MOTU 848 Thunderbolt 4 Audio Interface
- 28 in, 32 out, 60 simultaneous channels
- 4 mic preamps, +74 dB gain, -129 dBu EIN
- Up to 192 kHz, 125 dB DAC dynamic range
- 1.8 ms round-trip latency at 96kHz
- Thunderbolt 4 / USB4, cable included
- 2 Gigabit AVB network ports, 2 year warranty
Updated 5 days ago · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.
A deep, rack-ready interface with mixing, effects and network expansion for project studios that need lots of I/O. Its feature set is more than a solo home recorder needs.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. ProductDome earns a commission when you buy through links on this page.
ASIN: B0FPPW47FYModel: 848Category: Audio Interfaces
Overview
MOTU builds this rack interface around Thunderbolt and USB-C connectivity, four remote-controlled mic preamps and banks of line and optical I/O. A built-in DSP mixer with reverb, EQ and dynamics runs at the hardware level, and a color display meters every channel.
Abundant channels, onboard mixing and AVB networking let a studio grow by linking units over standard cable. For a single singer-songwriter the rack size and channel count are far beyond need.
Who it's for
Studios tracking bands, mixing with outboard gear and switching between monitor pairs. A podcaster or bedroom producer will be fine with a much smaller box.
Pros and cons
- Very high channel count
- Onboard DSP mixing and effects
- Network expansion over AVB
- Monitor A/B/C switching and talkback
- Only four mic preamps
- Rack size and weight
- IPad adapter sold separately
Performance notes
Latency depends on the driver and buffer settings, and the listed round-trip time assumes high-performance DAW hosts. Channel count over USB varies with the host connection, and the DSP mixer runs effects up to the middle sample rates.
Specifications
| Brand | Motu |
|---|---|
| Model | 848 |
| Dimensions & fit | |
| Item weight | 11 pounds |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 12.25 x 19 x 1.75 inches |
| Capacity & performance | |
| Inputs outputs | 28 in, 32 out |
| Audio output | 12 TRS analog out, 2 headphone outputs |
| Dynamic range | 125 dB DAC, 118 dB mic channels |
| Compatibility & installation | |
| Connectivity Technology | Thunderbolt 4, USB4, AVB Ethernet |
| Included components | |
| Included Components | Thunderbolt-compatible USB4 cable |
| Warranty & support | |
| Warranty Description | 2 year manufacturer |
| Other details | |
| Number of Channels | 60 |
| Audio Input | 4 XLR/TRS mic/line/instrument, 8 balanced TRS line in |
| Operating System | macOS, Windows, iOS |
| Maximum Sample Rate | 192 kHz |
| Digital io | Two 8-channel optical banks |
| Indicators | 3.9 inch TFT display, 480 x 128 |
| Mic preamps | 4, +74 dB gain, -20 dB pad, 48V phantom, phase invert |
Frequently asked questions
How do I keep the MOTU 848 settings and drivers in good shape?
Settings can be changed from the front menu or remotely from a computer or iOS device through the CueMix Pro app. No other maintenance is listed.
Can the MOTU 848 work with an iPad?
Yes, over USB-C or with a Lightning adapter kit sold separately.
Is the MOTU 848 a mic preamp only box?
No. It is a full audio interface with converters, DSP mixing and networking.