ALLEN & HEATH QU-16C User manual

For Firmware Version V1.1
Check www.allen-heath.com for the latest version available
Publication AP9031

Qu-16 User Guide 2 AP9031 iss.2
Qu Series products complies with the European Electromagnetic
Compatibility directives 2004/108/EC and the European Low
Voltage directives 2006/95/EC.
Any changes or modifications to the equipment not approved by Allen &
Heath could void the compliance of the product and therefore the users
authority to operate it.
Qu-16 User Guide AP9031 Issue 2
Copyright © 2013 Allen & Heath. All rights reserved
Allen & Heath Limited, Kernick Industrial Estate, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9LU, UK
http://www.allen-heath.com
Limited One Year Manufacturer’s Warranty
This product is warranted to be free from defects in materials or workmanship for period of
one year from the date of purchase by the original owner.
To ensure a high level of performance and reliability for which this equipment has been
designed and manufactured, read this User Guide before operating.
In the event of a failure, notify and return the defective unit to the place of purchase. If this
is not possible then please contact the authorised ALLEN & HEATH distributor or agent in
your country as soon as possible for repair under warranty subject to the following
conditions:
Conditions Of Warranty
The equipment has been installed and operated in accordance with the instructions in this
User Guide.
The equipment has not been subject to misuse either intended or accidental, neglect, or
alteration other than as described in the User Guide or Service Manual, or approved by
ALLEN & HEATH.
Any necessary adjustment, alteration or repair has been carried out by an authorised
ALLEN & HEATH distributor or agent.
This warranty does not cover fader wear and tear.
The defective unit is to be returned carriage prepaid to the place of purchase, an
authorised ALLEN & HEATH distributor or agent with proof of purchase. Please discuss
this with the distributor or the agent before shipping.
If the unit is to be repaired in a different country to that of its purchase the repair may take
longer than normal, whilst the warranty is confirmed and parts are sourced.
Units returned should be packed to avoid transit damage.
In certain territories the terms may vary. Check with your ALLEN & HEATH distributor or
agent for any additional warranty which may apply.
If further assistance is required please contact Allen & Heath Ltd.
ALLEN&HEATH

Qu-16 User Guide 3 AP9031 iss.2
IMPORTANT - Read these instructions before starting:
Safety instructions
Before starting, read the Important Safety Instructions printed on the sheets supplied with the
equipment. For your own safety and that of the operator, technical crew and performers, follow
all instructions and heed all warnings printed on the sheet and on the equipment panels.
System operating firmware
The function of the Qu mixer is determined by the firmware (operating software) that runs it.
Firmware is updated regularly as new features are added and improvements made. This guide
relates to Version 1.1 firmware.
The latest firmware can be downloaded from the Allen & Heath website, transferred to USB key
and then loaded into the Qu mixer using the Firmware Update utility.
Check the Allen & Heath website for the latest version of Qu firmware.
Software licence agreement
By using this Allen & Heath product and the software within it you agree to be bound by the
terms of the relevant End User Licence Agreement (EULA), a copy of which can be found on
the Allen & Heath website in the product's pages. You agree to be bound by the terms of the
EULA by installing, copying, or using the software.
Further information
For further information, knowledgebase and technical support please refer to the Allen & Heath
website.
General precautions
To prevent damage to the controls and cosmetics, avoid placing heavy objects on the
control surface, obstructing movement of the motorised faders, scratching the surface or
touch screen with sharp objects, or rough handling and vibration.
Protect the equipment from damage through liquid or dust contamination. Avoid dust or
small objects getting into the fader slots. Cover the mixer when it is not being used for a
long period.
Computer and touch screen technology can be affected by extreme cold. If the
equipment has been stored in sub-zero temperatures allow time for it to reach normal
operating temperature before use at the venue. Recommended operating temperature
for Qu is 5 to 35 degrees Celsius.
Avoid using the equipment in extreme heat and direct sunlight. Make sure the mixer
ventilation slots are not obstructed and that there is adequate air movement around the
equipment.
Transport the Qu using a touring grade, purpose designed flightcase with adequate
foam lining and internal support for protection.
Clean the control surface with a soft brush and dry lint-free cloth. Do not use chemicals,
abrasives or solvents.
It is recommended that servicing is carried out only by an authorised Allen & Heath
agent. Contact details for your local distributor can be found on the Allen & Heath
website. Allen & Heath do not accept liability for damage caused by maintenance, repair
or modification by unauthorised personnel.

