Next‑Gen Power: The Allen & Heath QU‑5 Digital Mixing Desk

Simon Woodhams
Next‑Gen Power: The Allen & Heath QU‑5 Digital Mixing Desk

The long-awaited Allen & Heath QU‑5 digital mixer ushers the beloved Qu series into the modern era—bringing together pro-grade audio, expansive connectivity, and intuitive control in a sleek, rack-mountable format.

🎛️ Core Features & Build

  • 96 kHz XCVI FPGA engine delivers ultra-low latency and pristine sound. The QU‑5 refines the user-loved analog-style workflow with DEEP processing support and high-resolution dynamics 

  • 17 motorized 100 mm faders and a responsive 7″ capacitive touchscreen offer tactile, visual mixing control. Each channel sports chromatic LED meters and customizable layers 

  • Rack-friendly at ~10 kg, it’s tour and venue-ready—preserving familiar Qu ergonomics with fresh hardware under the hood 

🧩 Connectivity & Expansion

  • Handles 36 mixable channels (32 mono, 2 stereo, plus USB input), 12 mix buses, and 4 matrix outs .

  • I/O includes 16 XLR/jack combo mic/line inputs, 2 stereo line inputs, 12 XLR outs, TRS, AES3 digital out, talkback, and headphone jacks 

  • SLink port supports Allen & Heath’s Everything I/O stageboxes (Dx/Dx/… including dSnake), scalable from 48 kHz to full 96 kHz digital expansion 

  • Variant QU‑5D adds built-in 16×16 Dante, saving you the cost and hassle of an expansion card—ideal for multi-room or networked audio rigs

💡 Workflow Enhancements

  • Four custom fader layers and 8 assignable SoftKeys boost real-time flexibility—even for fast-paced logged tours or instore installs

  • Feedback Assistant and Gain Assistant streamline soundchecks; the built-in Automatic Mic Mixer (AMM) is perfect for panel discussions or corporate events 

  • Expansive recording/playback support:

    • USB‑C: full 32×32 multitrack to DAW

    • SD card: 16×16 @ 96 kHz or 32×32 @ 48 kHz

    • USB‑A: simple stereo recording/playback

    • Support for DEEP and RackExtra plugin suites from the dLive ecosystem adds tonal versatility. Firmware v1.1 enables seamless access to boutique-style compressors, EQs, and more 

🤝 Who Is the QU‑5 For?

This mixer is a standout for:

  • Live sound engineers — compact yet powerful FOH or monitor desk.

  • Fixed installs — churches, auditoriums, educational spaces, broadcast venues.

  • Hybrid studios/rehearsal spaces — capable of both live sound and computer multitrack recording.

  • AV integrators — especially when Dante or Everything I/O network flexibility is key.

🔍 Sidebar: QU‑5 vs QU‑5D

Feature QU‑5 QU‑5D
Dante support via port Integrated 16×16 Dante
Price base premium model

if networked audio and simplified cabling are in your plans, the D version pays for itself in setup efficiency.

💬 Final Thoughts

The Allen & Heath QU‑5 represents both a homage and an upgrade—keeping the signature, walk-up-and-mix charm while injecting powerful 96 kHz processing, recording, and I/O versatility. Whether touring bands, corporate venues, or installation pros, this desk sets a new benchmark for price-performance-proof digital mixing.

For engineers looking for a compact, expandable, and feature-packed live mixer, the QU‑5 is a compelling, future-ready centerpiece.