Allen & Heath WZ4 16:2 / 16-Channel Analog Mixer

The Allen & Heath WZ4 16:2 is a part of the WZ4 series, which is known for offering professional-grade analog mixing consoles designed for live sound, studio recording, and small to medium events. It is a 16-channel mixer that provides a solid set of features for mixing, including high-quality preamps, EQ, aux sends, and a durable build.

Full Specifications of the Allen & Heath WZ4 16:2:

General Features:

• Type: Analog mixing console
• Application: Live sound, studio recording, small to medium-sized events
• Channels: 16 input channels (12 mono + 2 stereo)
• External Power Supply: Yes
• EQ: 3-band EQ on mono channels, 2-band EQ on stereo channels
• Durability: Built to last with a robust metal chassis

Input Channels:

Mono Channels (12):

• Inputs:
  • XLR (balanced) and 1/4" TRS (balanced/unbalanced) combo jack
• Gain Control: Individual gain control for each channel
• Phantom Power (48V): Available for condenser microphones
• High-Pass Filter (HPF): 80 Hz for each mono channel to cut low-frequency rumble
• 3-Band EQ (±15dB):
  • Low (80 Hz)
  • Mid (Sweepable from 100 Hz to 8 kHz)
  • High (12 kHz)
• Aux Sends: 4 (Post/Pre switchable)
• Pan Control: Left/Right stereo pan control
• Mute/Solo: Individual Mute and Solo buttons for monitoring or cutting signals
• LED Peak Indicator: To show signal clipping and avoid distortion

Stereo Channels (2):

• Inputs: 1/4" TRS (balanced or unbalanced) and RCA (for line-level devices)
• 2-Band EQ (±15dB):
  • Low (80 Hz)
  • High (12 kHz)
• Aux Sends: 4 (Post/Pre switchable)
• Pan Control: Left/Right stereo pan control
• Mute/Solo: Individual Mute and Solo buttons for monitoring or cutting signals
• LED Peak Indicator: To show signal clipping

EQ Section:

• Mono Channels:
  • 3-Band EQ: ±15 dB cut/boost
  • Low: Fixed at 80 Hz
  • Mid: Sweepable from 100 Hz to 8 kHz
  • High: Fixed at 12 kHz
• Stereo Channels:
  • 2-Band EQ: ±15 dB cut/boost
  • Low: Fixed at 80 Hz
  • High: Fixed at 12 kHz
• High-Pass Filter (HPF): 80 Hz on all mono channels to eliminate unwanted low-end rumble

Auxiliary Sends and Routing:

• 4 Aux Sends:
  • Post or Pre-fader switchable for flexibility in creating monitor mixes or effects sends.
• Auxiliary Send Output:
  • 1/4" TRS jack for each auxiliary send
• Subgroup Outputs: For routing audio to different outputs or external processors.

Output Section:

• Main Outputs:
  • Balanced XLR Output: L/R (Main Left/Right) outputs for professional sound systems.
  • Unbalanced 1/4" TRS: For general audio output.
• Monitor Outputs:
  • For sending the mix to monitor speakers or additional equipment.
• Record Output: RCA for recording the mixed signal.
• Headphone Output: 1/4" TRS jack with independent volume control.

Other Features:

• Metering:
  • LED Peak Indicators on all channels to show when the signal is overdriven.
  • Main Mix Metering: 12-segment LED meters to show the overall output signal.
• Master Section:
  • Master Fader: 60mm fader for overall volume control.
  • Auxiliary Send Master Faders: Control the overall level of each aux send.
• Solo In Place (SIP): Solo button for each channel to isolate and monitor individual signals.
• Mute: Mute button for each channel and group of channels.

Build and Design:

• Chassis: Rugged metal construction for durability.
• Rack-Mountable: Designed for rack mounting with optional mounting kits (sold separately).
• Dimensions (W x H x D):
  • Width: 420mm (16.5 inches)
  • Height: 106mm (4.17 inches)
  • Depth: 415mm (16.34 inches)
• Weight: Approximately 6.5 kg (14.3 lbs)

Power Supply:

• External Power Supply: Standard external power supply unit (AC 100V-240V).
• Voltage: Typically supports 240V/110V depending on the region, with an auto-switching power supply.

Applications:

• Live Sound: Ideal for small to medium live performances, such as concerts, conferences, and events.
• Recording: Suitable for small studio recording setups or rehearsal spaces.
• Touring and Mobile Sound: Portable design makes it an excellent option for mobile PA systems and events.
• Theater and Corporate Events: Versatile routing and outputs for use in various applications, including theater sound systems and corporate events.

Summary of Key Specifications:

Conclusion:

The Allen & Heath WZ4 16:2 is a professional, versatile analog mixer designed for a wide range of applications, including live sound, recording, and small-to-medium events. With its durable build, quality preamps, comprehensive EQ, and flexible auxiliary routing, it provides reliable performance for sound engineers looking for a solid, analog mixing solution.