Allen & Heath ZED-24 Small-Format 24-Channel Analog Mixer with USB Connection

Product Overview

The Allen & Heath ZED-24 is a 24-channel small-format analog mixer designed for live sound reinforcement, recording, and installed sound applications where channel count and audio quality are primary requirements. Sixteen mono input channels provide DuoPre microphone preamps with Neutrik XLR connectors, and four stereo channels add capacity for keyboards, media playback, and effects returns. A USB 1.1 port connects directly to Mac or Windows computers for stereo 2-channel recording and playback without additional hardware. With 100mm faders, four independent aux sends, insert points on every mono channel, and comprehensive output options, the ZED-24 is a practical, reliable console for demanding applications.

Product Description

The ZED-24's 16 DuoPre preamp channels accept both microphone and line-level signals through Neutrik XLR and balanced 1/4" TRS connectors respectively, covering the full range of sources from condenser microphones to professional line-level equipment. Gain range extends from -6 to +63 dB on mic inputs, accommodating low-output dynamics and ribbon microphones as readily as high-sensitivity condensers. Global phantom power at +48V serves condenser microphones across all 16 XLR inputs. Each mono channel carries a 3-band equalizer with sweepable midrange frequency selection from 120 Hz to 4 kHz, a 12 dB/octave high-pass filter at 100 Hz, and independent mute and PFL solo controls.

Four mono aux sends with independent level controls per channel provide routing flexibility for multiple monitor mixes and external effects feeds simultaneously. Insert points on all 16 mono channels and the stereo bus allow direct integration of outboard compressors, gates, and equalizers into the signal path without requiring patchbays. The four stereo input channels accept balanced and unbalanced 1/4" TRS stereo pairs with 2-band EQ and independent mix controls, making them suitable for keyboards, drum machines, and program material playback.

The main output section provides balanced XLR stereo outputs, a balanced 1/4" mono main output, and a source-selectable stereo alt output via RCA. Dual 12-segment LED meters give a clear indication of main output levels, and a peak indicator LED on every channel provides at-a-glance clip detection. A USB Type-B port delivers 2-channel stereo audio I/O to connected computers at up to 48 kHz, useful for broadcast feeds, recording main mixes, and stereo playback from DAW software during soundcheck. RCA 2-track inputs and outputs provide additional connectivity for external recording devices and playback sources.

Key Features

• 24 Input Channels (16 Mono + 4 Stereo) — Comprehensive channel count for live sound, recording, and installed applications
• 16 DuoPre Microphone Preamps — Low-noise preamps with -6 to +63 dB gain range via Neutrik XLR connectors
• 3-Band EQ with Sweepable Mid — Frequency-selectable mid EQ (120 Hz – 4 kHz) on all 16 mono channels
• 4 Independent Mono Aux Sends — Flexible routing for monitor mixes and external effects feeds
• Insert Points on All Mono Channels — Direct outboard gear integration without patchbay infrastructure
• 100mm Long-Throw Faders — Precise level control across all channels
• USB Stereo Audio I/O — 2-channel recording and playback to Mac or Windows without a separate interface
• High-Pass Filter (100 Hz, 12 dB/oct) — Switchable low-frequency rolloff on all mono channels to reduce rumble and proximity effect
• Global +48V Phantom Power — Powers condenser microphones across all 16 XLR inputs simultaneously
• Balanced XLR Stereo Main Outputs — Professional-grade outputs at +21 dBu maximum for system integration

Typical Applications

• Live Sound Reinforcement — Full-bandwidth analog console for club venues, theaters, and outdoor stages
• Houses of Worship — Multi-channel mixing with monitor sends and USB recording for services and events
• Recording Studios — Analog summing and preamp access for hybrid recording workflows
• Conference Rooms — Analog mixing for multi-microphone panel discussions with USB feed to recording systems
• Broadcast and Podcast Production — Clean preamps and USB interface for multi-source audio capture
• Rehearsal and Practice Spaces — Permanent installation with durable construction and versatile I/O

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the ZED-24 and the ZED-22FX?

The ZED-24 adds two additional stereo input channels (4 vs 3) and one additional aux send (4 vs 3) compared to the ZED-22FX. The ZED-24 does not include the built-in digital effects processor found on the ZED-22FX. Choose the ZED-24 for more channel count and aux flexibility; choose the ZED-22FX if onboard effects are a priority.

Does the ZED-24 USB work without installing drivers?

Yes. The USB 1.1 audio interface is class-compliant and requires no driver installation on Mac or Windows. It presents as a standard 2-in/2-out audio device.

Can I connect outboard gear such as a compressor to individual channels?

Yes. Insert points on all 16 mono channels allow you to connect outboard hardware via a standard TRS insert cable. The signal is interrupted at the post-preamp/pre-bus point, routed through the outboard unit, and returned to the channel.

Is phantom power available on all channels?

Phantom power (+48V) is applied globally to all 16 XLR mic inputs simultaneously via a single switch. It is not switchable per channel. Mute or disconnect non-phantom-compatible sources before engaging phantom power.

How many monitor mixes can be created with the ZED-24?

Four independent mono aux sends provide four separate monitor mixes or effects feeds. Each channel has individual aux send level controls for each of the four sends.

Can the ZED-24 be used for recording direct to a DAW?

Yes, via the USB 1.1 port for stereo 2-channel recording of the main mix. For multitrack recording, insert points or direct outputs (if available) can be used with a dedicated audio interface.