Allen & Heath ZED Review: Premium Analog Mixing Quality

Allen & Heath has crafted professional mixing consoles in England since 1969, and the ZED Series brings that heritage to accessible price points. The THAT Corporation preamps, musical EQ sections, and thoughtful design distinguish ZED mixers from budget alternatives. For engineers who value audio quality above all else, ZED delivers analog excellence.

The ZED Series Lineup

Allen & Heath offers ZED mixers in multiple configurations.

The ZED-10 ($399) provides compact 10-channel mixing with quality preamps. The small format suits acoustic performers and podcasters.

The ZED-12FX ($499) adds effects and 12 channels. The built-in effects eliminate external processing needs.

The ZED-14 ($549) expands to 14 channels without effects. Users with external effects prefer this configuration.

The ZED-22FX ($799) provides 22 channels with comprehensive effects. The popular model serves medium bands and venues.

The ZED-24 ($899) maximizes the standard series with 24 channels. Large bands and multitrack recording applications suit this model.

The ZED-R16 ($1,999) adds comprehensive recording interface functionality. Each channel records independently via FireWire.

THAT Corporation Preamps

The ZED Series features preamps designed around THAT Corporation integrated circuits. These premium components deliver exceptional audio quality that exceeds typical mixer preamps.

The sound character proves clean and transparent while adding subtle warmth. Sources sound like themselves with enhanced dimension.

The 69dB gain range accommodates diverse sources from hot keyboards to quiet ribbon microphones. The low noise floor maintains clarity even with significant gain.

The preamp quality represents ZED’s primary differentiator from competitors. The audible improvement justifies the price premium for quality-focused users.

DuoPre Technology

Allen & Heath’s DuoPre circuit provides separate stage and trim controls for optimizing signal levels. The configuration maximizes headroom while minimizing noise.

The approach differs from single-gain designs that compromise between sensitivity and headroom. DuoPre enables setting appropriate gain structure for any source.

The LED metering indicates optimal level ranges. The visual feedback helps less experienced operators achieve proper gain staging.

EQ Section Excellence

The ZED EQ sections rank among the best in the price range. The carefully chosen frequencies and musical characteristics make the EQ enjoyable to use.

The three-band EQ on mono channels provides 80Hz, sweep-able mid (120Hz-4kHz), and 12kHz controls. The sweep-able mid proves invaluable for problem-solving.

The response curves feel musical when boosted or cut. The EQ enhances rather than merely processes sound.

Built-In Effects

The FX models include effects processors with 16 presets. The reverb, delay, and modulation programs cover common applications.

The effect quality proves adequate for live sound applications. Professional-grade external effects still provide superior results for critical applications.

The foot switch connectivity enables effect muting during performance. The hands-free control adds practical value.

USB Audio Interface

Many ZED models include USB interfaces for computer recording. The stereo bus capture enables archiving performances easily.

The ZED-R16 provides multitrack recording of every channel. The comprehensive interface rivals standalone recording interfaces.

The 24-bit resolution suits most recording applications. The quality captures performances adequately for mixing and mastering.

Build Quality

Allen & Heath constructs ZED mixers with quality that supports professional use. The metal chassis and quality components survive regular gigging.

The faders and knobs feel professional with smooth, precise operation. The tactile quality inspires confidence during mixing.

The internal construction reflects professional heritage. The quality proves itself through years of reliable operation.

Application Assessment

Recording studios appreciate ZED’s audio quality for tracking. The preamps compete with standalone units costing more.

Live sound benefits from the musical EQ and reliable operation. The intuitive interface serves both experienced and novice operators.

Houses of worship find the quality and reliability essential. The professional sound serves diverse musical styles.

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The Allen & Heath ZED Series is available at Guitar Center, Musician’s Friend, ProAudioStar, and Amazon.