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Allen & Heath Qu-3D – Compact 96 kHz Digital Mixing Console with Built-in Dante
Professional digital mixing, powerful audio processing and seamless Dante connectivity in an ultra-compact format.
The Allen & Heath Qu-3D is a compact professional digital mixing console designed to deliver outstanding audio performance, flexible connectivity and intuitive hands-on control. Combining the powerful 96 kHz XCVI FPGA processing engine, an integrated 16x16 Dante audio interface and 9 motorised faders, the Qu-3D brings the capabilities of the next-generation Qu series into a space-saving desktop format.
With 36 inputs to mix, 16 local microphone/line inputs, a 32x32 USB-C audio interface and a 7-inch capacitive touchscreen, the Allen & Heath Qu-3D is an ideal solution for live sound engineers, corporate AV installations, broadcast environments, houses of worship and professional recording studios.
Next-Generation 96 kHz XCVI Audio Processing
At the heart of the Allen & Heath Qu-3D is the advanced XCVI FPGA processing engine, delivering high-resolution 96 kHz audio processing with exceptional sonic clarity and ultra-low latency.
The console features upgraded microphone preamps and high-performance AD/DA converters, ensuring precise and transparent audio reproduction throughout the signal chain.
With 32 mono/linkable channels, 2 stereo channels, 12 mixes, 4 matrix outputs and 6 multi-effects engines, the Qu-3D offers the flexibility needed for demanding professional audio applications.
Integrated Dante Connectivity for Networked Audio
One of the main advantages of the Allen & Heath Qu-3D is its built-in 16x16 Dante interface, supporting both 48 kHz and 96 kHz operation.
Equipped with a dedicated locking EtherCon connector, the Qu-3D integrates into Dante-enabled audio networks, allowing multichannel audio transmission between compatible digital mixers, stage boxes, audio interfaces and other networked devices.
For installations requiring additional network audio capacity, an optional 32x32 Dante upgrade is available.
This makes the Qu-3D particularly suitable for corporate conference rooms, educational facilities, broadcast studios, live productions and fixed audiovisual installations.
Compact Design with Intuitive Hands-On Control
Despite its compact dimensions, the Qu-3D provides a professional mixing experience with 9 motorised 100 mm faders, six customisable fader layers and eight assignable SoftKeys.
The bright 7-inch capacitive touchscreen delivers fast access to channel processing, routing, effects and system configuration. Individual channel displays and chromatic LED metering provide immediate visual feedback during operation.
Designed for desktop environments, the Qu-3D also supports installation in standard 19-inch equipment racks using an optional rackmount kit.
Flexible Recording and Playback Options
The Allen & Heath Qu-3D offers multiple recording and playback solutions for live production, studio recording and virtual soundchecks.
Its integrated 32x32 USB-C audio interface enables multichannel recording and playback directly from a compatible computer or digital audio workstation.
An SD card slot provides standalone multitrack recording and playback, supporting up to 32 channels at 48 kHz or 16 channels at 96 kHz. A USB-A connection is also available for convenient stereo recording and playback.
These flexible options make the Qu-3D a powerful tool for music production, content creation, live recording and professional AV workflows.
Advanced Mixing Tools and Expandable Connectivity
The Qu-3D includes an extensive range of processing and mixing tools designed to simplify professional audio workflows.
Its comprehensive channel processing includes high-pass filters, gates, parametric EQ, compression and delay. Built-in Gain Assistant and Feedback Assistant functions help optimise setup and system performance.
The integrated 32-channel Automatic Microphone Mixer (AMM) is particularly useful for conferences, panel discussions and speech-focused applications.
A 128x128 SLink port provides connectivity to compatible Allen & Heath stage boxes and expanders from the Everything I/O ecosystem, allowing the system to grow according to production requirements.
The console also supports remote control via compatible applications for Windows, macOS, iOS and Android.
Key Features of the Allen & Heath Qu-3D
96 kHz XCVI FPGA processing engine
36 inputs to mix: 32 mono/linkable and 2 stereo
Integrated 16x16 Dante interface at 48/96 kHz
Optional 32x32 Dante expansion
16 XLR/TRS combo microphone/line inputs
8 XLR outputs and stereo AES3 digital output
9 motorised 100 mm faders
7-inch high-brightness capacitive touchscreen
6 customisable fader layers and 8 assignable SoftKeys
12 mixes and 4 mono/linkable matrix outputs
6 stereo multi-effects engines
32x32 USB-C audio interface
Multitrack recording and playback via SD card
Stereo recording and playback via USB-A
128x128 SLink expansion port
Automatic Microphone Mixer, Gain Assistant and Feedback Assistant
Remote control via compatible software and mobile applications
Optional 19-inch rackmount kit
Allen & Heath Qu-3 vs Qu-3D: Which Digital Mixer Should You Choose ?
The Allen & Heath Qu-3 and Qu-3D share the same powerful 96 kHz XCVI processing engine, compact design and intuitive mixing workflow. Both consoles offer professional audio quality, 9 motorised faders, 16 local microphone/line inputs, advanced processing and flexible recording options.
The key difference is Dante audio networking.
