Allen & Heath adds SQ+ digital mixers to expand SQ series

Background and context

Table of Contents

Allen & Heath has expanded its SQ digital mixer family with the launch of SQ+, a new tier of consoles aimed at live sound, fixed installations and studio environments.

The SQ range has been in use across touring, venues and rental fleets as a mid-range 96kHz mixing platform. SQ+ is positioned as an enhancement to the existing line rather than a replacement, offering additional processing power and interface changes while retaining the same core architecture.

By adding SQ+ alongside existing SQ models, Allen & Heath is effectively creating two levels within the series: the original desks and a higher-spec variant targeting users who need more onboard effects and processing flexibility.

Key announcement

The SQ+ extension introduces three new mixers: the SQ5+, SQ6+ and SQ7+. All are built on the same 48-input, 96kHz XCVI FPGA processing core used in the current SQ range, but with increased processing headroom for effects and channel processing.

RackUltra FX engines: Each SQ+ model includes four RackUltra FX engines with dedicated stereo sends and returns. Derived from Allen & Heath’s dLive platform, these engines provide reverbs, vocal tuning, pitch processing, amp modelling and saturation effects. Additional FX can be purchased as Add-Ons.
Expanded DEEP processing: The added DSP horsepower allows SQ+ to run a newer generation of DEEP processing plug-ins previously limited to dLive and Avantis consoles. These include CompStortion, Source Expander and Dual Threshold Expander.
PlusPack bundle offer: At launch, new SQ+ owners can access a PlusPack bundle, which groups the full set of DEEP and standard FX Add-Ons. The bundle is available by registering the mixer and signing up to Allen & Heath communications.

The user interface has also been updated. All three models now feature a larger 9-inch touchscreen and a revised dark graphical interface, designed to improve visibility in a range of lighting conditions common in live event environments.

Hardware I/O and connectivity remain consistent with the SQ ecosystem. Each SQ+ console provides a 128×128 Intelligent SLink port for stageboxes and integration with other Allen & Heath systems, plus an expansion slot supporting Dante, MADI, Waves and SLink option cards. Dual USB ports allow for multitrack recording and computer connectivity, and free control apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS and Android.

The three frame sizes differ in physical control and local I/O:

SQ5+: 17 motorised faders, 16 XLR mic/line inputs and 8 SoftKeys, with an optional 19-inch rackmount kit.
SQ6+: 25 faders, 24 XLR inputs, 16 SoftKeys and 4 SoftRotary encoders.
SQ7+: 33 faders, 32 XLR inputs, 16 SoftKeys and 8 SoftRotary encoders.

Further details on the SQ Series, including SQ+ models, are available on Allen & Heath’s official website at https://www.allen-heath.com/hardware/sq/.

Industry impact

For rental companies, venues and production houses already invested in the SQ ecosystem, SQ+ offers a higher-specification option that remains compatible with existing stageboxes and networked audio setups.

The integration of RackUltra FX and high-end DEEP processing narrows the functional gap between mid-range desks and Allen & Heath’s flagship dLive systems. This could make SQ+ attractive for regional touring, houses of worship, and corporate event providers seeking more advanced processing without moving to a larger, more expensive platform.

Because the original SQ models remain in the lineup, operators can scale systems according to budget and technical needs while staying within one product family, simplifying training and cross-rental.

Why this matters

For event technology professionals, the SQ+ launch is notable for combining higher-grade processing tools with a footprint and price point closer to mid-market consoles.

Engineers gain access to effects and dynamics options that were previously limited to higher-end touring desks, potentially reducing reliance on external outboard units or plug-in hosts. The larger touchscreen and revised interface are also likely to be welcomed in fast-paced live environments where visibility and quick navigation are critical.

Overall, SQ+ strengthens Allen & Heath’s offering in the competitive digital mixer segment, giving production teams more choice within a familiar platform and expanding the range of applications for the SQ series across live events, installations and recording.