Your alternative explanation confuses me in three ways:
In my opinion, the 6 dedicated FX returns have nothing to do with the number of the 12 mixes they can be mixed into (in addition to the main mix).
However, if you want to use all 6 FX as (equal) FX mixes with the returns, you would need 2 additional FX sends in addition to the 4 dedicated FX sends, for which (probably just like with the SQ) you would have to sacrifice 2 of the 12 mixes – thus, a reduction in the (aux) mix buses here as well, just like with the X32 you mentioned.
I’m actually sure you know all of this very well, so I’m not sure if maybe I’m wrong here …
With the QU consoles, you are correct. Using the 6 FX returns means it has nothing to do with the 12 mixes/busses available to the end user. However not every console works like this. There are certain models out there where using a FX return DOES use up the available busses. The X32 works like this as an example (and it’s why I referenced it in my previous post).
All 6 FX engines on the new QU consoles have their own dedicated return. The QU classic only has 4 FX engines - but all 4 have their own dedicated return as well. This means you will never need to use any of the 12 user assignable busses for FX use. I think you were confusing the specs between the new QU with 6 FX engines and FX returns and the older “QU Classic” models that only have 4 dedicated FX returns because they only has 4 FX engines.
To try and clarify further on the FX send/return discussion.
The (new) Qu has 6 FX units, each with a dedicated stereo return.
The dedicated FX returns are ‘short’ or ‘minimal processing’ channels which include a PEQ and can be routed in the same way as any input channel.
These prevent needing to use up input channels to get the ‘wet’ FX signal back from FX units and send it out to mixes.
There are 4 dedicated FX send busses/mixes which feed the first 4 FX units, meaning you can use the first 4 FX units in a ‘Mix->Return’ configuration without using up groups or auxes to send to your FX units.
It’s possible to use FX units 5-6 in a ‘Mix->Return’ configuration by feeding them with a mix or input direct output (which obviously can use up a mix).
It is possible to feed any of the FX units from mixes or input direct outputs if desired.
It is possible to insert any FX unit into any input or mix channel - at which point the associated FX return channel disappears from any fader strip.
If i have understand what this guy says at 5:40 in this vid
its possible to multitrack record on the SD card AND USB-C to computer simultaneously ??
This would be great as i have to record shows for post production and i always get nervous about recording to just 1 source.
I just bought SQ5 2 weeks ago, because my qu-16 was too limited with number of inputs/outputs, no display by fader, only one custom page, limited fx options …
All those things now available on Qu-5 for much lower price than SQ5. And added functions as automatic gain and feedback management.
Could you tell me the main differences between qu-5 and Sq-5 that makes it worth paying the price for the Sq-5 ?
I still have the first eddition QU which is used atleast once a week. The new Q5D states 38in/24out. How does this work? is it not a 16 channel input processor?
You can arrange all your input channels on the layers according to your personal preferences - as well as your other faders such as those for output channels or FX.
On the Qu-5 will I be able to use Direct Outputs and route any channels I want from the Qu-5 to Logic Pro and vice versa without being tied to any particular input or output on the Qu-5?
You can freely assign USB channels to whatever processing channels, mix outs and so on that you require - and similarly can pick up any USB return channel on any input processing channel.