The Allen & Heath Qu-3 is an excellent choice for sound engineers and AV professionals who need a compact, fully featured digital mixing console without integrated Dante connectivity. It provides 32x32 USB-C audio interfacing, multitrack recording via SD card and an SLink port for connecting compatible Allen & Heath audio expanders.
The Allen & Heath Qu-3D includes all these features while adding a built-in 16x16 Dante interface, operating at 48 kHz or 96 kHz and expandable to 32x32 channels through an optional upgrade.
This makes the Qu-3D especially suitable for networked audio installations, conference facilities, broadcast studios and professional AV environments where seamless integration with Dante-enabled equipment is essential.
Quick comparison table :
Feature | Qu-3 | Qu-3D |
|---|---|---|
XCVI processing | 96 kHz | 96 kHz |
Motorised faders | 9 | 9 |
Mic/Line inputs | 16 | 16 |
USB-C interface | 32x32 | 32x32 |
SLink connectivity | Yes | Yes |
SD multitrack recording | Yes | Yes |
Built-in Dante | No | 16x16 |
Optional Dante 32x32 | No | Yes |
Best for | Standalone mixing | Dante network integration |
Ideal Applications
The Allen & Heath Qu-3D digital mixer with Dante is designed for a wide range of professional audio environments, including:
Live sound and events: powerful mixing capabilities in a compact, portable console.
Corporate AV and conferencing: flexible audio routing, Dante networking and automatic microphone mixing.
Broadcast and streaming: professional audio processing and multichannel recording.
Fixed installations: scalable connectivity for meeting rooms, cultural venues and educational facilities.
Recording studios: high-quality audio conversion and direct multitrack integration with a DAW.
Houses of worship: intuitive mixing, flexible outputs and remote-control capabilities.
The Allen & Heath Qu-3D combines the proven audio performance of the Qu series with modern networking capabilities and an exceptionally compact control surface.
Its combination of 96 kHz processing, native Dante connectivity, flexible I/O expansion and comprehensive recording features makes it an excellent choice for audio professionals looking for a compact yet powerful digital mixing solution.
Discover the Allen & Heath Qu-3D at XLR Pro. Contact our team for product information, system integration advice or a personalised quotation.
Frequently Asked Questions – Allen & Heath Qu-3D
What is the Allen & Heath Qu-3D?
The Allen & Heath Qu-3D is a compact professional digital mixing console featuring a 96 kHz XCVI processing engine, 9 motorised faders and built-in Dante audio networking. It is designed for live sound, recording, broadcasting and professional AV installations.
What is the difference between the Allen & Heath Qu-3 and Qu-3D?
The main difference is Dante connectivity. The Qu-3D features an integrated 16x16 Dante audio interface, while the standard Qu-3 does not include Dante. Both models offer the same mixing engine, processing capabilities, local connectivity and recording features.
Does the Allen & Heath Qu-3D have built-in Dante?
Yes. The Qu-3D features a built-in 16x16 Dante audio interface, allowing digital audio transmission over a compatible Ethernet network. It supports 48 kHz and 96 kHz Dante operation and can be upgraded to 32x32 Dante channels with an optional add-on.
How many channels does the Allen & Heath Qu-3D support?
The Qu-3D provides 36 inputs to mix, consisting of 32 mono/linkable channels and 2 stereo channels. It also features 16 local microphone/line inputs and flexible digital input and output routing.
Can I connect the Qu-3D to Dante stage boxes?
Yes. The Allen & Heath Qu-3D can exchange digital audio with compatible Dante-enabled stage boxes and other networked audio devices. It also supports compatible Allen & Heath expanders through its dedicated SLink connection.
Can the Allen & Heath Qu-3D record multitrack audio?
Yes. The Qu-3D supports multitrack recording and playback through its 32x32 USB-C audio interface. It also offers standalone recording to an SD card, supporting up to 32 channels at 48 kHz or 16 channels at 96 kHz.
Is the Qu-3D suitable for live sound applications?
Absolutely. The Allen & Heath Qu-3D combines professional audio processing, motorised faders, flexible routing and compact dimensions, making it suitable for live events, small venues, mobile productions and professional sound reinforcement.
Is the Allen & Heath Qu-3D suitable for conference rooms and corporate AV?
Yes. Its integrated Dante interface, automatic microphone mixing, flexible audio routing and compact design make the Qu-3D particularly suitable for meeting rooms, conference centres, corporate AV systems and fixed installations.
Can the Allen & Heath Qu-3D be controlled remotely?
Yes. The Qu-3D supports remote control through compatible Allen & Heath applications for Windows, macOS, iOS and Android, providing flexible control options for live sound and installed audio systems.
Does the Qu-3D support a 32x32 Dante upgrade?
Yes. The integrated Dante interface provides 16x16 channels as standard. An optional software upgrade expands the Dante interface to 32x32 channels for applications requiring more networked audio capacity.
Can the Qu-3D be installed in a 19-inch rack?
Yes. The Qu-3D can be mounted in a standard 19-inch equipment rack using an optional rackmount kit, making it suitable for portable systems and permanent AV installations.
Where can I buy the Allen & Heath Qu-3D in Belgium?
The Allen & Heath Qu-3D is available through XLR, professional audio and audiovisual equipment supplier, official and exclusive distributor for Allen & Heath in Belgium.