Allen & Heath CQ18T - What To Know & Where To Buy

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated June 19, 2026.

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5.0 (36)

$1,199.99

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5.0 (20)

$1,199.99

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$1,292.00

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4.9 (109)

$944.00 $938.00 $6.00 · All time low

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Average Price: $1,116

High-end/Boutique

$200

$1001+

Price Tier

In the Mixers category, Allen & Heath CQ18T is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Allen & Heath CQ18T". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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The Allen & Heath CQ18T is a versatile and intuitive compact Bluetooth digital mixer designed to elevate your studio recording experience. With its sleek 7" touch screen, this mixer seamlessly integrates modern technology with professional-grade audio performance. Perfect for both seasoned sound engineers and ambitious home studio enthusiasts, the CQ18T offers a rich suite of features that cater to a wide spectrum of audio needs.

The mixer boasts 96 kHz signal processing, ensuring crystal-clear sound quality and precision audio control. Its connectivity options are robust, featuring compatibility with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS through the CQ-MixPad and CQ4You apps. This flexibility allows for remote mixing and monitoring, putting you in control from anywhere in the studio.

The CQ18T's dual-band router supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks, providing reliable and fast wireless connections. With built-in USB sound card capabilities (24x22 in/out), it offers extensive recording and playback options via USB-B and USB-A ports, as well as SD-card support. The automatic gain and feedback assistant streamlines setup, making it easier than ever to achieve professional results.

Additional features like Bluetooth stereo playback, 4 FX Assist Engines, and 3 user-defined softkeys further enhance your creative possibilities. The inclusion of smart rotaries and dual foot switch connections add to its ergonomic design, ensuring that every function is within easy reach.

Key Features:

96 kHz signal processing
7" touch screen for intuitive control
Compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Dual-band router (2.4/5 GHz)
USB sound card (24x22 in/out) and SD-card player/recorder
Bluetooth stereo playback
Automatic gain/feedback assistant
4 FX Assist Engines
16 mic/line preamps, 1 stereo line input
Main 2 XLR outputs, 6 monitor outs, 2 headphone outputs
3 smart rotaries and 3 user-defined softkeys
Connection for dual foot switch

Owner's manual

Allen & Heath CQ18T User Manual

Product specs

Available since	September 2023
User Interface	Physical/remote
Number of faders	0
DSP Input channels	18
Mic Preamp	16
Physical outputs	8
Digital stagebox connection	No
Hotspot	No
Multitrack Record	Yes
integratated Player/Rec via USB/SD	Multitrack
19" Rackmount	Optional
DSP Output Channels	8
Busses	6
Mono-Line Input	5
Stereo-Line Input	1
Ethernet	Ethernet
Soundcard interface	USB-B
Recorder Format	WAV
Scribble Strips	1
RTA	No
FX Processor	4
31 Band EQ	0
Matrix	0
Midi Connector	No
Sample rate	96 kHz
Monitor Apps	1
Separate Personal Monitor system	No
Expansion Card slots	0
Digital ADAT	No
Digital SPDIF	No
Digital AES3/ASESEB	No
Digital MADI	No
Digital Dante	No
Case	Optional
Height	88 mm
Width	346 mm
Depth	242 mm
Weight	3 kg

FAQs

What are the main connectivity options on the Allen & Heath CQ18T mixer?: The Allen & Heath CQ18T offers 16 mic/line XLR/combo XLR-1/4" inputs, two balanced 1/4" TRS inputs, two XLR main outputs, and six 1/4" mix outputs. It also includes two assignable headphone outputs and supports USB-B for soundcard interface connectivity.
Does the Allen & Heath CQ18T support multitrack recording?: Yes, the Allen & Heath CQ18T supports multitrack recording via USB and SD card, allowing you to capture live performances or rehearsals with ease.
How does the Gain Assistant feature on the Allen & Heath CQ18T work?: The Gain Assistant on the Allen & Heath CQ18T optimizes input levels automatically to prevent peaks, ensuring your mix remains clear and distortion-free during performances.
Can the Allen & Heath CQ18T be controlled remotely?: Yes, the Allen & Heath CQ18T can be controlled remotely via Bluetooth and wireless connectivity, offering flexible control from any location using compatible devices.
What is the sample rate of the Allen & Heath CQ18T?: The Allen & Heath CQ18T supports a 96 kHz sample rate, providing pristine audio quality and studio-grade processing for professional mixing applications.

Reviews

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PROS

Exceptional build quality, suitable for studio and live use
Crystal clear and detailed audio performance
Versatile with a wide range of functions and connectivity options
Advanced features like flexible EQ controls and built-in effects
Ergonomic design with intelligently positioned controls
Auto-Gain feature automatically reduces peaks
Supports recordings in various forms and media
Compact size, easy to transport
Precise and easily accessible adjustments

CONS

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Allen & Heath CQ18T.