Qu-16 User Guide 4 AP9031 iss.2
1. Packed contents
Accessories available
Qu-16 Mixer
Safety Sheets
AP3345 – English
AP7287 – French
AP8513 – Chinese
•Read this before starting
Mains lead •Check this
is correct for your territory
User Guide AP9031
Registration Card on rear cover
•Return the card or register
online at www.allen-heath.com
LEDlamp
Part: LEDlampX
Right angled 4-pin XLR
with built-in dimmer
19” Rack Ear Kit
Part: QU-16-RK19
To mount the Qu-16 in a standard 19” rack
or flightcase. These fit over the plastic
trims.
120m (396’) Cat5 drum
AH8721 •For use with
dSNAKE remote audio
80m (264’) Cat5 drum
AH7000 •For use with
dSNAKE remote audio
Soft cover
AP9262
Qu-16

Qu-16 User Guide 5 AP9031 iss.2
2. Contents
1.Packed contents .................................................................................................................................4
2.Contents..............................................................................................................................................5
3.Introduction.........................................................................................................................................7
4.Connection Overview..........................................................................................................................8
4.1Input Connections......................................................................................................................8
4.2Output Connections...................................................................................................................9
4.3Other Connections.....................................................................................................................9
4.4Powering up the mixer.............................................................................................................10
5.Connecting dSNAKE Remote Audio ................................................................................................11
5.1Connecting to a remote AudioRack ........................................................................................11
5.2Connecting to the ME Personal Mixing System......................................................................12
6.Operational Overview .......................................................................................................................13
6.1Fader Strips..............................................................................................................................13
6.2Channel Processing.................................................................................................................15
6.3Working with the Processing: ..................................................................................................15
6.4Channel Routing ......................................................................................................................20
6.5Working with the Routing screens:..........................................................................................20
6.6Mute Groups ............................................................................................................................22
6.7Using the Mute Groups............................................................................................................22
6.8The Master Strip.......................................................................................................................23
6.9Working with the sends on faders: ..........................................................................................24
6.10Copy, Paste, Reset keys..........................................................................................................24
7.Touch Screen Mixing Functions.......................................................................................................25
7.1The Sel screens – Processing and Routing ............................................................................26
7.2Home Screen ...........................................................................................................................26
7.3Home Screen – Changing User...............................................................................................26
7.4Home Screen – Meters ............................................................................................................27
7.5Home Screen – RTA ................................................................................................................27
7.6Home Screen – USB Audio .....................................................................................................27
7.7The FX ......................................................................................................................................30
7.8Working with FX – Adding vocal reverb: .................................................................................32
7.9Scene Memories ......................................................................................................................33
8.Touch Screen Setup Functions ........................................................................................................35
8.1Audio Setup -PAFL...................................................................................................................35
8.2Audio Setup - Talkback ...........................................................................................................35
8.3Audio Setup –Signal Generator...............................................................................................36
8.4Audio Setup – Output Patch ....................................................................................................36
8.5Audio Setup – dSNAKE Output Patch.....................................................................................37
8.6Control Setup – Custom Strip..................................................................................................38
8.7Control Setup - SoftKeys .........................................................................................................38
8.8USB Data – Show transfer .......................................................................................................39
8.9Network Setup .........................................................................................................................40
8.10Utility - Calibration....................................................................................................................40
8.11Utility – Qu-Drive ......................................................................................................................40
8.12Utility – Firmware Update.........................................................................................................41

Qu-16 User Guide 6 AP9031 iss.2

9.Resetting the Mixer ...........................................................................................................................42
9.1Reset Mix Settings – A starting point for mixing......................................................................42
9.2System Hard Reset ..................................................................................................................43
10.Specifications....................................................................................................................................44
10.1System Block Diagram ............................................................................................................45
10.2Mechanical Details...................................................................................................................46
Please Note
This User Guide refers to Qu-16 firmware version V1.1. A few features are not
supported by this release. Please refer to the Allen & Heath website for the
latest version of firmware and this user guide. For more details read the
Release Notes available with the firmware.
Features not supported by firmware V1.1:
USB key Scene data transfer (Show files can be transferred)
User Libraries for FX and processing
Scene Recall Filters
User Permissions
Note – USB streaming is compatible with an Apple®Mac computer only.
Windows®PC is not supported.

