 channel interface (massive rack case) to this little tabletop guy. Really a treat to use. Can't recommend it enough.

  • Very happy with purchase

    5

    Verified BuyerVerified Buyer

    submitted8 months ago

    byGary

    fromHouston

    Submitted as part of a sweepstakes

    Using this with our band and I mix while playing guitar. The set up using auto gain and pre channel set up are excellent. Sound is very clean into all of our QSC speakers, sub and monitors. Love it !!

  • The mixer I wish had existed all along!

    5

    submitteda year ago

    byRyan

    fromRaleigh, NC

    I haven't been this impressed by a product in a long time. I'm using the CQ-18T to wire everything up in my home music room, and for small cover-band gigs. I can mix, multi-track record AND use it as a DAW! It sounds fantastic for the price. The remote UI is responsive. Love it!

  • GREAT MIXER!!!

    5

    Verified BuyerVerified Buyer

    submitteda year ago

    byKevin

    fromCrossville, Alabama

    Submitted as part of a sweepstakes

    Played several shows with this mixer already, even before it was fully dialed in people were commenting how great and improved our sound all of a sudden is. Great mixer!!!

  • Exactly what I was looking for

    5

    Verified BuyerVerified Buyer

    submitteda year ago

    byHector

    fromSanta ana, california

    Submitted as part of a sweepstakes

    Sounds great. Is compact. i used to have an x32 compact and it was still a hassle to carry around. This thing can be held in one hand! You can also gain structure on the device itself so you don't HAVE to have another wifi connected device. I only wish there were more inputs. 16 is probably enough but I'd love the safety net of having more or at least to be able to expand the inputs

collapse expand iconQ&A

Have a question about this product? Our expert Gear Advisers have the answers.

  • asked byJC

    fromChicago il

    What is the WiFi for ?

    What is the WiFi for ?

    Open Reply - Gear-Support
    The Wi-Fi is so you don't need to bring a bulky access point or router along to use apps with the mixer. Just connect your devices to the CQ's secure Wi-Fi network and you're ready to go.
  • asked bySactoByNight

    from95823 Sacramento CA

    Stage box work with the CQ18 ?

    Stage box work with the CQ18 ?

    Open Reply - Gear-Support
    It will "work". You're just connecting mics.