ALLEN & HEATH CQ Series User manual

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User Guide V1.1.0 Issue 1
User Guide
Firmware V1.1.0

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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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User Guide V1.1.0 Issue 1
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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User Guide V1.1.0 Issue 1
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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User Guide V1.1.0 Issue 1
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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User Guide V1.1.0 Issue 1
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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User Guide V1.1.0 Issue 1
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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User Guide V1.1.0 Issue 1
CQ-18T Hardware Overview
CQ-12T Hardware Overview

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User Guide V1.1.0 Issue 1
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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User Guide V1.1.0 Issue 1
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, Pin3-
Cold/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 USB-
B 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:
oIn HOME to return to the home tab and control headphone level.
oIn 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)