Qu-16 User Guide 7 AP9031 iss.2
3. Introduction
The Qu-16 is a compact, rack mountable digital audio mixer from Allen & Heath.
Building on the heritage of the GLD and flagship iLive digital consoles the Qu
presents exceptional performance together with an intuitive analogue style user
interface with knobs and touch screen, total recall of its settings, full input, output
and FX processing, USB multitrack recording capability and remote wireless control
using an iPad.
16 mono Mic / Line channels with XLR and TRS jack inputs
3 stereo Line channels
4 built-in FX engines with dedicated stereo FX return channels
Talkback mic input
Provides up to 24 simultaneous sources to the mix
16 mix buses – 10 mix, 2 FX, LR, PAFL
12 XLR mix outputs – 4 mono mix + 3 stereo mix + LR
2 channel AES digital output patchable from any mix
Stereo Alt Out TRS jack output patchable from any mix
2TRK output for recording
Input channel linking
Input processing – Preamp, HPF, Gate, PEQ, Compressor, Delay
Mono mix and LR processing – Graphic EQ, Compressor, Delay
Stereo mix processing – PEQ, Compressor, Delay
800x480 pixel colour touch screen for quick control
Motorised faders for sends on faders and mix recall
Master strip for quick access to mix levels and processing
AnaLOGIQ™ recallable analogue preamp
Effects ported from the flagship iLive console
4 assignable SoftKeys
Quick copy and reset of settings and scenes
100 Scene memories
Qu-Drive for stereo and 18-track recording/playback to USB hard drive
USB streaming to/from an Apple Mac computer (PC not supported)
USB key transfer of Show (mixer setup and all scenes)
User assignable Custom Layer
Qu-Pad wireless remote app for iPad
dSNAKE port for remote audio connection
Compatible with ME personal mixing system
FX and processing User Libraries (Not supported by V1.1)
User Permissions to restrict operator access (Not supported by V1.1)

Qu-16 User Guide 8 AP9031 iss.2
4. Connection Overview
The following connections are available on the rear panel of the Qu-16.
4.1 Input Connections
Mono Line Input – Balanced ¼” TRS (Tip, Ring,
Sleeve) jack input for plugging in line level signals such as
multitrack players and radio mic receivers. To work with
unbalanced sources use a mono jack or link ring to sleeve
within the TRS stereo jack.
Use DI boxes plugged into the Mic input for high
impedance, low level sources such as acoustic instrument
pickups.
Microphone Input – Balanced XLR input for plugging
in a low level source such as a microphone or DI box. 48V
can be switched to the socket for condenser mics and active
DI boxes that require phantom power.
Note - To avoid loud thumps, mute the channel before
plugging in cables or switching 48V on or off.
Stereo Line Input – ST1 and ST2 balanced ¼” TRS
(Tip, Ring, Sleeve) jack inputs for plugging in line level
stereo sources such as CD players. The L input normals
(switches) through the R input so that you can work with a
mono source by plugging into just the L/M input.
To work with RCA phono connections use jack to RCA
converter plugs.
Talkback Input – Dedicated balanced XLR input for
plugging in a microphone to route to the mixes for the
engineer to talk to the performers on stage. Phantom power
can be switched to the socket for condenser microphones.
AES digital out
2Trk out
Alt out
LR main outLamp
Talkback
Mic in
ST1 and ST2
stereo line in
Analogue Mix out 1-10 Mic and Line inputs 1-16
Network
dSNAKE remote audio
USB B streaming
Kensington
Lock
Cable
clamp
Power On/Off
Mains power input
Mains fuse
Pin2 = hot

Qu-16 User Guide 9 AP9031 iss.2
4.2 Output Connections
Mix outputs – Balanced XLR line level outputs for the
mono and stereo mixes, for example to feed monitor
amplifiers, fill speaker systems, and external processing
devices. These use low impedance, high quality differential
driver circuits for connection to +4 or 0dBu equipment.
Maximum output is +22dBu.
Professional equipment provides ‘balanced’ connections for
maximum interference rejection over long cable runs. If you
are connecting to ‘unbalanced’ equipment then make sure
the XLR pin 3 (signal cold) is linked to pin 1 (signal ground).
Main LR output – Balanced XLR line level outputs for
the main Left and Right stereo mix. These typically plug into
the FOH speaker processor, amplifier or powered speakers.
AES output – 2-channel digital output using a single
XLR connection and standard mic (2-core screened) audio
cable. It follows the AES (Audio Engineering Society) digital
audio standard and can connect to any equipment fitted
with an AES input socket. The source to this output is
patched using the Setup / Audio / Output Patch screen.
Applications include the feed to a PA speaker processor,
amplifier, stereo broadcast or recording device equipped
with AES input.
Alt out – Stereo ‘alternative’ output on balanced TRS
jacks for connection to +4 or 0dBu equipment such as zone
feeds, fill speakers, broadcast or local monitor. The source
to this output is patched using the Setup / Audio / Output
Patch screen.
2TRK out – Stereo output on balanced TRS jacks for
connection to +4 or 0dBu equipment such as stereo
recorders. It follows the post master fader main LR mix.
4.3 Other Connections
Lamp – Plug in a 4-pin gooseneck lamp to illuminate the
mixer surface. We recommend the Allen & Heath LEDLamp
with built-in thumbwheel dimmer.
USB B – Type B USB connection for multi-channel
bi-directional audio streaming between the mixer and a
computer. Follows the high speed USB 2.0 standard.
Firmware V1.1 supports connection to an Apple Mac only.
Windows PC drivers are currently not available.
Network – Fast Ethernet (100 Mbit/s) port for Cat5 cable
connection to a computer for MIDI over TCP/IP control of
mixer parameters, or to a wireless router (access point) for
live mixing control using the Allen & Heath Qu-Pad app
running on an iPad. The Lnk indicator flashes to indicate
network activity.
dSNAKE – The proprietary Allen & Heath ‘digital snake’
connection for remote audio using an AR2412 or AR84
AudioRack, and for personal monitoring using the ME
Personal Mixing System.
Pin2 = hot

