SQ MixPad

SQ MixPad is an official remote control application from Allen & Heath for its SQ series digital mixing consoles. It allows audio engineers to wirelessly control every aspect of their console from an iPad, providing a powerful and flexible extension of the physical surface. With SQ MixPad, users can adjust mixes, process signals, and manage shows from anywhere within the network, making it an indispensable tool for live sound and studio environments. This professionalgrade app delivers full console functionality to your fingertips, offering unparalleled mixing freedom.

Full Console Control from Your iPad Old Version

The SQ MixPad application mirrors the complete capabilities of an SQ console. Users connect their iPad to the same network as the mixer, either via WiFi or a wired adapter. Upon launching,  SQ MixPad automatically discovers the console, granting immediate access. From this interface, engineers can manipulate faders, adjust sends, and tweak processing on any channel. This remote access is vital during sound checks and live performances, allowing the operator to walk the venue and make critical adjustments from the ideal listening position without being tethered to the frontofhouse location. The SQ MixPad effectively turns the tablet into a mobile mixing station.

Comprehensive Input and Output Patching

Setting up the console’s signal flow is handled entirely within the SQ MixPad patching matrix. Users tap into the dedicated patching screen to route physical inputs to console channels and direct processed signals to physical outputs or tie lines. The interface provides a clear grid view where engineers can drag and drop connections or use the convenient ‘1to1’ diagonal block function for rapid setup. This workflow is essential for configuring complex live shows or studio sessions quickly, ensuring all microphones and playback sources are correctly assigned before the session begins.

Detailed Channel Processing Adjustment

Beyond basic level control, the SQ MixPad provides deep access to the console’s premium processing. For any input or output channel, users can tap to open its processing view. Here, they can engage the highpass filter, adjust the preamp gain, and configure the complete DEEP processing suite, including compressor, gate, and parametric EQ. Each parameter is adjusted using intuitive sliders and knobs on the iPad’s touchscreen. This allows for precise sonic shaping from across the room, enabling an engineer to finetune a vocal compressor or eliminate a problematic frequency without interrupting the performer on stage.

RealTime RTA and Metering Analysis

For informed mixing decisions, the SQ MixPad includes a comprehensive metering package. Users can view the master output meters, individual channel levels, and even tap on a channel to open a realtime RTA (RealTime Analyzer). The RTA displays a live frequency spectrum, which is crucial for identifying feedback rings or balancing the EQ of a channel directly from the listening position. This visual feedback, combined with the ability to make immediate adjustments, streamlines the process of ringout and system tuning, ensuring a clean and powerful mix.

Offline Show File Management

A powerful feature of the SQ MixPad is its offline mode. Engineers can download a show file from the console to their iPad for management without an active connection. They can then open the file to edit scene memories, update library presets, rename channels, or reorganize mixes while away from the venue. Once back online, these changes can be transferred back to the console. This workflow is perfect for preproduction, allowing for extensive show preparation at home or in the office, which saves invaluable time during the onsite setup.

MultiUser Collaboration and Permissions

The SQ MixPad supports secure multiengineer operation. Up to three iPads can connect to a single SQ console simultaneously, each running an instance of  SQ MixPad. User access is managed through the console’s permission system; an admin can assign specific rights, limiting a user on a second SQ MixPad to only controlling monitor mixes or viewing meters. This facilitates collaboration between FOH, monitor, and system engineers, with each having their own dedicated control surface tailored to their responsibilities, all while working from different locations in the venue.

Key Features

Wireless remote control for Allen & Heath SQ series mixers.

Full access to channel processing, including DEEP companders and EQs.

Comprehensive patching matrix for input and output routing.

Offline mode for show file editing without a console connection.

Supports simultaneous multiuser operation with permission controls.

Integrated RTA and metering for system tuning and analysis.