Allen & Heath ZED-18 Multipurpose USB Mixer

The Allen & Heath ZED-18 packs professional-grade mixing capabilities into a compact, rack-mountable design that punches well above its weight class. This versatile mixer provides 10 full mono channels and 4 stereo channels, making it an ideal choice for musicians, venues, and hire companies who need serious functionality without the bulk. The standout feature is its configurable USB audio interface, which eliminates the hassle of connecting to computer sound cards with poor levels and excessive noise.

USB connectivity has been implemented with remarkable flexibility on the ZED-18, allowing CD-quality audio transfer to and from your PC or Mac with simple plug-and-play operation. The mixer offers multiple send options including Main Mix Left + Right (both post-fade and pre-fade), plus Auxes 1-2 and 3-4, with returns routed to the Stereo 3 channel. This comprehensive routing system makes live sound and music production workflows significantly more streamlined.

Audio quality is maintained through the proven DuoPre™ pre-amplifiers, borrowed from Allen & Heath's successful PA series, which provide an impressive 69dB gain range with exceptional noise performance. The two-stage design ensures most gain comes from the first stage, minimising unwanted noise, while line inputs connect directly to the second stage for optimal impedance matching. Each channel features a responsive 3-band swept mid EQ utilising MusiQ technology, with optimised Q factors specifically designed for individual instrument equalisation.

Additional features include 16 internal time-delay effects, Neutrik XLR and 1/4 inch jack connectors, illuminated mute and PFL switches with peak warning indicators, and smooth ALPS 100mm faders. The mixer comes bundled with Cakewalk SONAR X1 LE software and includes rack ears for professional installation, making it a complete solution for both live and studio applications.