Allen & Heath SQ-5+

An SQ "Plus": dLive DNA in a Compact, Field-Ready Format

The SQ range was designed to bring Allen & Heath's high-end approach to contexts where speed, reliability, and sound quality are paramount. At the heart of the SQ5+ is the 96 kHz XCVI engine, originally developed for dLive, ensuring precise reproduction and ultra-responsive performance, even in sessions rich with processing and mixes.

The SQ5+ fits within the "production console" logic: a compact, portable surface, yet ambitious enough to cover front of house and monitors, audiovisual, broadcast, and corporate events where intelligibility and microphone control are critical.

Who Is the SQ5+ For? From Live to Corporate Sets, Without Changing Workflow

The SQ5+ targets sound engineers, contractors, and technicians who alternate between concerts, recordings, conferences, and temporary installations. Its 12 stereo mixes allow building comfortable in-ear monitors, broadcast auxiliaries, groups, or a hybrid front of house/monitor approach depending on your setup.

In corporate or broadcast environments, the integrated AMM provides a direct solution for multi-speaker stages: less feedback, more clarity, and a stable mix without relying on external solutions. On light tours or medium-sized venues, the console maintains a fast workflow with tactile control and personalized assignments close to the gesture.

Key Features: 96 kHz Power, Expandability, and Modern Workflow

XCVI 96 kHz: Speed, Precision, and Ultra-Low Latency

The XCVI FPGA processor operates at 96 kHz to deliver high-resolution sound with very low noise and latency under 0.7 ms. Practically, this results in a cleaner mix, an immediate dynamic response feel, and real comfort on monitors, especially in in-ear monitoring where every millisecond counts.

48 Inputs and Architecture Designed for Complex Configurations

The SQ5+ is designed to handle dense sessions: up to 48 input channels, structured outputs (main LR, matrices, auxiliaries), and an organization that follows your working method. Customizable channel layers and assignable tracks facilitate managing changing setups, shared patches, and last-minute needs.

DEEP Ready: Embedded Processing Without Complications

The console is "DEEP Ready": the architecture is designed to integrate boutique compressors and preamp emulations directly into channels without adding latency or complicating routing. This approach is highly appreciated in production, as it provides a more "studio" character while maintaining a simple and robust workflow.

RackExtra and RackUltra: Creative Effects and Dedicated Monitors

For spatialization and staging, the SQ5+ relies on a renowned effects bank (RackExtra), with reverbs, delays, and modulations designed to be effective in live conditions. The console also integrates RackUltra FX engines, with dedicated send and return channels, to further enrich the palette of processing according to your needs.

Integrated AMM: The Right Reflex for Multi-Mic Situations

The advanced Automatic Microphone Mixer (AMM) addresses situations where multiple microphones must remain open without compromising clarity. Since the function is built into the console, you maintain a clean setup without depending on external DSP or plugins, and without complicating configuration.

Connectivity and Extensions: SLink, Optional Cards, and Interoperability

The 128x128 SLink port opens the door to I/O expansions and Allen & Heath system connections, including the possibility to link compatible stage boxes and expanders. Additionally, a 64x64 I/O port is available for an optional card (Dante, Waves, etc.), useful for integrating into existing installations, organizing a digital front of house/monitor split, or interfacing an audio network.

Recording and Audio Interface: Standalone or Computer-Controlled

The SQ5+ offers recording and playback via USB-A, useful for quickly capturing a concert or managing background music. It also functions as a 32x32 USB-B audio interface at 96 kHz for multitrack recording, playbacks, and virtual soundchecks, with ASIO and Core Audio compatibility, as well as DAW and MIDI control functions.

SQ5+ Control Surface: Touchscreen, Motorized Faders, and On-Demand Assignments

The mix revolves around a 9-inch touchscreen and an efficiency-oriented surface: 17 motorized 100 mm faders, 6 customizable channel layers for 192 assignable tracks, and programmable controls (buttons and rotary encoders) to recall your key functions without menu navigation. Programmable chromatic channel level LEDs provide instant visual feedback, very useful in stressful situations or setup changes.

Technical specifications

Weight

11.2 kg

Dimensions (mm)

440 × 514,9 × 198

Processor	Allen & Heath XCVI FPGA	Stereo Digital Output	AES3
Sampling Rate	96 kHz	Headphone Output	Stereo
Latency	under 0.7 ms	SLink Port	128x128 (I/O expansions and system connections)
Input Channels	48	I/O Port	64x64 for dedicated optional card (Dante, Waves, etc.)
Effects Engines	8 effects engines with dedicated stereo return channels	USB-A	stereo/multichannel audio recording/playback and data transfer
RackUltra FX Engines	4 RackUltra effects engines with dedicated stereo return channels	USB-B	audio interface for 32x32 multichannel recording/playback
Plugins	DEEP compatibility (DEEP Ready)	Network	RJ45 connector
Automatic Mixer	Integrated AMM (Advanced Automatic Microphone Mixer)	Control	remote network control via free applications
Main Output	Stereo Main LR	Screen	9-inch touchscreen
Groups / Auxiliaries	12 (mono or stereo)	Faders	17 motorized 100 mm faders
Effects Sends	4	Layers	6 customizable channel layers
RackUltra Effects Sends	4	Assignable Tracks	192
Matrices	6 mono matrices (routable)	Programmable Buttons	16
Mic/Line Inputs	16 XLR	Programmable Rotary Encoders	8
Stereo Line Inputs	3 (2 TRS, 1 stereo 3.5 mm Jack)	LEDs	Programmable chromatic channel level LEDs
Talkback Input	1 XLR	Pedals	dual connection for programmable pedal
Outputs	12 XLR	Power Connection	IEC
TRS Outputs	2	Power Supply Unit	universal