Allen & Heath CQ-12T – The ultra-compact digital mixer designed for speed and precision
The CQ-12T is the smallest model in the CQ series, a 96 kHz digital mixer built to deliver a fast, smart and highly versatile workflow. Ideal for home-studio work, streaming, rehearsals, small venues and speech applications, it combines impressive audio quality with an optimized, streamlined interface.
With the “Mix Smarter. Work Faster. Sound Better.” philosophy, Allen & Heath equips the CQ-12T with advanced assistive tools such as Gain Assistant for automatic gain setting, and Feedback Assistant capable of removing up to 16 problematic frequencies per output. The result: cleaner mixes, faster setup, and increased reliability.
Each channel can be configured as a Quick Channel for ultra-fast adjustment using a single encoder, or as a Complete Channel for full parameter control. The CQ-12T also brings a new generation of effects: reverbs, delays, modulations and “FX Assist” algorithms that dynamically adapt the effects to enhance the mix without overloading it.
Featuring a 7’’ capacitive touchscreen, a large rotary encoder and 3 customizable SoftKeys, the CQ-12T provides fast and intuitive control. When connected to a router, the CQ MixPad application allows full remote operation from anywhere in the venue.
For recording, the CQ-12T includes a 16×16 USB-B interface, a multi-channel SD recorder/player, a USB-A port for stereo files, and even a dedicated Bluetooth player. A complete solution for capturing performances, rehearsals or livestreams.
With its extensive I/O (5 XLR, 5 combo XLR/TRS, stereo TRS input, XLR outputs + 6 TRS monitor outs), its AMM (Automatic Mic Mixer) for speech applications, and 4 DCAs + 4 mute groups, the CQ-12T stands out as a compact yet fully professional digital mixer ready for any situation.
Features & Specifications:
- Audio quality & processing: 96 kHz digital engine, next-generation built-in effects, studio-grade internal processing.
- Channel modes: Quick Channels (assisted controls) or Complete Channels for advanced editing.
- Smart Assistants:
- Gain Assistant – automatic gain setting with continuous level monitoring.
- Feedback Assistant – automatic feedback suppression (up to 16 filters per output).
- AMM – Automatic Mic Mixer for speech-focused setups.
- Built-in effects: 2 FX engines, reverbs, delays, modulations, instrument presets, dynamic FX Assist.
- Recording & playback:
- 16×16 USB-B interface (48/96 kHz)
- 16×16 multi-channel SD recording
- USB-A playback (stereo files)
- Bluetooth playback with dedicated channel
- Input & output connectivity:
- 5 XLR inputs
- 5 combo XLR/TRS inputs
- Stereo TRS input
- 2 XLR outputs (Main L/R)
- 6 TRS outputs (Monitors)
- Assignable headphone output
- Control & ergonomics: 7’’ touchscreen, rotary encoder, 3 SoftKeys, RJ45 port for app control.
- Advanced mixing functions: 4 DCAs, 4 Mute Groups, dual footswitch input.
- Formats & connectivity: USB-A, USB-B, SD, Bluetooth, RJ45 network.
- Design: compact chassis, rack-mountable (optional kit).
Key Points:
- Ultra-compact 96 kHz digital mixer with 7’’ touchscreen.
- Gain Assistant & Feedback Assistant for fast and safe setup.
- 2 FX engines with modern algorithms + FX Assist.
- 10 mic/line inputs + stereo TRS input.
- Comprehensive output section: 2 XLR + 6 TRS monitor sends.
- Multi-track recording via USB-B and SD (16×16).
- Bluetooth playback and USB stereo playback.
- Built-in AMM – ideal for conferences, podcasts and speech.
- Remote control via CQ MixPad app.
- 4 DCAs & 4 mute groups for simplified operation.
