MOTU 828 (2024)

MOTU 828 (2024) is a completely redesigned 28x32 USB 3.1 audio interface in a 1U rack format, delivering pristine audio quality and massive connectivity for modern studios. Powered by renowned ESS Sabre32 Ultra™ DAC technology, it offers an exceptional dynamic range of 125 dB on outputs and ultra-low harmonic distortion (THD+N -114 dB). With optimized drivers for Mac and PC, the interface achieves class-leading round-trip latency (~2 ms at 96 kHz), making it a powerhouse for tracking, mixing, and live performance.

Two transparent mic preamps provide up to +74 dB of gain, featuring individual +48V phantom power, -20 dB pad, and dedicated hardware inserts for outboard gear integration. A vibrant 3.9-inch color LCD display (480x128 pixels) offers high-resolution metering for all inputs and outputs at a glance. The MOTU 828 also functions as a standalone digital mixer with on-board DSP effects—including reverb, 4-band EQ, gate, and compression—controllable wirelessly via the CueMix 5 app from your computer or mobile device.

KEY FEATURES

• USB3 (5 Gbps) audio interface compatible with USB2, Mac, PC, and iOS
• 60 simultaneous audio channels: 28 inputs and 32 outputs
• ESS Sabre32 Ultra™ DAC technology with 125 dB dynamic range
• Two high-performance mic preamps with +74 dB gain and inserts
• 3.9-inch high-resolution color LCD for comprehensive metering
• On-board DSP mixer with effects (EQ, compression, reverb) and Wi-Fi control
• Digital connectivity: 2x ADAT banks (16 channels), S/PDIF, MIDI I/O, Word Clock
• Ultra-low latency performance (RTL ~2 ms at 96 kHz)
• Dedicated XLR Main Outs and two independent headphone outputs
• Loopback functionality for live streaming and podcasting
• Re-amping capabilities via dedicated front-panel Send/Return jacks
• Rugged 1U rack-mountable chassis with internal power supply

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Converters: 24-bit / 192 kHz (ESS Sabre32 Ultra™)
• Analog Inputs: 2x XLR/TRS Combo (Mic/Line/Inst), 8x TRS (Line In)
• Analog Outputs: 8x TRS (Line Out), 2x XLR (Main Out), 2x TRS (Send)
• Mic Preamps: Gain +74 dB, EIN -129 dBu, THD+N -114 dB
• Line Input Dynamic Range: 120 dB (A-weighted)
• Line Output Dynamic Range: 125 dB (A-weighted)
• Digital I/O: 2x Optical ADAT/TOSLink (up to 16 ch), S/PDIF RCA
• Other Connections: MIDI In/Out, Word Clock In/Out/Thru, Footswitch
• Headphone Outputs: 2x 1/4" with independent volume control
• Computer Connection: USB-C 3.1 (cable included)
• Dimensions: 483 x 311 x 44 mm (19" Rack, 1U)
• Weight: 5 kg
• Power: Internal 100-240V AC