Allen & Heath ZED436

A "large format" architecture designed for demanding setups

With its 32 microphone channels, subgroups, auxiliary sends, and matrices, this console follows the tradition of analog mixing desks intended for live performances, fixed installations, and versatile control rooms. Its 100 mm fader format and section-based layout facilitate fast, clear, and reliable work, even when the session or stage becomes busy.

For live sound reinforcement, venues, monitors, and recordings

This 32-channel mixing console is aimed at sound technicians, associations, houses of worship, performance venues, service providers, and project studios needing many microphone inputs (full drum kits, brass, choirs, multi-mic conferences) while maintaining a comfortable control surface. The 6 auxiliaries simplify stage monitor management (in-ear, wedges) and effects, while the USB port allows sending a stereo mix to a computer for archiving, streaming, or quick recording.

Control, equalization, and routing: a workflow tailored for the control room

Mono channels: precision and immediate control

Each mic/line channel features an adjustable gain, a low-cut filter, and a 4-band equalizer including 2 semi-parametric mids (with On/Off) to finely shape vocals, snare drums, or guitars without wasting time. Also included are panorama, a 100 mm fader, Mute and PFL functions, as well as signal presence and clip indicators to secure levels.

Stereo inputs: connect players, keyboards, and monitors without complexity

The 2 double asymmetric stereo line inputs offer pair A as 2 x Jack and pair B as 2 x RCA, with separate gains. Convenient for integrating a keyboard, player, interface output, or ambient sound. The fixed 4-band EQ (with On/Off), balance, 100 mm fader, as well as Mute and PFL maintain a consistent mixing logic with the mono channels.

Auxiliaries, subgroups, and matrices: a console that adapts to your patch

The 6 auxiliary sends (2 pre, 2 pre/post, 2 post-fader) cover both monitors and effects, with adjustable levels and AFL to monitor what you send. The 4 subgroups (with outputs and inserts on 6.35mm Jack) allow grouping a drum kit, choirs, or an instrument section and controlling the whole with a fader, while keeping assignment to L/R and Mono with panorama. Two Matrix sections complete the routing and can also feed the USB depending on the chosen configuration.

USB, monitoring, and communication: efficient in rehearsal and operation

The USB port provides a stereo output to PC (L/R bus, Aux 1/2, Aux 3/4, or Matrix) and an assignable stereo return to L/R or a dedicated stereo channel. On the control side, the headphone output on 6.35mm and 3.5mm Jack allows L-R, M, or PFL/AFL listening, with adjustable level. A Talk Back on XLR facilitates communication to Aux 1-4 or LRM, essential for quickly managing mixes and monitors.

Technical specifications

Insert	Yes	Busses / groups	4 groups
Number of faders	41	Number of auxiliary sends	6
Number of channels	36	Mic inputs	32 x XLR
Phantom power supply	Yes	Line inputs	32 x jack
EQ	4-band with upper and lower semi-parametric mid	Inputs (other)	USB, 2 channels RCA, inserts : jack for each group, inserts : jack for each mono input, talkback (XLR)
Filters	Low cut	Main outputs	3 x XLR : LR + M
PFL/AFL mode	Yes	Direct outputs	32 x balanced jacks
Category	analog mixer	Outputs (other)	USB, 6 x Aux unbalanced Jacks, groups 4 x balanced jacks, Matrixes : 2 x balanced jacks
Fader travel	100 mm	Display	LED
Number of matrixes	2	Weight	26 kg
Number of mic preamps	32	Dimensions (mm)	1135 x 560 x 130
Recording	USB

6 auxiliary sends	2 pre, 2 pre/post, 2 post-fader	Pair B	2 x RCA
Pair A	2 x Jack