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High-performance 28 x 32 USB3 audio interface compatible with Mac, Windows, and iOS, renowned for its superb audio quality powered by ESS Sabre32™ DAC technology. It offers universal USB-C connectivity, extensive input/output options, and the ability to handle 60 audio channels simultaneously. The interface is designed for ultra-low latency performance and versatile connectivity, accommodating a wide array of studio equipment. The 828 features transparent mic inputs, high-impedance guitar inputs, and advanced features like CueMix™ 5 for comprehensive monitor mixing with effects, wireless control via iOS, and additional connectivity options like optical I/O, S/PDIF, MIDI I/O, and DC-coupled TRS outputs. It comes bundled with Performer Lite and an extensive library of sounds and loops from top providers, making it a comprehensive solution for professional-quality recording, editing, mixing, and mastering.
At a glance
- 28 x 32 USB3 Audio Interface:
- Compatible with Mac, Windows, and iOS.
- Features ESS Sabre32™ DAC technology for superior analog audio with 125 dB dynamic range.
- Supports 5 Gbps USB 3 transfers, backwards compatible with USB 2, and allows for easy plug-and-play operation.
- Handles up to 60 simultaneous audio channels (28 in and 32 out) for connecting a wide array of studio equipment.
- Optimized drivers deliver remarkable round-trip latency (RTL) for professional recording and monitoring.
- Individual preamp gain, pad, 48V phantom power, and remote control for pristine audio capture.
- Enables direct DI tracking and reamping with near-zero latency monitoring.
- Features CueMix™ 5 for monitor mixing with effects, wireless iOS control, A/B speaker select, and talkback capabilities.
- Includes optical I/O, S/PDIF digital I/O, MIDI I/O with MIDI Thru, and DC-coupled TRS outputs.
- Comes with Performer Lite, over 100 virtual instruments, and 6 GB of loops and sample packs from leading providers.
- Balanced analog I/O connections protected against interference, ensuring reliability and durability.
The MOTU 828 is a versatile 28 x 32 USB3 audio interface designed for Mac, Windows, and iOS, offering a comprehensive suite of mixing and effects capabilities.
The MOTU 828 boasts exceptional audio performance, characterized by its renowned ESS Sabre32™ DAC technology. This technology ensures a dynamic range of 125 dB and remarkably low harmonic distortion, underpinning the device's superior analogue audio quality. The 828's stellar performance is a testament to decades of refined engineering in audio interface technology.
Universal Connectivity
It offers universal USB-C connectivity, seamlessly integrating with Mac, PC, and iOS devices. The interface supports rapid 5 Gbps USB 3 transfers (backwards compatible with USB 2), handling up to 60 audio channels (28 in and 32 out). Its class-compliant firmware allows for effortless plug-and-play operation with Mac or iOS devices, negating the need for drivers. Moreover, the interface is compatible with industry-standard high-performance drivers, accommodating a vast array of audio applications. It can be connected directly to an iPad™ using USB-C or a standard camera connection kit (Lightning adapter).
Connectivity and Channels
The 828 caters to extensive connectivity needs with its capability to handle 60 simultaneous audio channels. This allows users to connect a wide range of studio equipment, including microphones, guitars, synths, keyboards, drum machines, outboard processors, MIDI gear, optical expanders, and even a foot pedal, all at once. All 28 inputs and 32 outputs can be utilized concurrently.
High-Performance Drivers
The 828's high-performance drivers offer ultra-low latency for performance-driven users on Mac and PC platforms. Paired with a high-performance DAW like Digital Performer, the interface achieves a remarkable round-trip latency (RTL) of approximately 2 ms over USB (2 or 3) at 96 kHz with a 32-sample host buffer.
Mic Inputs and Hi-Z Guitar Inputs
The mic inputs on the 828 deliver transparency and clarity, perfect for capturing recordings in their most natural form. Each channel offers individual preamp gain, pad, 48V phantom power, and can be remotely controlled from a computer or iOS device. The high-impedance TS guitar inputs on each combo jack allow for direct DI tracking and reamping, streamlining the recording process.
DIY Guitar Re-Amping
DIY guitar re-amping is straightforward with the 828. Users can directly input their guitar, use CueMix for near-zero latency monitoring, and simultaneously record the dry signal and mic'd amp. Later, the dry signal can be re-amped with different amps, cabs, or amp modelling plug-ins for a variety of tones, all without the need to re-plug cables.
Channel 1-2 Inserts and Additional Features
Each 828 mic input features a dedicated analogue send/return loop, accommodating mono or stereo mic channel outboard processing via fully balanced connections. When a mic input is not in use, its return doubles as an additional line input, offering identical signal characteristics to other line inputs.
Control and Monitoring
The Monitor Group function on the 828 allows users to control up to ten analogue outputs, ideal for managing 5.1 or 7.1 surround speaker systems with a single fader. The Control Room feature further enhances the recording environment with A/B speaker select and talkback capabilities.
CueMix™ 5 Software
CueMix™ 5 revolutionizes monitor mixing with effects, providing Mac, Windows, and iOS users with a visually appealing and comprehensive graphic control interface. It offers graphic mixing, parametric EQ editing, and a touch-friendly interface on iOS for quick access to all mixing features.
Wireless Control with CueMix 5 for iOS
For users who prefer wireless control, CueMix 5 is also available for iOS. It allows comprehensive setting adjustments and mixing control from a USB host or an iPhone/iPad running the CueMix 5 app. Multiple iOS devices can be used simultaneously, and network security is ensured with a password-protected 828.
Advanced Extras
Advanced extras include loopback channels for easy live streaming or podcasting, optical I/O and expansion options, S/PDIF digital I/O, MIDI I/O with MIDI Thru, a foot switch input, DC-coupled TRS outputs for control voltage manipulation, dual headphone outputs with independent mix programming and volume control, and balanced analogue I/O connections safeguarded against interference.
Customised Meter Views and Music Production Software
Customized meter views are available for users not utilizing the optical or digital I/O, ensuring a workflow-tailored experience. The 828 comes ready for music production and includes workstation software, virtual instruments, and loops. Connect it to your Mac or PC and start creating with Performer Lite, offering many virtual instruments, effects plug-ins, guitar FX processing, and more.
Performer Lite and Included Sound Packs
Performer Lite is an all-encompassing platform for music production, allowing users to record, edit, mix, process, and master tracks with ease. It includes over 100 virtual instruments covering a wide range of sounds and genres and 6 GB of free loops and sample packs from renowned content providers like Big Fish Audio, Lucidsamples, and Loopmasters. These resources are perfect for jumpstarting your music production journey, offering high-quality sounds used by top musicians and producers worldwide.