Features
Thunderbolt technology
The future of connectivity
Thunderbolt fulfills the promise of a truly state-of-the-art connectivity standard for personal computers. With massive bandwidth, Thunderbolt allows you to connect displays, hard drives, and other peripherals to your computer, along with the 828x, up to six devices total (with the 828x at the end of the chain), and the Thunderbolt bus won't even break a sweat. Thunderbolt combines plug-and-play convenience with massive bandwidth and low latency for truly professional audio interface performance.
Hi-speed USB 2.0
Mac, PC, and USB 3.0 compatible
As Thunderbolt becomes more widely adopted, Hi-speed USB 2.0 provides across-the-board compatibility with virtually all laptops and desktops on both Mac and Windows. Since USB 2.0 devices are compatible with USB 3.0-equipped hosts, your 828x interface is a future-proof investment in your studio.
28 inputs and 30 outputs
How can one audio interface offer this much I/O?
We pack it in, like no one else can: two combo-style mic/guitar inputs with preamps, 8 balanced analog in/out, XLR main outs, 16 channels of ADAT optical (8 channels at 96 kHz), plus S/PDIF, word clock and MIDI. Connect all of your studio gear, including microphones, guitars, synths, keyboards, drum machines and even effects processors.
Recording up to 192 kHz
Audio quality without compromise
Now in its fifth generation, the 828 has become a benchmark for the industry, setting the bar by which others are judged. How has this level of respect been earned? Through consistent design integrity and intelligent use of current-generation parts and design technologies.
Studio-grade mic channels
Enjoy extras like sends and optional hardware limiting
Do you work with outboard EQs and compressors? Each 828x mic input offers a pre-converter send for mono or stereo mic channel outboard processing. The 828x's unique V-Limit™ hardware limiter employs a proprietary design to offer an additional 12 dB of headroom over digital zero with no digital clipping or harsh artifacts, for that added protection in dynamic recording situations. The 828x's preamps are clean and neutral, allowing you to use your favorite plug-ins and host software to color the sound just the way you want for each recording application.
On-board digital mixer with effects
Mixing and effects for monitoring and live mixing
Record, monitor, route and process all live inputs using the professional on-board CueMix FX digital mixer – with no latency and no processor strain on your computer. Apply DSP-driven compression, EQ and reverb to every input and output, independent of your host computer.
Stand-alone operation as a mixer
Go instantly from studio to stage
After programming the on-board mixing in the studio, unplug the 828x from the computer and take it on the road for operation as a stand-alone mixer with effects. All mixing and effects parameters are adjustable using the front panel backlit LCD.
Solid metal chassis
MOTU interfaces are built to last, and last, and last…
We still get calls and Facebook posts from happy users of the original 828, introduced more than 10 years ago! Like all MOTU interfaces, the 828x's aluminum alloy chassis is lightweight, yet incredibly sturdy and durable, and designed to withstand the rigors of the studio, stage, and road. In a world awash with cheap plastic, the cool feeling of the 828x's metal exterior in your hands is a reassuring reminder that you are holding quality engineering and construction.
Support for Mac OS X and Windows
Run all your favorite audio apps
The 828x provides time-tested drivers for Mac OS X and Windows (8, 7 and Vista) for cross-platform compatibility with virtually all audio software via WDM, ASIO, and Core Audio drivers.
Advanced extras
The engineering behind 828x runs deep,
to give your audio recordings the depth of quality they deserve
96 kHz Optical
With two optical banks, you get 8 channels of
96 kHz SMUX digital input and output.
Expansion
Add another MOTU audio interface for more inputs and outputs as your needs grow.
Instrument tuner
Tune your guitar or other instrument to within a hundredth of a cent with this easy-to-read meter.
SMPTE time code sync
Resolve your workstation software to time code, without the need for a dedicated synchronizer.
Analysis tools and oscilloscope
Visualize the harmonic content of your mix with dynamic animation and vivid color. Check phase.
Need legacy FireWire support?
The 828mk3 Hybrid is for you
The 828mk3 Hybrid provides virtually identical features to the 828x (including USB 2.0 support), except that instead of Thunderbolt, it provides FireWire connectivity to any FireWire-equipped Mac or PC. The connectors are "Type B" jacks typically used for FireWire 800, but they operate as standard FireWire 400 ports and are compatible with any FireWire port on your computer (A or B).
Thunderbolt and the Thunderbolt logo are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.