The Complete Guide to Upgrading Your Digital Audio Mixer: Make the Right Decision for Your Church

Upgrading to a new digital mixer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your church’s sound system. Whether you’re replacing an aging analog console or stepping up from an entry-level digital board, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every consideration to ensure you make the perfect choice.

Step 1: Assess Your Current and Future Channel Requirements

The number of input channels is the foundation of your mixer decision. For churches with contemporary worship bands, 32 channels has become the industry standard—and for good reason.

Why 32 Channels?

A typical church worship setup quickly fills available channels:

• Drums: 4-8 channels (kick, snare, hi-hat, overheads, toms)
• Bass guitar: 1-2 channels (direct and/or mic)
• Electric guitars: 2-4 channels
• Acoustic guitars: 1-2 channels
• Keyboards/Piano: 2-4 channels (stereo inputs)
• Lead vocals: 2-3 channels
• Backup vocals: 3-6 channels
• Pastor microphone: 1-2 channels
• Playback tracks/computer: 2 channels
• Extra instruments (violin, cello, percussion): 2-4 channels

This easily totals 20-30 channels for a standard service—and that’s before considering growth, special events, guest musicians, or choir microphones. A 32-channel digital mixer provides the breathing room you need without constantly running out of inputs.

Expansion Capabilities

Look for mixers that support expansion through digital stage boxes or I/O expanders. Both Allen & Heath and Midas offer expansion options that can grow your system to 48 or more inputs when needed.

Step 2: Evaluate Your Mixing Bus Requirements

What Is a Mix Bus?

A mix bus is an independent audio path that allows you to create a separate mix from your input channels. Think of it as a “sub-mixer” within your main console. Each mix bus can combine any combination of your input channels at different volume levels to create a unique blend of audio.

For example, your drummer might need to hear vocals loudly with less guitar, while your guitarist needs the opposite. Each gets their own mix bus with their preferred balance of instruments—completely independent from what the congregation hears through the main speakers.

Do Mix Buses Require Physical XLR Outputs?

Yes and no—it depends on how you’re using them:

Physical XLR outputs are needed when:

• Sending audio to stage monitors or floor wedges
• Feeding in-ear monitor systems
• Routing to external amplifiers or powered speakers
• Connecting to broadcast equipment or recording devices
• Sending signals to overflow rooms or cry rooms

Physical outputs are NOT needed for:

• Internal effects sends (reverb, delay stay inside the mixer)
• Recording buses that route directly via USB to your computer
• Digital audio networking (sends audio over Dante, AES50, or other network protocols)
• Some matrix routing configurations that feed other internal buses

Most professional digital mixers provide 12-16 physical XLR auxiliary outputs, which matches their mix bus count. This means you can simultaneously send different mixes to:

• Main LR Mix: Your front-of-house sound to the congregation
• Monitor Mixes (Aux Sends): 6-12 separate mixes for stage monitors and in-ear systems
• Matrix Outputs: For cry rooms, lobby speakers, or recording feeds (these can derive from other buses)
• Effects Sends: Internal buses for reverb, delay, and other effects (no physical output needed)
• Recording Outputs: Can use physical XLRs or route digitally via USB

For example, the Allen & Heath SQ series offers 12 stereo mixes plus a main LR, with corresponding physical XLR outputs for each. The Midas M32 provides 16 mix buses plus main LR and 6 matrix outputs—giving you 25 total mix buses with the physical connections to match.

Bottom line: When evaluating mixers, count the physical XLR outputs to ensure you have enough for all your stage monitors, in-ear systems, and auxiliary feeds. A 32-channel church typically needs at least 8-12 physical auxiliary outputs for adequate monitor coverage.

Step 3: Choose Your Brand Wisely – Allen & Heath vs Midas

When it comes to professional-grade digital mixers for churches, two brands consistently stand above the rest: Allen & Heath and Midas. Here’s what makes each special:

Allen & Heath Digital Mixers

Allen & Heath has earned an exceptional reputation in live sound with their intuitive design and rock-solid reliability. Their mixers are found in churches, theaters, and concert venues worldwide.

Allen & Heath SQ Series

The SQ series represents cutting-edge digital mixing technology with their 96kHz XCVI FPGA processing engine. Key features include:

• 48 input channels with pristine preamps
• 12 stereo mix buses plus LR and 3 stereo matrix
• 7″ color touchscreen with intuitive interface
• Motorized faders for scene recall
• Built-in effects engines
• 32×32 USB audio interface for recording
• Remote control via iPad app (SQ-MixPad)
• Dante networking option available

Allen & Heath Qu Series

The Qu series has been a church favorite for years, known for its ease of use and professional sound quality. The new generation Qu mixers feature:

• 38 inputs (32 mono/linkable + 3 stereo)
• AnalogiQ preamps with zero-crossing detection
• 12 mixes plus 4 matrix outputs
• 6 FX engines with dedicated returns
• 32×32 USB-C audio interface
• 32-channel SD card recording
• DEEP Processing ready (legendary compressor and preamp emulations)
• Feedback and Gain Assistants for fast setup

Allen & Heath Avantis

For larger churches or those wanting flagship features, the Avantis offers 64 input channels, 42 mix buses, and dual 15.6″ touchscreens—all with the same intuitive workflow Allen & Heath is known for.