Qu-16 User Guide 10 AP9031 iss.2
4.4 Powering up the mixer
The Qu has an internal universal voltage power supply unit.
This means you can use your mixer in most parts of the
world without the need to modify the unit as long the local
mains supply is within:
Mains Voltage = 100 to 240 V.AC
Mains Frequency = 47 to 63Hz
Important - Before starting, read the Safety Instructions
Sheet packed with the mixer. These can also be
downloaded from the Allen & Heath website.
Also read the safety notes printed on the rear of the mixer.
AC MAINS IN – Standard IEC socket for connecting the
mixer to the local mains supply. Plug in a mains lead with
moulded plug suitable for your territory. A suitable mains
lead is shipped with the mixer.
Note – Do not replace the mains plug or modify the lead in
any way. For your own safety and that of the operator and
performers do not remove or defeat the ground connection.
A cable clamp is provided. You can slot the cable into this
or lock it in place. To lock the cable use a star head Torx
T20 screwdriver to refit the clamp around the cable.
Fuse – Mains input fuse to protect the mixer circuits in the
unlikely event of a failure or excessive power surge. If you
need to replace the fuse always use one of the same type
and rating as printed on the rear panel. If the replacement
fuse blows then refer to your authorised Allen & Heath
service agent for advice.
Power ON/OFF switch – Press to switch the mixer
on. Press again to switch it off.
Switching the mixer on – Press the ON/OFF switch.
The rear panel blue Power indicator lights. The mixer takes
just a few seconds to boot up. It restores its previous
settings. CH1 is selected and its processing shown on the
screen.
Note – To avoid loud thumps, do not switch the mixer on or
off while the PA speakers are powered. Always switch the
amplifiers on last, and switch them off first.
Switching the mixer off – First select the Home
screen. Touch Shut Down to safely complete processes
such as parameter storing and USB data transfer or
recording. Once complete, press the ON/OFF switch to turn
the mixer off.

Qu-16 User Guide 11 AP9031 iss.2
5. Connecting dSNAKE Remote Audio
The Qu-16 mixer provides local sockets on its rear panel for all audio inputs and outputs. It can also work
with remote audio by connecting over a single cable ‘digital snake’ to an Allen & Heath AudioRack, or to
the Allen & Heath ME Personal Mixing System.
5.1 Connecting to a remote AudioRack
The Qu-16 can connect to an Allen & Heath GLD-AR2412 or GLD-AR84 AudioRack so that the audio can
be plugged into a rack on stage and routed to the Qu-16 over a single Cat5 cable ‘digital snake’ plugged
into its dSNAKE port.
The ‘digital snake’ – dSNAKE provides a convenient,
single Cat5 cable alternative to the typical heavy
analogue copper multicore to connect many inputs
and outputs on stage. One cable carries multiple
channels of audio in both directions together with
remote control of the preamps.
Cat5 cable – Use STP (shielded twisted pair) Cat5e or
higher cables. Those with both foil and braided
screens provide shielding from interference and are
generally more rugged. Stranded core cables are less
prone to damage when kinked or repeatedly coiled.
Maximum cable length = 120m (396’)
Remote Inputs - dSNAKE inputs are mapped one-to-
one to the Qu-16 CH1-16 and ST1-3 input channels.
Note - dSNAKE does not add channels to the Qu-16.
Choose either Local (rear panel) or dSNK (remote)
input for each channel.
Remote Outputs - Qu-16 mix and LR outputs are
mapped to the output sockets on the AR rack. These
duplicate the outputs on the Qu-16 rear panel.
The following remote AudioRacks are available:
AR84 CH 1-8 Mix 1-2, LR dSNAKE link
AR2412 CH1-16, ST1-3 Mix 1-10, LR ME-1 Monitor
dSNAKE carries:
24 remote input signals
12 remote output signals
40 personal mixing sends
Preamp control – Gain, Pad, 48V
The Qu mixer provides a locking Neutrik
EtherCon socket to protect the
connections and ensure suitability for
touring. Use a touring grade cable fitted
with locking EtherCon plugs.

