Qu Series Reference Guide For firmware V1.8 Check www.allen-heath.
Limited One Year Manufacturer’s Warranty Allen & Heath warrants the Allen &Heath -branded hardware product and accessories contained in the original packaging ("Allen & Heath Product”) against defects in materials and workmanship when used in accordance with Allen & Heath's user manuals, technical specifications and other Allen & Heath product published guidelines for a period of ONE (1) YEAR from the date of original purchase by the end-user purchaser ("Warranty Period").
IMPORTANT - Read before starting: Safety instructions Before starting, read the Important Safety Instructions printed on the sheet supplied with the equipment. For your own safety and that of the operator, technical crew and performers, follow all instructions and heed all warnings printed on the sheet and on the equipment panels. System operating firmware The function of the Qu mixer is determined by the firmware (operating software) that runs it.
1. Packed contents Qu Mixer Qu-16/24/32 Guide AP10025 or Qu-Pac Guide AP9815 Safety Sheet AP9240/CL-1 • Read this before starting Mains lead • Check this is correct for your territory Options and Accessories available Remote Audio Racks Provides remote audio over dSNAKE Cat5 cable digital snake.
2. Contents 1. Packed contents ................................................................................................................................. 4 2. Contents .............................................................................................................................................. 5 3. Qu Chrome Edition and V1.8 Firmware ............................................................................................. 7 4. Introduction ..................................
11. 10.9 Working with FX – Adding vocal reverb: ................................................................................. 57 10.10 Scene Memories ...................................................................................................................... 58 Touch Screen Setup Functions ........................................................................................................ 61 11.1 Audio Setup - PAFL......................................................................
3. Qu Chrome Edition and V1.8 Firmware Qu Chrome Edition introduces a fresh new look for the Qu range with high contrast chrome rotary and fader knobs that also improve visibility in dark conditions. Qu Chrome coincides with the release of new firmware V1.8. This introduces several new features and improvements. Existing black knob Qu mixers can be updated to V1.8. Qu hardware and memory files remain fully compatible between editions.
4. Introduction 4.1 Overview and Features Building on the heritage of the GLD and flagship iLive digital consoles, the Qu presents exceptional performance together with an intuitive analogue style user interface with a motorised fader per channel, knobs and touch screen, total recall of all settings, full input, output and FX processing, USB streaming and hard drive multitrack recording, digital snake capability and remote wireless control using an iPad.
4.2 System Architecture and Processing The following diagrams show the Qu-16, Qu-24 and Qu-32, and the Qu-Pac I/O (inputs and outputs), audio architecture and processing available. The difference between the models and the routing capability of each processing section is illustrated. Refer also to the more detailed System Block Diagrams at the rear of this guide.
SIGNAL FLOW Mic/Line Inputs 1 ------ 16 Mic Line ST1 L/M PREAMP GAIN 48V Cat5 Digital Snake to AudioRack and ME Personal Monitor System Line Inputs ST2 L/M ST3 Stream 32 ch R Local Inputs Channel SOURCE USB B FX or PAFL GATE PEQ COMP DELAY 0 MUTE AES Out 2Trk Alt Out Mix 1-----------10 Main LR Stream 32 ch USB dSNAKE L L R R Local Outputs Mix AMM (CH1-16) Ducker TRIM POL Insert HPF Record Stereo, 18 trk dSNAKE USB Inputs Input CH1-32, ST1-3 CH17-32, Group and MTX Outputs Line
Qu-32 4 Group masters Larger Touch Screen 32 fader strips 2 Matrix masters 4 DCA Group masters 4 stereo Group mix selects Qu-Pac Qu-Pac is the mix engine of the Qu-32 in a compact rack mountable format. It has the same local connections as the Qu-16 and can be expanded to use the additional Qu-32 channels and outputs by adding dSNAKE AudioRacks. It does not have faders and is intended for iPad wireless control.
Qu-16 16 Mic/Line 24 out, 22 in USB audio streaming Qu-24 24 Mic/Line in 32 out, 30 in USB audio streaming 4 Group out Matrix out Qu-32 32 Mic/Line in 32 out, 32 in USB audio streaming 8 Group out Matrix out Qu-Pac 16 Mic/Line in 32 out, 32 in USB audio streaming Use dSNAKE to access up to 32 Mic/Line in and other mix outs Scene, Library and Show memories - All Qu mixer memories are compatible. Files created on one model can be transferred via USB key and loaded on the other.