Midas Digital Mixers

Midas built their legendary reputation on preamp quality and audio transparency. For over 40 years, they’ve been the choice of touring professionals including Pink Floyd, Metallica, and countless other major acts.

Midas M32 Series

The M32 brings Midas’ legendary sound quality to churches at an accessible price point:

• 40 input channels with 32 genuine Midas preamps
• 25 mix buses (16 aux + main LCR + 6 matrix)
• 25 motorized faders with 1 million cycle rating
• 40-bit floating point DSP processing
• Over 50 built-in effects including True Physical Modeling of classic gear (Urei 1176, Teletronix LA-2A, Fairchild 670, Pultec EQ)
• 32×32 USB audio interface at 48kHz
• AES50 networking for expansion
• Klark Teknik effects processing

The M32 is available in multiple configurations: the full-size M32 LIVE with 25 faders, the compact M32R (rackmountable with 17 faders), and the M32C (completely rackmountable control surface).

What Makes Midas Special

Midas preamps are widely considered the gold standard in live sound. They deliver exceptional transparency with high common-mode rejection, low harmonic distortion, and become harmonically rich when driven hard—perfect for capturing the full dynamic range of worship music. The same preamps found in their legendary XL4 and Heritage 3000 consoles (used by international touring acts) are in every M32.

Step 4: Consider Your Operating Environment and User Interface

The best mixer is one your team can actually use confidently. Consider these factors:

Volunteer-Friendly Operation

Churches rely on volunteers, so your mixer needs to be intuitive. Look for:

• Clear visual feedback: Color touchscreens, LED metering, and digital scribble strips
• Logical layout: Controls organized in a way that makes sense
• Scene recall: Save and load complete setups for different services or events
• Physical faders: Tactile control is faster and more intuitive than menu diving
• Training resources: Free video tutorials (hint: we provide these with every mixer purchase!)

Remote Control Capabilities

Modern digital mixers offer iPad and tablet control, allowing sound engineers to:

• Mix monitors from the stage while musicians play
• Walk the sanctuary to hear the mix from different positions
• Make adjustments during sound check without running back to the booth
• Allow musicians to adjust their own monitor mixes via personal mixing apps

Both Allen & Heath and Midas provide professional apps for iOS and Android devices.

Step 5: Evaluate Built-In Effects and Processing

Quality digital mixers eliminate the need for racks of outboard gear by including professional effects:

Essential Effects

• Reverb: Multiple types (hall, plate, room, spring) for natural ambience
• Delay: Stereo and mono delays for vocal and instrument enhancement
• Compression: On every input channel for consistent levels
• Gates: Noise reduction for drums and speaking microphones
• EQ: Parametric and graphic equalizers for precise tone shaping
• De-esser: Smooth harsh vocal frequencies
• Feedback suppression: Automatically identify and eliminate feedback

Advanced Processing

Premium mixers like the Midas M32 include emulations of legendary studio gear—compressors and equalizers from the golden age of recording that normally cost thousands of dollars each. The Allen & Heath DEEP Processing provides similar classic processing emulations from the dLive flagship series.

Step 6: Recording and Streaming Integration

In today’s digital age, churches need robust recording and streaming capabilities:

USB Audio Interface

Modern digital mixers function as multi-channel USB audio interfaces, allowing you to:

• Record every input channel individually to your computer
• Virtual soundcheck: Play back previous services for mixing practice
• Integrate with Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) for post-production
• Stream high-quality audio directly to online platforms

Look for 32×32 channel USB interfaces for maximum flexibility.

Direct Recording Options

Many mixers offer direct recording to SD cards or USB drives—no computer required. This provides:

• Simple stereo recordings for quick distribution
• Multi-track recording for later mixing
• Backup recordings in case of computer failure
• Easy playback of backing tracks during services

Step 7: Plan for System Expansion and Networking

Your needs will grow, so choose a mixer with expansion capabilities:

Digital Stage Boxes

Connect remote I/O racks on stage via a single Cat5/Cat6 cable, eliminating bulky analog snakes. Benefits include:

• Cleaner stage appearance
• Easier cable runs
• Expandable input/output counts
• Better signal quality over long distances
• Simplified setup and teardown

Dante and Network Audio

Professional audio networking protocols allow you to:

• Share audio between multiple devices
• Integrate with broadcast systems
• Connect to network-enabled speakers and amplifiers
• Build complex multi-room audio systems

Allen & Heath mixers support SLink, Dante, and other protocols. Midas uses AES50 networking.

