ALLEN&HEATH ZED FX Series Analog mixers

The Allen & Heath ZED-FX Series are compact analog mixing consoles with built-in digital effects designed for live sound, small events, and portable setups. These mixers provide excellent sound quality, ease of use, and a variety of input/output options with a user-friendly interface.

Here’s a detailed overview of the full specifications for the Allen & Heath ZED FX Series:

1. General Features:

• Type: Analog mixer with integrated digital effects processor
• Applications: Live sound, band performances, small to medium-sized events, rehearsal spaces, and mobile sound systems
• Built-in Effects: 16 digital effects including Reverb, Delay, Echo, Chorus, and more
• USB Audio Interface (on selected models): For recording and playback via USB
• Phantom Power: 48V for condenser microphones on all mono channels

2. Available Models in the ZED-FX Series:

The ZED-FX series includes several models with varying channel counts and feature sets. Here are the specific models:

• ZED-6FX:

  • Channels: 6 (4 mono + 2 stereo)
  • Built-in Effects: 16 effects
  • USB Audio Interface: None
  • Ideal for: Small performances, DJ setups, or personal studios.

• ZED-10FX:

  • Channels: 10 (4 mono + 3 stereo)
  • Built-in Effects: 16 effects
  • USB Audio Interface: 2-in/2-out USB interface (for recording and playback)
  • Ideal for: Small live gigs, portable PA setups.

• ZED-12FX:

  • Channels: 12 (6 mono + 3 stereo)
  • Built-in Effects: 16 effects
  • USB Audio Interface: 2-in/2-out USB interface (for recording and playback)
  • Ideal for: Small to medium live performances, rehearsals, and events.

• ZED-14FX:

  • Channels: 14 (8 mono + 3 stereo)
  • Built-in Effects: 16 effects
  • USB Audio Interface: 2-in/2-out USB interface
  • Ideal for: Larger events or small touring setups.

• ZED-22FX:

  • Channels: 22 (16 mono + 3 stereo)
  • Built-in Effects: 16 effects
  • USB Audio Interface: 2-in/2-out USB interface
  • Ideal for: Larger events, mixing multiple sources, and larger sound systems.

3. Key Features for All Models in the ZED-FX Series:

Input Channels:

• Mono Channels:

  • XLR (mic) + ¼" TRS (line) combo jacks on all mono channels
  • 3-band EQ with Mid Frequency Sweep (on all mono channels)
  • Gain Control with high-quality preamps
  • Phantom Power (48V) for condenser microphones

• Stereo Channels:

  • XLR (balanced) or ¼" TRS (balanced/unbalanced) for line-level stereo inputs
  • 3-band EQ on stereo channels
  • RCA line-level inputs (on some models)

Digital Effects:

• Built-in 16 Digital Effects: The series offers a variety of reverb, delay, chorus, echo, and other modulation effects.
• Effect Control: Each channel has an FX Send control for blending the effect into the mix.
• Effect Selection: Each model provides a rotary selector to choose between different effects.

EQ Section:

• 3-Band EQ:
  • Low, Mid, High on mono channels (±15 dB)
  • Sweepable Mid (on all mono channels)
• 2-Band EQ: On stereo channels (±15 dB)
• High-Pass Filter (HPF): For reducing low-frequency rumble (on mono channels)

Output Section:

• Main Outputs:

  • Balanced XLR outputs for professional sound quality.
  • Unbalanced outputs (¼" TRS jack) on some models for additional versatility.

• Auxiliary Sends:

  • For sending audio to monitors or external effects.
  • Some models offer 2 or more aux sends for separate monitor and effects feeds.

• Headphone Output: 1/4" TRS jack for monitoring with adjustable level control.

• Record Output: RCA outputs on some models for recording mixes.

Other Controls:

• Master Fader: To control the overall output level of the main mix.
• Auxiliary Sends: Independent faders for auxiliary sends (monitors, effects, etc.).
• Mute/Solo: Each channel has a mute and solo button for quick monitoring and editing.
• Peak Indicators: LED indicators on each channel and the master output to show signal clipping.
• Channel Faders: Smooth, 60mm faders on each channel for precise volume control.

4. USB Audio Interface (On Select Models):

• ZED-10FX, ZED-12FX, ZED-14FX, and ZED-22FX include a 2-in/2-out USB interface for direct connection to a computer for recording or playback.

• Recording & Playback: Use the USB for recording live shows, practicing with pre-recorded tracks, or mixing on a computer with compatible software.

5. Build & Design:

• Chassis: Rugged metal construction built to withstand touring or live performance environments.
• Compact & Portable: These mixers are lightweight and designed to be portable while still offering full functionality for small-to-medium setups.
• Rack-Mountable: Some models (like the ZED-14FX and ZED-22FX) are rack-mountable for easy integration into permanent installations or tour setups.

6. Dimensions and Weight (Approximate):

• ZED-6FX:
  • Dimensions (W x H x D): 306mm x 67mm x 240mm (12.05" x 2.64" x 9.45")
  • Weight: 2.6 kg (5.7 lbs)
• ZED-10FX:
  • Dimensions (W x H x D): 356mm x 105mm x 267mm (14" x 4.13" x 10.51")
  • Weight: 3.5 kg (7.7 lbs)
• ZED-12FX:
  • Dimensions (W x H x D): 415mm x 105mm x 300mm (16.34" x 4.13" x 11.81")
  • Weight: 5.5 kg (12.1 lbs)
• ZED-14FX:
  • Dimensions (W x H x D): 464mm x 103mm x 365mm (18.26" x 4.06" x 14.37")
  • Weight: 6.1 kg (13.4 lbs)
• ZED-22FX:
  • Dimensions (W x H x D): 553mm x 107mm x 415mm (21.77" x 4.21" x 16.34")
  • Weight: 8.1 kg (17.8 lbs)

7. Applications:

• Live Sound: Great for mixing live performances, conferences, or small concerts.
• Mobile DJing: Portable and easy to set up, ideal for mobile DJs.
• Recording: USB connectivity in certain models for recording into DAWs or mixing with pre-recorded tracks.
• Rehearsals and Studios: The EQ and effects are great for shaping the sound during band rehearsals or studio practice.
• Installations: Perfect for fixed installations in small venues, theaters, and clubs.

8. Summary of Key Differences Between Models:

Conclusion:

The Allen & Heath ZED-FX Series provides a range of compact yet powerful analog mixers with built-in digital effects and a variety of channel counts to suit different needs. Whether you need a small, portable mixer or a more robust system for larger events, the ZED-FX series offers excellent sound quality, ease of use, and reliable performance at an affordable price.