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1 User Guide V1.1.0 Issue 1
User Guide
Firmware V1.1.0
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2 User Guide V1.1.0 Issue 1
1. Important Information .................................................................................. 7
2. Introduction ................................................................................................... 8
The different models .............................................................................................. 8
Images and examples in this guide ................................................................ 10
3. Updating Firmware ...................................................................................... 11
Update firmware using the CQ-MixPad app ................................................ 11
Update firmware using a USB drive ................................................................12
4. Connections .................................................................................................. 13
Power ........................................................................................................................... 13
1. Mic/Line Inputs ................................................................................................... 13
2. Outputs .................................................................................................................. 14
3. Footswitch ........................................................................................................... 14
4. USB and SD.......................................................................................................... 15
5. Network Port ....................................................................................................... 15
6. Built-In WiFi Access Point (CQ-18T, CQ-20B) ....................................... 15
5. Connecting control apps ......................................................................... 16
First connection to a CQ-20B ........................................................................... 16
Connect using WiFi Access Point (CQ-18T, CQ-20B)............................... 17
Connect using an external router or network ............................................ 18
Connect a computer directly with a network cable ................................ 18
6. Operation and Workflow ........................................................................... 19
Physical Controls (CQ-12T, CQ-18T) ............................................................... 19
CQ-MixPad ............................................................................................................... 20
CQ4You....................................................................................................................... 22
Workflow and main screens overview .......................................................... 23
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Quick Start ............................................................................................................... 24
Shows, Scenes and Libraries ........................................................................... 26
Processing Copy, Paste and Reset ............................................................... 29
Processing Quick Fire ......................................................................................... 32
Convert a Quick Channel to a Complete Channel ................................... 33
7. How to… ......................................................................................................... 34
Use Gain Assistant ............................................................................................... 34
Use Quick Channels ............................................................................................. 36
Send signal from Inputs to the Main Output ............................................. 38
Send signal from Inputs to Outputs 1-6 ...................................................... 40
Use the Feedback Assistant ............................................................................ 42
Add and use FX ....................................................................................................... 47
Send Audio to and from a DAW ....................................................................... 50
Record/Playback Multitrack using an SD Card ....................................... 53
Store and Recall settings .................................................................................. 56
8. CONFIG .......................................................................................................... 60
INPUTS ....................................................................................................................... 60
OUTPUTS .................................................................................................................. 62
Digital Audio (Symbols) / USB/SD ................................................................ 64
Digital Audio (Symbols) / Bluetooth ............................................................ 66
AMM (Auto Mic Mixer) ........................................................................................... 67
CONTROL & NETWORK / Footswitch ........................................................... 68
CONTROL & NETWORK / Soft Rotaries (CQ-18T) .................................... 69
CONTROL & NETWORK / Soft Keys .............................................................. 70
CONTROL & NETWORK / Network (Ethernet) ............................................. 71
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CONTROL & NETWORK / Network (WiFi) (CQ-18T, CQ_20B) ............... 72
9. PROCESSING ............................................................................................... 73
INPUTS (bank view) ............................................................................................... 73
INPUT / Quick Channels ..................................................................................... 75
INPUT / Preamp ...................................................................................................... 79
INPUT / Gate ............................................................................................................ 81
INPUT / PEQ ............................................................................................................ 82
INPUT / Compressor ............................................................................................ 83
INPUT / Sends ........................................................................................................ 85
ST. INPUTS / FX (bank view) ............................................................................ 86
OUTPUTS (bank view) ........................................................................................... 87
OUTPUT / GEQ ....................................................................................................... 88
OUTPUT / PEQ ....................................................................................................... 89
OUTPUT / FBA........................................................................................................ 90
OUTPUT / Compressor ....................................................................................... 93
OUTPUT / LEVEL and LIMITER ........................................................................ 95
10. FADER .......................................................................................................... 96
Sends to Main LR .................................................................................................. 96
Sends to an Output ............................................................................................... 97
Sends to FX ............................................................................................................. 98
11. FX .................................................................................................................... 99
CONTROL (Shared) ............................................................................................... 99
SENDS TO (Shared FX Units only) ................................................................ 101
CONTROL (Inserted) ............................................................................................ 102
FX Model - Easy Verb ........................................................................................ 103
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FX Model - Echo Verb ........................................................................................ 104
FX Model - Space Verb ..................................................................................... 105
FX Model – Echo .................................................................................................. 106
FX Model - Tap Delay ......................................................................................... 107
FX Model - Stereo Delay .................................................................................. 108
FX Model - Beat Delay ....................................................................................... 110
FX Model - Double Tracker ................................................................................ 112
FX Model – Chorus ............................................................................................... 113
FX Model – Flanger .............................................................................................. 114
FX Model – Phaser................................................................................................ 115
12. HOME ........................................................................................................... 116
Home (Symbol) ....................................................................................................... 116
RECORD / Stereo .................................................................................................. 117
RECORD / Multitrack ........................................................................................... 119
SCENES .................................................................................................................... 122
DATA / Shows ....................................................................................................... 123
DATA / Libraries ................................................................................................... 124
SYSTEM / Info ....................................................................................................... 125
SYSTEM / USB/SD (Symbols) ........................................................................ 126
SYSTEM / Firmware ............................................................................................ 127
SYSTEM / Meters ................................................................................................. 128
SYSTEM / Preferences ...................................................................................... 129
13. Resets ........................................................................................................ 130
CQ-12T and CQ-18T Factory Reset .............................................................. 130
CQ-20B Factory and Network Only Resets ............................................. 130
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Default Network Settings .................................................................................. 131
14. System Block Diagram ..........................................................................132
15. Specifications ......................................................................................... 133
16. Warranty Information ........................................................................... 136
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1. Important Information
Safety
Before powering on the CQ, read the safety instructions sheet
(004-1511-01 or 004-1512-01) supplied with the unit. For your own safety and that of
the operator, technical crew and performers, follow all instructions and heed all
warnings included in these documents and those printed directly on the
equipment.
Ventilation
Do not obstruct any of the air vents when in use. Adequate ventilation is especially
required for the cooling fan found on the bottom of the CQ-18T and CQ-12T, and the
side of the CQ-20B.
Updates to this user guide
This user guide is intended to be used and distributed in a digital format; it may be
up issued at any time. Always ensure you are referring to the latest version which
matches the firmware version being used, and avoid printing a hard copy wherever
possible.
Registration
To be kept informed of updates, the latest firmware and new releases for the CQ
range, register your CQ at http://www.allen-heath.com/myCQ
Support
For further support with CQ, please visit support.allen-heath.com, or contact
your local distributor.
Firmware updates and apps
Visit www.allen-heath.com/myCQ to obtain the latest version of
firmware and ensure you are registered to receive notifications on
future updates.
The firmware on the CQ and all app versions must have the same major
release number. This is the first two digits of each release number.
Firmware V1.1.3 and App V1.1.5 = compatible
Firmware V1.1.3 and App V1.2.3 = not compatible
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2. Introduction
Welcome to the CQ User Guide.
CQ is a range of portable, standalone digital audio mixers which use 96kHz
processing and include assistants and tools designed to be used by technical and
non-technical users alike.
There are 3 models in the range, two with hands-on control, and all of which can be
controlled remotely. All have a similar set of features and specifications, with
differences in I/O, channel count and control options.
The different models
Mic/Line
Inputs
5x XLR
5x ‘Combi’
XLR/TRS
8x XLR
8x ‘Combi’ XLR/
TRS
8x XLR
8x ‘Combi’ XLR/
TRS
Stereo Line
Inputs
1 (2x Balanced TRS)
1 (2x Balanced TRS)
2 (4x Balanced
TRS)
Main Outputs
2x XLR
2x XLR
2x XLR
Monitor/Aux
Outputs
6x Mono
Balanced TRS
6x Mono
Balanced TRS
6x Mono
Balanced XLR
Headphone
Outputs
1x ¼” TRS
2x ¼” TRS
1x ¼” TRS
Touchscreen
7” Multi-Touch
7” Multi-Touch
-
SoftKeys
3
3
-
Soft/Smart
Rotaries
-
3
-
FX Engines
2 4 4
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CQ-18T Hardware Overview
CQ-12T Hardware Overview
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CQ-20B Hardware Overview
Images and examples in this guide
This guide uses screenshots from the CQ-18T, which includes all the features of the
CQ-12T and more.
CQ-MixPad, used to control all models, has an almost identical user interface with a
few layout differences (listed in the CQ-MixPad section of this guide) and so is not
shown in addition.
Features specific to any model or interface are noted.
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3. Updating Firmware
There are two methods for updating CQ firmware, either with the CQ-MixPad app
(available for iOS, Android, Mac and Windows) or by using a USB drive connected to
the USB-A port.
Updating firmware (from V1.1.0 onward) will not clear or delete data, but it is best
practice to store a show before carrying out an update if possible.
CQ’s manufactured before September 2023 were loaded with firmware V1.0.1. Data
stored using this version is incompatible with later firmware. A full reset should be
carried out after the first firmware update.
Update firmware using the CQ-MixPad app
1. Download the latest version of the app. iOS and Android versions are
available from the App Store and Play Store. Mac and PC versions are
available from allen-heath.com.
2. Connect CQ-MixPad to the CQ (see the App Setup section)
3. If an update is required, the app will provide details and instructions on
screen, with an option to begin the update process.
4. Confirm the update on the CQ.
5. Restart the CQ.
6. Check that the new version has installed correctly by looking at Current: in
the HOME / SYSTEM / Firmware tab, or find the Firmware Version: listed
in the HOME / SYSTEM / Info tab.
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Update firmware using a USB drive
1. Insert a new or FAT formatted USB drive into the CQ’s USB-A port.
2. Press the HOME screen key and select SYSTEM then the USB/SD tab (with
USB and SDHC symbols).
3. Press the Format button in the USB Status section on the left and follow
the on-screen instructions to format the drive, this will clear all data and
set up any necessary folder structure for use with CQ.
4. Once formatted remove the drive and connect to a Windows or Mac
computer.
