Allen & Heath ZED-14 – 14-Channel Analog Mixer with USB

Product Overview

The Allen & Heath ZED-14 is a 14-channel compact analog mixer with six mono mic/line channels, four stereo line channels, four aux sends, and USB 1.1 stereo audio interface capability. It is built for live sound reinforcement, home and project studio recording, and house of worship applications where a portable, straightforward analog mixing workflow is the priority. Six DuoPre preamps provide equivalent input noise of -127 dBu and up to 69 dB of gain, with insert points on every mono channel for integration of outboard processing. The ZED-14 compact analog USB mixer for live sound and recording represents solid performance at a direct price point for engineers who value Allen & Heath's preamp quality in a format that travels well.

Product Description

The six mono channels each feature a Neutrik XLR connector for balanced microphone input and a 1/4" TRS jack for balanced or unbalanced line input. The DuoPre preamps deliver consistent gain response from -6 dB pad through +63 dB of gain, covering low-output ribbon microphones through high-output line sources. Each mono channel includes a 3-band EQ with sweepable mid frequency (120 Hz to 4 kHz), a 100 Hz 12 dB/octave high-pass filter, a 1/4" TRS insert point, and a PFL solo button.

The four stereo channels accommodate keyboards, synth modules, effects processors, and other stereo line-level sources via 1/4" TRS jacks with 2-band EQ. Two RCA stereo return inputs and a 2-track RCA input allow connection of media players, external recorders, and other playback sources. All channels are equipped with 100mm ALPS faders, mute buttons, and peak LEDs.

Four mono aux sends provide versatile routing for stage monitors or outboard effects. Main outputs consist of a balanced stereo XLR pair and a balanced 1/4" mono output. An alt output with independent level control and a stereo headphone output (1/4" and 3.5 mm) complete the monitoring section. Dual 12-segment LED meters provide clear master output level indication. Phantom power is globally switchable at +48V.

The USB 1.1 port provides 2-channel stereo send and return to a Mac or Windows computer, operating at 32, 44.1, or 48 kHz at 16-bit resolution. This is sufficient for recording a stereo mix or playing back a backing track from a DAW, making the ZED-14 a viable interface for simple recording scenarios without requiring a separate audio interface.

Key Features

• 6 Mono Mic/Line Channels — Neutrik XLR and 1/4" TRS inputs with DuoPre preamps, 69 dB gain range, and per-channel insert points.
• 3-Band Swept-Mid EQ — Sweepable midrange from 120 Hz to 4 kHz on all mono channels, ±15 dB range at all bands.
• 100 Hz High-Pass Filter — 12 dB/octave switchable HPF on mono channels to reduce low-frequency noise and rumble.
• 4 Stereo Line Channels — 1/4" TRS stereo inputs with 2-band EQ for keyboards, synths, and effects processors.
• 4 Mono Aux Sends — Independent level controls per channel for monitor mixes and outboard effects routing.
• Insert Points on All Mono Channels — 1/4" TRS inserts allow per-channel outboard processing (compressors, EQs).
• USB Audio Interface — Stereo 2-in/2-out USB 1.1 connection to Mac or Windows at up to 48 kHz.
• Balanced XLR Main Outputs — Stereo XLR main outputs with a mono 1/4" TRS output for mono sum.
• 100mm ALPS Faders — Long-throw faders on all channels for precise level control.
• Dual 12-Segment LED Meters — Master output metering with peak LED indicators per channel.
• +48V Phantom Power — Globally switchable phantom power for condenser microphones.

Typical Applications

• Live Sound — FOH mixing for small to medium venues, rehearsal rooms, and portable PA systems.
• Recording Studio — Tracking and monitoring in home and project studios with insert point access for outboard hardware.
• House of Worship — Mixing spoken word and live music in small sanctuaries and chapel settings with monitor send flexibility.

Technical Specifications

FAQ

How does the ZED-14 differ from the ZED-12FX?

The ZED-14 adds two additional stereo channels (four vs. three) and does not include an onboard effects processor. It is aimed at users who prefer outboard effects or do not need built-in DSP. Both mixers share the same DuoPre preamp design and similar output configurations.

Does the ZED-14 support multitrack USB recording?

No. The USB interface provides stereo 2-in/2-out only, suitable for recording a stereo bus mix or returning playback from a DAW. For multitrack recording, a digital mixer or separate multi-channel audio interface is required.

Is phantom power switchable per channel?

Phantom power is globally switched on the ZED-14, applying +48V to all XLR inputs simultaneously. Disconnect phantom-sensitive devices before enabling it.

Can outboard gear be inserted on stereo channels?

Insert points are provided on mono channels 1–6 and on the stereo bus. The four stereo line channels do not have individual insert points.

Does the ZED-14 require drivers for USB operation on Mac or Windows?

On most current Mac and Windows systems, the ZED-14 operates as a class-compliant USB audio device without additional drivers. Check Allen & Heath's OS compatibility list for your specific system version.

Is there a way to use the USB playback as a return channel in the mix?

Yes. The USB return can be routed to the stereo bus for playback of backing tracks or reference material from a connected computer.

What warranty does the ZED-14 carry?

Allen & Heath products include the manufacturer's limited warranty. Creation Networks provides post-purchase technical support and warranty assistance.