5. Connection Overview The following connections are available on the rear panel of the Qu mixer. The Qu-16 is shown here. AES digital out Lamp Alt out 2Trk out LR main out Analogue Mix outputs Mic and Line inputs Talkback Mic in ST1 and ST2 stereo line in Kensington Lock Cable clamp dSNAKE remote audio Power On/Off Network USB B streaming Mains fuse Mains power input 5.
5.2 Local Output Connections Group, Mix, Matrix outputs – Balanced XLR line level outputs for the mono and stereo mixes, for example to feed monitor amplifiers, external processing devices, delay fill speaker systems and recording devices. These use low impedance, high quality differential driver circuits for connection to +4 or 0dBu equipment. Maximum output is +22dBu. Pin2 = hot Professional equipment provides ‘balanced’ connections for maximum interference rejection over long cable runs.
5.4 Powering up the mixer The Qu mixer has an internal universal voltage power supply unit. This means you can use your mixer in most parts of the world without the need to modify the unit as long the local mains supply is within the range: Mains Voltage = 100 to 240 V.AC Mains Frequency = 47 to 63Hz Important - Before starting, read the Safety Instructions Sheet packed with the mixer. These can also be downloaded from the Allen & Heath website.
6. Connecting dSNAKE Remote Audio The Qu mixer provides local sockets on its rear panel for all audio inputs and outputs. It can also work with remote audio by connecting over a single cable ‘digital snake’ to an Allen & Heath AudioRack, or to the Allen & Heath ME Personal Mixing System. 6.
Available AudioRacks: AB168 16 Mic/Line in, 8 Line out - Floor, shelf or rack mount The AB168 AudioRack can be used as a stage box on the floor or a surface, or mounted in a 19” rack using the optional rack ears. EXPANDER – To connect to a second AB168 to add more input and output sockets. Also compatible with the Allen & Heath ME personal mixing system. dSNAKE – To connect to the Qu mixer using a Cat5 digital snake.
6.2 Qu Systems The Qu mixer has sockets for all its inputs and outputs on its rear panel and can therefore be used without any additional rack. However, if you wish to use a digital snake to connect remote stage audio to the mixer using a single Cat5 cable then there are several rack options available. The following diagrams show suggested combinations: Qu-16 – All inputs and outputs are available locally. Use on stage or with an analogue snake. Qu-16 Qu-16+AR84 – 8 remote inputs.
Qu-32 – All inputs and outputs Qu-32+AR84 – 8 remote inputs. Provides 4 outputs Qu-32+AR2412 – Access to 24 mic inputs near the stage. Qu-32 Qu-32 Qu-32 are available locally. dSNAKE Qu-Pac – Same engine as dSNAKE CH1-24 Qu-32 but has 16 inputs and same outputs as Qu-16 available locally. Use dSNAKE to access the others. CH1-8 AR84 Qu-32+AB168 – Digital snake for 16 mics on stage. Qu-32 Out1-4 Out1-12 AR2412 Qu-32+2x AB168 – Add a second AB168 for 32 mics on stage.
6.3 The ME Personal Mixing System The Allen & Heath ME Personal Mixing System can be used with the Qu mixer. This provides customisable personal monitor control for individual musicians and performers on stage. ME-1 personal mixer – A compact personal mixer able to work with up to 40 channels. Features built-in headphones and monitor output. Intuitive and easy to operate, its 16 select keys can be configured to provide as much or as little control as the musician needs.
7. Qu-16, 24, 32 Operational Overview This section provides an overview of the Qu fader mixer layout and operation to help you get started quickly. The Qu-16 mixer is shown here. Similar applies to the Qu-24 and Qu-32. Touch Screen SuperStrip TouchChannel Screen select Qu-Drive Fader Flip Engineer’s monitor Copy/Paste/reset Function key (Fn) Mix assign SoftKeys Layer select Master Strip Fader Strips Mix select Mix keys Channel select Sel key 7.
Mute key – Press to turn off the channel audio signal. This affects the send to all mixes including LR, groups, effects and stage monitors. The key lights red when muted. It flashes when muted by a Mute or DCA Group master. Sel key (select) – Press to access the Channel Processing. Parameters can be adjusted using the SuperStrip controls. The touch screen will display the settings and provide additional controls if either the Processing or Routing screen is active.
7.2 The Master Strip Qu provides a dedicated fader strip for the Mix Masters. It presents the fader and controls for the mix currently selected using the Mix keys alongside. The sends to the selected mix are presented on the channel faders. They move to show the current settings. This provides a very quick way to access each mix without the need to switch to the Masters layer. Mute key – Press to turn off the mix master audio signal. The Mute key lights red when the audio is muted.