5. Download the latest version of firmware from
http://www.allen-heath.com/mycq
ensure that the correct version of firmware is downloaded for the model
being updated.
6. Unzip/expand the downloaded ZIP file and copy the firmware file (which
has a .bin suffix) to the root of the USB drive, do not place it in any of the
folders.
7. Ensure there is only one version of firmware on the USB drive at any one
time. Delete all old versions before copying new ones.
8. Safely eject the drive and re-insert into the CQ.
9. Go to the CQ’s HOME screen, select SYSTEM and then Firmware.
10. This screen will display the firmware the unit is currently running at the
bottom and the firmware found on the connected USB drive at the top.
Touch the Update button to begin the update process.
11. Follow the on-screen instructions and touch the Restart button when
prompted to reboot the CQ and complete the firmware update.
12. Check that the new version has installed correctly by looking at Current: in
the HOME / SYSTEM / Firmware tab, or find the Firmware Version: listed
in the HOME / SYSTEM / Info tab.
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4. Connections
Power
CQ-12T, CQ-18T
12VDC, 5A, centre positive connection and clip. Use supplied external switching
power supply with IEC connection to mains.
CQ-20B
IEC connection with internal switch mode power supply.
1. Mic/Line Inputs
Mono Inputs 1-5 (CQ-12T) and 1-8 (CQ-18T, CQ-20B)
Balanced XLR (1-Ground, 2-Hot/Positive, 3-Cold/Negative),
recallable preamp with +60dB gain and phantom power.
Mono Inputs 6-10 (CQ-12T) and 9-16 (CQ-18T, CQ-20B)
Balanced XLR (1-Ground, 2-Hot/Positive, 3-Cold/Negative)
Or ¼” TRS Jack (Tip-Hot/Positive, Ring-Cold/Negative, Sleeve-
Ground)
Mono Inputs 15-16 (CQ-20B) - switched to Hi-Z mode
¼” TS Jack (Tip-Hot/Positive, Sleeve-Ground)
Mono inputs include recallable preamp with +60dB gain, fixed -20dB pad on TRS
input, phantom power supplied to XLR connection only.
Stereo Line Inputs
2x ¼” TRS Jack (Tip-Hot/Positive, Ring-Cold/Negative,
Sleeve-Ground)
Stereo input connections are normalled (L/M, R), connect mono signals to left
socket only. Digital trim control available in processing channel.
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2. Outputs
Main LR
Balanced XLR (1-Ground, 2-Hot/Positive, 3-Cold/Negative)
Nominal +4dBu output (when output meter displays 0dB)
Out 1-6 (CQ-12T, CQ-18T)
Balanced ¼” TRS Jack (Tip-Hot/Positive, Ring-Cold/Negative,
Sleeve-Ground)
Nominal +4dBu output (when output meter displays 0dB)
Out 1-6 (CQ-20B)
Balanced XLR (Pin1-Ground, Pin2-Hot/Positive, Pin3Cold/Negative)
Nominal +4dBu output (when output meter displays 0dB)
Headphone/s
Stereo ¼” TRS Jack (Tip-Left, Ring-Right, Sleeve-Ground)
Recallable digital trim control.
3. Footswitch
Mono (TS) or Dual (TRS) ¼” Jack
Can be calibrated for use with momentary or latching switches.
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4. USB and SD
USB-A (CQ as host, for audio and data storage and
recall)
USB-B (CQ as client, for audio only).
Conforms to USB 2.0 standard. Class compliant USBB interface.
Full size SD card slot. Use SDHC, Up to 32GB, UHS-I,
Class 10.
5. Network Port
RJ45, Fast Ethernet. For network control messaging only.
6. Built-In WiFi Access Point (CQ-18T, CQ-20B)
Dual band (2.4GHz or 5GHz), Auto Channel sensing.
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5. Connecting control apps
The CQ-MixPad app provides full remote control of the CQ over a network
connection from an iOS, Android, macOS or Windows device.
CQ4You is an easy-to-use personal monitoring app, which also works over a
network, and controls the send levels to one of the outputs.
Up to 2 instances of CQ-MixPad can be connected to a CQ at once, along with up to
6 instances of CQ4You (one for every output).
Note that only control messaging is shared over the network connection between
the CQ and any connected app, no audio is transmitted or received. To send audio
wirelessly from a device to the CQ, the Bluetooth connection can be used.
Remote control of the CQ is not possible via Bluetooth.
The firmware on the CQ and all app versions must have the same major release
number. This is the first two digits of each release number.
Firmware V1.1.3 and App V1.1.5 = compatible
Firmware V1.1.3 and App V1.2.3 = not compatible
First connection to a CQ-20B
1) After booting, the Chromatic Meter (CM) LED will flash to show the enabled
network, if not, carry out a network or full reset of the unit.
2) Press the reset button to toggle between the two options.
• flashing BLUE
= Wi-Fi enabled with default settings
• flashing YELLOW
= Ethernet enabled with default settings
The Chromatic Meter (CM) LED will continue to flash until a network has been set up
and secured.
3) Connect the device running CQ-MixPad to either the built-in Wi-Fi, to the
same network as the CQ is connected to, or connect directly to the CQ
using a network cable.
4) Complete the setup of the network as described in the rest of this section.
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Connect using WiFi Access Point (CQ-18T, CQ-20B)
1) Navigate to CONFIG / CONTROL & NETWORK / Network
If there is already a connection to the CQ-20B, otherwise follow First connection to a
CQ-20B.
2) Switch Enabled Network to WiFi Access Point
3) Setup the network. Recommended settings are:
• WPA2 Password on
• WPA2 Password set (change from default ‘DefaultPassword’)
• Frequency dependent on environment and other equipment
• Channel set to Auto
• SSID Hidden (once all devices have connected and stored network
details)
4) Note the network name and password.
5) Apply any changes.
6) Connect the remote device to the Wi-Fi network that’s just been set up.
7) Run CQ-MixPad or CQ4You and connect to the CQ from the Choose Unit
list.
If the unit does not appear in the choose unit list, try selecting ‘Other’ and entering
the IP address manually. The current IP address of the unit is listed in the HOME /
SYSTEM / Info screen.
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Connect using an external router or network
1) Connect the CQ to the external router or network as a client, using a
network cable connected to the network port. Follow instructions on any
router or access point as if the CQ were a computer (e.g. connect to a LAN
port).
2) Navigate to CONFIG / CONTROL & NETWORK / Network
3) Switch Enabled Network to Ethernet (CQ-18T, CQ-20B)
4) Setup the network. It is recommended that IP Mode is set to Automatic, to
allow automatic address assignment via DHCP where possible. Setting IP
Mode to Manual should only be required where a DHCP host is not
available, or for setups where an IT or networking team needs to allow
access.
When IP Mode is set to Automatic and no IP address is provided to the CQ, it will auto
assign itself an address. This is noted by a (*) appearing after the address in the
network config and system information screens.
If IP Mode is set to Manual and the change is applied before editing the address,
gateway and subnet, the defaults can be found in the Default Network Settings
section of this guide.
5) Connect a device to the same router, access point or network.
6) Run CQ-MixPad or CQ4You and connect to the CQ from the Choose Unit
list.
Connect a computer directly with a network cable
1) Navigate to CONFIG / CONTROL & NETWORK / Network
2) Switch Enabled Network to Ethernet (CQ-18T, CQ-20B)
3) Set IP Mode to Automatic and apply to let the CQ self-assign an address.
4) Connect the device running CQ-MixPad directly via the network port.
5) Run CQ-MixPad and connect to the CQ from the Choose Unit list.
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6. Operation and Workflow
Physical Controls (CQ-12T, CQ-18T)
Screen keys
5x Keys for navigation between the main CONFIG, PROCESSING, FADER, FX and
HOME screens.
• Screens have persistence, other than for channel selection, which is
followed across CONFIG, PROCESSING and FADER screens.
• Screen keys can be pressed multiple times in some screens:
o In HOME to return to the home tab and control headphone level.
o In PROCESSING to exit a processing view and return to bank view.
Soft Keys
3x Custom keys that can be set to control tap tempos, mutes, scene controls and
recording amongst many other functions.
Touchscreen and touchscreen rotary control
7” capacitive multi-touch screen. Touch and drag on-screen to control faders.
Touch a parameter on screen and use the touchscreen rotary control to adjust. The
touchscreen rotary and parameter will illuminate yellow to indicate control.
Soft Rotaries / Smart Rotaries (CQ-18T)
3x Rotary controls with RGB illumination that can be set to control levels and
processing parameters for a specific channel or the currently selected channel.
Smart Rotaries mode assigns parameters to the rotaries depending on the current
screen. For example, in input bank view, the rotaries will control Gain, Pan and send
level. With a compressor on screen, they instead control Ratio, Threshold and Gain.
Coloured dots in the controls on screen match the Smart Rotary illumination to
indicate which parameters are linked.
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CQ-MixPad
The CQ-MixPad app has been designed to have an almost identical interface to the
touchscreen on the CQ-12T and CQ-18T.
CQ Touchscreen (Processing bank view)
CQ-MixPad (Processing bank view)
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Differences
1. Main screen keys:
Physical keys on hardware Vs Main tabs at the top of CQ-MixPad
2. Soft Keys:
Physical keys on hardware Vs buttons on CQ-MixPad
3. Location of channel bank tabs:
At the top of a CQ touchscreen Vs At the bottom left of CQ-MixPad
4. Keyboard text entry:
On-screen with hardware Vs Default method for the remote device
Some additions with CQ-MixPad are:
5. Faders are available at the bottom of Processing and FX screens.
6. Other than in the Processing screen, output selection and output level
fader are always available on the right-hand side.
Control and fine adjustment of faders in CQ-MixPad
Touch or click and drag to move faders up or down.
Keep the fader selected (keep finger on screen or click and hold) and move left or
right away from the fader to make finer adjustments when moving up or down. The
further from the fader, the finer the control.
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Adjustment of processing parameters in CQ-MixPad
Touch or click and drag left and right on complete channel processing parameters
to adjust.
