The Penn Group 
The all new QU-5, QU-6, QU-7 series brings XCVI processing to Allen & Heath’s most popular mixer line. Here’s how it stacks up against the proven SQ series.
When Allen & Heath announced the new Qu-5, Qu-6, and Qu-7 in May 2025, the professional audio world took notice. These aren’t just refreshed versions of the beloved Qu-16, Qu-24, and Qu-32—they’re completely redesigned mixers built on the same 96kHz XCVI FPGA engine that powers the acclaimed SQ and dLive series. For churches, venues, and production companies considering an upgrade, the question becomes: should you invest in the established SQ series or the new Qu lineup?
We’ve put together this comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision for your ministry, venue, or production needs.
The Core Architecture: Same Engine, Different Approaches
Both mixer series share Allen & Heath‘s revolutionary XCVI 96kHz FPGA processing engine—the same core technology found in their flagship dLive touring consoles. This means you’re getting class-leading audio quality with ultra-low latency (less than 0.7ms) regardless of which series you choose.
However, the two lines are optimized for different use cases and budgets, and understanding these differences is crucial to making the right choice.
Quick Comparison at a Glance
| Specification | SQ Series | New Qu Series |
|---|---|---|
| Processing | 96kHz XCVI FPGA | 96kHz XCVI FPGA |
| Input Channels | 48 | 38 (32 mono + 3 stereo) |
| Bus Architecture | 36 buses | 12 mixes + 4 matrix + LR |
| FX Engines | 8 stereo | 6 stereo |
| Fader Layers | 6 customizable | 4 customizable |
| USB Interface | 32×32 USB-A | 32×32 USB-C |
| Direct Recording | SQ-Drive (USB key/drive) | SD Card (32-channel) |
| Audio Networking | Option card slot | Built-in Dante (“D” models) |
| Stage Box Expansion | SLink + 64-ch I/O port | SLink (Everything I/O) |
| DEEP Processing | Yes (optional add-ons) | Yes (optional add-ons) |
| Assistant Features | AMM only | AMM + Feedback/Gain Assistants |
| Screen | 7″ touchscreen | 7″ capacitive touchscreen |
| Price Range | $5,499 – $5,999 | $2,299 – $3,499* |
*Pricing approximate; Dante models add approximately $500
Model-by-Model Breakdown
Compact Format: SQ-5 vs. Qu-5
Both consoles offer 17 faders (16+1 master) and 16 onboard preamps in a compact, rack-mountable format. Here’s where they differ:
Allen & Heath SQ-5
- 48 input channels across 6 fader layers
- 12 stereo mixes (configurable as groups or auxes) + LR
- 3 stereo matrix outputs
- 8 stereo FX engines with dedicated returns
- 8 assignable SoftKeys
- 64-channel I/O port for audio networking
- Option card slot for Dante, Waves SoundGrid, or other expansion
- 12 XLR line outputs
- Street price: approximately $5,499
Allen & Heath Qu-5 / Qu-5D
- 38 input channels across 4 fader layers
- 12 mixes (6 mono/linkable, 6 stereo) + LR
- 4 mono/linkable matrix outputs
- 6 stereo FX engines with dedicated returns
- 8 assignable SoftKeys
- 128×128 intelligent SLink port
- Built-in 16×16 Dante interface (Qu-5D only)
- 12 XLR line outputs
- Feedback Assistant and Gain Assistant included
- Street price: approximately $2,299 (Qu-5) / $2,799 (Qu-5D)
The Verdict: The SQ-5 delivers significantly more mixing power with 48 channels, more buses, and more FX engines. But if 38 channels meets your needs and you want built-in Dante without purchasing an option card, the Qu-5D offers exceptional value at nearly half the price.
Mid-Size Format: SQ-6 vs. Qu-6
Moving up to 25 faders (24+1 master) and 24 onboard preamps, these mid-size consoles hit the sweet spot for many applications.