7.3 Working with the sends on faders: Select a Mix - Press a Mix key. The master strip presents the mix fader and controls. The channel faders move to present the sends to that mix. Adjust Send levels – For Mix and FX sends. Move the channel faders. These become the sends to the selected mix. Adjust Send pans - While a stereo Mix is selected, press a channel Sel key and use the Pan control to pan its send in the mix.
8. Qu-Pac Operational Overview This section provides an overview of the Qu-Pac faderless mixer layout and operation to help you get started quickly. SoftKeys Touch Screen Live mixing screens System screens ST3 Input Qu-Drive USB Phones Alt Out Channel screen Custom Select keys Fn key Copy/Paste/Reset keys Channel select Virtual fader strip Mix select Screen rotary control Touch Screen - All live mixing, setup and memory management functions can be controlled from the Qu-Pac front panel.
System screens - These screens provide access to the mixer setup, Qu-Drive recording and memories: Home – Pages of housekeeping functions including safe Shut Down, Lock Surface, change and set up User Profile, view Meters and RTA, and work with Qu-Drive stereo and multitrack recording and playback. FX – View, load and set up the 4 internal effects units. The Back Panel view lets you patch each unit as inserted or send/return. These can provide reverbs, delay and modulation effects types.
9. Processing and Mix Functions 9.1 Channel Naming Qu channels, FX, mixes and groups can be named using the screen keypad. The following can be named: Mono input channels Stereo input channels FX Returns FX Sends Mix LR Groups Matrix Mute Groups DCA Groups Channel names The name is displayed at the top left of the Processing and Routing screens. The name can be edited from the Processing screen. The pencil icon appears when the name is blank.
9.2 Channel Processing The SuperStrip provides familiar, analogue feel, one function per knob control of channel and mix master processing such as equalisers and dynamics. The Touch Screen displays the parameter values and provides additional related controls while in the Processing screen. This processing is accessed using the fader strip Sel keys. The Qu-Pac does not have the physical controls.
Preamp An analogue preamplifier (‘head amp’) matches each connected microphone or line signal to the operating level of the console before it gets converted to digital to be processed and mixed with the other channels. Source lets you choose one of four sources as the input to the channel. Press the Fn key to open the Source screen. Local = Mic/Line socket on the Qu rear panel. dSNAKE = Remote preamp from AudioRacks. Qu-Drv = Playback from USB hard drive. USB B = Audio streaming from a Mac computer.
The panel USB Select key in the SuperStrip switches between the current Preamp source (Local or dSNAKE) and the current USB source (Qu-Drive or USB B). This key is not available on Qu-Pac. Phantom Power Turn on 48V if the connected device requires phantom power, for example a condenser microphone or active DI box. Touch and hold for 1 second to toggle on or off. This prevents accidental operation.
Ducker Touch Ducker Setup to open the settings page: Single – Single channel ducking. The trigger and settings apply to just this channel. Gang – Multiple channel ducking. The same trigger and settings apply to all channels set to Gang mode. There is only one Gang. Trigger Input – Touch to highlight and then turn the screen rotary to scroll through the available trigger sources. Channel trigger sources follow the Global Direct Output setting. This would typically be set to Follow Fader, Follow Mute.
Gate The Noise Gate can be switched in to dynamically turn off the audio when it drops below a certain level. For example, to reduce resonant decay of a kick drum or floor tom, or hiss of a noisy keyboard. Use the In key or screen button to switch the Gate in or out. This is similar to inserting an outboard rack mounted device into the Insert socket on an analogue console channel. Note – The lower part of the Gate meter is a darker green to show signal ‘noise’ level below -40dB.
Compressor The Compressor is a powerful tool for controlling the dynamics of the sound, for example to smooth out a bass guitar or to narrow the dynamic range of a vocal to make it more intelligible in a busy mix. At its extreme setting the compressor can be used as a limiter to prevent the signal exceeding a preset maximum level. A compressor works by dynamically reducing the amount of gain when the signal increases above a certain threshold. This pulls back loud moments.
Group (not available on Qu-16) Insert switches an internal FX in or out if one has been patched into the mix. The button is disabled when the insert is not patched. The FX is inserted at the start of the processing before the EQ. Use the FX / Back panel screen to choose and assign one of the 4 internal FX as an Insert into a mix. Groups allow FX or Ducker to be inserted.
9.5 Processing Libraries Processing block settings can be stored as Libraries: PEQ GEQ Gate Comp Channel (Preamp, Gate, PEQ, Comp, Delay) You can store up to 128 library items including all types. Press the Fn key on the related Processing screen to open the Library page. The Channel library is available from its Gate, PEQ and Comp screens.