Keep the control selected (keep finger on the screen or click and hold) and move up
or down away from the parameter for finer adjustments when moving left or right.
The farther from the parameter, the finer the adjustment.
Control of Quick Channel and FX parameters
These (generally larger) controls do not offer fine control and are designed to be
adjusted using both left/right and up/down gestures.
CQ4You
The CQ4You app allows each musician or performer to control only the send levels
to their own monitor out.
The main screen displays the overall output level on the
right, with the ability to select the output being controlled
above this, and a mute at the bottom.
To the left are 4 groups with control
wheels, which are used to adjust the
send levels for all channels assigned
to it simultaneously. Meaning, for
example, that all the drums in the
monitor can be turned up or down at
the same time.
Double tap a wheel to rename it,
assign channels to it and make
individual send level adjustments for
all assigned channels in the group.
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Workflow and main screens overview
The CQ UI has been designed for fast operation during mixing and with a logical
layout for setup. Common mixing functions appear in the middle 3 screens, with the
idea that the user ‘works in’ from the HOME and CONFIG screens during setup, and
then switches between PROCESSING, FADER and FX screens when mixing.
The basic intended workflow is as follows:
HOME – Set/check headphone level and use Quick Start to recall a template if
required. Recall a scene or data as a starting point. Return to the home screen for
headphone level adjustment, or if carrying out system functions (e.g. recording or
formatting media, or setting system preferences).
CONFIG – Initial configuration of the mixer before mixing. Work from left to right at
the bottom of the screen on a channel-by-channel basis to set name and colour,
recall channel libraries and to set gains on inputs or delays on outputs. Configure
USB patching and Bluetooth connection, switch AMM on/off, set up physical and
remote control (network setup for app control).
PROCESSING – Adjust processing on a channel-by-channel basis. This screen is
about looking at each channel individually, including seeing SENDS from each
channel to all possible output and FX destinations. Touch a channel once to select
it, then touch any processing ‘block’ to make adjustments.
FADER – Adjust signal being sent to a selected output or FX (by default input
levels going to Main LR). Includes control of overall level to output sockets and
access to input and output mutes. In the opposite way to the PROCESSING /
SENDS screen, which shows one source going to multiple destinations, the FADER
screen shows multiple sources to one destination.
FX – Adjust FX parameters as required. Recall different FX models to each FX unit.
Use the SENDS TO screen (for FX in shared mode) to see all channels using that FX
unit. Quickly mute all FX between songs.
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Quick Start
The Quick Start button (in the first HOME screen tab) opens a list of factory
templates for use as the starting point for some typical mixer applications.
Recalling a Quick Start template will set all CONFIG, PROCESSING and FX screen
parameters, including input and output channel linking, naming and colour along
with all processing and FX units.
The Quick Start workflow is:
1. Recall a Quick Start template
2. Go to the CONFIG screen to make any adjustments to the setup and set
input gains (using Gain Assistant)
3. Raise levels in the FADER screen
4. Make changes to the mix using the PROCESSING, FADER and FX screens
Once the template has been adjusted to suit, it can then be stored as a Scene or
into a Show for future use.
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Important things to be aware of when using Quick Start:
• The current state of the CQ will be overwritten, so it’s good practice to store
a Scene before recalling a Quick Start template.
• Unlike a Scene, Quick Start can change stereo linking of inputs and outputs
and EQ Type. This can mean that recalling Scenes after recalling a Quick
Start template results in an unexpected setup. To correct an issue due to
different configurations, reset stereo linking and EQ Types to the correct
state and recall the Scene again.
• Preamp Gain settings will be set to 0dB and all +48V Phantom Power will be
turned off.
Templates
All Quick – All linkable channels set to mono. All mono and stereo inputs have the
EasyEQ Quick Channel running (and flat) for simple, quick control of any input
source type.
All Complete – All linkable channels set to mono. All mono and stereo inputs have
a Complete Channel recalled with all processing blocks fully reset.
Conference - All linkable channels set to mono. First bank of inputs use Voice
Quick Channels. All other mono and stereo inputs use EasyEQ Quick Channel (set
flat).
Turn the Automatic Microphone Mixer On for each voice channel being used in the
CONFIG / AMM screen.
Rock* – Inputs set for Drums, Bass, Rhythm Guitar, Lead Guitar and Vocals, all
using Quick Channels.
Pop* - Inputs set for Drums, Bass, Guitar, Keys, Synth and Vocals, all using Quick
Channels.
Country* - Inputs set for Drums, Bass, Keys, Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Banjo,
Fiddle, Harmonica and Vocals, all using Quick Channels.
Jazz* – Inputs set for Drums, Bass, Piano, Guitar, Saxophone, Trumpet and Vocals,
all using Quick Channels.
*These templates vary depending on CQ model being used.
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Shows, Scenes and Libraries
Shows
The CQ has one ‘Show’ running on it at any time. A Show includes the current state
of the mixer, the current mixer config, mixer preferences, up to 100 Scenes and up
to 128 Library items.
Shows are used for different setups and applications and therefore recall more
settings than a Scene, including stereo linking of channels, Output EQ Type and
brightness settings for screens or LED’s.
However, Shows do not include network settings, unit name, stored Bluetooth
connections, or USB/SD settings. These are set per unit, so that network settings
on a venue’s mixer are not overwritten when a visiting engineer recalls a Show!
Multiple Shows can be stored and recalled using a USB storage device (e.g. a USB
stick drive).
Scenes
Scenes allow instantaneous storage and recall of multiple parameters and settings
at once. They store/recall the mix state of the CQ and can be used for the different
scenes of a theatre production (hence the name), different songs in a set, or even
different bands at a show if the setups are similar.
The CQ has 100 Scene slots available (per show). A Scene stores all preamp,
channel naming, processing parameters, send levels, FX units and parameters and
Soft Key and Soft Rotary assignments.
Libraries
Libraries are used throughout the CQ to store and recall parameters for channels or
processing.
The button to open the library can be found in the CONFIG, INPUTS and OUTPUTS
screens, the top right-hand corner of most PROCESSING screens and the FX
screen.
A different library is opened depending on which screen is being viewed.
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Stored in the CQ
• 1 Show
• Network settings
• Unit name
• Factory Libraries
Stored in each Show
• 100 Scenes
• 128 User Libraries
• Input/Output Stereo Linking
• USB source and sample rate
• Surface brightness preferences
• Chromatic Metering settings
• Headphone Level
Stored in each Scene
• Input Source
• Preamp/Trim settings
• Input processing
• Send levels and panning
• Channel names and colours
• Channel mutes
• FX units and parameters
• SoftKey/SoftRotary assignments
• Footswitch settings
• AMM settings
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Available Libraries
All Libraries are displayed as a pop-up, accessed using the Library button in the
screen listed in brackets here. Libraries affect the selected channel or processing
being viewed.
Whole Input Channel (CONFIG / INPUTS)
Includes: Input name/colour, preamp/trim settings, Quick Channel or Complete
Channel (HPF, Gate, PEQ, Compressor)
Input Channel Processing (PROCESSING / INPUTS (bank view))
Includes: Quick Channel, Complete Channel (HPF, Gate, PEQ, Compressor)
Input Channel Processing (PROCESSING / INPUT / Quick Channel)
Includes: Quick Channel or Complete Channel (HPF, Gate, PEQ, Compressor)
Whole Output Channel (CONFIG / OUTPUTS)
Includes: Output name, EQ Type, GEQ or PEQ+FBA, Compressor, Limiter
Output Channel Processing (PROCESSING / OUTPUTS (bank view))
Includes: EQ Type, GEQ or PEQ+FBA, Compressor, Limiter
Gate (PROCESSING / INPUT / Gate)
Includes: Gate settings only
GEQ (PROCESSING / OUTPUT / GEQ)
Includes: GEQ settings only
PEQ (PROCESSING / INPUT / PEQ and PROCESSING / OUTPUT / PEQ)
Includes: PEQ settings only
Feedback Assistant (PROCESSING / OUTPUT / FBA)
Includes: FBA settings and Fixed Mode filters only
Compressor (PROCESSING / INPUT / Compressor and PROCESSING / OUTPUT /
Compressor)
Includes: PEQ settings only
Limiter (PROCESSING / OUTPUT / Limiter)
Includes: Limiter settings only
FX (FX)
Includes: FX model, FX parameters, FX Unit Mute Mode, Insert Mix%
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Processing Copy, Paste and Reset
Copy
Open the dropdown menu from the top right-hand corner and select Copy to see
the available processing to Copy.
Copying can be carried out in the bank view (as shown), but also when viewing
individual processing.
Touch any of the options to copy the processing. The copied processing block or
channel will be indicated with a lighter green.
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Paste
Open the dropdown menu from the top right-hand corner (if not already open from
copying) and select Paste to see the available places any copied processing can
be pasted
Touch any of the options to paste the processing. Any processing block or channel
where processing has been pasted will be indicated with a lighter blue.
Pasting can be carried out in the bank view (as shown), but also when viewing
individual processing.
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Reset
Open the dropdown menu from the top right-hand corner and select Reset to see
the available reset options.
Touch any of these options to reset processing to default values.
Resets can be carried out in the bank view (as shown), but also when viewing
individual processing.
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Processing Quick Fire
Open the dropdown menu from the top right-hand corner when in a bank view and
select Quick Fire to view an overlay which allows processing to be quickly
switched in or out across all visible complete channels.
Quick Fire also allows channels to be muted from within the PROCESSING screen.
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Convert a Quick Channel to a Complete Channel
Any Quick Channel can be converted to a Complete Channel at any time without
any change to the audio.
This allows Quick Channels to be used for a fast setup, but which can then be
switched to Complete Channels for control of individual parameters if desired.
Open the dropdown menu from the top right-hand corner when in a bank view with
the Quick Channel selected, or when viewing the Quick Channel controls of the
channel to be converted, then select Convert.
A pop-up explaining what will happen will appear and give the option to apply or
cancel conversion.
Note that it is not possible for Complete Channels to be converted to Quick
Channels.
