Allen & Heath Launches New MixWizard Series With WZ16:2
January 1, 1997 An affordable and compact 16:2 mixing console, the WZ16:2 is
the first product offering in Allen & Heath's new MixWizard Series. Featuring
a "quick-change" rotating connector system to accommodate desk or
rack mounting, the board is well-suited for use in a wide range of applications,
such as stereo PA, recording, keyboard mixing, submixing and stage monitor mixing.
Despite its size, the WZ16:2 offers a comprehensive list of features that includes 16 balanced mic/line inputs complete with inserts, XLR and TRS jack connectors and 100mm faders. Its four-band British EQ has two wide-ranging sweepable mids, and 80Hz low-cut filters can be found on every channel. Both of the WZ16:2's two Stereo Returns have balanced inputs and monitor sends, while the console's six Auxes feature the unique capability to allow mono or stereo monitoring.
LR Outputs are supplemented by an AB output, which can provide a second pre- or post-fader LR or mono sum, or be configured as a local stereo monitor out. The LR Outputs offer individual faders, balanced XLRs and inserts.
Housed in a rugged metal chassis, the WZ16:2 is Allen & Heath's first mixer to feature the company's quick change connector (QCC) system, which allows the board to go from a rack to a desk and back without unplugging cables or removing panels. In a standard 19-inch rack, the WZ16:2 occupies a IOU space, while the QCC provides a convenient working angle in desktop applications.
To preserve the integrity of the original signal, Allen & Heath has adopted a minimum signal path design philosophy. The company has also employed wide-band flat amplifier stages, top-grade low-noise components and solid grounding techniques to extract every last dB of performance from the mixer.
Specifications include:
- Maximum Output Level (LR) +27dBu into 600ohm
- Frequency Response 20Hz to 50kHz +0/-1dB
- Microphone EIN (150ohm source) -128dB
- LR Residual Output Noise <-90dBu
The WZ16:2 is designed for optimum versatility and ease of use, making it a profitable option for users as diverse as recording and performing musicians, systems designers and PA companies. Allen & Heath is a British manufacturer of high-end mixing consoles for live and recording applications, distributed in the U.S. by the Harman Music Group, a subsidiary of Harman International. For more information, visit their web site at www.allen-heath.com. | 