9.6 List of Factory Libraries PEQ Gate Comp GEQ :Bell Flat - 4 bell @ 0.
9.7 Channel Routing The Touch Screen presents tabs to access a CH or ST channel routing assignments and send levels when its fader strip Sel key is selected and the Touch Screen Routing screen is active. The SuperStrip Pan control provides quick access to the related mix pan setting for the channel. The Fn key is used to access the Mute and DCA Group masters while in any Routing screen. 9.8 Working with the Routing screens Press a fader strip Sel key. Press the Touch Screen Routing key.
Channel Direct Output settings Adjust the channel Direct Output Trim from off to +10dB gain. The default setting is 0dB. Choose the channel source for the Direct Outputs using the drop-down menu. Choose whether the outputs are affected by the faders and/or mutes. These are global settings affecting all channels. Qu Direct Outputs can be used for several different applications.
Channel Grp Sends screen The Qu-24 includes two stereo Group mixes, and the Qu-32 and Qu-Pac have four. Groups are not available on the Qu-16. Firmware V1.8 introduced Group Mix Mode. You can choose each Group to be either an audio group or a stereo mix. Group mode is set for each Group using its master Routing screen. The channel Grp Sends screen lets you work with the sends from one channel to all the groups.
9.9 Mix Routing The Touch Screen presents tabs to access the Mix master routing assignments and send levels when its fader strip Sel key is selected and the Touch Screen Routing screen is active. The Fn key is used to access the Mute and DCA Group masters while in any Routing screen. Assign all channels on or off to a mix, or set all sources pre or post-fader. Select a mix master Sel key while the Routing screen is active to: Adjust the Output Balance between Left and Right sockets of a stereo mix or LR.
9.11 Audio Groups The Qu-24 provides two stereo audio groups in addition to the 10 mixes. Qu-32 and Qu-Pac provide 4 stereo groups. Groups are not available on the Qu-16. Firmware V1.8 introduced Group Mix Mode. Groups can be configured as conventional stereo audio sub-groups or as additional stereo mixes. By using groups in Mix mode the Qu-24 can provide up to 4 mono and 5 stereo mixes. The Qu-32 and Qu-Pac can provide up to 4 mono and 7 stereo mixes.
9.12 Working with the Groups (Qu-24, Qu-32, Qu-Pac) Choose whether you want the Group to operate as an audio group or a stereo mix. Go to the Grp master Routing screen. Changing mode resets the associated parameters.
9.13 Mute and DCA Groups The Qu mixer provides 4 Mute Groups and 4 DCA Groups. These let you control the levels of groups of channels or mixes. Mute Group – Provides a single master Mute key to mute or unmute all channels assigned to the group. This is similar to pressing the Mute keys of all assigned channels at the same time. All channel pre-fade and post-fade sends are affected.
To assign Mute Groups - Select the Mute Group Assign tab, then touch the tab for the Mute Group you wish to assign. To assign DCA Groups - Select the DCA Group Assign tab, then touch the tab for the DCA Group you wish to assign. All sources to that group are shown. The larger Qu mixers present two pages of assignments. Touch the arrow button to navigate between the two pages. Touch buttons to assign sources in or out of the group. Touch the All button to turn all the assignments in or out.
9.15 Using DCA Groups There are 6 ways to access the DCA Groups: 1. All Qu mixers provide DCA master controls in the Routing screen Mute/DCA view Masters tab. Press the Fn key to open this view. Touch a Mute button to mute or unmute a DCA group. Touch a DCA Level box and use the screen rotary to adjust its level. Its value is shown in the box. Fn key 2. The Qu-32 provides dedicated DCA fader control strips on its Master layer. These provide direct access to the 4 DCA groups. 3.
10.Touch Screen Mixing Functions The Qu features an 800x480 pixel, colour touch screen for quick and intuitive setup and control of the mix. The Qu-16, Qu-24 and Qu-Pac have 5” screens. The Qu-32 has a larger 7” screen. Sel screens TouchChannel Touch to select each processing block Option menu Button Parameter box Other screens Status toolbar Function key Screen Rotary Edit keys Screen select keys Button – Touch to select its function or change its state.
Status Bar – This lower screen toolbar shows useful system information and is always visible. Fn key function - for example to show that the key is available to select a Library or Options page. Scene information – Shows the number and name of the current (Curr:) and next (Next:) scenes. Curr: Shows the last scene recalled. This is blank when the mixer powers up and only appears after a scene has been recalled. Next: Shows the scene highlighted in the Scenes list ready to be recalled.
