In keeping with the rest of the range, both mixers have a connection for USB send and return for recording, playback and effects. The 10 mono Mic/Line inputs feature Allen & Heath's DuoPre two stage preamp, three-band MusiQ EQ with swept mid frequency, and 100mm faders, all in a compact, rack mountable format. The stereo inputs have 2-band EQ and inputs for extra sources, and there are four auxes accessible from each mono and stereo channel.
Additionally, the ZED-16FX has a built-in FX processor with TAP tempo delay settings and a 24 bit/48kHz conversion rate, with access to a comprehensive set of 16 in-house designed effects derived from Allen & Heath's iLive pro touring digital mixing system.
"The ZED-18 and 16FX are the perfect size and format for so many applications. In a rack-sized chassis we've packed in 10 mono channels while retaining all the stereo inputs (on ZED-18 there are seven stereo inputs including the USB). The monitoring and output configuration is the same as the ZED-14 and 12FX, which is really useful in both live sound mixing and studio situations, and they are designed and built to last for ages. Having just used one for a fantastic gig with The Deadly Gentlemen, I can say that they are an absolute joy to mix on," comments Allen & Heath R&D designer, Mike Griffin.
Cakewalk's Sonar X1 LE music production software is bundled with the ZED-18 and 16FX mixers, enabling the user to perform many different tasks, for live performance, live recording, studio recording, or studio mixing.
(Jim Evans)