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7. How to…
Use Gain Assistant
Gain Assistant can be used on any input channel which has a preamp, when the
Input Source is set to Analogue.
1.
Connect a source (e.g. Microphone) to input socket 110 (CQ-12T) or 1-16 (CQ-18T, CQ-20B).
2.
Go to CONFIG / INPUTS and select that input socket.
Settings will appear in the bottom half of the screen.
3.
Ensure the Input Source is set to Analogue.
4.
If using a source that requires 48V phantom power,
such as a condenser microphone or active DI box,
ensure this is turned on.
5.
In the Gain Assistant section, use the Auto Set
button to begin setting preamp gain.
6.
Make noise into the connected microphone or with
the connected instrument/source to let the Gain
Assistant know what the typical signal level will be.
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7.
Gain Assistant will automatically raise the Gain and
set the optimum input level.
8.
Once the Auto Set function is complete, the Auto
Gain feature will be enabled. The input is now ready
for processing and recording or adding to a mix.
Gain Assistant can also be found in the PROCESSING / Preamp section of a
Complete Channel.
Auto Gain
This can be used independently of Auto Set and turned on or off at any time. Auto
Gain constantly checks the input signal level in the background and if the preamp
gain is set too high (e.g. an instrument or voice get louder than they were during
sound check), it will reduce gain until the signal is back to an optimum level.
Multi Select
Use Gain Assistant functions on multiple preamps at the same time with Multi
Select by simply turning it on and then selecting the desired channels; Input
Source and Gain Assistant settings will then be available at the bottom of the
screen.
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Use Quick Channels
Quick Channels are instrument or source-centric whole channel presets which
allow the user to mix quickly by adjusting multiple parameters with just a few
controls. They are useful for non-technical users who don’t want to get lost in
menus and parameter values, but also for more technical users who need to work
fast but may want to make more in-depth adjustments later.
1.
Go to CONFIG / INPUTS and select an input socket.
Settings will appear in the bottom half of the screen.
OR
1.
Go to PROCESSING / INPUTS and select an input
channel in bank view (when multiple channels are
visible).
Be sure to only touch or click once to select a
channel so the screen remains in bank view.
Recall a channel from the CONFIG screen to include
name/colour and preamp settings. Recall from the
PROCESSING screen to include only the processing
and leave the name/colour and preamp settings as
they were.
2.
Open the Library pop-up with the Library button at
either bottom left (CONFIG), or top right
(PROCESSING).
3.
Select the Quick tab to list only Quick Channels.
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4.
Switch to Factory to show the built-in factory
options.
5.
Choose and recall a Quick Channel according to the
type of instrument/source being used. Each of the
Factory options is a different Quick Channel and
most include several variants when recalled too.
5.
In the PROCESSING screen, view the Quick Channel
controls by selecting the channel and then touching
or clicking on the Quick Channel icon.
6.
If headphones are connected and the source set to
the default ‘Listen’ option, use the Listen button
(with headphone symbol) to hear only the audio from
the current channel.
7.
Each Quick Channel is created for a source type and
includes a few controls. Examples can be seen in the
INPUT / Quick Channels section of this guide.
8.
When happy with the sound, select SENDS from the
right-hand side navigation strip to view and adjust
the levels being sent to FX Units and Outputs.
As listed on-screen under the recall section when viewing the Library pop-up -
recalling from the CONFIG screen will include input Name, Colour and Preamp
settings, whereas from the PROCESSING screen, it includes only processing.
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Send signal from Inputs to the Main Output
Prior to sending signal anywhere, preamp gain or trim should be set correctly for
the input source. Follow the How to Use Gain Assistant section for best results.
This ensures optimum signal level coming into the channel for processing, but more
importantly when thinking about sending (routing) signals, changing the preamp
gain or trim also affects the level of signal being sent to any outputs.
Send one input at a time using the PROCESSING screen
1.
Go to PROCESSING / INPUTS and select the channel
to be sent to the Main LR output.
2.
Use the fader on the right-hand side to adjust the
send level for just the selected channel. Touch/Click
and drag, or select the fader and use the Touchscreen
rotary control (CQ-12T, CQ-18T).
Repeat steps 1 and 2 for other inputs as required.
3.
Adjust the (overall) Main LR output level by going to
the OUTPUTS tab, selecting the Main LR output
channel, and again using the fader on the right-hand
side.
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Send multiple inputs to one output using the FADER screen
1.
Go to the FADER screen and check that the fader
on the right-hand side is labelled ‘Main LR’. If not,
use the Sends to button to show all available ‘Send
to’ destinations and select Main LR.
2.
Use the tabs at the top of the screen to navigate
between banks of Inputs.
3.
Raise the fader for any Input (or multiple inputs) to
send signal from input channel to the Main LR
output. Touch/Click and drag, or select the fader
and use the Touchscreen rotary control (CQ-12T,
CQ-18T).
4
Adjust the (overall) Main LR output using the fader
on the right-hand side.
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Send signal from Inputs to Outputs 1-6
Prior to sending signal anywhere, preamp gain or trim should be set correctly for
the input source. Follow the How to Use Gain Assistant section for best results.
This ensures optimum signal level coming into the channel for processing, but more
importantly when thinking about sending (routing) signals, changing the preamp
gain or trim also affects the level of signal being sent to any outputs.
Sends from Inputs to each Out can be set ‘Pre or Post Fader’ in the CONFIG /
OUTPUTS screen. Post Fader means the channel send level to the output depends on
both the set send level to the output and the send level to Main LR. Pre Fader sends
on the other hand, are completely independent and mostly used for monitoring.
Sends to Outputs 1-6 are sourced Post-PEQ (Pre-Comp) from input channels. This
means that the full dynamic range is heard by performers in monitors, and that the
compressor on each input affects only the Main LR.
Send one input at a time using the PROCESSING screen
1.
Go to PROCESSING / INPUTS and select
the channel to be sent.
2.
Touch/Click the SENDS section at the
bottom of the channel strip to display and
adjust all send levels for that channel.
3.
Use the blue faders to adjust the send
levels from
Repeat steps 1 and 2 for other inputs as
required.
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Send multiple inputs to one Output using the FADER screen
1.
Go to the FADER screen and use the
Sends to button, above the fader on the
right-hand side, to select an output to
send signal to.
2.
Use the tabs at the top of the screen to
navigate between banks of Inputs.
3.
Raise the fader for any Input in order to
send signal from that input channel to the
selected Output.
Touch/Click and drag faders, or select the
fader and use the Touchscreen rotary
control (CQ-12T, CQ-18T).
4
Adjust the (overall) Output level using the
fader on the right-hand side.
Repeat steps 2 to 4 for different inputs
and different outputs to set the mix for
each.
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Use the Feedback Assistant
The Feedback Assistant (FBA) detects the prominent and persistent frequencies
caused by feedback, and then adds narrow filters to the output to reduce the levels
of those frequencies whilst changing the overall sound as little as possible.
It can be used in any situation where the input source can ‘hear’ an output it is
being sent to. Most commonly, a microphone being used in the same space as
monitor speakers and PA system.
The FBA is designed to be used during setup and then to look out for feedback
during the show or event. For best results always run through the setup steps
whenever the setup or venue is changed.
False Positives and best practices
False positives can occur with any feedback-like sound being played (e.g. guitar
feedback, keyboard and synth sounds, flute, operatic vocals etc…). The FBA cannot
know if this is a desired feedback-like sound or not. The FBA on all channels will
always boot with HOLD active to prevent unnecessary filters being added for this
reason. It is best not to leave any FBA actively detecting and adding fixed filters.
Instead, if being left unattended, it is best to leave the filter Mode as Live.
Detect and add Fixed filters to an Output during setup/soundcheck
This is the most important stage to prevent feedback during a show or event.
Feedback can also be detected more accurately and quickly during
setup/soundcheck and there is less chance of false positives.
Some Feedback must occur for the FBA to detect and filter it. Therefore, before
doing anything, ensure that:
• All microphones to be used are connected and have preamp gain set.
• All Input processing has been set to an approximate starting point.
• All outputs have been connected and any speakers powered on.
• A rough mix should be set for monitors and other outputs (though with the
output level lower than needed if feedback is already an issue).
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1.
Go to CONFIG / OUTPUTS and select the Output
socket where Feedback Assistant (FBA) is needed.
Settings will appear in the bottom half of the
screen.
2.
Set EQ Type to PEQ & FBA if it is not already.
3.
Go to PROCESSING / OUTPUTS.
4.
Select the Output channel, then select the
channel’s FBA to show details and controls.
5.
At the bottom left of the screen, select the DETECT
tab (if not already selected)
6.
Set the filter Mode to Fixed. This will mean any
detected feedback frequencies will have a fixed
filter applied (which will remain until manually
deleted).
7.
Disable HOLD to start detecting feedback
frequencies; Enable HOLD to pause detection at
any time
8.
Enable the RTA (Real Time Analyser) to show the
frequency content of the selected Output on the
graph.
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9.
Gently raise the Output level fader to the right of
the graph and controls.
As the output level increases, feedback will occur
and the FBA will be able to detect it and add fixed
filters.
Raise the fader to a higher level that it will be used
at during the show or event to generate and detect
as much potential feedback as possible and allow
for changes to the mix (e.g. extra vocal being added
later).
When all frequencies have been detected or all 12
Fixed filters have been used, lower the level again.
10.
With setup detection complete, either engage
HOLD or switch filter Mode to Live.
Repeat for any other outputs as required.
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Detect and add Live filters to an Output during a show or event
1.
Follow the previous How To guide to add Fixed
filters during setup whenever possible. This gives
the best starting point for the FBA.
2.
Go to CONFIG / OUTPUTS and select the Output
socket where Feedback Assistant (FBA) is needed.
Settings will appear in the bottom half of the
screen.
3.
Set EQ Type to PEQ & FBA if it is not already.
4.
Go to PROCESSING / OUTPUTS.
5.
Select the Output channel, then select the
channel’s FBA to show details and controls.
6.
At the bottom left of the screen, select the DETECT
tab (if not already selected)
7.