10.1 Copy, Paste, Reset keys You can copy, paste and reset blocks of processing, mix parameters or scenes and their filters. Copy – While holding down the Copy key, press or touch the item you wish to copy. Next, while holding down the Paste key, press or touch the destination Sel or Mix you wish to copy to. Reset – While holding down the Reset key, press or touch the item you wish to reset to factory default.
10.2 The Sel screens – Processing and Routing Processing Screen – When selected this screen presents the processing including Preamp, Gate, EQ, Compressor for the channel or master currently selected using its strip Sel key. Touch the top part of the screen to select the processing block you wish to view or adjust, for example Preamp or PEQ. This section is known as the TouchChannel. The lower part of the screen changes to provide access to the related parameters and additional related controls.
10.4 Home Screen – User Three User Profiles are available to protect selected functions and restrict user access, for example for volunteer operators in houses of worship, or guest engineers visiting venues. The Admin user has access to all functions and can set permissions and allocate passwords if required for the other users. You can log in as one of 3 Users with different permissions: This button lets the Admin user set a login password for Qu-You personal mixing app users.
10.5 Home Screen – Meters This screen provides a convenient view of all channel, mix and FX signal activity. For optimum performance the loudest signals should read into the yellow. If any red Peak meter flashes then reduce the level of that signal to avoid possible distortion. Increase levels if the meter readings are consistently low. The Qu-24 meters screen is shown here. Qu-32 provides two pages of meters. The Qu-16 does not include Group and Matrix meters. 10.
10.7 Home Screen – Qu-Drive (USB audio) Qu-Drive audio recording and multitrack playback require the USB storage device to support high sustained transfer rates. Not all USB devices will guarantee flawless performance. To find out more please refer to the ‘Understanding Qu-Drive and USB’ document in the Qu Knowledgebase on the Allen & Heath web site. This opens screens associated with the USB stereo and multitrack recording: Use the USB storage device with the Qu mixer only.
Stereo Playback – You can play back audio files from a USB storage device plugged into Qu-Drive: Format = 44.1 or 48kHz, 16 or 24-bit, WAV file Use the USB device with the Qu mixer only. Do not use it for other applications. Format the USB device on the Qu mixer before loading the playback files. Use the Setup / Utility / Qu-Drive screen. This clears the drive and sets up the Qu directory structure. Copy audio WAV files on to USB from your computer. Place these in the AHQU / USBPLAY directory.
Multitrack Record – You can record to a USB storage device plugged into Qu-Drive: We recommend you transfer previous recordings to your computer and then reformat the USB device on the Qu mixer before using it for each show. This will avoid potential audio skipping that may occur with some USB devices containing long recordings.
10.8 The FX Qu features 4 internal stereo FX (effects) processors. Each can be loaded from a library of different effects types and presets. These are the same as found in the flagship Allen & Heath iLive digital mix system and are based on emulations of popular industry standard effects. The FX screen Press the FX key next to the Touch Screen to open the FX screen. You work with the FX in the same way you would with a traditional outboard rack. Start with an empty rack as shown here.
Symphonic Chorus - A faithful emulation of the 80’s classic chorus effect. Simple to use and frequently requested. The unit has just two controls, Frequency and Depth controlling the rate and delay range of the stereo modulator. The unit produces a rich, lively and wide chorus sound with a suggestion of very mild phasing / flanging. Live engineers commonly use this for thickening vocals and strings and creating a spatial sound from a mono source.
10.9 Working with FX – Adding vocal reverb: Press the FX key to open the FX screen. Touch to select FX1. Press the Fn key to open the Library page. Touch ‘Factory’. Recall a Reverb into the FX1 slot if one is not already loaded. Open the Back Panel view and check that FX1 is set for Mix>Return with FX1 as its input. Start by turning up a vocal channel fader while the master strip LR mix is selected to hear the signal in the main PA mix. Select the top layer to view the FX Return channel strips.
10.10 Scene Memories Qu provides 100 Scene memories. These store and recall a snapshot of all live mixing parameters. Scenes have many applications. They can be used to store settings for bands during sound check for recall before they take to the stage during the show. Scenes can also be used for cue recall during theatre shows, or to provide a known starting point for different events or users in a multi-purpose venue. The Scenes screen – Press the Scenes key next to the touch screen.
A Scene stores the following: Preamp settings Channel processing and linking Channel patch and routing Channel sends Channel mutes Channel faders/pan Mix processing Mix mutes Mix faders Group mode Ducker settings AMM settings FX parameters Output patch Talkback assign and filter Mute Groups DCA Groups Custom strip assign SoftKey assign Scene contents A Scene is a ‘snapshot’ of the Qu mixer settings.
