Allen & Heath SQ-RACK

A Compact Console Born from Allen & Heath dLive Heritage

The Allen & Heath SQ series continues the brand's professional digital solutions by incorporating technologies from the dLive range into a compact, robust, and field-oriented format. Positioned as a versatile reference for modern setups, the SQ aims to balance processing power, immediate ergonomics, and simple integration into existing digital audio infrastructures.

Ideal Uses and Target Profiles for the SQ Series

Designed for demanding sound engineers and technicians, the SQ consoles meet the needs of live performances (concerts, tours, monitors), broadcast, and audiovisual applications, as well as corporate events where reliability and quick operation are essential. Their architecture facilitates managing complex stages while remaining intuitive enough to handle soundchecks, scene changes, and monitoring adjustments efficiently, even under time constraints.

Power, Ergonomics, and Recording: Key Strengths That Make a Difference

XCVI 96 kHz Engine and Responsive Mixing

At the heart of the SQ, the FPGA XCVI 96 kHz processor ensures high-definition processing with latency under 0.7 ms. The console offers 48 input processing channels and 36 output buses, including 12 configurable stereo mixes, enabling precise routing for front-of-house and monitors. This architecture adapts well to dense stages as well as setups where clarity and source separation are priorities.

A Workflow Designed for Professionals

The interface combines a 7-inch capacitive touchscreen with physical controls (backlit rotary encoders, assignable buttons) to maintain direct, fast, and reliable control. Channel customization (names, colors, organization) allows instant orientation, while the "Channel to All" function facilitates access to all sends from a channel in one gesture-a real time saver during live shows and rehearsals.

In-Ear Monitoring and Controlled Stage Monitors

With its 12 configurable stereo mixes, the SQ excels in stage monitoring and in-ear monitoring. Each mix features suitable equalization tools (parametric and graphic) to quickly sculpt a comfortable and intelligible monitor mix, reduce listener fatigue, and stabilize balances throughout the show.

RackExtra Effects, DEEP Plugins, and SQ-Drive Recording

The SQ series integrates 8 stereo effects engines with dedicated returns, including the RackExtra library (reverbs, delays, modulations) to enrich mixes without external gear. The DEEP plugins, embedded directly on channels, provide studio-grade processing (compressors, preamps) with zero latency and no configuration complexity.

For capture and production, SQ-Drive enables direct multitrack recording to USB storage, convenient for archiving concerts, virtual soundchecks, or preparing later mixes. The console can also operate as a 32 x 32 USB audio interface at 96 kHz, compatible with ASIO and Core Audio, supporting modern recording, playback, and production workflows.

Technical specifications

Type	digital Compact (Integrated Mixing Engine)	ME Personal Mixer compatible	Yes
USB multitrack recording/playback	16 tracks 96k / 32 tracks 48k	Sampling frequency	96 kHz
USB stereo recording / playback	Yes	Plugins	Optional (A&H shop)
Number of assignable keys	8.0000	Rackable	Included accessories
Number of mixable channels	48	Screen size	7 "
Number of touch screen(s)	1.0000	Audio/Video outputs	USB
Number of assignable rotary controls	4.0000	Mic/line inputs	XLR
Number of expansion slots	1.0000	Line outputs	12 XLR, Stereo - 6.35mm jacks - Dry signal
Slice name display	Yes	Headphone output	Yes
Sound engineer app on tablet	iOS, Android	Audio/Video inputs	USB, Stereo Minijack
Musician application on Smartphone	iOS, Android	Weight	5.8 kg

Processor	FPGA XCVI 96 kHz	SLink port	128 x 128 for expansions and connection with dLive
Latency	under 0.7 ms	I/O port	64 x 64 for Dante, Waves, or MADI cards
Input processing channels	48	USB audio interface	32 x 32 at 96 kHz (ASIO/Core Audio)
Output buses	36 (including 12 configurable stereo mixes)	SQ-Drive	direct multitrack recording to USB (16 x 16 at 96 kHz / 32 x 32 at 48 kHz)
Built-in effects	8 stereo effects engines with RackExtra FX	Touchscreen	7-inch high resolution
XLR mic/line inputs	17	Assignable rotary encoders	4
Line inputs	4 x 6.35mm Jack (TRS)	User buttons	8
Stereo mini-jack input	1	LED bargraphs	chromatic on each channel strip
XLR outputs	12	Format	compact digital console
Outputs	2 x 6.35mm Jack (TRS)	Rack-mountable	yes, with included multi-position brackets
Digital output	1 stereo AES3	Dimensions	compact format suitable for transport