SQ Series 48-Channel / 36 Bus Digital Mixer (AH-SQ-7)

I graduated from a QU32 about 5 months ago. The SQ7 mixer is a HUGE step up, not there was that much wrong with the QU32. But moving to the SQ brought in not only additional input channels, up to 12 stereo IEM mixes, (you will need a stage box to take full advantage of all the mixes), and double the number of available effects. You can purchase additional compressors, EQs, and other FX and place them either on a buss or inline for a specific channel. Channel assignment is much more flexible, with the ability to assign any input to any channel, whether locally or from the stage box. You can assign one input to TWO channels for situations where a monitor send might require additional processing from the mains. The SQ tablet app is solid and dependable, and makes a great addition even if you're not mixing remotely. The SQ4You individual monitor app allows performers to control their own IEM mixes from their cell phone or tablet, and there is no additional charge to use this. For more monitor mixes the ME1 and ME500 mixers (sold separately) operate independently from the busses to allow for MANY more IEM mixes. A big step up from the QU series is that you can actually digitally name your channels with an electronic scribble strip. No more board tape! It would be really nice to have more than 6 characters available, but it's easy to get by. Operating at 96k give you a significantly cleaner send to the mains, or even more importantly to a broadcast feed. You can now do a full 32 channel multi-track recording directly from the USB buss. (Note that a very high speed drive is necessary...most will not work properly. A list of confirmed drives is available.) The board has a multitude of programmable buttons and knobs capable of dozens of functions, from direct control of Matrix sends to the length and number of repeats for an echo effect. You have access to up to three custom layers to arrange your channels however you like on one layer. The QU only gave you one custom layer, SQ gives you three. Overall I've been thrilled with this new board. I highly recommend updating the Version to the most current release immediately upon receipt. It's a very easy download from the A&H website. I've had no glitches, and while there is a bit of a learning curve to get your routing configured the way you want, it's not rocket surgery.