The Filter screen Filter parameters: A Recall Filter protects one or more parameter types for all channels. Inputs/FX (All CH, ST, FX Ret, Groups) Input patch (Local, dSNAKE, USB) Preamps (Gain/Pad/Trim/48V/Pol) CH/ST process (Gate/PEQ/Comp/Dly/Duck) Group processing (not Qu-16) FX patch FX parameters Inputs/FX/Group Faders/Pan Inputs/FX/Group Mutes Inputs/FX/Group Names A scene stores all live mixing parameters.
11. Touch Screen Setup Functions Press the Setup key next to the Touch Screen to open the Setup screens. Touch the top tabs to access the different categories of setup function. Touch the tabs below to open up the related options available. Dimmer – Hold down the Setup key and turn the screen rotary to adjust the screen and surface LED brightness. The Qu mixer always powers up with full brightness. 11.
11.2 Audio Setup - Talkback Set up and assign Talkback to talk to the musicians via their monitors, or make announcements via the house (PA) mix: HPF – Dial in the High Pass Filter to remove low frequency pops and resonance while talking. Factory default is 120Hz. 48V – Hold for 1 second to switch on phantom power. Gain – Adjust the talkback mic level. T Assign – Touch to toggle the assignments to the different mixes on or off. Press the surface Talk key to talk to the musicians or house.
11.4 Audio Setup - Automatic Mic Mixer (AMM) An Automatic Mic Mixer provides automatic level control of multiple microphones for spoken word applications, for example conferences and discussion panels involving several participants each with their own mic around a table. This improves intelligibility and can reduce the risk of feedback by dynamically reducing the levels of mics which are not being spoken into.
Gain activity meter block – These level meters give you a real time overview of the AMM gain distribution for all 16 channels. They light for channels switched ON. Touch the left or right of the block to bring CH1-8 or CH9-16 into the main view below. ON/OFF – Touch to turn on the channels you want to be affected by the AMM. The AMM sets the channel fader to ‘0’, takes over gain control and lights the gain meter.
11.5 Working with the AMM Set up and position the microphones - It is best to use the same type of microphone and position them so that the speaking participants are not too close or too far from each mic. To avoid false triggering and phasing set the distance from each voice to mic to be closer than the distance between the mics. The distances from each mic to voice should be similar for consistent operation.
11.6 Control Setup – Custom Layer The Qu-16, Qu-24 and Qu-32 mixers provide a custom fader layer. The Qu-Pac does not have faders and provides a custom Select key layer (see below). The Custom Layer can have any combination of channel, FX, master and MIDI strips assigned to its faders. Faders can be left unassigned. This lets you arrange the faders you are using for your show into one convenient layer, or use the Custom Layer to control your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW).
11.7 Control Setup - SoftKeys Qu-24 shown Qu-16 provides 4 SoftKeys. The Qu-24 and Qu-32 provide 10. Qu-Pac provides 15. These are called ‘Soft’ because they can be assigned to different functions by the user. Function – Touch the box to open and choose from the list of available functions. Touch Apply to confirm the changes. SoftKey settings are stored in scenes. They are blocked from Scene recall by default.
11.8 Control Setup - Network Use this screen set the TCP/IP address for the Network port and the name used to identify the Qu mixer on the network. It is important that the network address is compatible with the addresses of equipment connected to the port, for example a laptop providing MIDI control of mixer parameters, or a wireless router providing remote control using the Qu-Pad iPad app.
11.10 Control Setup - Preferences This screen presents user preferences for the control surface. Set these according to how you prefer to work. These settings are stored with Show files. They are not stored in Scenes. PEQ Graph Fill – When turned On, the processing screen PEQ graph displays a colour fill. There are 4 colours which match the frequency bands. The system reset default is the Fill option turned On.
11.11 USB Data – Scene Transfer Individual Scenes can be transferred between Qu mixers via a USB device (key or drive) plugged into the Qu-Drive port. This provides a quick way to transfer settings without overwriting the current scenes and preferences. Make sure the USB device has been previously formatted using the Qu mixer Utility / Qu-Drive screen. The list on the left displays a list of scenes stored in the Qu mixer. The list on the right displays those found on the USB device.
11.13 USB Data – Show transfer Qu mixer settings can be stored to a USB device (key or drive) plugged into the Qu-Drive port. Data can be archived to computer and transferred between Qu mixers. A ‘Show’ stores all the Qu mixer settings and memories. It is stored as a set of files in a numbered folder on the USB device. Shows are not stored in the Qu mixer.
