MOTU has released its newest audio interface of the 828 series, the 828x with Thunderbolt connectivity. Though still possessing USB 2.0 connections, the 828x provides low-latency performance thanks to Thunderbolt, due to the latter’s ability to maintain speed in high-bandwidth applications.
The 828x features 28 inputs and 30 outputs, including two combo-style mic/guitar inputs with preamps, eight balanced analog ins and outs, XLR main outs, 16 channels of ADAT optical, and more. Its “studio-grade” mic channels with a pre-converter for outboard gear and hardware limiting can record up to 192 kHz. Its on-board digital mixer, CueMix FX, allows users to apply DSP-driven compression, EQ, and reverb, independent of a host computer. Able to support OS X and Windows operating systems, the 828x is suitable for cross-platform usage, and is compatible with most audio software available. MOTU’s 828x audio interface has a list price of $1,000, and is now available from retailers and online.
