Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (22)
$999.99 $999.00 $0.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (4)
$999.99
Amazon
5.0 (1)
$1,149.98
Reverb
$899.00 New
$849.00 Used
Thomann
4.7 (70)
$798.00 $789.00 $9.00 · All time low

Average Price: $948

Standard/Professional

$200

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Allen & Heath CQ-20B 16-Channel Rackmount Digital Mixer". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Discover seamless control and superior audio quality with the Allen & Heath CQ-20B 16-Channel Rackmount Digital Mixer. Perfect for studio and live environments, this mixer is designed to bring a professional touch to your sound with 96 kHz FPGA processing. It offers a robust and flexible platform to manage your audio inputs and outputs effortlessly, boasting 16 microphone/line preamps and various output options for ultimate versatility.

The CQ-20B is equipped with a built-in dual-band 2.4G / 5G AC Wi-Fi, ensuring hassle-free connectivity and control via Windows, Mac, Android, or iOS. You can navigate your mix with ease using the CQ-MixPad and CQ4You apps, giving you full command over every detail of your sound. The intuitive Gain and Feedback Assistants help you maintain optimal levels and clarity, while the four FX Assist engines provide creative effects to enhance your mix.

Record and play back directly via SD and USB, making it an indispensable tool for studio sessions or live performances. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting, the Allen & Heath CQ-20B is a compelling choice for those seeking precision and reliability in a compact form factor.

Key Features:

  • 16 Microphone/line preamps (8 x XLR + 8 x XLR/TRS 'Combi')
  • 2 x TRS stereo line inputs
  • 96 kHz FPGA processing
  • Gain and Feedback Assistants
  • 4 x FX Assist engines
  • Built-in dual-band 2.4G / 5G AC Wi-Fi
  • Control via CQ-MixPad and CQ4You apps
  • SD and USB audio recording and playback
  • 2 x XLR outputs, 6 x Monitor mixes (TRS), and dual headphone outputs

Product specs

Type Digital Mixer
Channels 20 (16 x mono, 2 x stereo)
Inputs - Mic Preamps 8 x XLR-1/4" Combo, 8 x XLR
Phantom Power 16 Channels
Inputs - Other 4 x 1/4" TRS
Outputs - Main 2 x XLR
Outputs - Direct 6 x XLR (monitors)
Outputs - Other 1 x 1/4" (assingable alt)
Data I/O 1 x RJ45
USB 1 x Type B, 1 x Type A
Bluetooth Stereo Input
Computer Connectivity USB (24 x 24), Ethernet, 2.4G/5G AC Wi-Fi
Headphones 1 x 1/4" TRS
Effects Reverbs, Delays, Modulators
Signal Processing 96kHz FPGA
Features Feedback Assistant
Software CQ MixPad App, CQ4You App
Rackmountable Yes (kit sold separately)
Height 5.3"
Depth 14.7"
Width 6.1"
Weight 5.8 lbs

FAQs

How many channels does the Allen & Heath CQ-20B mixer have?

The Allen & Heath CQ-20B mixer has a total of 20 channels, including 16 mono channels and 2 stereo channels, providing ample input options for various audio sources.

Does the Allen & Heath CQ-20B support wireless control?

Yes, the CQ-20B features built-in Wi-Fi, allowing for wireless control via the CQ MixPad and CQ4You apps, which can be accessed on compatible devices.

What types of inputs are available on the Allen & Heath CQ-20B?

The mixer includes 8 XLR-1/4" combo inputs, 8 XLR inputs, and 4 additional 1/4" TRS inputs, offering flexibility for connecting various microphones and instruments.

Is the Allen & Heath CQ-20B suitable for live performances?

Yes, with its 16 mic/line inputs, built-in effects, and robust connectivity options, the CQ-20B is well-suited for live performances and can be easily rack-mounted for convenience.

Can the Allen & Heath CQ-20B record audio directly to a computer?

Yes, the CQ-20B features a 24x24 USB interface, allowing it to connect directly to a computer for multitrack recording and playback.

Does the Allen & Heath CQ-20B have built-in effects?

The mixer includes built-in effects such as reverbs, delays, and modulators, providing a range of sound processing options to enhance your mix.

What are the main output options on the Allen & Heath CQ-20B?

The main outputs include 2 XLR outputs for the stereo main mix and 6 XLR outputs for monitors, with an additional assignable 1/4" output for flexibility in routing audio.

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent sound quality and reliable SD card recording

  • Built-in WiFi eliminates need for external router

  • Compact, easy setup with intuitive app control

  • Sturdy build compared to other digital mixers

  • Onboard Bluetooth and SD recording capabilities

  • Comprehensive suite of effects, including compressors, limiters, and feedback assistance

  • CQ4you app allows monitor volume control from phone

  • Individual channel recording with playback for live mixing

  • Functions as a multi in/out audio interface for DAWs

  • Suitable for both beginners and professionals with customizable features

CONS

  • Some users find the FX sends confusing

  • Learning curve for those new to digital mixers

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Allen & Heath CQ-20B 16-Channel Rackmount Digital Mixer.

