Allen & Heath ZED-6

The ZED-6 is a compact six-input analog mixer that trades size for sound quality, carrying the GSPre boutique preamp design taken from Allen & Heath's GS-R24 recording console. Two mono channels combine XLR and TRS jack inputs with switchable 48V phantom power for condenser or dynamic mics, and two of the inputs are high-impedance instrument inputs so a guitar plugs straight in. Two stereo channels handle keyboards, media players, and backing tracks.

A responsive 2-band EQ with an optimized slope plus a low-cut filter cleans up each source, and balanced XLR main outputs feed the PA or an interface. There is no menu and no clutter: level, tone, and phantom power all sit under your hands. A rugged metal chassis and external power supply make it a reliable grab-and-go desk for small stages, rehearsals, and desktop recording.