11.14 I/O Patch Setup – Surface Use this screen to patch signals to the rear panel Alt Out and AES outputs. Touch a box to open up the list of available options. Changes are applied instantly. You can also touch outside the list to exit. Alt Out – Choose the source for the rear panel stereo Alt Out jacks. AES Out – Choose the source for the rear panel AES digital output. The reset default for both is LR postfade. Group and Matrix outputs are not available on the Qu-16. 11.
11.16 I/O Patch Setup – dSNAKE Out This screen presents the patching for the dSNAKE remote audio outputs. These outputs can be mapped from any combination of Qu mixer output sources. The Qu mixer detects which AudioRack type is connected. A Qu system can have up to two AudioRacks connected. These are shown as: dSNAKE – The first (main) AudioRack connected. Expander – The second (expander) AudioRack. dSNAKE outputs can be patched with or without physical AudioRacks connected.
11.17 I/O Patch Setup - Monitor This screen presents the patching of the dSNAKE remote monitor audio outputs. This allows the Qu mixer to work with the Allen & Heath ME Personal Monitor mixing system. A ME-1 mixer or ME-U distribution hub can be plugged into any of these sockets: Qu rear panel dSNAKE port AR2412 MONITOR port AR2412 EXPANDER port AB168 EXPANDER port There are 40 Monitor output channels. These can be patched from any input channels, FX, Groups, Mixes and PAFL.
11.18 I/O Patch Setup – USB Audio This screen presents the patching of the USB audio outputs. This includes the Qu-Drive Stereo, Qu-Drive Multitrack and the USB B audio streaming. The Qu-16 provides 24 patchable USB outputs. The Qu-24, Qu-32 and Qu-Pac provide 32 USB outputs.
11.19 Utility - Calibration Use the routines here to calibrate the touch accuracy of the Touch Screen and positional accuracy of the Motor Faders. Follow the on-screen instructions. 11.20 Utility – Qu-Drive This screen lets you check and format a USB device (key or hard drive) for use with Qu-Drive. Once formatted you do not need to format it again. Formatting the USB device will erase all current data on it. If you want to keep this then make sure you archive the data elsewhere first.
11.21 Utility – Firmware Update The Qu mixer operating firmware can be easily updated using a USB device (key or drive). Make sure the USB device has been previously checked and formatted to work with the Qu mixer. If you need to format the device then use the Format facility in the Setup / Utility / Qu-Drive screen. Step1 Download the firmware Visit the Allen & Heath web site and download the latest Qu firmware. Choose the firmware for your Qu mixer model. The file has a .
12. Working with Audio Streaming and a DAW The Qu mixer can stream audio and send MIDI messages to and from an Apple® Mac or Windows® PC computer via the rear panel USB B port. This lets you work with a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) running on your computer. The Custom Layer can provide MIDI control faders and keys.
DAW Bank Up/Down – You can assign SoftKeys as Bank Up and Bank Down to scroll through the banks on the DAW when using DAW Control (Mac computers only) MMC transport Control – Transport controls are available in the Setup / Control / MIDI screen. These can also be assigned to SoftKeys for quick access. Assign the SoftKeys using the Setup / Control / SoftKeys screen. Stream audio to the computer – Audio is sent via the rear panel USB B port.
13.Qu-Pac Qu-Control Screen Qu-Control is a custom assignable screen available on the Qu-Pac model only. It lets you present just the few controls needed for basic operation. For example, to control background music source and level within a music bar. It can be associated with the Qu ‘Basic User’ with permissions set by the ‘Admin’ user so that only this screen is available for non-technical bar staff, for example to adjust the background music.
14. iOS Apps for Wireless Control Two Qu apps are available from the Apple Store: Qu-Pad - Engineer’s live mixing control Qu-You - Musician’s personal monitor control Qu-Pad is an engineer's mixing tool giving you the freedom to walk the room or stage and control the sound right where it is needed. Qu-Pad gives you control of the live mix. It is not for full system setup which can be accessed at the mixer.
Touch to select a Mix Qu-You provides personal monitor mix control for musicians and performers on stage. The engineer can still keep an eye on and control each mix at the Qu mixer at any time. Qu-You runs on Apple iOS devices including iPhone4 or later, iPad, iPad Mini or iPod Touch running iOS7 or later. A version is also available for Android devices. You can connect up to 8 devices to the Qu mixer. This includes multiple devices running Qu-You, and up to two iPads running Qu-Pad if also being used.
Setting up the Qu wireless network The app sends and receives control data over a wireless (Wi-Fi) network. This requires a wireless router (wireless access point) connected to the Qu mixer Network port. Control device Qu mixer Wireless router Qu Network port Cat5 cable Choosing a wireless router - For best performance we recommend you use a dual band (2.4 and 5GHz) wireless router (wireless access point) with auto channel selection.