Use cases and applications

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Configuring smart keys for specific tasks, such as a mute-all button and FX mute, is beneficial for quick live adjustments.
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Ideal for simple "throw and go" gigs, the CQ18T's automatic feedback detection and auto gain are praised for quick setups.
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Software and compatibility

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Mixing Station is beta testing for CQ20, with plans to extend support to other CQ models, addressing user demand for more customizable app control.
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Users report that without stopping the recording session, all recorded data may be lost, which is a significant flaw during live recordings.
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The Android app has issues sizing on certain devices, but firmware updates have swiftly addressed these, notably resolving problems on Pixel phones.
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Features and functionality

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The inability to mute multiple channels via a single soft key is a significant limitation, particularly for managing multiple monitor outputs during performances.
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The CQ18T allows only PEQ & FBA or GEQ, not both simultaneously, which limits flexibility in EQ and feedback management during performances.
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The fully parametric EQ on each input reduces the need for external EQ racks, especially for specific frequency adjustments in live settings.
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The CQ18T offers assignable knobs that allow real-time adjustments, like setting one knob to control a vocalist's fader for dynamic changes.
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Users find the Quick Channel settings lacking a single-knob compressor, unlike the fully adjustable Complete channels.
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The Mixing Station app offers a customizable screen layout, unlike the A&H app, which is fixed, enabling personalized user experience.
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Recording at 96K limits to 16 channels plus a stereo bus, while 48K allows more channels, accommodating different recording needs.
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The feedback assistant is available on all sends/outputs, which enhances live performance sound quality by automatically managing feedback.
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Comparisons

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The CQ18T is noted for its quicker responsiveness compared to the TouchMix, despite lacking certain features like more output EQ bands and DCAs.
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The CQ18T's output level of +22dB offers more headroom compared to the Zoom L-20's +14.5dB, reducing the need for additional signal chain compensation.
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0 0

Compared to the XR18, the CQ18T lacks DCA groups, which some users miss for controlling group dynamics, particularly with vocals.
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User experience

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Transitioning from analog to the CQ18T is smoother due to the simple and intuitive interface, despite initial concerns about menu navigation.
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Users report that the onboard WiFi is more reliable than the XR18's, though adding an external access point can still improve performance.
Source

Critic Reviews

Allen & Heath CQ-18T review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Allen & Heath CQ-18T serves as a versatile and robust solution for both studio and live performance needs, boasting a user-friendly touchscreen and solid build quality. Its standout feature is remote control capability via smartphones, making it a reliable partner for musicians on stage. However, while the intuitive wizards are great for beginners, seasoned audio professionals might find them less beneficial. This device is a bit pricey, but for those seeking a comprehensive routing and mixing solution, the CQ-18T is a worthy investment.

positive

Full Review

Review: Allen & Heath CQ-18T 16-Channel Digital Mixer - Streaming Media Producer

streamingmedia.com

The Allen & Heath CQ-18T redefines versatility in digital mixing, combining a lightweight design with an impressive feature set that caters to both novice and professional users. Its compact form and user-friendly touchscreen eliminate the need for external controllers or heavy equipment, making it a prime choice for live sound and streaming applications. However, it lacks support for digital snakes and mute groups, which may deter some users seeking advanced capabilities. While minor routing issues were noted, the overall functionality, including auto mic mixing and preset options, shines. Ultimately, the CQ-18T is a formidable contender for those looking to simplify their audio setup without sacrificing quality.

positive

Full Review

Allen & Heath CQ-18T

soundonsound.com

The Allen & Heath CQ-18T packs a punch with its powerful 96kHz digital processing and user-friendly interface, making it ideal for both amateurs and semi-pros. Its compact design and robust features, like built-in Wi-Fi and intuitive app control, enhance live performance flexibility. However, the reliance on an external power supply may be a drawback for some, especially in live scenarios. While the sound quality and multitrack recording capabilities shine, navigating some deeper functions might feel overwhelming for less experienced users. Overall, it's a solid choice for those seeking a versatile mixer at a reasonable price.

positive

Full Review

Review: Allen & Heath CQ-18T — AudioTechnology

audiotechnology.com

The Allen & Heath CQ-18T delivers impressive performance in a compact form, boasting 16 XLR inputs and advanced FX capabilities. Its intuitive touchscreen and robust wireless control enhance usability for live sound, making it a solid choice for small to mid-sized events. However, the absence of physical faders may deter traditionalists, and the touchscreen's visibility in bright conditions is a notable drawback. Ultimately, for those who can adapt, the CQ-18T offers excellent value and functionality, making it a worthy contender in the digital mixer market.

positive

Full Review

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