Allen & Heath SQ-6
- 48 input channels across 6 fader layers
- 12 stereo mixes + LR + 3 stereo matrix
- 8 stereo FX engines
- 16 assignable SoftKeys
- 4 assignable Soft Rotaries
- 64-channel I/O port + option card slot
- 14 XLR line outputs
- Street price: approximately $6,499
Allen & Heath Qu-6 / Qu-6D
- 38 input channels across 4 fader layers
- 12 mixes + LR + 4 matrix
- 6 stereo FX engines
- 8 assignable SoftKeys
- 128×128 intelligent SLink port
- Built-in 16×16 Dante interface (Qu-6D only)
- 16 XLR line outputs
- Feedback Assistant and Gain Assistant included
- Street price: approximately $2,799 (Qu-6) / $3,299 (Qu-6D)
The Verdict: The SQ-6 adds valuable Soft Rotaries for quick parameter adjustment—a feature the entire Qu series lacks. For engineers who value instant access to FX sends, compression thresholds, or other frequently-adjusted parameters, this is significant. However, the Qu-6’s built-in Dante option and lower price point make it compelling for budget-conscious buyers.
Full-Size Format: SQ-7 vs. Qu-7
The flagships of each line offer 33 faders (32+1 master) and 32 onboard preamps for full-scale productions.
Allen & Heath SQ-7
- 48 input channels across 6 fader layers
- 12 stereo mixes + LR + 3 stereo matrix
- 8 stereo FX engines
- 16 assignable SoftKeys
- 8 assignable Soft Rotaries
- 64-channel I/O port + option card slot
- 16 XLR line outputs
- Street price: approximately $5,999
Allen & Heath Qu-7 / Qu-7D
- 38 input channels across 4 fader layers
- 12 mixes + LR + 4 matrix
- 6 stereo FX engines
- 8 assignable SoftKeys
- 128×128 intelligent SLink port
- Built-in 16×16 Dante interface (Qu-7D only)
- 20 XLR line outputs
- Feedback Assistant and Gain Assistant included
- Street price: approximately $3,299 (Qu-7) / $3,799 (Qu-7D)
The Verdict: The SQ-7 remains the more powerful console with additional channels, buses, and those coveted Soft Rotaries. But the Qu-7 actually offers more XLR outputs (20 vs 16), which could be important for installations requiring numerous discrete output feeds.
Key Feature Differences Explained
Channel Count: 48 vs. 38
The SQ series offers 48 input channels compared to 38 on the new Qu series. For most small church applications, 38 channels is more than sufficient for:
- Worship band (drums, bass, keys, guitars, vocalists)
- Choir
- Pastor and speaking microphones
- Media playback
- Ambient/environmental microphones
However, if you’re running large productions with full orchestras, multiple bands, or complex broadcast setups, those extra 10 channels on the SQ could prove invaluable.
FX Engines: 8 vs. 6
The SQ series provides 8 stereo FX engines, while the new Qu offers 6. In practice, most worship and live sound applications can work comfortably with 6 FX engines:
- 2 reverbs (one for vocals, one for instruments)
- 1-2 delays
- 1 chorus or modulation effect
- 1-2 utility slots
The SQ’s additional FX engines become valuable when you need dedicated processing for complex monitor mixes or parallel processing chains.
Fader Layers: 6 vs. 4
More layers mean more channels accessible without scrolling. The SQ’s 6 layers provide greater flexibility for organizing your workflow, especially when jumping between different show configurations. The Qu’s 4 layers are still highly customizable and adequate for most applications.
Soft Rotaries: The SQ Advantage
The SQ-6 and SQ-7 feature assignable Soft Rotaries with individual displays—a feature entirely absent from the new Qu series. These illuminating encoders can be assigned to:
- Individual channel send levels
- FX parameters (reverb time, delay feedback, etc.)
- Compressor thresholds
- DCA levels
- Frequently-accessed controls
For engineers who mix dynamically and need instant parameter access without touching the screen, Soft Rotaries are a significant workflow enhancement.
Audio Networking: Option Card vs. Built-In Dante
SQ Series: Uses a 64-channel I/O expansion port plus an option card slot. Dante, Waves SoundGrid, MADI, and other cards are available separately, typically adding $1,000-$1,500 to your investment.
New Qu Series: The “D” variants (Qu-5D, Qu-6D, Qu-7D) include a built-in 16×16 Dante interface at a modest premium (~$500). This makes Dante integration significantly more affordable.
For churches and venues already invested in Dante infrastructure—or planning to adopt it—the Qu-D models offer a more cost-effective path to networked audio.
Recording Capabilities
SQ Series: Features SQ-Drive for multitrack recording directly to USB storage devices. Records up to 32 channels at 48kHz or 16 channels at 96kHz without a computer. Also includes 32×32 USB-A audio interface for DAW recording.