15.Resetting the Mixer There are two ways to reset the Qu settings: 15.1 Reset Mix Settings – A starting point for mixing This button in the Scenes screen resets the mixer to a known starting point for mixing. It provides a quick way to reset the processing, mixes and patching before a show or after another user has finished with it. All parameters that can be stored in Scene memories are reset to a factory default. Parameters that are not stored in scenes are not affected.
15.2 System Hard Reset A power up reset is available if you need to fully reset the Qu mixer settings and memories. This could be done to clear the system out before sending the mixer to a client, or if you suspect a system problem. To reset mix parameters before starting a show or sound check, use a Scene or the Reset Mix Settings function described earlier in this guide. A hard reset clears all current settings, all Scenes, User Libraries and User Permissions.
16.Specifications 16.1 Installing Qu-16, Qu-24, Qu-32 The following provides information for mixer installation. The Qu mixer can be operated on a flat surface or fitted into a flightcase. The Qu-16 can be mounted in a 19” equipment rack or plinth. Ventilation - Make sure that air flow around the ventilation slots at the rear and underside of the mixer is not obstructed. Keep these areas clear when flight casing, installing or operating the mixer.
16.2 Installing Qu-Pac Free Standing - For operating while on a desk, shelf or other flat surface. Make sure the 4 rubber feet are fitted. Allow space at the sides and rear for ventilation. The mixer can be transported in a purpose designed padded bag or flight case. Optional polyester Qu-Pac padded carry bag AP9931 is available from Allen & Heath. Rubber feet Rack Cased - For operating while fitted into a 4U space in a standard 19” equipment rack or flight case.
Qu Mixer Reference Guide 88 USB dSNAKE ADC ADC ADC ADC + - + - ADC ADC Gain ADC + - + - + - 48V LOCAL Stream Stereo or Multitrack Mic/Line Inputs 1-24 AR2412 -20dB PAD + - ADC GAIN Patch any socket to any channel 48V Mic/Line Inputs 1-8 CH1-16 ST1-3 FX Ret1-4 pre Mix1-10 post LR pre/post L+R pre/post PAFL AR84 1-24 1-18 17-18 or Talkback Mic XLR Out 1-12 XLR Out 1-4 XLR Out 1-8 Mix1-10 post LR pre/post L+R pre/post PAFL BAL + Ready +4dBu + - Gain dSNAKE dSNAKE d
Qu Mixer Reference Guide 89 USB dSNAKE ADC ADC ADC ADC + - + - ADC ADC Gain ADC + - + - + - 48V Mic/Line Inputs 1-24 AR2412 -20dB PAD + - ADC GAIN Patch any socket to any channel 48V Mic/Line Inputs 1-8 1-32 1-18 CH1-24(32) ST1-3 Grp1-4(8) FX Ret1-4 pre Mix1-10 post LR pre/post L+R pre/post MTX1-4 post PAFL AR84 Stream MUTE METER Ducker Ducker Insert FADER FX Send1-4 USB Patch 1-32: Mic/Line Inputs 1-16 USB B 17-18 or Ducker Trigger To USB (Insert Sends) To USB (Dir
Qu Mixer Reference Guide 90 USB dSNAKE ADC ADC ADC ADC + - + - ADC ADC Gain ADC 48V + - + - + - -20dB PAD + - ADC GAIN Patch any socket to any channel 48V Mic/Line Inputs 1-24 AR2412 CH1-32 ST1-3 Grp1-8 FX Ret1-4 pre Mix1-10 post LR pre/post L+R pre/post MTX1-4 post PAFL Mic/Line Inputs 1-8 1-32 1-18 MUTE METER Talkback Mic Grp1-8 post Mix1-10 post LR pre/post L+R pre/post MTX1-4 post PAFL DAC BAL + Ready +4dBu Patch any output to any socket XLR Out 1-12 XLR Out 1-4 + -
16.6 Inputs System Specifications Mic/Line Inputs Balanced, XLR and 1/4" TRS jack, fully recallable Input Sensitivity (XLR / TRS) -60 to +5dBu / -50 to +15dBu Analogue Gain Maximum Input Level (XLR / TRS) Control Faders 100mm motorised Touch Screen Qu-16, 24 5" TFT, 800x480 resolution -5 to +60dB, 1dB steps Touch Screen Qu-32 7" TFT, 800x480 resolution +19dBu / +29dBu SoftKeys 4 (Qu-16), 10 (Qu-24, 32) Input Impedance (XLR / TRS) >5kΩ / >10 kΩ Mute Groups 4 THD+N, Unity gain 0dB 0.
