Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (5)
$14,999.00
Thomann
5.0 (3)
$19,490.00 $15,590.00 $3,900.00 · All time low

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Yamaha QL5". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Step into the world of precise sound engineering with the Yamaha QL5 powered mixer, a powerhouse for live sound and stage enthusiasts. Whether you're crafting a live performance or orchestrating a studio session, the QL5 delivers unparalleled flexibility and control with its intuitive design. With 64 mono and 8 stereo mix channels, this digital mixer ensures that every note and nuance is captured and delivered with clarity. The robust construction includes a 100 mm motorized fader for seamless transitions, while the stainless steel iPad holder adds an element of convenience for modern mixing practices.

The Yamaha QL5 isn't just about numbers; it's about elevating your audio experience. The 16 mix buses and 8 matrix inputs offer extensive routing possibilities, ensuring that your sound reaches every corner of the venue. Local I/O capabilities with 32 inputs and 16 outputs provide the connectivity you need, whether you're managing a small ensemble or a full orchestra. Plus, the inclusion of a Nuendo Live software license from Steinberg ensures you have the tools for professional-grade recording and editing right at your fingertips.

Key Features:

  • 64 mono and 8 stereo mix channels
  • 16 mix buses and 8 matrix inputs
  • Local I/O: 32 in / 16 out
  • Fader configuration: 32 + 2 (Master)
  • 100 mm motorized fader for precise control
  • Integrated stainless steel iPad holder
  • Includes Nuendo Live software license from Steinberg

Product specs

Available since March 2014
User Interface Physical/remote
Number of faders 34
DSP Input channels 80
Mic Preamp 32
Physical outputs 16
Digital stagebox connection Dante
Hotspot No
Multitrack Record No
integratated Player/Rec via USB/SD stereo
19" Rackmount No
DSP Output Channels 19
Busses 16
Mono-Line Input 0
Stereo-Line Input 0
Ethernet Ethernet
Soundcard interface No
Recorder Format WAV/MP3
Scribble Strips 1
RTA Yes
FX Processor 8
31 Band EQ 8
Delay Input 1
Delay Output 1
Matrix 8
DCA/VCA Groups 16
Midi Connector Midi-Din
Sample rate 48 kHz
Monitor Apps 1
Separate Personal Monitor system No
Expansion Card slots 1
Digital ADAT Optional
Digital SPDIF No
Digital AES3/ASESEB Yes
Digital MADI No
Digital Dante Yes
110V capable 1
Case No
Height 272 mm
Width 828 mm
Depth 563 mm
Weight 21,8 kg

FAQs

How many input channels does the Yamaha QL5 have?

The Yamaha QL5 features 80 DSP input channels, making it suitable for complex live sound setups.

Does the Yamaha QL5 support Dante connectivity?

Yes, the Yamaha QL5 supports Dante digital stagebox connections, allowing for seamless integration with other Dante-enabled devices.

How many mic preamps are available on the Yamaha QL5?

The Yamaha QL5 comes with 32 built-in mic preamps, providing ample options for microphone connections.

Can the Yamaha QL5 record multitrack audio?

No, the Yamaha QL5 does not support multitrack recording, but it can record stereo audio via USB or SD cards.

What types of effects processing are available on the Yamaha QL5?

The Yamaha QL5 includes eight FX processors, allowing for a variety of effects to be applied during live performances.

Reviews

PROS

  • Intuitive touchscreen navigation enhances user experience

  • Transparent preamps with excellent gain reserves

  • Significant sound quality improvement over previous models

  • Integrated hardware simulations like LA2A and 1176 compressors

  • Includes 8 effect racks for versatile sound shaping

  • 16-channel Dugan automix for seamless mixing

  • Flexible routing options streamline setup

  • StageMix software allows iPad control for total flexibility

  • Intuitive operation similar to an analog mixer

CONS

  • Lacks physical knobs for direct access to EQ bands and AUX sends

  • USB recording limited to MP3 format

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha QL5.

Features and functionality

  • The QL5 allows individual inputs to be sent to a matrix, offering flexibility but can lead to unexpected results if not carefully managed.

    Source
  • Utilizing "fader flip" simplifies sending mixes to monitors, allowing on-the-fly adjustments without complicating the setup.

    Source
  • The QL5's focus recall allows specific channel parameters to be recalled, opposite to recall safe, which can streamline scene management for live performances.

    Source
  • The "touch and turn" knob is favored for quick send adjustments, offering an alternative to the slower fader flip.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • For theater settings with live instruments and multiple vocalists, group vocal mics in a post-fader aux and patch through a spare channel for musician monitors.

    Source
  • User-defined keys can be set for functions like muting the entire cast, incrementing/decrementing scene recalls, and quick on-the-fly saves, enhancing live show efficiency.

    Source
  • For one-off gigs, pre-labeling I/O and setting up a custom fader page with inputs and outputs can efficiently streamline the workflow.

    Source
  • Positioning an iPad on the left of the screen is useful for monitoring Graphic EQ or as a mobile meter bridge when adjusting IEMs.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The QL Editor desktop application and iPad app enable pre-venue configuration and experimentation with routing and processing options, streamlining setup on arrival.

    Source
  • TheatreMix software can be used independently of the console, enabling portable show management and graphical visualization of changes across different venues.

    Source
  • Pre-soundcheck Dante setup is crucial to avoid a protocol glitch that may reassign bus outputs, potentially muting them.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Skipping every 5th scene is recommended to easily add or adjust scenes without disrupting an entire show setup.

    Source
  • Assigning a custom fader section to "CUE" control and using "SET TO NOMINAL" helps quickly set channels to 0dB, streamlining monitor setup.

    Source

User experience

  • For large productions, some users manage up to 79 scenes on the QL5, highlighting the board's capacity for complex show management.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Review: Yamaha QL5 Digital Mixing Console - Church Production Magazine

churchproduction.com

The Yamaha QL5 delivers impressive sound quality and an intuitive interface, making it a standout choice for any live sound application. With extensive processing options and a user-friendly design, it excels in versatility and performance. However, it falls short with its stereo-to-USB recording feature, limiting users to MP3 format and lacking a more professional option. Additionally, navigating through some of its menus can feel cumbersome, requiring unnecessary clicks. Despite these drawbacks, the QL5's refined capabilities and Yamaha's solid reputation make it a compelling choice, especially for churches seeking a reliable mixer at this price point.

positive

Yamaha QL5 Digital Console – FOH | Front of House Magazine

fohonline.com

The Yamaha QL5 offers a solid blend of features and performance, making it a strong contender for mid-market live sound applications. Its Dante connectivity and intuitive interface are standout attributes, along with impressive onboard processing capabilities. However, the console suffers from tight fader spacing and a lack of transport handles, which could hinder mobility. While it provides excellent audio quality and expandability, the 48kHz operating limit may be a drawback for some professionals. Overall, the QL5 is an appealing choice for many, though not without notable compromises.

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Genre Usage

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

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