Qu-16 User Guide 12 AP9031 iss.2
5.2 Connecting to the ME Personal Mixing System
The Allen & Heath ME Personal Mixing System can be used with the Qu-16. This provides customisable
personal monitor control for individual musicians and performers on stage.
ME-1 personal mixer – A compact personal mixer
able to work with up to 40 channels. Features built-in
headphones and monitor output. Intuitive and easy to
operate, its 16 select keys can be configured to
provide as much or as little control as the musician
needs.
The 40 ME channels are mapped in order from CH1-6,
ST1-3, LR, FX1-3 returns and Mix1-10 to dSNAKE.
These can be chosen and grouped to ME-1 keys using
the setup function available on the ME-1 mixer.
Multiple ME-1 mixers can be connected in series
(daisy chained) by linking the output of one to the
input of the next. Alternatively, they can be connected
in parallel and powered over their Cat5 cables using a
standard PoE Ethernet switch or the Allen & Heath
ME-U hub. The ME connects directly to a dSNAKE
compatible port using a Cat5 cable.
Connecting ME to the AR2412 AudioRack -ME-1 mixers, a standard Ethernet switch or the ME-U hub
can be plugged into either or both the AR2412 MONITOR and EXPANDER ports.
Connecting ME to the Qu-16 - ME-1 mixers, a standard Ethernet switch or the ME-U hub can be plugged
directly into the Qu-16 dSNAKE port if you are not using this to connect to an AudioRack. Power can be
provided over the Cat5 by the ME-U or a PoE switch.
Find out more about the ME Personal Mixing System at www.allen-heath.com
Power unit
EXPANDER port
MONITOR port
Daisy chain
dSNAKE
dSNAKE
Daisy chain other ME-1

Qu-16 User Guide 13 AP9031 iss.2
6. Operational Overview
This section provides an overview of the Qu-16 layout and operation to help you get started quickly.
6.1 Fader Strips
The Qu-16 has a group of 16 fader strips. These provide access to
the input and master channel levels and processing.
The main channel levels, master levels and all sends to the effects
and mixes can be easily viewed and adjusted using the faders.
The faders can also be used to adjust the Graphic EQ while in
Fader Flip mode.
The faders are motorised and instantly move to show the current
settings when the layer or function is changed.
Layers – There are three Layers. These provide access to 32 strips identified by the labels alongside
the layer select keys. Indicators next to the keys show which layer is active.
Press the lower key to access the 16 mono channels.
Press the upper key to access the 3 stereo channels, FX returns, FX send and Mix masters.
Press both keys together to access the user assignable Custom layer.
TouchChannel Screen select
SuperStrip
Fader Strips
Touch Screen
Master Strip
Mix assign
SoftKeys
Layer select
Copy/Paste/reset
Mix select Mix key
Channel select Sel key
Engineer’s monitor
Qu-Drive
Function key
Fader Flip

