NAMM 2018: Allen & Heath SQ-series digital mixers | SM Mastering

At SM Mastering, we closely monitor live and studio mixing desk developments to see how hardware innovations translate into the recording studio. During the initial industry reveal at the legendary Anaheim convention, the namm 2018: allen & heath sq-series digital mixers emerged as a game-changing solution for both live sound engineers and studio producers seeking high-fidelity recording capabilities. Powered by Allen & Heath’s revolutionary 96kHz XCVI FPGA engine, these consoles brought high-resolution, low-latency audio processing into an accessible price bracket, bridging the gap between portable live sound and high-end studio integration.

The Legacy of namm 2018: allen & heath sq-series digital mixers

When exploring the architecture behind the namm 2018: allen & heath sq-series digital mixers, the first thing that stands out is their processing core. Running natively at 96kHz, these consoles deliver pristine audio fidelity and an ultra-low latency profile of under 0.7ms. This makes them exceptionally well-suited for tracking sessions where monitoring latency can disrupt a performer’s timing. The SQ-5, SQ-6, and SQ-7 consoles utilize this robust processing power to run independent preamp modeling, deep compression algorithms, and graphic EQs on every single channel without exhausting system resources.

For studio owners looking to upgrade their hybrid routing setup, the namm 2018: allen & heath sq-series digital mixers offer an incredibly flexible 32-in, 32-out USB audio interface. This core feature allows engineers to bypass external converters entirely during tracking sessions. By streaming high-resolution audio directly into a DAW via ASIO or Core Audio, you preserve the natural transients of your acoustic instruments, drums, and vocals.

Integrating hardware units from premium brands like Universal Audio alongside the namm 2018: allen & heath sq-series digital mixers can elevate your hybrid tracking experience to new heights. You can easily route hardware outputs into the analog inputs of the SQ desk, taking advantage of the custom preamp emulations before printing the audio to your digital workstation. This level of versatility is why these mixers continue to hold a prominent spot in contemporary hybrid studios.

In our extensive testing archives at SM Mastering Audio Articles, we often emphasize the importance of high-headroom AD/DA conversion. The namm 2018: allen & heath sq-series digital mixers deliver exactly that, serving as 32×32 USB audio interfaces that double as comprehensive MIDI control surfaces. This dual functionality means you can transition seamlessly from tracking a full band to mixing and automating faders in Pro Tools, Logic, or Reaper.

Specifications Table

Practical Studio Workflow Tips

• Direct USB Recording (SQ-Drive): Make use of the SQ-Drive feature to record up to 32 channels of 96kHz audio directly to an external USB hard drive. This serves as an excellent, fail-safe backup during critical live-tracking sessions.
• DAW Control Integration: Utilize the SQ DAW Control driver to transform your console faders into physical mix controllers. This bridges the physical response of a real console with the speed of modern digital editing.
• Hybrid Processing Loops: Configure the SQ’s auxiliary sends to route tracks out of your DAW, through analog outboard gear, and back into the console. The native 96kHz conversion ensures negligible latency and zero phase issues during round-trip processing.

Conclusion

The introduction of the SQ-series marked a significant milestone in digital console design. By combining high-end FPGA processing with comprehensive DAW integration, Allen & Heath created a versatile ecosystem that serves both live sound engineers and studio producers. Whether you are running a fast-paced tracking environment or looking for a robust centerpiece for your hybrid mixing workflow, these mixers offer unmatched value, flexibility, and sonic performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the SQ-series mixers as a dedicated DAW controller?

Yes. By utilizing the dedicated Allen & Heath DAW Control MIDI driver, the SQ-series digital mixers can emulate HUI or Mackie Control protocols, allowing you to control faders, pans, mutes, and transport controls inside major DAWs such as Pro Tools, Logic Pro, and Cubase.

What is the benefit of the 96kHz XCVI Core?

The XCVI FPGA core processes audio at a native 96kHz sample rate, providing double the temporal resolution of standard 48kHz mixers. This results in incredibly low phase distortion, improved high-frequency transient response, and a processing latency of less than 0.7ms.

Can I record multitrack audio without a computer?

Absolutely. The SQ-Drive feature allows you to capture multitrack (up to 32 channels) or stereo recordings directly to a fast USB flash drive or external hard drive at 96kHz or 48kHz, making computer-free tracking simple and reliable.

Written by SM Mastering

Official content on sound engineering, mixing, mastering, and advanced electronic production by SM Mastering.