Set the filter Mode to Live. This will mean any
detected feedback frequencies will have a live filter
applied, which will immediately begin to recover.
8.
Set the rate of recovery for all Live filters. This can
be adjusted at any time to speed up or slow down
(or even pause) recovery. It does not affect fixed
filters.
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9.
Disable HOLD to start detecting feedback
frequencies; Enable HOLD to pause detection at
any time
10.
Enable the RTA (Real Time Analyser) to show the
frequency content of the selected Output on the
graph.
Repeat for any other outputs as required.
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Add and use FX
There are two ways to use each FX Unit, Shared or Inserted.
When in Shared Mode, the FX Unit processes signal from multiple channels at the
same time. The ‘wet’ processed signal can then be sent, at different levels, to
outputs and be heard alongside the ‘dry’ signals coming directly from the channels.
When Inserted, the FX Unit is used on a single input or output channel. Getting its
signal from after the gate of an input channel or right at the beginning of an output
channel. The FX Unit output is then fed back into the channel at the same point so
all other processing (e.g. PEQ) will affect it.
Using an FX Unit in Shared Mode
1.
Go to the FX screen and select one of the FX
Units on the left-hand side.
2.
To choose a different FX type, use the Library
button at the right top corner of the screen, select
an FX type or stored preset then recall it.
3.
At the top of the screen, ensure the CONTROL tab
is selected and the FX Unit controls are shown.
4.
Toward the bottom left, set FX Unit Mode to
Shared (if not already set).
5.
Set the FX Send Level to 0dB as a starting point.
This can be adjusted at any time to control the
overall signal level being fed into the FX Unit.
6.
Set the FX Level to LR to 0dB as a starting point.
This controls the amount of ‘wet’ FX signal being
heard in the Main LR.
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7.
Switch to the SENDS TO tab at the top to
display all channel sends to the selected FX
Unit.
8.
Select and adjust individual send levels to
the FX Unit from each channel. Note that
these send levels are the same as can be
viewed on each channel from the
PROCESSING / SENDS screen. They can
also be adjusted using faders from the
FADER screen by using Sends to and
selecting an FX Unit.
9.
Switch back to the CONTROL tab.
10.
Adjust FX parameters. (Refer to the FX
section of this guide for a detailed
description and configuration of each FX).
Also set Mute Mode:
Trails On – Delays and reverbs decay
naturally after muting.
Trails Off – Delays and reverbs stop
immediately when muted.
11.
In the PROCESSING screen, select the ST.
INPUTS / FX tab
12.
Select the FX Unit channel, then touch/click
SENDS to show all send levels from that FX
Unit.
13.
Adjust send levels to Main LR, other FX Units
and Outputs 1-6 as required, so the FX is
heard only where it should be.
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Using an FX Unit in Inserted Mode
1.
Go to the FX screen and select one of the FX
Units on the left-hand side.
2.
To choose a different FX type, use the Library
button at the right top corner of the screen, select
an FX type or stored preset then recall it.
3.
At the top of the screen, ensure the CONTROL tab
is selected and the FX Unit controls are shown.
4.
Toward the bottom left, set FX Unit Mode to
Inserted (if not already set) and select a channel
to insert the FX Unit into from the pop-up.
5.
To change the channel the FX Unit is inserted into
at any time, touch/click the Insert (channel)
button.
6.
Adjust FX parameters. (Refer to the FX section of
this guide for a detailed description and
configuration of each FX).
7.
Use the Mix control to adjust the balance of
signal between 0% (only direct/’dry’ signal, no FX
heard) and 100% (only FX/’wet’ signal, no
direct/’dry’ signal heard).
8.
Switch the inserted FX Unit in and out of the
channel instantly using the In/Out button.
Inserted FX Units are shown with an icon in the channel strip on the PROCESSING
screen. Selecting this will jump to the FX Unit in the FX screen.
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Send Audio to and from a DAW
CQ can send and receive multichannel audio with a built-in audio interface that
connects to a computer or device via USB-B. The maximum number of channels
that can be sent and received are:
CQ-12T: 16×16 (48/96kHz)
CQ-18T: 24×22 (48/96kHz)
CQ-20B: 24×24 (48/96kHz)
For capture and playback of an event, or for virtual soundcheck, signal is generally
only sent or received at any time. In a studio environment however, sending and
receiving signal at the same time is often required. This guide describes sending
and receiving separately. For bidirectional use, simply ensure that audio is being
sent from the DAW to the CQ using different channels than those being used to
send audio from the CQ to the DAW.
CQ mixers are Core Audio compliant so no driver is required; for lower latency
connection with Windows systems, download and install the required ASIO driver from
the A&H website: https://www.allen-heath.com/cq.
Send Audio from the CQ to a DAW:
1.
Connect the CQ to the computer or device
using a standard USB-B cable.
2.
Go to CONFIG / Digital Audio (Symbols) /
USB/SD to set up the connection.
3.
Select a point in the signal path of an Input
channel to record from using Source Point
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4.
Select the Sample Rate. This should match
the Sample Rate of the DAW session.
5.
Select Multitrack for Stream Mode to send
and receive all channels individually.
6.
Assign outputs to the final pairs of channels
as required. These can be stereo inputs, FX or
outputs.
All mono (or stereo linked) channels are
always patched to their matching channel
number. e.g. CQ input 7 is being sent to USB
channel 7.
6.
In the DAW audio preferences, select the CQ
as the Audio Input Device or equivalent.
7.
Assign the Input source of each track in the
DAW to correspond to channels being sent
from the CQ.
8.
Done! Signal will now be available for
recording and processing on each of the DAW
tracks.
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Send Audio from a DAW to the CQ:
1.
Connect the CQ to the computer or device using
a standard USB-B cable.
2.
Go to CONFIG / Digital Audio (Symbols) /
USB/SD to set up the connection.
4.
Select the Sample Rate. This should match the
Sample Rate of the DAW session.
6.
In the DAW audio preferences, select the CQ as
the Audio Output Device or equivalent.
5.
Assign the Output for each track in the DAW.
Output channel numbers from the DAW match
input channel numbers of the CQ.
6.
On the CQ, go to CONFIG / INPUTS and select
the required channels according to your DAW
output assignments; Use Multi Select to select
multiple inputs at the same time.
7.
Switch Input Source to USB/SD (Symbols).
8.
Done! Signal will now be sent to the CQ from
the DAW and can be routed and processed as
required.
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Record/Playback Multitrack using an SD Card
For best results use UHS-I, Class 10 SD card storage.
Other cards will work, though the maximum number of tracks that can be recorded
may reduce, or more errors may occur. The maximum recording time is based on
the FAT32 file system used, which allows for mono WAV recordings (one for each
track) of around 8hrs (@48kHz) or 4hrs (@96kHz).
Before using a card for recording, ensure it has been formatted in the CQ using the
HOME / SYSTEM / USB/SD (Symbols) screen.
More details on SD multitrack recording can be found in the HOME / RECORD /
Multitrack section of this guide.
To record Multitrack on an SD Card
1.
Go to CONFIG / USB/SD/BLUETOOTH / USB/SD
to check and adjust settings.
2.
Select a point in the signal path of an Input channel
to record from using Source Point
3.
Select the Sample Rate. 48kHz allows for longer
recording time and more channels to be recorded at
a lower quality. 96kHz allows a maximum of 16
channels to be recorded for a shorter time but at
the highest quality.
4.
Go to HOME / RECORD / MULTITRACK
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To record Multitrack on an SD Card
1.
Go to CONFIG / USB/SD/BLUETOOTH / USB/SD
to check and adjust settings.
2.
Select a point in the signal path of an Input channel
to record from using Source Point
3.
Select the Sample Rate. 48kHz allows for longer
recording time and more channels to be recorded at
a lower quality. 96kHz allows a maximum of 16
channels to be recorded for a shorter time but at
the highest quality.
4.
Go to HOME / RECORD / MULTITRACK
5.
Arm each channel to be recorded using the Arm
button below each channel meter. Armed channels
are indicated with a red record symbol.
6.
Ensure channels that are not be recorded show a
grey record symbol, showing they are unarmed.
7.
Use the Recording button in the transport bar to
start recording to the SD card. A new folder will be
created with empty files then recording will begin
automatically.
8.
Press the Stop button to finish the recording. When
each recording is stopped, allow time for the
recording to be finalised and the files stored
correctly.
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To Playback Multitrack from an SD Card
1.
Go to CONFIG / Digital Audio (Symbols) /
USB/SD to set up the connection.
2.
Select the Sample Rate. This should match the
Sample Rate of recording.
3.
On the CQ, go to CONFIG / INPUTS and select
the channels to use for playback. Use Multi
Select to select multiple inputs at the same time.
Recorded audio will play back to the channel it
was recorded from.
4.
Switch Input Source to USB/SD (Symbols).
5.
Go to HOME / RECORD / Multitrack
6.
To select a stored multitrack file from the SD
Card, touch the Select Track drop-down menu at
the left bottom corner of the screen.
7.
If a recording cannot be seen, try a different
sample rate (steps 1 and 2).
8.
Use Playback Mode to select whether some, all
or none of the recordings will be repeated.
9.
Use the Transport bar to control playback.
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Store and Recall settings
The CQ has 1 Show on it at any time. Up to 100 Scenes can be stored within each
Show along with up to 128 Library items. Using these three separate data types, it’s
possible to store and recall anything from the settings of a PEQ on a single
channel, to the entire setup of the CQ.
For more information on different types of storage in CQ, see the Shows, Scenes
and Libraries section.
Store a Scene
1.
Go to HOME / SCENES.
2.
Select an available scene slot and use the Store New
button to store the current state of the mixer as a
Scene.
3.
Alternatively, select an existing Scene and use
Overwrite to store the current state of the mixer in
place of the selected Scene.
4.
Use Rename to change the name of the selected
Scene.
Recall a Scene
1.
Go to HOME / SCENES.
2.
Select a Scene from the list and use the Recall
button to replace the current state of the CQ (all
processing, FX Units and send levels) with the stored
version.
Note that any current settings will be overwritten
and this can’t be undone, so it is best practice to
Store any changes before Recalling a Scene.
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Store Processing Parameters Using Libraries
1.
Go to PROCESSING, locate the bank of faders from
the top of the screen containing the channel with
processing to be stored.
2.
Select the channel, then stay in bank view to store
a whole channel or select a processing block (e.g.
PEQ) to view in detail and store only that part of
the processing.
3.
Open the Library from the top right-hand corner of
the screen. A different library will open depending
on the screen currently being viewed.
4.
Select Store new to store all settings from the
selected channel/processing block.
5.
Switch to the User library to manage User
Libraries.
6.
Select an existing item in the list and use
Overwrite to store settings for the selected
channel/processing block over the top of an
existing item.
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Recall Processing Parameters Using Libraries
1.
Go to PROCESSING, locate the bank of faders from
the top of the screen containing the channel where
the processing will be recalled to.
2.
Select the channel, then stay in bank view to recall
processing for a whole channel or select a
processing block (e.g. Compressor) to view it in
detail and recall only that part of the processing.
3.
Open the Library from the top right-hand corner of
the screen. A different library will open depending
on the screen currently being viewed.
Switch between Factory and User Libraries to
choose whether to view Library items in the mixer
(Factory) or those stored by the User in the
currently loaded Show.
6.
Select an item from the list then use Recall to
replace the current settings of the channel or
processing block with the stored settings.
Whole channel libraries can also be accessed from the CONFIG / INPUTS and
CONFIG / OUTPUTS screens. From here a recall will also include settings from the
config screen e.g. name and preamp gain.
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Store/Recall show files
Show files can only be stored and recalled from/to a connected USB-A storage
device which has been formatted correctly using the HOME / SYSTEM / USB/SD
(Symbols) screen.
1.
Connect a USB Drive to the USB-A port of
the unit.
2.
Go to HOME / DATA / SHOWS.
3.
Use Store New to store the current state of
the CQ along with all Scenes and Libraries
to the inserted USB drive as a new Show.
6.
Select an existing Show and use Overwrite
to replace the contents of the selected
Show on the drive with the current state of
the CQ along with all Scenes and Libraries.
4.
Select Rename to change the name of the
selected show file on the drive.
5.
Select Delete to remove the selected show
file from the USB drive.
8.
Select a Show on the drive and use Recall
to load all settings of the selected Show
into the CQ.
Note that any current settings will be
overwritten and this cannot be undone, so
it is best practice to Store all current
settings to a Show as a backup before
Recalling another one.
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8. CONFIG
INPUTS
Input sockets are shown at the top of the screen, matching the hardware layout.
Each includes a Chromatic Meter to show input signal.
Touch a socket to select it and display settings for that input/channel at the
bottom.
Multi Select – Allows multiple inputs to be selected at once. This allows multiple
input sources to be switched between analogue and digital in one go, or for Gain
Assistant functions to be carried out on multiple analogue inputs at the same time.
Stereo Link – Use odd/even pairs of inputs as a single stereo channel (odd=left,
even=right). When active, all settings, processing and routing applies to both and
only one channel appears in the PROCESSING and FADER screens.
Input Source – Select Analogue to source the channel from the analogue sockets
or select USB/SD to source from USB drive and SD card.
When playing back from SD the source will be SD, otherwise it will be USB-B.
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Library – Opens the channel library to store or recall all channel settings, including
Name, Colour, Preamp and Processing. Quick and Complete libraries are available.
Name/Colour – Change the name and colour for the selected channel.
Gain Assistant –Touch Auto Set and generate noise in the microphone or with the
connected instrument/device to automatically set preamp gain based on the level
of signal received at the input. Switch on Auto Gain to automatically reduce the
preamp gain and avoid clipping if high levels are detected.
Phantom Power – Touch and hold to activate +48V on the XLR input (Required for
condenser microphones and active DI boxes).
Phantom Power is only provided via an XLR connection. It is not sent to the ¼” TRS
Jack connection of a Combi socket.
Invert Polarity – Invert the polarity of the signal. Often used where multiple
microphones are used on the same source (e.g. snare top and snare bottom)
Gain – Adjust the gain manually for the incoming signal.
Trim – Digital level adjustment, available on stereo line inputs and when an input
source is set to digital (USB/SD).
Gain Assistant, Gain and Phantom Power are only available on Analogue Input
Sources.
Level – Displays the post-preamp (pre-processing) input level.
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OUTPUTS
Output sockets are shown at the top of the screen, matching the hardware layout.
Touch a socket to select it and display settings for that output/channel at the
bottom.
Stereo Link (Out 1-6 only) – Use odd/even pairs of outputs as a single stereo
channel (odd=left, even=right). When active, all settings and processing apply to
both.
Library – Opens the channel library to store or recall all channel settings, including
Name.
EQ Type – Select either Parametric EQ plus Feedback Assistant or a Graphic EQ
for each output.
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Input Send Levels (Out 1-6 only) – Select whether send levels from the inputs are
Pre Fader (independent of send levels to the Main LR output) or Post Fader (they
‘follow’ and are relative to the send levels of inputs to the Main LR output).
Follow Main LR Pan (Out 1-6 only) – Available on Outputs which are linked/stereo.
Select whether panning of the inputs to the output are independent to the panning
of inputs to the Main LR output (Off), or whether they follow them in the same
direction (On) or the opposite direction (On – Inv)
The On -Inv setting is useful for stereo on-stage monitoring, being that the left/right
from the stage is the inverse of the left/right from the audience.
Output Delay – Delay each output by up to 682ms. Often used to time align fill
speakers or for synchronising audio to video.
Headphone Output
Source – Select Listen to have the headphone output work with the Listen buttons
(with headphone symbol) on each channel. Set to a mono or stereo mix to use as a
monitor output with independent send levels to the Main LR.
If Listen is set, when no Listen button is pressed, the headphone output will be
sourced from Main LR.
Volume – Set the headphone output level.
Headphone level can also be controlled from the home screen. To access quickly on
the CQ-12T or CQ-18T, press the HOME screen key once or twice to display and adjust.
The CQ-18T has two headphone outputs which can be set up individually. For
example, it is possible to have one headphone output set to Listen and the other to
be fed with one of the monitor mixes.
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Digital Audio (Symbols) / USB/SD
Source Point – Choose whether the signal being sent to USB/SD from input
channels includes no input channel processing, some processing, or all processing.
Sample Rate – Select between 48kHz or 96kHz. This affects USB-A recording, the
USB-B connection to a computer and SD recording. With SD recording on the CQ18T and CQ-20B, up to 16 channels can be recorded or played back at 96kHz and all
available channels can be recorded or played back at 48kHz.
SD card playback of 48kHz multitracks is not possible when set to 96kHz and vice
versa.
Stream Mode – Select between a Stereo or Multitrack output for the USB-B
connection. When set to Stereo, the output signal is that set in the Channel
Assignment labelled ‘Stereo L/R’.
Set to Stereo for streaming or recording with mobile devices that do not support
multichannel audio devices.
Set to Multitrack for multichannel recording to and from a DAW.
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Channel Assignment – Mono input channels are permanently assigned to USB/SD
outputs. In addition to these, the CQ-12T has 3 assignable stereo outputs and the
CQ-18T and CQ-20B each have 4 assignable stereo outputs. These allow recording
and playback of stereo line inputs, FX units, Main LR output or outputs 1-6.
The last stereo pair is set to Main LR by default and as well as being sent to
multitrack outputs, is used for stereo recording to USB-A or when the USB-B
Stream Mode is set to Stereo.
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Digital Audio (Symbols) / Bluetooth
On/Off – Turn Bluetooth on or off.
Discoverable – Allow the CQ unit to be seen by other Bluetooth devices. Activate
this then add the CQ as a Bluetooth device to a phone, tablet, or computer.
Forget Device – Select a previously connected device from the list, then use this
to prevent it from connecting in future.
Devices can always be connected again using the Discoverable button.
Disconnect – Terminate connection with the selected device.
The CQ-12T requires that a PIN is used for connection. This is set as 1969 (the year
Allen & Heath was founded).
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AMM (Auto Mic Mixer)
CQ’s Automatic Microphone Mixer uses a gain sharing algorithm, designed for use
in multi-microphone speech applications like conferences, meetings, broadcasting
and podcasts. It can be used on every mono input channel of the CQ with two
banks shown at the top of the page.
The AMM algorithm looks at the incoming signal level, the priority setting and
(optionally) the fader level, then adds gain (level) to any channel in use, while
reducing gain on the other channels. This reduces background noise and the
chance of feedback while improving intelligibility.
In/Out – Switch the whole AMM on or off.
On/Off – Enable or disable AMM on each channel individually.
Priority Faders – Adjust priority of each channel in the calculation.
Follow Fader – When on, the calculation considers the input send level to Main LR.
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CONTROL & NETWORK / Footswitch
A single footswitch using a TS (Tip, Sleeve) connection or a dual footswitch using a
TRS (Tip, Ring, Sleeve) connection can be used with CQ.
Each switch can be set for independently for Latching, Momentary or Soft Latch
(momentary acting as latching) operation.
Calibrate – Follow steps to detect and set up a connected footswitch.
Tip/Ring – Assign the function to be performed by each footswitch. If using a
single TS footswitch, assign only Tip.
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CONTROL & NETWORK / Soft Rotaries (CQ-18T)
Each Soft Rotary can be selected individually.
Smart Rotaries – When turned on, rotaries are automatically mapped to controls
depending on the screen being viewed. For example, in the input channel bank view,
they will control Gain, Pan and Level, then when viewing a PEQ, they will control
Width, Frequency and Gain of the last adjusted band.
This feature works globally for all three Soft Rotaries and will prevent assignment
of other functions until disabled.
Function – Assign a function to the selected Soft Rotary.
Once the function is selected, further options will appear e.g. for channel selection.
Use ‘Current Sel’ in the Source option to have the Soft Rotary control the selected
function for the currently selected channel. In this way, it’s possible to do things like
quickly adjust send levels to a particular output or FX unit from the last selected
channel and when viewing any other screen.