Qu-16 User Guide 14 AP9031 iss.2
Mute key – Press to turn off the channel audio signal. This affects the send to
all mixes including LR, effects and stage monitors. The Mute key lights red when
the channel is muted. It flashes when it is muted by a Mute Group master.
Sel (select) key – Press to access the Channel Processing. Parameters can
be adjusted using the SuperStrip controls. The Touch Screen will display the
settings and provide additional controls if either the Processing or Routing screen
is active. The Sel key is also used for:
Assign mix routing – Hold down the ‘Assign’ key and press Sel keys to
assign channels to the mix currently selected in the Master Strip. The Sel
keys light green for channels assigned to the selected mix.
Assign Pre/Post fade sends – Hold down the ‘Pre Fade’ key and press Sel
keys to toggle channel sends pre or post fader for the mix currently selected
in the Master Strip. The Sel keys light green for channels set pre-fade.
Copy channel processing – Hold down the Copy key and press a channel
Sel key to copy its processing settings. Then hold down the Paste key and
press one or more Sel keys to instantly paste those settings to other
channels.
Reset channel processing – Hold down the Reset key and press a channel
Sel key to instantly reset all its processing to factory default.
PAFL key – Press to listen to a channel using headphones and check its level
on the main meters. The meter PAFL indicator lights. Press PAFL again to turn it
off. A SoftKey can be assigned to clear all active PAFL selections.
Options are available in the Setup screen to choose how you want PAFL to work:
Auto-cancel – Listen to one channel at a time.
Additive mode – Listen to more than one channel at a time.
Sel follow PAFL – Link the Sel switch so that pressing PAFL automatically
selects the processing for that channel.
LR to PAFL – Routes the main LR mix to the monitor when there is no PAFL
selected.
Output AFL – This option sets the mix strip PAFL keys to monitor AFL (after-
fade listen). With this option turned off these keys monitor PFL (pre-fade
listen). The default is AFL so that you can check mixes after the master fader.
Input AFL – This option sets the input strip PAFL keys to monitor AFL (after-
fade listen). With this option turned off these keys monitor PFL (pre-fade
listen). PFL is the usual setting for inputs so that you can check and set their
gain before you bring up the faders.
Channel meter – The strip meters let you keep an eye on signal levels while
you are mixing. These display channel level before the fader and mute control:
Pk – Lights red to warn that the signal is too hot and gain or trim should be
reduced. It turns on 3dB before clipping to warn you before audible
distortion. Pk senses the signal at several points within the channel.
0– Lights when the signal reaches nominal 0dBu allowing a healthy 18dB
headroom. This is the normal level for mixing.
Sig – Lights to show signal presence. It turns on at -26dBu.
Fader – Controls the level of the input channel, FX or mix master assigned to it.
This can be the main channel fader or a send to an effect or mix depending on
which Mix Select key is active in the Master Strip.
The faders can control the Graphic EQ frequency bands while in GEQ Flip mode
with a mix master Sel key active. The range of frequencies accessed by the faders
is highlighted in the touch screen and labelled at the top of the faders. The centre
0dB flat position is marked on the fader scale.

Qu-16 User Guide 15 AP9031 iss.2
6.2 Channel Processing
The SuperStrip provides familiar, analogue feel, one function per knob control of channel and mix
master processing such as equalisers and dynamics. The Touch Screen displays the parameter values
and provides additional related controls while in the Processing screen. This processing is accessed
using the fader strip Sel keys.
The following processing is available:
Mono input CH1-16 = Source, Preamp, HPF, Gate, PEQ, Compressor, Delay, Stereo Linking
Stereo input ST1-3 = Source, Trim, HPF, Gate, PEQ, Compressor, Delay
FX Return 1-4 = FX parameters, PEQ
Mono Mix1-4 = Graphic EQ, Compressor, Delay
Stereo Mix5-10 = Parametric EQ, Compressor, Delay
Main LR = Graphic EQ, Compressor, Delay
6.3 Working with the Processing:
Press a fader strip Sel key. The Processing Block
controls become active for that channel.
Press the Processing key to work with the parameters
on the Touch Screen.
Touch the top part of the Touch Screen to open the
tabs for the available processing blocks.
View values in the lower part of the screen. Touch
screen buttons and use the screen rotary to adjust
parameter values.
Preamp
An analogue preamplifier (‘head amp’) matches each
connected microphone or line signal to the operating
level of the console before it gets converted to digital
to be processed and mixed with the other channels.
Source lets you choose one of four sources as the
input to the channel:
Local – Mic/Line sockets on the Qu rear panel.
dSNK – Remote preamps via dSNAKE.
Qu-Drv – Playback from USB hard drive.
USB B – Audio streaming from a Mac computer.
Press the Fn key to open the Source Select
screen.
Touch the CH buttons to highlight those you
wish to change. Select the source from the list.
Choose either Qu-Drive or USB (affects all channels)