Step 8: Consider Physical Form Factor and Portability

Console Styles

• Full-size consoles: Traditional layout with maximum faders and controls
• Compact consoles: Fewer physical faders but full channel counts via layers
• Rackmount mixers: Save space in small booths or portable setups
• Modular systems: Separate control surface and processing engine

Installation Considerations

• Measure your sound booth space
• Consider ventilation and cooling requirements
• Plan cable routing and power requirements
• Account for peripheral devices (computers, tablets, recorders)
• Think about lighting for low-light operation

Step 9: Budget for Total System Cost

Beyond the mixer itself, budget for:

Essential Accessories

• Digital stage box or I/O expander
• Router for wireless control (WiFi)
• Tablet or iPad for remote mixing
• USB recording drive or SD cards
• Expansion cards (Dante, MADI, etc.)
• Quality cables and connectors
• UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) for power protection

Professional Installation

Consider professional installation to ensure:

• Proper integration with existing equipment
• Optimal cable routing and grounding
• Network configuration for remote control
• Complete system testing and optimization
• Comprehensive training for your team

Step 10: Training and Ongoing Support

The most powerful mixer is worthless if your team can’t use it effectively:

Training Resources

• Video tutorials: We provide comprehensive video training with every Allen & Heath and Midas mixer purchase
• User manuals: Download and study before purchase
• Online forums: Join communities of other users
• Manufacturer resources: Both Allen & Heath and Midas offer excellent documentation
• Hands-on training: Schedule training sessions with your team

Extended Support

We offer extended customer support periods to help you through:

• Initial setup questions
• Scene programming assistance
• Troubleshooting issues
• Feature optimization
• Software updates and new features

Making Your Final Decision: 32-Channel Digital Mixer Recommendations

For Most Churches: Allen & Heath SQ-5 or SQ-6

The SQ series offers the perfect balance of power, ease of use, and value. With 48 input channels, intuitive operation, and professional sound quality, it’s ideal for churches with contemporary worship bands.

Best for: Churches wanting cutting-edge features, excellent sound quality, and room to grow

For Classic Analog Feel with Digital Power: Allen & Heath Qu-32

The Qu-32 provides 32 dedicated faders (one per channel), making it familiar to anyone who’s used analog consoles. The latest generation adds 96kHz processing and DEEP effects.

Best for: Churches transitioning from analog or those who prefer dedicated faders

For Uncompromising Sound Quality: Midas M32

When audio quality is paramount, the M32 delivers legendary Midas preamps and processing. The built-in effects rival high-end studio gear, and the sound is simply exceptional.

Best for: Churches prioritizing the absolute best sound quality and professional-grade processing

For Compact Installations: Midas M32R or Allen & Heath SQ-5

Both offer full processing power in space-saving formats—perfect for small sound booths or portable setups.

Best for: Space-constrained installations or portable church setups

Common Search Terms and Keywords

When researching your digital mixer upgrade, you might search for:

• 32 channel digital mixer for church
• Best digital mixing console for worship
• Church sound system upgrade
• Digital mixer vs analog mixer
• How many channels do I need for church
• Allen Heath digital mixer church
• Midas M32 for church
• Worship mixer with recording
• Digital mixer with iPad control
• Church audio mixer 32 channel
• Live sound mixer for church
• Digital console for live sound
• Church mixing board upgrade
• Best mixer for worship team
• 32 channel mixer with USB recording
• Digital snake compatible mixer
• Motorized fader digital mixer
• Compact digital mixer 32 channel
• Professional digital mixing console
• Church sound mixer with effects

Your Next Steps

Upgrading your digital mixer is an investment in your ministry that will serve your church for years to come. By carefully considering channel requirements, brand reputation, ease of use, built-in processing, recording capabilities, expansion options, and training resources, you’ll make a decision you can be confident in.

Why Choose Us

When you purchase your Allen & Heath or Midas digital mixer from John Soto Music LLC, you receive:

• Free comprehensive video tutorials specifically designed for church applications
• Extended customer support period to help you through every step
• Expert advice from professionals who understand church sound
• Competitive pricing on professional-grade equipment
• Complete system solutions including accessories and peripherals

Don’t settle for a mixer that doesn’t meet your needs. Contact us today to discuss your specific situation, and we’ll help you choose the perfect digital mixing solution for your church’s worship experience.

Ready to upgrade? Reach out to discuss which Allen & Heath or Midas digital mixer is right for your church, and ask about our free video tutorial packages and extended support options.