Allen & Heath unveils Compact Qu-3 and Qu-3D Digital Mixer Range

Compact Mixer Format brings Full Qu Platform to Space-Limited Application

Allen & Heath has expanded its Qu digital mixer family with the launch of the Qu-3 and Dante-enabled Qu-3D, two compact desks that deliver the full Qu processing core in an 8+1 fader format. Targeted at corporate AV, broadcast, installed audio, live sound, and home recording environments where space is at a premium, the new models offer 32-channel 96kHz processing and a modern workflow in a desktop-friendly footprint.

According to Keith Johnson, Senior Product Manager at Allen & Heath, the development brief was to avoid the typical trade-offs associated with smaller consoles. The aim was to retain the brand’s FPGA-powered audio processing, recording flexibility, and tactile control while shrinking the physical format to suit seated operation and compact production spaces.

Qu Processing Core delivers 36 Input Channel and Extensive Mix Capability

Both Qu-3 and Qu-3D are built on the same unified platform as the wider Qu range and employ Allen & Heath’s XCVI technology. Each mixer provides a total of 36 inputs, comprising 32 mono or linkable channels plus 2 stereo channels. On the output side, users have access to 12 mixes, 4 matrix outputs, and 6 FX engines with dedicated stereo returns, enabling complex monitor, zone, and effects routing within a compact surface.

A 128×128 SLink port on both models underpins connectivity with Allen & Heath’s Everything I/O ecosystem, enabling plug-and-play integration with remote stageboxes and expanders. This infrastructure allows production teams and integrators to scale input and output counts as project requirements grow, while keeping the control surface footprint small.

Recording Option and Connectivity support Versatile Production Workflow

Qu-3 and Qu-3D incorporate a 32×32 USB-C audio interface for multichannel integration with DAWs and computer-based workflows. Multitrack recording is supported directly to SD card, while USB-A provides stereo recording and playback. This combination caters to a range of use cases, from capturing rehearsals and live events to creating content in compact studio environments.

The inclusion of multiple recording paths aligns the new mixers with hybrid production models common in corporate, broadcast, and content creation scenarios, where live mixing, streaming, and post-production often run side by side.

Dante Connectivity positions Qu-3D for Networked Audio System

The Qu-3D variant adds integrated Dante capability, with a built-in 16×16 Dante interface that can be upgraded to 32×32 via an optional add-on. This positions Qu-3D as a fit for networked audio infrastructures, particularly in conferencing, installation, and broadcast workflows where Dante is widely adopted.

By combining the Qu processing engine with native Dante I/O in a compact form factor, Qu-3D offers a straightforward route into shared audio networks for venues, corporate facilities, and production environments that require flexible routing and centralized audio distribution.

Desktop Footprint and Control Layout favor Seated Operation

Designed with tight spaces in mind, Qu-3 and Qu-3D emphasize ergonomics and portability. The reduced weight and angled screen are optimized for desktop and seated operation, making the mixers suitable for control rooms, flypack rigs, boardrooms, and small FOH positions.

The 8+1 fader layout preserves the familiar Qu “walk up and mix” workflow despite the smaller surface. Six fader layers provide access to channels, mixes, FX sends, and other functions, while 8 assignable SoftKeys accommodate quick access to user-selected operations such as tap tempo, mute groups, and scene recalls.

Dedicated physical controls combined with a touchscreen interface enable fast navigation and parameter adjustment, supporting engineers who need to work quickly in mission-critical corporate or live event environments.

Audio Quality and Metering match Larger Qu Mixer Standard

Although physically compact, Qu-3 and Qu-3D share the same high-performance mic preamps and 96kHz converters used across the Qu family. This continuity is intended to ensure consistent sonic performance when the new desks are deployed alongside larger Qu consoles or used as secondary mixers in distributed systems.

Chromatic Channel Metering provides clear visual level feedback on a per-channel basis, while the responsive touch interface and refined control spacing are designed to promote confident operation even in low-light or high-pressure scenarios typical of live and corporate events.

Assistive Tool and AMM target Speech and Presentation Application

Allen & Heath has equipped both mixers with assistive tools intended to simplify setup and reduce operator workload, particularly in non-musical and speech-led environments. Feedback Assist and Gain Assist functions help optimize gain structure and reduce the risk of feedback, supporting teams that may not always have a dedicated audio engineer on site.

A 32-channel Automatic Microphone Mixer (AMM) is included to further enhance performance in speech-focused applications such as conferences, panel discussions, and meeting rooms. By automatically managing multiple open microphones, the AMM helps maintain intelligibility and reduce noise and comb filtering as participants speak.

Like other Qu series consoles, Qu-3 and Qu-3D are DEEP Processing ready, offering access to an expanding library of processing add-ons derived from Allen & Heath’s flagship dLive series. This allows users to tailor channel processing to specific events or genres without additional outboard equipment.

Target Application Range spans Corporate AV, Broadcast and Compact Production Space

Johnson notes that the new models extend the reach of the Qu platform into scenarios where larger consoles would be impractical. Potential deployments range from corporate AV setups and broadcast positions to small-scale live sound and compact production rooms.

By concentrating the full Qu core into a smaller chassis and adding network, recording, and assistive features, Allen & Heath positions Qu-3 and Qu-3D as flexible tools for event technology providers, integrators, and production teams seeking high channel counts and advanced workflows within constrained spaces.