NEWS  Music Production  January 10, 2024  Reading time: 2 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

MOTU has introduced a revamped version of their acclaimed 828 audio interface. The latest iteration of this popular device showcases a complete redesign, placing emphasis on a refreshed front panel, an intuitive user interface, and high-resolution metering capabilities. Packed with a multitude of features, the 828 stands out as a versatile tool for musicians, producers, and sound engineers.

Front Panel Facelift

The most noticeable change in the 828 is the redesigned front panel, now adorned with a vibrant 3.9-inch color LCD display boasting a resolution of 480 x 128 pixels. The addition of a Menu encoder, coupled with Back and Select buttons, facilitates seamless control of various functions directly from the front panel. This visual upgrade also enhances user experience by providing comprehensive metering for both analog and digital I/O channels. Dedicated buttons for A/B speaker switching, talkback, mute, and mono summing contribute to an efficient workflow.

Expanded I/O for Unparalleled Flexibility

The 828 doesn't just stop at aesthetics; it offers an impressive array of 60 channels of I/O, with 24 channels dedicated to mixing. The onboard DSP takes center stage, providing reverb, a four-band EQ, and compression, empowering users with creative control over their audio. The first two analog inputs on front-panel XLR/TRS combo sockets accept mic, line-level, or instrument sources, complemented by balanced insert points on the rear panel. With up to 74dB of preamp gain, -20dB pads, phantom power, and polarity invert functions, the 828 ensures pristine audio capture.

Additional features include headphone outputs with independent level controls, line-level analog inputs and outputs, digital I/O via S/PDIF and ADAT, MIDI connectivity, and a USB-C socket for seamless integration with host machines. Noteworthy is the provision of loopback channels in the interface's driver, facilitating applications like podcasting or live streaming.

Comprehensive Software Integration

MOTU's CueMix 5 software takes the reins for routing and monitoring, available as a desktop application for both Mac and Windows systems, as well as an iOS/iPad OS app for iPhone and iPad. This software not only controls onboard mixing and routing features but also remotely manages the unit's preamp parameters. The package includes MOTU Performer Lite and Ableton Live Lite, accompanied by over 6GB of free loops and samples, enriching the user's creative toolkit.

Impeccable Audio Performance

The key specifications of the 828 underline its commitment to delivering exceptional audio quality. With impressive dynamic ranges and minimal THD+N across mic inputs, line inputs, line outputs, and headphone outputs, this audio interface ensures a pristine audio signal at every stage of the production process.

Pricing and Availability

The latest MOTU 828 is available now, priced at $995, making it an attractive and accessible choice for musicians and producers seeking professional-grade audio interfaces. For more information visit MOTU website. 

 IMAGES CREDIT: MOTU