The Allen & Heath SQ7+ is a game-changer for live sound engineers, offering a familiar yet significantly enhanced mixing experience. This console is a testament to the manufacturer's commitment to innovation and customer feedback, addressing many of the original SQ-7's limitations while preserving its strengths. As a seasoned SQ-7 user, I was eager to explore the new model, and my initial impressions were nothing short of impressive. The SQ7+ feels like a natural evolution, a well-conceived upgrade that doesn't disrupt the workflow I've grown accustomed to. The console's layout refinements, software improvements, and ergonomic enhancements make it a joy to use, even for those new to the SQ range. One of the most remarkable aspects of the SQ7+ is its ease of use. Despite the software and hardware changes, the console feels incredibly intuitive, with almost no learning curve. The layout is slightly different, but the core controls and functions remain remarkably consistent, allowing users to quickly adapt to the new model. The small physical changes, such as the repositioned 'Library' switch and the vertical arrangement of certain controls, are easily mastered in a matter of minutes. The console's processing power is a significant upgrade, enabling it to run the latest generation of effects and channel processing. The new 96kHz XCVI on-board processing core allows for advanced DEEP Processing and RackUltra FX, offering improved premium reverbs, delays, de-essers, saturators, multi-band dynamic EQs, and more. This additional power is particularly evident in the console's ability to support newer effects, which were previously unavailable on the original SQ models. The SQ7+ also addresses the frustration of not being able to add compressors as channel inserts, a common pain point for many users. The console's software improvements are equally impressive, with a more detailed and user-friendly interface. The new effects, particularly the premium RackUltra FX, represent a significant leap forward in sound quality and versatility. However, the pricing of these effects can be a concern, with some of the newest premium reverb spaces and other features requiring individual purchases or bundles. Despite this, the SQ7+ is a compelling upgrade for live sound engineers, offering a familiar yet significantly enhanced mixing experience. Allen & Heath has successfully struck a balance between innovation and tradition, creating a console that feels both modern and comfortable to use. The SQ7+ is a testament to the manufacturer's commitment to customer feedback and innovation, and it's clear that the original SQ-7 is on its way out. The new model is a must-have for anyone looking to elevate their live sound mixing game, offering a familiar yet significantly enhanced experience that will undoubtedly impress even the most seasoned engineers.