New Qu Series: Uses SD card recording for up to 32 channels at 48kHz, plus stereo recording to USB-A. The 32×32 USB-C audio interface connects directly to modern computers. The USB-C connector is a welcome update for compatibility with current laptops.
Both systems support virtual soundcheck, though the SQ’s more extensive channel count provides more flexibility for complex productions.
Assistant Features
The new Qu series inherits Allen & Heath’s Feedback Assistant and Gain Assistant from the CQ series—tools that can dramatically speed up soundchecks:
Feedback Assistant: Automatically identifies and notches out feedback frequencies, invaluable for challenging room acoustics or when volunteer operators need extra help.
Gain Assistant: Analyzes incoming signals and suggests optimal gain settings, ensuring consistent input levels and headroom.
The SQ series relies solely on its Automatic Mic Mixer (AMM) for intelligent assistance, which is excellent for speech applications but doesn’t provide the same setup acceleration.
Use Case Recommendations
Choose the SQ Series If You:
- Need maximum channel count – Productions with 40+ inputs, orchestras, or complex broadcast requirements
- Require extensive bus architecture – Multiple matrix feeds, complex monitoring scenarios, or broadcast splits
- Value Soft Rotaries – Fast workflow with instant parameter access during the mix
- Need flexible expansion – Want to add Waves SoundGrid, MADI, or specialized I/O cards
- Run complex FX routing – Need 8 FX engines for parallel processing or per-musician FX sends
- Prioritize virtual soundcheck flexibility – 48-channel multitrack capability for detailed production work
Choose the New Qu Series If You:
- Have a moderate budget – Get 96kHz XCVI quality at a lower price point
- Need built-in Dante – The D-models provide network audio without expensive add-on cards
- Want simplified operation – Feedback and Gain Assistants help less experienced operators
- Primarily serve worship or small-medium live sound – 38 channels and 6 FX engines cover most needs
- Value modern connectivity – USB-C and SD card recording without external hardware
- Are upgrading from original Qu-16/24/32 – Familiar form factor with dramatically enhanced processing
Expansion and Stage Boxes
Both series connect to Allen & Heath’s Everything I/O ecosystem of stage boxes:
DX Series (96kHz): DX168 (16×8), DX164-W (wall mount), DX012 (12 output expander)
GX Series (96kHz): GX4816 (48×16), designed for larger installations
AR Series (48kHz): AR2412, AR84, AB168—compatible with both series but operating at 48kHz
For organizations with existing Allen & Heath digital systems (GLD, dLive, or original Qu), the SLink connectivity allows flexible mixing and matching of consoles and stage boxes.
The Bottom Line
The 2025 Qu series represents a remarkable achievement: Allen & Heath has brought flagship-level 96kHz processing to their most accessible mixer line. For churches, schools, corporate AV, and small-to-medium production companies, the new Qu-5, Qu-6, and Qu-7 deliver exceptional sound quality and features at price points that undercut the competition.
However, the SQ series remains the more powerful platform. With 48 channels, 8 FX engines, 6 fader layers, Soft Rotaries (on SQ-6/7), and a flexible option card slot, the SQ consoles provide headroom for growth and features that demanding productions require.
Our Recommendation:
- For most churches under 500 seats: The Qu-6D offers the best balance of capability, Dante networking, and value
- For larger churches and multi-venue campuses: The SQ-6 or SQ-7 provides the flexibility and channel count for growth
- For touring and production companies: The SQ series’ expansion options and professional feature set justify the investment
- For budget-conscious organizations needing Dante: The Qu-D models provide exceptional value with built-in networking
Both series represent Allen & Heath’s commitment to professional audio quality. The choice ultimately comes down to your specific channel count requirements, desired features, and budget.
Ready to Upgrade?
At The Penn Group, we’re proud to be your regional partner for Allen & Heath products across Ohio, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Kentucky, Florida, and Texas. Our team has extensive experience designing and installing both SQ and Qu systems for churches, educational institutions, and corporate clients.
Whether you need help choosing between these platforms, designing a complete audio system, or servicing your existing Allen & Heath equipment, we’re here to help.
Contact us today for a personalized consultation and competitive pricing on the SQ and Qu series.
Last updated: January 2026
The Penn Group is an authorized Allen & Heath dealer providing sales, installation, and service across seven states.
