All CQ units are built with integrated Bluetooth technology that allows a user to pair any Playback device, such as iOS or Android phones, iPads, tablets, or computers.
For guidance on how to connect a Bluetooth device to your CQ for audio playback, kindly review the following article: Connecting a Bluetooth device to CQ for audio playback – Allen & Heath (allen-heath.com)
If you are having problems with a Bluetooth connection to the CQ, here are some things to consider and try:
- For CQ-18T and CQ-20B units, Bluetooth and WiFi Access Point share the same antenna. Any issue with the antenna, including incorrect connection or damage will affect both WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Bluetooth works across the 2.4GHz frequency band; If you are connecting the same device to the Bluetooth and built-in WiFi of the CQ, try switching the Built-in WiFi frequency to 5GHz to avoid overcrowding the 2.4GHz band.
- Un-pair your device, then use ‘Forget device’ to remove it from the CQ completely, switch the Bluetooth function OFF and ON again to re-initialise, then re-enable the connection again by setting the CQ as discoverable and re-pairing.
- If the Unit Name of your CQ console has been changed (in HOME / SYSTEM / Preferences) prior to pairing a device, it may not be recognised correctly on the next connection attempt. Un-pair your device, then use ‘Forget device’ to remove it from the CQ completely, switch the Bluetooth function OFF and ON again to re-initialise, then re-enable the connection again by setting the CQ as discoverable and re-pairing.
- Best performance and maximum distance will be achieved by maintaining line of sight between devices. Environmental variants, such as solid objects blocking sight or other devices operating in the same band will negatively affect the performance of Bluetooth connection.
- You can use free apps to test the strength of the WiFi signal and find other wireless connections in the area which may be interfering, by making a scan of the 2.4GHz band.
- Apple Airport Utility - AirPort Utility on the App Store (apple.com)
- Android WiFi Analyzer - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vrem.wifianalyzer
(this Android app can also measure the Bluetooth connection directly) - Signal of the WiFi/Bluetooth should not drop below -40dBm when the device is positioned within 30cm of the CQ. If you are having issues with the Bluetooth of your CQ console or its signal level appears too low, please contact: support@allen-heath.com
FAQ
Can I use Bluetooth for remote control through the Apps?
No, the integrated Bluetooth technology is only for Playback.
Can I send audio from the console to other devices through Bluetooth?
No, the integrated Bluetooth is for playback from a paired device into the console, and is not bi-directional.
Would damage in my WiFi antenna affect the Bluetooth connectivity?
Yes, both the Bluetooth and the built-in WiFi Access point (For CQ-18T and CQ-20B) share the same antenna.
Can I have two devices simultaneously paired into a CQ console?
No, only one Playback device can be paired with the CQ console at a time. However, previously paired devices will be stored to make future connections easier.
Can I pair a Playback device into two CQ consoles simultaneously?
No, a Playback device can only be paired with one CQ console at a time.