Features and functionality

  • The CQ-20B lacks mute groups and DCAs, and requires switching between PEQ/FBA and GEQ, losing EQ settings in the process.

    Source
  • The CQ-20B features a 24x24 96kHz USB interface and onboard SD recording, which is unique in its price range for virtual soundchecks and gig recording.

    Source
  • The console lacks keyboard shortcuts and doesn't support pinch gestures for EQ adjustments, making touchscreen devices preferable for easier control.

    Source
  • Users find the "easy reverb" feature to be essentially preset-based with a single knob control, mapping parameter adjustments within fixed ranges.

    Source
  • Users report frequent connection issues with built-in WiFi, suggesting the use of an external router like TP-Link CPE 510/520 for better reliability and range.

    Source
  • Internal WiFi may be affected by venue conditions like thick walls or interference, suggesting the need for a WiFi analyzer to assess interference in gig conditions.

    Source
  • Switching from 2.4GHz to 5GHz WiFi can help reduce interference, though it may reduce range, necessitating line-of-sight for optimal performance.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Issues with USB 3 connectivity on Mac M2 cause dropouts; using a USB 2 hub resolves problems.

    Source
  • Mixing Station software is highly recommended for customizing the interface, offering MIDI compatibility and allowing for personalized physical UI setups.

    Source

User experience

  • The unit's lightweight design and built-in power supply make it suitable for stagebox applications, saving space behind drums.

    Source
  • The built-in automixer is seen as a useful feature for theater applications, particularly for managing floor mics in plays, reducing active mixing effort.

    Source
  • Some owners achieve only 20-30 feet of reliable WiFi range, indicating potential variability in performance depending on environmental factors.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Despite basic features, it's effective for small gigs and in-ear monitoring, with high-quality preamps and dynamics.

    Source
  • Using an external Apple AirPort Express or similar router can extend the control range to 100 feet, offering more flexibility in live settings.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Compared to the Presonus 32R, the CQ-20B is considered less intuitive due to its app quirks and missing features.

    Source
  • The CQ-20B is often compared with the Midas MR18 and Behringer X18, with users noting superior ease of use and multichannel recording capabilities in the CQ-20B.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Allen & Heath CQ Series Mixers | FOH | Front of House Magazine

fohonline.com

With robust build quality and intuitive design, the Allen & Heath CQ-20B digital mixer shines in live settings, offering top-notch 96kHz audio performance and user-friendly features. The built-in assistants streamline setup, and its recording capabilities are a boon for gig capture. However, the lack of mute groups and DCAs, and some minor GUI quirks, may irk seasoned users. Overall, this compact powerhouse delivers exceptional sound and flexibility, making it a solid choice for both novices and pros seeking a reliable mix solution.

positive

Allen & Heath CQ-20B 16-Channel Rackmount Digital Mixer review on prosoundweb.com

prosoundweb.com

The Allen & Heath CQ-20B mixer is a gem in the ultra-compact digital mixer market, offering a feature-rich experience without the usual cramped feeling. With its 96 kHz processing, built-in WiFi, Bluetooth, and versatile input options, it caters to both novices and pros. The firmware updates and user-friendly interface, including a companion app, make it a breeze to use. While not without minor limitations, it punches above its weight, providing powerful features like multitrack recording and an intuitive Quick mode. It's a strong contender for those seeking a compact mixer without sacrificing functionality.

positive

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

More Allen & Heath Mixers

Allen & Heath ZED-10

$244.00 - $399.99

# 20

Rank

Emika STATIK SKY NL Tom Alexander Schmitt
5 artists using
Allen & Heath Zed-14

$416.00 - $679.99

# 34

Rank

Merzbow
1 artist using
Allen & Heath Zed 12-FX

$539.00 - $799.99

# 40

Rank

Merzbow
1 artist using
Allen & Heath QU16

$1,134.45 - $1,999.99

# 45

Rank

The Flashbulb (Benn Jordan)
1 artist using
Allen & Heath ZED-22FX

$735.00 - $1,299.99

# 72

Rank

Legowelt
1 artist using
Allen & Heath ZED-428

$2,059.48 - $2,999.99

# 76

Rank

Dominik Eulberg
1 artist using
Allen & Heath ZED60-14FX

$495.00 - $749.99

# 85

Rank

Merzbow
1 artist using
Allen & Heath QU-24

$1,499.99 - $3,131.22

 
Toni Torres
1 artist using
Allen & Heath SQ-5

$2,899.00 - $3,999.00

 
Tim Millar
1 artist using

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides