Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (13)
$3,999.00
Guitar Center
$3,999.00
Amazon
4.7 (12)
$3,999.00 New
$3,599.10 Used (Like New)
Reverb
5.0 (2)
$3,212.83 New
$2,840.11 Used
Musician's Friend
$3,999.00
B&H
4.4 (5)
$3,999.00
Thomann
4.8 (90)
$2,899.00

Average Price: $3,618

High-end/Boutique

$200

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Allen & Heath SQ-5". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Allen & Heath SQ-5 is a powerhouse in the realm of digital mixers, perfect for those who demand precision and versatility in live sound, studio recording, or installation environments. At its core is the 96kHz XCVI Core FPGA engine, delivering stunning audio quality with ultra-low latency that ensures every detail of your mix is captured with clarity. Whether you're managing a bustling live show or a serene house of worship, the SQ-5’s 48 input channels and 36 buses provide ample capacity for intricate audio setups.

Equipped with 16+1 motorized faders, the SQ-5 offers hands-on control across six layers, simplifying the management of larger mixes. Its intuitive 7-inch capacitive touchscreen provides seamless navigation and control, while the DEEP processing architecture lets you integrate boutique compressor and preamp emulations directly into your mix, all without additional latency or setup complexity.

The SQ-5 excels in flexibility, featuring 12 stereo mixes ideal for in-ear monitoring, eight stereo FX engines with dedicated returns, and comprehensive expansion options via its SLink and I/O ports. Whether you need to extend your setup with a stage box or integrate with Dante or Waves systems, the SQ-5 is ready to adapt to your needs.

Key Features:

  • 48 input channels with 96kHz FPGA processing
  • Less than 0.7ms latency for best-in-class audio quality
  • 17 faders with 6 fader layers
  • 12 stereo mixes + LR, perfect for in-ear monitoring
  • 8 stereo FX engines with dedicated returns
  • 7" capacitive touchscreen for intuitive control
  • SLink port and 64-channel I/O port for expansion
  • DEEP processing ready for integrated emulations
  • Built-in 32 x 32 USB audio interface for multitrack recording
  • SQ-Drive for direct USB recording
  • Compatible with ME Personal Mixing System and audio networking standards like Dante and Waves

Product specs

Type Digital
Channels 48
Inputs - Mic Preamps 16 x XLR (mic/line)
Phantom Power 16 channels, Talkback
Inputs - Other 2 x 1/4" (ST1), 2 x 1/4" (ST2), 1 x 1/8" (ST3)
Outputs - Main 2 x 1/4" (A out, B out), 2 x XLR (L,R)
Outputs - Other 12 x XLR (stereo mixes, L/R)
Outputs - Digital 1 x XLR (AES)
Busses/Groups 36 bus
Inserts Internal Pre EQ/Compressor
Talkback 1 x XLR
MIDI I/O USB (control)
Data I/O 1 x EtherCon (dSnake, DX mode, gigaACE), 1 x Ethernet RJ-45 (LAN TCP/IP)
Headphones 1 x 1/4"
USB 1 x Type B, 1 x Type A
Computer Connectivity USB (32 x 32), Ethernet
Remote 1 x 1/4" (footswitch)
I/O Expansion Slots 1 x Option card port (Dante, Waves)
Faders 17 x 100mm motorized
A/D Resolution 24-bit/96kHz
EQ Bands Parametric EQ, 28-band Graphic
Effects Delay, Reverb, Chorus, Flanger, Phaser (8 x RackFX engine)
Signal Processing Dynamics
DAW Control MIDI DAW control via USB
Screen 7" color touch screen
Storage USB Type A (16 x 16)
Software Wireless Remote Mixing app iPad/Android (network router not included)
Rackmountable Yes (kit sold separately)
Power Source AC Adapter
Height 7.8"
Depth 20.3"
Width 17.3"
Weight 23.1 lbs.

FAQs

What are the main connectivity options for the Allen & Heath SQ-5?

The SQ-5 offers a variety of connectivity options including 16 XLR mic/line inputs, multiple 1/4" inputs, USB for 32x32 audio interface, and Ethernet for network connections. It also features an option card port for further expansion with Dante or Waves cards.

Is the Allen & Heath SQ-5 suitable for live sound applications?

Yes, the SQ-5 is designed for live sound environments with its 48-channel capability, 36 buses, and ultra-low latency of less than 0.7ms, ensuring high-resolution audio performance.

Can the Allen & Heath SQ-5 be used for recording studio purposes?

Absolutely, the SQ-5 includes a 32x32 USB audio interface for seamless integration with digital audio workstations, making it an excellent choice for studio recording and mixing.

Does the Allen & Heath SQ-5 support remote control via mobile devices?

Yes, the SQ-5 can be remotely controlled using a wireless remote mixing app available for iPad and Android devices, though a network router is required for this functionality.

What type of effects processing is available on the Allen & Heath SQ-5?

The SQ-5 features an 8x RackFX engine, providing a range of effects such as delay, reverb, chorus, flanger, and phaser, along with dynamics processing and parametric EQ.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Allen & Heath SQ-5.

Build quality

  • Compact size raises concerns about button spacing and potential accidental presses; lightweight design makes durability questionable.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Channel mono/stereo and mix configurations are stored at show level, limiting flexibility in multi-act events.

    Source
  • USB recording praised but criticized for convoluted file naming structure that cannot be changed from the console.

    Source
  • Some users find the patching UI clunky, requiring numerous clicks to switch inputs/outputs or devices, which can slow down workflow during setup.

    Source
  • The SQ-5's three matrix bus limitation is often seen as restrictive, especially for complex setups needing more routing flexibility.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Considered a significant upgrade from the Presonus Studiolive III, noted for better overall capability.

    Source
  • The SQ-5's routing system is less intuitive compared to Yamaha's, which offers a more user-friendly custom fader bank alongside a full channel order view.

    Source

User experience

  • Users find it intuitive, but some struggle with menu complexity and setup in certain environments.

    Source
  • The drag-and-drop channel feature is appreciated for customization, but can be confusing when taking over a setup not built from scratch.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Ideal for single-act setups but less suited for events requiring frequent configuration changes.

    Source
  • The SQ-5 is considered unsuitable for professional musical theater due to its limited capabilities compared to other options.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Known issue with touch screen freezing when RTA and multitrack recorder are used simultaneously, partially patched.

    Source
  • The network stack limits to eight connected devices, with only two having full access, which can be a hindrance for large bands using IEMs.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners recommend purchasing additional plugins like dynamic EQ and multiband compressor to enhance the console's capabilities beyond stock options.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Allen & Heath SQ‑5

soundonsound.com

Allen & Heath's SQ-5 mixer excels with its compact size and robust audio processing capabilities, delivering clear sound and low latency. Its user-friendly interface, solid build quality, and customizable features make it a standout choice for live sound applications. However, the need to purchase DEEP plug-ins separately may deter some buyers, and a clearer warning for mix selections could enhance usability. Overall, the SQ-5 is a powerful tool that strikes a balance between affordability and professional-grade performance, making it a compelling option for both seasoned engineers and newcomers alike.

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Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

1 alternative for Allen & Heath SQ-5, curated by the Equipboard community.

Allen & Heath QU16

$1,131.28 - $1,999.99

cheaper alternative

The QU series offers a similar, less flexible system, for less money, but with an overlap in compatible accessories from Allen & Heath, like dSnake expansion boxes. From the QU 16 through to the QU 32 you get similarly great preamps and a cut down channel count, but still with lots of features and processing found in the SQ range.

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