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CONTROL & NETWORK / Soft Keys
Each Soft Key can be selected individually.
Function - Assign a function to the selected Soft Key.
Once the function is selected, further options will appear e.g. for channel selection.
Options include:
• AMM and Processing In/Out controls, Listen, Mute and Centre Panning for
specific channels or the currently selected channel
• Scene Controls
• Record/Playback Controls
• FX Delay Tap Tempo
• Smart Rotaries On/Off (CQ-18T)
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CONTROL & NETWORK / Network (Ethernet)
Enabled Network – Select Ethernet for wired connection through the Network
port. Select Wi-Fi Access Point for wireless connection using the integrated
access point of the unit (CQ-18T, CQ-20B).
IP Mode – It is recommended that IP Mode is left set to Automatic, to allow address
assignment via DHCP when possible. Setting IP Mode to Manual should only be
required where a DHCP host is not available, or for setups where an IT or
networking team needs to allow access and wants the unit to always have the
same address.
When IP Mode is set to Automatic and no IP address is provided to the CQ, it will auto
assign itself an address. This is noted by a (*) appearing after the address in the
network config and system information screens.
If IP Mode is set to Manual and the change is applied before editing the address,
gateway and subnet, the defaults can be found in the Default Network Settings
section of this guide.
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CONTROL & NETWORK / Network (WiFi) (CQ-18T, CQ_20B)
Enabled Network – Select Ethernet for wired connection through the Network
port. Select Wi-Fi Access Point for wireless connection using the integrated
access point of the unit (CQ-18T, CQ-20B).
Security – Select between an open access point or a WPA2 password protected
network.
Password – When WPA2 is selected, set a password here. The default password is
‘DefaultPassword’
Frequency – Choose between use of 2.4GHz or 5GHz frequency bands.
Channel – Select a channel (it is recommended to leave Auto set).
SSID Visibility – Choose whether the network name is broadcast openly.
SSID Name – Assign a custom name for the network. The default name is the CQ
model followed by the last 4 digits of the serial number.
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9. PROCESSING
INPUTS (bank view)
The bank view displays one of four banks at a time, each showing up to eight input,
FX or output channels. Switch between banks using the tabs with mini faders and
meters at the top (when using a CQ-12T or CQ-18T touchscreen) or bottom left
(when using the CQ-MixPad app).
The tabs display the main fader for each channel. Either input channel sends to the
Main LR, the Overall FX send level or overall Output levels. If a channel is muted, the
fader cap is coloured red. If Listen is active on a channel, the fader cap is coloured
yellow.
Also displayed at the top of the screen is indication of connected USB and SD
storage, Bluetooth on/off, Wi-Fi on/off (CQ-18T, CQ-20B).
At the top right of the screen are the Copy, Paste, Reset, Quick Fire and Convert
menu and the Library button.
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Quick Channel and Complete Channel differences
A Quick Channel shows the Quick Channel icon for the Quick Channel being used.
A Complete Channel is shown as separate processing ‘blocks’ with signal path
running from top to bottom, so for example, the signal will pass through the gate
before going through the PEQ. Each of these blocks displays useful information
such as whether the gate is open or whether compression is being applied. If a
processing block is switched Out, it will show without colour.
Sends
At the bottom of each input channel is the SENDS section which shows the send
level to the Main LR with the meter and fader (as in the bank tabs at the top). It also
displays send levels to FX units and Outputs 1-6.
Navigation
Touch a channel to select it and show its main fader on the right-hand side.
Selection of a channel is followed through CONFIG, PROCESSING and FADER screens.
Touch any processing or the sends block of a selected channel to view processing
in detail and make adjustments.
When viewing processing in more detail, the channel processing blocks will move to
the right, in place of the channel fader in bank view. It is then possible to navigate
quickly by selecting different processing blocks on the right and selecting different
channels at the top.
Touching an FX unit which has been inserted on a channel will switch to the FX
screen to make any adjustments.
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INPUT / Quick Channels
CQ includes Quick Channels for a variety of common audio sources which provide a
quick and easy way to adjust multiple channel processing parameters with a few
controls. This enables the mix to be put together much faster than with
conventional controls and if more control is required, Quick Channels can be
converted to Complete Channels at any time.
To use a Quick Channel:
1. Recall from the Quick tab of the Channel library, either available from the
CONFIG / INPUTS screen, or when in the PROCESSING / INPUTS bank
view.
2. Select an instrument or style (where available) to get the perfect starting
point.
3. Adjust controls.
4. Done!
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Drums/Percussion Quick Channel Example
A ‘one knob’ Quick Channel has instrument or source types on the left-hand side.
Select one of the options on the left, then touch the large main dial and use the
touchscreen rotary (CQ-12T, CQ-18T) or touch and drag (CQ-MixPad) to adjust to
taste.
Switch Gate, Compressor or Limiter options In or Out using the buttons at the
bottom.
Use the Listen button above the Quick Channel icon on the right to listen to only this
input in the headphones.
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Bass Quick Channel Example
A ‘three knob’ Quick Channel has styles or types on a selection dial.
Select one of the options on the dial by selecting and turning it, or by touching
directly on the desired option.
Use the three controls at the bottom right to make adjustments.
Note that when a style is selected and these controls are in their mid (12 o’clock)
position, processing is not flat.
Switch processing options In or Out using buttons at the top.
Use the Listen button above the Quick Channel icon on the right to listen to only this
input in the headphones.
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EasyEQ Quick Channel Example
The EasyEQ is a unique Quick Channel which is in fact a model of the MusiQ found
in the Allen & Heath ZED range of analogue mixers, with the added benefit of a
compressor.
Low – Cut or boost Low frequencies.
Mid – Cut or boost Mid frequencies.
High – Cut or boost High frequencies.
HPF – Switch High Pass Filter In/Out
Comp – Switch Compression In/Out.
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INPUT / Preamp
Input Source – Select Analogue to source the channel from the analogue sockets
or select USB/SD to source from USB drive and SD card.
The current source for this input channel is displayed below.
When playing back from SD the source will be SD, otherwise it will be USB-B.
Gain Assistant – Touch Auto Set and generate noise in the microphone or with the
connected instrument/device to automatically set preamp gain based on the level
of signal received at the input. Switch on Auto Gain to automatically reduce the
preamp gain and avoid clipping if high levels are detected.
Phantom Power – Touch and hold to activate +48V on the XLR input (Required for
condenser microphones and active DI boxes).
Phantom Power is only provided via an XLR connection. It is not sent to the ¼” TRS
Jack connection of a Combi socket.
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Invert Polarity – Invert the polarity of the signal. Often used where multiple
microphones are used on the same source (e.g. snare top and snare bottom)
Gain – Adjust the gain manually for the incoming signal.
Trim – Digital level adjustment, available on stereo line inputs and when an input
source is set to digital (USB/SD).
Gain Assistant, Gain and Phantom Power are only available on Analogue Input
Sources.
Level – Displays the post-preamp (pre-processing) input level.
HPF
The High Pass Filter lets audio above a set frequency through whilst cutting out
lower frequencies. It’s commonly used wherever the low frequencies are
undesirable (e.g. microphone handling noise, traffic rumble or low background
humming) or when it is not adding anything to the mix (e.g. on predominantly mid or
high frequency sources like voice, guitar or cymbals).
Freq – Adjust the High Pass Filter frequency. When HPF is In, all frequencies above
this setting will pass whilst those below will be attenuated.
In/Out – Switch the HPF In or Out.
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INPUT / Gate
A Gate allows wanted signal through and attenuates unwanted signal. It has many
uses including removal of hum from an idle instrument or avoiding hearing the
snare drum through a tom microphone when only the snare is being played.
Attack – Adjust time it takes for the Gate to open once signal has reached
threshold.
Hold – Adjust time the Gate remains open after signal has dropped below
threshold.
Release – Adjust time it takes for the Gate to fully close once signal has fallen
under the threshold and hold time has expired.
Threshold – Adjust the level at which the Gate is triggered to open.
Depth – Adjust the amount the signal is reduced by when the gate is fully closed.
In/Out – Enable or disable the Gate.
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INPUT / PEQ
The 4-band Parametric Equaliser enables adjustments to the tone of the signal by
cutting or boosting around different frequencies.
Type – LF and HF bands include options for Shelf, Bell or HPF/LPF.
Width – Adjust the amount that frequencies around the centre frequency are
affected.
Frequency – Select the centre frequency for adjustment.
Gain – Cut or boost the selected centre frequency by up to +/- 15dB.
RTA – Display Real Time Analyser behind PEQ.
In/Out – Enable or disable the PEQ.
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INPUT / Compressor
A Compressor is used to control and reduce the dynamic range of the signal.
RMS/Peak – Compression is either triggered by RMS (short average) or Peak
(instant) signal level.
Hard/Soft Knee – With a hard knee, compression begins to take effect only when
the threshold is reached. With a soft knee, the compression begins to take effect
earlier but in a more gradual way.
Attack – Adjust the time it takes for compression to take effect once the signal
has reached the threshold. Set a longer time to allow transients through and
compress only the body of the sound, set a shorter time to flatten the signal and
tame peaks.
Release – Adjust the time that it takes for the compressor to stop compressing
after signal has fallen below the threshold.
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Ratio – The ratio of the incoming signal to compressed signal when compression is
active. E.g. when set to 3:1 and when compressing, every 3dB increase in level at
the input will result in only a 1dB increase of level at the output.
Threshold – Adjust the input level at which compression will be active.
Gain – Use to compensate for the resulting attenuation of the signal.
In/Out – Enable or disable the compressor.
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INPUT / Sends
The SENDS section shows all send levels from an input or FX channel to all
possible destinations.
Input to Main LR / Pan – Adjust the send level and stereo position of the selected
channel to Main LR. This is also the fader shown in the bank tabs at the top of the
PROCESSING and FADER screens, in bank view with the channel selected, and in
the FADER screen when Sends to is set to Main LR.
Pan (Main LR) – Position the sound in the Main LR stereo image.
Input to FX – Adjust the send level from the channel to shared FX units.
