MOTU’s AVB series is a new line of audio interfaces with AVB networking capability. AVB, a new 802.1 networking standard, enables you to build high channel count audio systems with near-zero latency, and MOTU has built a number of AVB interfaces for different applications.
MOTU 1248
The MOTU 1248 is a 32×34 AVB audio interface designed to be an all around performer with mic, instrument, and line inputs. The unit features four clean preamps along with high quality DSP effects Lastly, the 1248 is Thunderbolt compatible for low latency performance.
Who’s It For?
The MOTU 1248 is a great way to enter the world of AVB networking. It’s mic, instrument, and line inputs will cover any small studio’s needs. For larger studios, channel expansion can be done via ADAT or AVB.
MOTU 8M
The MOTU 8M is a 24×24 AVB audio interface equipped with eight stellar microphone preamps. These preamps also feature MOTU’s V-Limit technology, which provides a 9dB buffer before digital clipping occurs. The 8M’s combo jacks also support instrument and line level signals as well.
Who’s It For?
The MOTU 8M is for those who are looking for an interface with eight high quality microphone preamps. ADAT connectivity means this unit can also be used as a standalone eight channel preamp with another audio interface. The 8M is a great solution for recording live bands, full drum kits, and other situations which require a lot of microphones.
MOTU 16A
The MOTU 16A is a 32×32 AVB audio interface equipped with 16 1/4″ TRS inputs and outputs. Keep in mind this unit doesn’t have built-in microphone preamps, but Analog Line In, ADAT, and AVB connectivity means external preamps can be connected.
Who’s It For?
The MOTU 16A is for those who only require balanced 1/4″ inputs and outputs. The 16A is a great solution for connection other studio gear such as keyboard synthesizers and microphone preamps. If you require microphone preamps in your studio, look elsewhere.
MOTU 24Ai
The MOTU 24Ai is a 48×24 AVB audio interface with 24 analog line inputs via DB-25 or Phoenix connectors. Unlike many of MOTU’s other AVB products with Thunderbolt connectivity, the 24Ai only offers USB 2.0. Thus, it is recommended the 24Ai should be used primarily as an expansion unit via AVB for high channel count applications.
Who’s It For?
The MOTU 24Ai is for those who require a high number of analog line inputs. The most common application for the 24Ai would be recording 24 channels of direct outs from a mixing board.
MOTU 24Ao
The MOTU 24Ao is a 24×48 AVB audio interface with 24 analog line outputs via DB-25 or Phoenix connectors. The 24Ao can be used in conjunction with the 24Ai to create a 24×24 analog line in/out system. Like the 24Ai, the 24Ao lacks Thunderbolt connectivity, and is primarily used as an expansion unit with other AVB audio interfaces.
Who’s It For?
The MOTU 24Ao is for those who need to send 24 channels of audio to an analog device such as a mixing board or summing mixer.
MOTU Monitor 8
The MOTU Monitor 8 is a 24x16x8 AVB monitor mixer featuring eight stereo groups — one primary, one aux, and six other independent mixes.
Who’s It For?
The MOTU Monitor 8 is for those who require a monitor mixer with six independent headphone outputs. This unit can be used to send customized mixes to an entire band. If more than six headphone mixes are required, another Monitor 8 unit can be connected via AVB Ethernet. Alternatively, an external headphone amp can also be connected via ADAT.
MOTU 112D
The MOTU 112D is a AVB audio interface for digital routing and mixing. The 112D does not have any analog outputs. Instead, it offers digital connectivity via 24 channels of AES/EBU I/O, 24 channels of ADAT I/O, and 64 channel of BNC MADI I/O.
Who’s It For?
The MOTU 112D is ideal for live sound applications which require high channel digital interfacing and routing.
MOTU Stage-B16
The MOTU Stage-B16 is a rugged 16×8 stage box with AVB functionality. The Stage-B16 can also be used as a USB audio interface.
Who’s It For?
The MOTU Stage-B16 is for those looking for a rugged stage box for live applications. For high channel count applications, multiple Stage-B16’s can be daisy chained with short Ethernet cables.
MOTU UltraLite AVB
The MOTU UltraLite AVB is an 18×18 USB audio interface with AVB functionality. It’s designed to be a portable interface that can be combined with a compatible unit for mounting into a 1U rack space.
Who’s It For?
The MOTU UltraLite AVB is for those who are looking for an audio interface to integrate into a portable rig. The UltraLite AVB can be combined with a MIDI interface like the MOTU Micro Lite to form a 1U live show rig. Best of all, the UltraLite AVB comes with an Ethernet port for channel count expansion if necessary.
MOTU AVB Switch
The MOTU AVB Switch is a specialized Ethernet switch that complies with the 802.1 AVB standard. It enables you to connect up to five AVB devices at Gigabit speeds at near-zero latency. The MOTU AVB Switch features a purpose-built network clock for nanosecond level latency. Lastly, the MOTU AVB switch includes a standard Ethernet port to connect to a wireless router for mix control via a computer or iOS device.
Who’s It For?
The MOTU AVB Switch is for those who need to connect multiple AVB devices to the same network. With this unit, it’s possible to create high channel count systems with minimal latency.