Qu-16 User Guide 16 AP9031 iss.2
Channel Preamp source
Local (red Gain) – Rear panel Mic/Line sockets
feeding the internal Qu mixer preamps. These are pad-
less preamps featuring wide gain range.
dSNAKE (yellow Gain) – Remote preamps located in
an AR2412 or AR84 AudioRack on stage or other
remote location and connected to the Qu dSNAKE
port via a Cat5 cable. These preamps include Pad
switching.
Channel USB source
Qu-Drive source (dark blue Gain) – Stereo or
multitrack playback from a USB hard drive plugged
into the top panel Qu-Drive port. Provides a +/-24dB
Trim control.
USB B source (light blue Gain) – Multi-channel
streaming from a Mac computer via the rear panel
USB B port. Provides a +/-24dB Trim control.
The panel USB Select key in the Preamp control
section switches between the current Preamp source
(Local or dSNAKE) and the current USB source (Qu-
Drive or USB B).
Phantom Power
Turn on 48V if the connected device requires phantom
power, for example a condenser microphone or active
DI box. Touch and hold for 1 second to toggle on or
off. This prevents accidental operation.
Note - To prevent audible thumps make sure the
channel is muted before switching 48V on or off.
Gain
Turn up Gain so that the average loud signal reads
into the yellow of the meter. Turn down if any red peak
light flashes.
Polarity
Touch Øto reverse the polarity of the input signal, for
example that of the lower mic when working with two
microphones on a snare drum.
Other functions in the Preamp section
Insert switches an internal FX in or out if one has been
patched into the channel. The button is disabled when
the insert is not patched. The FX is inserted between
the preamp and EQ.
Use the FX / Back panel screen to choose and assign
one of the 4 internal FX as an Insert into a channel.
Delay up to 85ms can be added to each input
channel. In most cases delay is not needed, but can
be useful in time aligning sound from the PA to the
acoustic sound from an instrument on stage. Allow
1ms per foot distance as a starting point.
HPF GATE PEQ COMP DELAY
0
Gain/Trim Insert
Post-Preamp Pre-EQ Post-EQ Post-All
Gain

Peak
Local (red Gain) dSNAKE (yellow Gain)
Qu-Drive (dark blue Gain) USB B (Light blue Gain)

Qu-16 User Guide 17 AP9031 iss.2
Linking lets you gang the preamp, processing and
routing of an odd/even mono channel pair for stereo
operation. All parameters including the preamp,
processing and routing are linked. Pan becomes a
width control when linked. Some parameters can be
removed from the link using the buttons:
Preamp – Gain/48V, Polarity
Dynamics (Compressor and Gate) - Side Chains
Main mix – Fader/Mute, Pan
Touch Apply to accept your changes.
Gate
The Noise Gate can be switched in to dynamically turn
off the audio when it drops below a certain level. For
example, to reduce resonant decay of a kick drum or
floor tom, or hiss of a noisy keyboard.
Use the In key to switch the Gate in or out. This is
similar to inserting an outboard rack mounted device
into the Insert socket on an analogue console channel.
Set Depth for how much signal reduction you want
when the gate closes. 20dB is a typical setting. Sound
check the instrument and reduce Threshold to shut off
as much of the tail of the signal as you want. The GR
indicator lights and red screen meter shows the
amount of reduction when the gate is closed.
Hold sets how long the gate remains open after
dropping below the threshold. Attack sets how fast the
gate opens when the signal rises above the threshold.
Release sets how fast it closes when dropping below
the threshold. Experiment with these controls to
achieve smooth operation without a pumping effect.
HPF
The High Pass Filter is used to reduce unwanted low
frequency sounds such as vocal popping, wind noise
and stage rumble.
Switch the HPF in using the In key. Use the panel
rotary or screen button and rotary to sweep the cut-off
frequency until you have reduced the unwanted
sound. The filter has a 12dB slope and can be swept
from 20Hz to 2kHz. The violet screen curve shows the
resulting frequency response.
PEQ (parametric equaliser)
The Parametric Equaliser allows tonal adjustment of
the channel sound. It splits the 20Hz to 20kHz audio
frequency range into 4 bands:
LF (low frequency)
LM (low mid frequency)
HM (high mid frequency)
HF (high frequency)
Each provides 3 parameters that can be adjusted:
Gain – Boost or cut frequencies by up to 15dB. Centre
0dB is flat response (no affect).
Gate active
GR = Gain Reduction