Sends to shared FX are Post Fader and are affected by the Input to Main LR fader
level.
Input to Outputs / Pan – Adjust the send level from the channel to Outputs.
Sends to Outputs can be set Pre Fader or Post Fader in the CONFIG / OUTPUTS
screen.
Pan appears when Outputs have been stereo linked and can be adjusted when Follow
Main LR Pan is set ‘Off’ in the CONFIG / OUTPUTS screen.
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ST. INPUTS / FX (bank view)
This bank includes three (CQ-12T, CQ-18T) or four (CQ-20B) stereo inputs. These are
dedicated stereo channels for
• Stereo line level inputs
• Stereo USB channel, which can be used as a return from a DAW or for
playback of stereo audio from USB storage
• The Bluetooth audio input
They work in the same way as all other input channels and have all the same
processing options available.
Also in this bank are up to two (CQ-12T) or four (CQ-18T, CQ-20B) stereo FX
channels.
Use the SENDS section on these channels to choose where the wet/affected signal
from the FX unit is sent. For example, to hear reverb in a monitor, or cascade one FX
unit into another.
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OUTPUTS (bank view)
The Outputs bank includes the six Outputs and Main LR processing channels.
Output processing is slightly different to input processing and also depends on the
EQ Type set per output in the CONFIG / OUTPUTS screen.
As with Input processing, signal flow runs from top to bottom and touching any
output will select it and show its main fader (Output level) on the right-hand side.
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OUTPUT / GEQ
A GEQ is used to cut or boost specific frequencies in the signal.
Fader – Touch and drag or select a band and use the touchscreen rotary (CQ-12T,
CQ-18T) to cut or boost by up to 12dB.
RTA – Enable this option to see a Real Time Analyser on the GEQ.
In/Out – Enable or disable the GEQ.
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OUTPUT / PEQ
The 4-band Parametric Equaliser enables adjustments to the tone of the signal by
cutting or boosting around different frequencies.
Type – LF and HF bands include options for Shelf, Bell or HPF/LPF.
Width – Adjust the amount that frequencies around the centre frequency are
affected.
Frequency – Select the centre frequency for adjustment.
Gain – Cut or boost the selected centre frequency by up to +/- 15dB
RTA – Display Real Time Analyser behind PEQ.
In/Out – Enable or disable the PEQ.
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OUTPUT / FBA
Detect
The Feedback Assistant detects feedback and applies narrow filters to prevent it.
Detect – Disable the ‘HOLD’ box to start detecting feedback frequencies; Enable
the ‘HOLD’ box to pause feedback frequency detection.
Mode – Select whether the next filter to be added (when feedback is detected) will
be in Fixed or Live mode.
Live Recovery – Adjust the speed at which Live filters are currently recovering.
Can be set to ‘Off’ to temporarily freeze live filters.
RTA – Enable this option to see a Real Time Analyser in the FBA graph.
In/Out – Select to enable or disable the Feedback Assistant.
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Adjust
Each box on the left represents one of the 16 total filters.
Blue – Fixed mode filters.
Green – Live mode filters.
Orange – Currently selected filter.
Touch a box or a point on the graph to select a filter for adjustment.
Adjust Filter – Make width and cut adjustments to the selected filter. Select
‘Reset’ to remove the filter and make it available for use by the detector.
All Filters – Adjust width and cut for all active filters at once.
To reset all filters, use the reset option from the dropdown menu at the top right of
the screen.
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Filter Modes
Fixed filters remain in place until they are manually deleted, the FBA is completely
reset, or if the Feedback Assistant ‘steals’ them. Up to 12 of the 16 filters can be in
Fixed mode, always leaving 4 for use in Live mode.
Live filters recover over time and once fully recovered, will switch back to being
unused filters. They can be deleted individually or with a complete FBA reset. All of
the 16 filters can be used in Live mode.
Automatic re-use of filters
When all filters are already in use, but a new feedback frequency is detected, the
Feedback Assistant can re-use or ‘steal’ an existing filter, using logic to decide the
best possible outcome i.e. the least amount of feedback.
Note that Live mode filters can only steal other filters already in live mode and
Fixed mode filters can steal any filters.
On power up
Every time the CQ is booted, all Feedback Assistant instances are set to a ‘preshow’ state. Fixed filters, the Live Recovery setting, ‘All Filters’ settings and In/Out
state are remembered from last power down. Any Live filters will have been
removed. Detect Hold is active. Mode is set to ‘Fixed’.
Copy/Paste
Copying and pasting includes all filters and settings (e.g. Live Recovery). This
means that when pasting to another output (or back to the same output), the state
of the FBA will be exactly the same.
Store/Recall
When using the FBA Library, Live filters are not stored or recalled. All Fixed filters,
the Live Recovery setting, ‘All Filters’ settings and the In/Out state are stored and
can be recalled.
Scene changes
Scene changes do not affect the Feedback Assistant settings directly, but they will
usually change levels and processing which might affect which frequencies are
more likely to feed back.
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OUTPUT / Compressor
A Compressor is used to control and reduce the dynamic range of the signal.
RMS/Peak – Compression is either triggered by RMS (short average) or Peak
(instant) signal level.
Hard/Soft Knee – With a hard knee, compression begins to take effect only when
the threshold is reached. With a soft knee, the compression begins to take effect
earlier but in a more gradual way.
Attack – Adjust the time it takes for compression to take effect once the signal
has reached the threshold. Set a longer time to allow transients through and
compress only the body of the sound, set a shorter time to flatten the signal and
tame peaks.
Release – Adjust the time that it takes for the compressor to stop compressing
after signal has fallen below the threshold.
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Ratio – The ratio of the incoming signal to compressed signal when compression is
active. E.g. when set to 3:1 and when compressing, every 3dB increase in level at
the input will result in only a 1dB increase of level at the output.
Threshold – Adjust the input level at which compression will be active.
Gain – Use to compensate for the resulting attenuation of the signal.
In/Out – Enable or disable the compressor.
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OUTPUT / LEVEL and LIMITER
A Limiter works like a very fast compressor with an infinite:1 compression ratio and
limits the output level to whatever is set by the threshold.
In CQ, the limiter is applied post fader, meaning that it can be set for use on an
output for monitoring and prevent the output signal rising above a set level, even if
the output level fader is adjusted by a musician using CQ4You for example.
Fast/Slow – Select the speed of the Limiter on the signal.
Threshold – Set the level when the limiter will be triggered (effectively maximum
output level).
In/Out – Enable or disable the Limiter.
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10. FADER
Sends to Main LR
The Fader screen displays up to eight channels at a time. Use the mini fader tabs
at the top (touchscreen) or bottom left (CQ-MixPad) to switch between the 4 banks
of channels. Use the Faders Only button at the top right to either show channel
Listen, Pan and Mute controls, or longer faders with no controls.
Pan – Position the signal in the stereo image from left to right.
Level – Touch and drag (multiple) faders to adjust signal level or select a fader and
use the Touchscreen rotary to adjust (CQ-12T, CQ-18T).
Only FX units in shared mode can be ‘Sent to’ MainLR, an Output or another FX Unit.
Outputs cannot be sent to other Outputs, so their fader always controls their output
level.
Mute –Touch Mute to prevent flow of signal from the channel to any output or FX
unit.
Muted channels are indicated with a red fader cap on the mini faders at the top
(touchscreen) or bottom left (CQ-MixPad).
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Sends to an Output
Touch Sends to and select an output to show all send levels to that output on the
fader for each input and FX channel.
With an Output other than Main LR selected, the fader background is coloured blue
to indicate that fader positions are showing the ‘Sends to’ an output other than
Main LR.
Only FX units in shared mode can be ‘Sent to’ MainLR, an Output or another FX Unit.
Outputs cannot be sent to other Outputs, so their fader always controls their output
level.
When sending to a stereo output, pan controls are available, though if Follow Main
LR Pan is On for the selected output, the pan value is only displayed and cannot be
adjusted.
The RHS fader is used to control the overall send, or output level. This is a
duplicate of the output channel fader in the OUTPUTS bank view.
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Sends to FX
Touch Sends to and select an FX to show all send levels to that FX unit on the
fader for each input and FX channel.
When Sends to an FX are selected, the fader background is coloured purple to
indicate that fader positions are showing the ‘Sends to’ an FX Unit.
Only FX units in shared mode can be affected by the ‘Send to’ levels set here.
Outputs cannot be sent to other Outputs so their fader always controls their output
level.
The RHS fader is used to control the overall send level to the FX unit. This fader is
duplicated by the FX Send Level rotary control in the FX screen when the unit is in
shared mode.
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11. FX
CONTROL (Shared)
Select an FX unit from the left-hand side to adjust. FX model controls are shown in
the main section of the screen.
Library – Use the Library button in the top right to recall different FX models into
the selected FX Unit, or to store/recall user presets.
MUTE ALL – Mute all FX Units currently in Shared mode. If all Shared units are
currently muted, MUTE ALL can be used to unmute all. MUTE ALL does not affect
Inserted FX.
A Soft Key or Footswitch can be assigned to MUTE ALL to make it easy to mute FX in
between songs.
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Below the FX model controls are the FX Unit controls which are independent of the
FX model being used.
FX Unit Mode – ‘Shared’ allows multiple channels to send signal to the FX Unit
simultaneously, and for the output of the FX Unit to be sent to Main LR, Outputs or
other FX Units at different levels using either the PROCESSING / SENDS screen, or
the FADER screen. Shared mode is generally used for reverbs and delays.
‘Inserted’ allows the FX Unit to be used in a single input or output channel, to use a
Chorus on a violin for example.
FX Send Level – Adjust the overall level of signal coming into the FX Unit. This is
the same control as the fader on the right-hand side of the FADER screen when
this FX Unit is selected from ‘Sends to’.
FX Level to LR – Adjust the send level of the FX to the Main LR.
Mute Mode – Set Trails On to hear any reverb or delay trail fade out naturally when
muting an FX unit. Set Trails Off to have the FX mute instantly.
MUTE – Mute or unmute the selected FX Unit.
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