Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $986
Standard/Professional
$200
$1001+
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Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Allen & Heath CQ-20B 20-channel Rackmounted Digital Mixer". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Unleash your musical creativity with the Allen & Heath CQ-20B 20-channel Rackmounted Digital Mixer. Designed for both seasoned audio engineers and budding sound enthusiasts, this compact powerhouse delivers exceptional 96kHz audio fidelity and user-friendly control. Its ingenious design allows it to fit seamlessly into any stage rack, making it the ultimate portable mixing solution.
The CQ-20B's Preamp Gain Assistant and Feedback Assistant are your backstage allies, ensuring optimal sound levels and virtually eliminating feedback. With its dual-mode channel processing, you can switch between Quick Channels for fast, intuitive mixing or delve into Complete Channels for advanced audio tweaking. The built-in Smart-FX engines provide a suite of reverb, delay, and modulation effects, tailored to enhance your unique sound.
Connectivity is a breeze with integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing wireless control via the CQ MixPad app from anywhere in the venue. Record every note with confidence using the built-in USB interface and SD card recording capabilities. Whether you're mixing a live show or recording a studio session, the CQ-20B offers unmatched versatility and pristine sound quality.
Key Features:
- 16 mic/line inputs plus two stereo line inputs
- Built-in dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- 24x24 USB audio interface and SD card recording/playback
- Preamp Gain Assistant and Feedback Assistant for optimized setup
- Instrument-based Quick inputs and Complete inputs for detailed control
- Four Smart-FX engines for tailored audio effects
- Remote control via CQ MixPad app for iOS, Android, Mac, and Windows
- Rackmountable stagebox design for portability and convenience
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 (main) |
| 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 |
| 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
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How many channels does the Allen & Heath CQ-20B mixer have?
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The Allen & Heath CQ-20B mixer features 20 channels, including 16 mono channels and 2 stereo channels, providing versatile input options for various audio mixing needs.
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Is the Allen & Heath CQ-20B mixer rackmountable?
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Yes, the Allen & Heath CQ-20B is designed to be rackmounted, although the rack mounting kit is sold separately.
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What connectivity options does the Allen & Heath CQ-20B offer?
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The Allen & Heath CQ-20B provides USB, Ethernet, and dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing for flexible integration with digital audio workstations and remote control via compatible apps.
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Does the Allen & Heath CQ-20B support Bluetooth audio input?
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Yes, the Allen & Heath CQ-20B includes stereo Bluetooth input, enabling wireless audio streaming directly into the mixer.
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What software is compatible with the Allen & Heath CQ-20B mixer?
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The Allen & Heath CQ-20B is compatible with the CQ MixPad App and CQ4You App, allowing for remote control and personal monitoring using mobile devices.
Reviews
PROS
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Auto Gain feature prevents clipping, ensuring optimal sound levels
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Exceptional preamps provide clear, noise-free audio
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User-friendly interface once familiar, with intuitive navigation
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CQ4You app allows individual monitor control for users
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Multitrack recording to SD card is quick and efficient
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Compact and lightweight design ideal for live gigs
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Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections offer flexible audio streaming
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Live feedback suppression enhances performance quality
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Quick save and recall settings streamline setup for different venues
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Affordable price for the range of features offered
CONS
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Initial steep learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
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Wireless network controls are problematic, impacting usability
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App interface can be cluttered and complex
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Main knob may feel insecure during regular use
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Limited media compatibility for recording and playback
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Allen & Heath CQ-20B 20-channel Rackmounted Digital Mixer.
Features and functionality
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Switching between PEQ/FBA and GEQ requires navigating to the Config page, and switching causes loss of EQ settings.
Source -
The CQ-20B's internal WiFi can struggle in congested environments; connecting a standalone router, like the TP-link CPE 510, significantly improves range and reliability.
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The CQ-20B offers a 24x24 96kHz USB interface and onboard SD recording, unique at this price for virtual soundchecks and gig recording.
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The CQ-20B lacks DCAs and Mute Groups, limiting quick control over channel muting during live performances.
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The CQ-20B lacks physical mutes in processing tabs, making quick access cumbersome in live settings.
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The CQ-20B's effects, like "space verb" and "echo delay," are preferred for small live shows, despite limited options in its market segment.
Source
User experience
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In dense WiFi environments, analyzing network conditions with a WiFi analyzer during gigs can help identify interference sources and improve performance.
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Owners report that the CQ-20B's WiFi often performs poorly if the mixer is placed in a rack or surrounded by metal, which can create a partial Faraday cage effect.
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The unit's preamps are described as detailed but prone to feedback, with a digital, sterile sound lacking warmth compared to some users' preferences.
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Software and compatibility
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Switching the CQ-20B to 5GHz WiFi can reduce interference, particularly in areas with many 2.4GHz devices, though it may slightly reduce range.
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Android users find limitations with the app, such as no options to turn off autogain or switch between WiFi and Ethernet.
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Users report that connecting the CQ-20B to USB 3 on Mac M2 causes dropouts and glitches, resolved by using a USB 2 hub via Thunderbolt.
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Built-in WiFi is reliable but can be problematic; using a travel router like GL.iNet Opal is suggested for more stable connectivity.
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Mixing Station software is recommended for customizing the CQ-20B's UI, allowing integration with physical controllers like the X-touch.
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Use cases and applications
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Using an external router like the Apple AirPort Express extends WiFi control range to 100 feet, making it suitable for larger venues and complex setups.
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The lightweight build and built-in power supply make the CQ-20B ideal for stagebox-style applications in crowded setups.
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Ideal for small venues with limited space; can sit on stage, minimizing gear and avoiding the need for an audio snake.
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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
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