Qu-16 User Guide 18 AP9031 iss.2
Frequency – Each band can sweep its centre point
frequency across the full range from 20Hz to 20kHz.
This means you can overlap bands and have more
precise control over problem frequency areas.
Width – Each band has a bell-shaped response. The
width of the bell can be varied from a very wide 1.5
octaves affecting many frequencies to a very narrow
1/9th octave affecting a small range of frequencies.
Setting LF or HF to widest position changes its
response to shelving.
Experiment with the controls to hear their affect on
different sounds. Switch the PEQ in or out using the In
key to compare the sound. It is better to cut rather than
boost frequencies where possible.
Compressor
The Compressor is a powerful tool for controlling the
dynamics of the sound, for example to smooth out a
bass guitar or to narrow the dynamic range of a vocal
to make it more intelligible in a busy mix. At its extreme
setting the compressor can be used as a limiter to
prevent the signal exceeding a preset maximum level.
A compressor works by dynamically reducing the
amount of gain when the signal increases above a
certain threshold. This pulls back loud moments.
Applying ‘make-up’ gain restores the average volume
and also has the effect of bringing up quiet moments.
The result is a reduced dynamic range.
While listening to the signal adjust Thres (threshold) to
set the point at which compression starts. The GR
indicator and red screen meter will start to show that
compression is active. Set Ratio for how much
compression you want from none (1:1) to full limiting
(Inf). A good starting point is around 3:1.
Use the In key to switch the compressor in and out
and turn up Gain so that the average volume is similar.
Attack sets how fast the compressor starts to work
when the threshold is reached. Release sets how fast
it stops compressing when the signal drops below the
threshold. For example, adjust these to achieve a
‘punchy’ dynamic sound, or smooth out the response
to reduce an audible ‘pumping’ effect.
Two ‘knee’ settings are available. Hard Knee means
that compression is applied at the set ratio as soon as
the threshold is reached. Soft Knee means that the
compression ratio increases gradually from 1:1 to the
set ratio as it approaches the threshold. The curve
illustrates this.
4 Compressor types are available using the drop-
down menu. Two ‘Manual’ types allow user control of
attack and release. Two ‘Auto’ types provide automatic
control of the compressor dynamics.
Experiment with the effect of the compressor settings
on different sounds. Try to use compression only
where it is needed, and avoid compression in stage
monitor speakers.
Compressor active

Qu-16 User Guide 19 AP9031 iss.2
Mix processing
The mix masters provide EQ, Compressor, FX Insert
capability and output Delay.
Insert switches an internal FX in or out if one has been
patched into the mix. The button is disabled when the
insert is not patched. The FX is inserted at the start of
the processing before the EQ.
Use the FX / Back panel screen to choose and assign
one of the 4 internal FX as an Insert into a mix.
Delay up to 170ms can be added to each mix output.
This is typically used to time align the PA to the
acoustic sound from the instruments on stage, or to
align fill loudspeakers to the main PA. Allow 1ms per
foot distance as a starting point.
GEQ (graphic equaliser)
A GEQ is provided on each of the 4 mono mixes and
the main LR mix as these are likely to feed stage
monitors and PA speakers where traditional graphic
equalisation is popular. A PEQ is provided on each of
the 3 stereo mixes where more precise parametric
equalisation may be preferred for in-ear and other
sends.
The Graphic Equaliser allows tonal adjustment of the
overall mix sound. It splits the 20Hz to 20kHz audio
frequency range into 28 standard 1/3 octave bands
from 31.5Hz to 16kHz allowing +/-12dB cut or boost.
Touch the screen In button to switch the GEQ in or
out. Touch a slider to highlight it and use the screen
rotary to cut or boost its frequency. This affects a
small range of frequencies 1/3 octave wide centred on
the frequency marked below the slider. The position of
the sliders shows the approximate shape of the
resulting frequency response curve.
Press the GEQ Fader Flip key to view and adjust the
GEQ on the faders while a mono or the LR mix is
selected. The screen highlights the active range of
frequencies. Press the switch again to change range
or return to normal mix mode.
The faders toggle between the lower (31.5Hz to 1kHz)
and higher (500Hz to 16kHz) ranges of frequencies.
The frequencies are shown on screen and marked on
the panel above the faders.
The fader strip Sel key turns on when the slider is at
0dB mid (flat) position while in fader flip mode. Press a
Sel key to return a slider to 0dB.
It is better to cut rather than boost frequencies when
tuning speakers using the GEQ.

Qu-16 User Guide 20 AP9031 iss.2
6.4 Channel Routing
The Touch Screen presents tabs to access the channel assignments and send levels when its fader strip
Sel key is selected and the Touch Screen Routing screen is active. The Channel Block Pan control
provides quick access to the related mix pan setting for the channel. The Fn key is used to access the
Mute Group masters while in any Routing screen.
6.5 Working with the Routing screens:
Press a fader strip Sel key.
Press the Touch Screen Routing key.
Touch the tabs at the top of the screen.
Touch screen buttons and use the rotary.
Press the Fn key to access the Mute Groups.
Pan
The rotary Pan control becomes active when an input
channel Sel key is active. Its function depends on
currently selected Master Strip mix:
LR = Channel main pan
FX send = Channel main pan
Mono Mix1-4 = Disabled
Stereo Mix5-10 = Channel send pan
Pan becomes a Width control when linked for two
input channels – P anning one to the left automatically
pans the other by the same amount to the right.
Channel Routing screen
Adjust the channel Direct Output Trim from off to
+10dB gain. The Direct Outputs can be patched to
feed the internal FX devices, for example a delay effect
send for a single vocal.
The channel source for the Direct Outputs can be
changed on this screen. This is a global setting
affecting all channel direct outputs.