Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
5.0 (2)
$899.99
Amazon
4.8 (9)
$899.99 New
$639.99 Used (Very Good)
Reverb
$772.39 New
$493.10 Used
zZounds
5.0 (2)
$899.99
B&H
5.0 (1)
$899.99

Average Price: $811

Standard/Professional

$200

$1001+

Price Tier

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Allen & Heath Zed 18". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Allen & Heath ZED-18 is a versatile mixer that strikes a harmonious balance between robust functionality and ease of use, making it an essential tool for both live performances and studio recordings. Whether you're outfitting your band's live rig or setting up your home studio, this mixer provides ample connectivity with its 10 mic/line channels and 4 stereo channels, allowing you to manage a multitude of inputs effortlessly. The ZED-18 is engineered with Allen & Heath's renowned DuoPre preamps, ensuring a high-headroom, low-noise signal that's perfect for capturing every nuance of your sound.

One of the standout features of the ZED-18 is its MusiQ EQ system, a 3-band, swept mid-frequency EQ design with a variable Q, which simplifies the process of optimizing your instrument's tone. This, combined with the intuitive ALPS 100mm faders, offers precise control over your mix. The mixer's stereo USB audio connectivity is another highlight, providing seamless integration with both Mac and PC for easy recording and playback. This makes it a breeze to capture high-quality recordings or to use the mixer as an effects loop in your digital audio workstation.

Built to last, the ZED-18 features rugged Neutrik XLR and 1/4" connectors, ensuring reliable performance gig after gig. Plus, with the inclusion of Cakewalk SONAR LE DAW software, you can dive straight into music production with a comprehensive set of tools right at your fingertips.

Key Features:

  • 10 mic/line channels with DuoPre mic preamps
  • 4 stereo channels for additional inputs
  • 3-band EQ with MusiQ for easy sound shaping
  • Stereo USB audio connectivity for Mac and PC
  • Solid ALPS 100mm faders for precise control
  • Includes Cakewalk SONAR LE DAW software (PC only)

Owner's manual

Allen & Heath Zed 18 User Manual

Product specs

Type Analog Mixer with USB
Channels 18-channel (10 x mono, 4 x stereo)
Computer Connectivity USB (2 x 2)
A/D Resolution 16-bit/48kHz
Faders 16 x ALPS 100mm
Inputs - Mic Preamps 10 x XLR
Phantom Power Global
Inputs - Line 10 x 1/4" TRS, 8 x 1/4" (4 x stereo channels)
Inputs - Other 2 x Dual RCA Stereo (stereo, 2 track)
Outputs - Main 2 x XLR (main), 1 x 1/4" (mono)
Outputs - Other 2 x Dual RCA Stereo (rec out, alt out)
Aux Sends 2 x Pre, 2 x Post
Send/Return I/O 4 x 1/4" (aux send)
Channel Inserts 10 x 1/4"
Inserts 2 x 1/4" (stereo main)
Headphones 1 x 1/4", 1 x 1/8"
USB 1 x Type B
EQ Bands 3-band EQ with MusiQ
Software Cakewalk Sonar LE
Power Source Standard IEC AC cable
Height 3.85"
Width 18.3"
Depth 18.3"
Weight 18.7 lbs.

FAQs

Does the Allen & Heath ZED-18 mixer have USB audio interface capabilities?

Yes, the Allen & Heath ZED-18 features a USB audio interface with 2 x 2 connectivity, allowing you to record and play back audio from a computer.

How many mic preamps are included in the Allen & Heath ZED-18 mixer?

The Allen & Heath ZED-18 mixer includes 10 XLR mic preamps, providing ample inputs for microphones.

What type of EQ does the Allen & Heath ZED-18 mixer feature?

The Allen & Heath ZED-18 mixer is equipped with a 3-band EQ with MusiQ, designed for precise and musical sound shaping.

Can the Allen & Heath ZED-18 mixer be used for live performances and studio recording?

Yes, the Allen & Heath ZED-18 is versatile enough for both live performances and studio recording, offering 18 channels and USB connectivity.

Does the Allen & Heath ZED-18 mixer include phantom power for condenser microphones?

Yes, the Allen & Heath ZED-18 provides global phantom power to support condenser microphones.

What are the main output options on the Allen & Heath ZED-18 mixer?

The Allen & Heath ZED-18 mixer features main outputs via 2 x XLR and a mono output via 1 x 1/4", suitable for various audio setups.

Reviews

PROS

  • High-quality build and durable design

  • Pots and connectors feel high-quality with good hold

  • Transparent and natural sound output

  • Preamps offer a lot of gain with little to no noise

  • Well-designed board, easy to navigate despite compact size

  • Includes 10 XLR input channels, ideal for mid/small sized setups

  • USB connectivity for additional flexibility

  • Comes with Cakewalk Sonar software for studio use

  • Easy setup process, suitable for live and studio settings

  • Sweepable mids and 100mm faders for precise sound control

CONS

  • Lacks onboard effects, which may require external units for some users

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Allen & Heath Zed 18.

Features and functionality

  • Known for having inserts on each input, 2 pre and 2 post fader buses, suitable for monitor channels and effects.

    Source
  • Some models in the series include built-in effects like reverb, delay, and chorus, enhancing versatility.

    Source
  • Phantom power on the Zed 18 affects all mic inputs simultaneously, which can cause issues with wireless mics if not compatible with phantom power.

    Source
  • The Zed 18's phantom power switch can create complications with wireless mics, potentially causing crackling unless phantom power is turned off.

    Source
  • The ZED 18 is noted for its very musical EQ with sweepable mid control, enhancing sound customization compared to the ZED-i series.

    Source
  • The ZED 18's preamps are highlighted for their quality and musicality, significantly enhancing microphone input clarity.

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Use cases and applications

  • Ideal for use with a 4-piece band, providing adequate functionality and sound quality for smaller setups.

    Source
  • Users experiencing phantom power issues with wireless mics on the Zed 18 suggest using microphone isolators or splitters to maintain audio quality without interference.

    Source

Comparisons

  • While not as robust as Soundcraft, it offers more features for the price in the small analog board category.

    Source
  • ZED 18 features USB 1.1, whereas the ZED-i series boasts a USB 2.0 interface, allowing for multitrack recording to iOS devices or computers.

    Source

User experience

  • Users report the Zed series as "rock solid" and versatile, even when transitioning from analog to digital boards.

    Source
  • Owners transitioning to digital rigs have praised the ZED 18's preamps, describing them as exceptional with clear, musical output.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • A microphone isolator can help manage phantom power issues by blocking it from passing to wireless mic signal paths.

    Source

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Genre Usage

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