Published 29^th April, 2025

MOTU has unveiled two new additions to its portfolio of professional audio interfaces, the MOTU 16A and the redesigned MOTU 828, each bringing specific strengths to different studio workflows. Designed with precision, these interfaces are equipped to meet the evolving needs of professionals in the industry.

The MOTU 16A is designed for hybrid studios where analogue summing, modular synthesis, and advanced networked audio are routine components. At its hardware level, the 16A features 16 balanced TRS analogue inputs and 16 TRS outputs, offering extensive flexibility for routing and accommodating outboard gear.

At the core of the unit lies the ESS Sabre32 Ultra™ DAC technology, delivering a dynamic range of 123 dB. This specification enables accurate and clean audio reproduction across complex session work, from high-fidelity monitoring to intricate multi-channel routing.

Among the 16A's notable capabilities is its AVB Ethernet connectivity, which allows it to interface with other AVB-compatible devices over a standard network. This makes the 16A suitable for large-scale and distributed systems, particularly in installations where audio networking is essential.

The 16A also marks a first in its class as the world's first Thunderbolt™ 4 interface with USB support, supporting ultra-low-latency performance across Mac and PC platforms. MOTU reports that the interface can achieve round-trip latency as low as 1.4 ms at 96 kHz with a 32-sample buffer.

Designed with immersive audio in mind, the 16A supports a 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos speaker configuration through its 16 analogue outputs. It is compatible with a range of professional software including AVID Pro Tools (Studio and Ultimate editions), Steinberg Nuendo, Apple Logic Pro, and the Dolby Atmos Renderer. While onboard Atmos rendering and monitor control are not included, the 16A can be expanded through additional MOTU AVB interfaces, allowing users to scale their systems to fit their production requirements.

For signal processing and monitoring, the 16A integrates CueMix Pro™ a 48-input digital mixer that includes modelled analogue EQ, compression, and reverb. The mixer offers zero-latency monitoring, supporting demanding production workflows without requiring external DSP hardware.

The flexible form factor of the 828 allows it to function in desktop production environments and rack-mounted setups

The MOTU 828 represents a contemporary evolution of a classic interface, updated with features that accommodate both modern home and professional studios. It supports 28 inputs and 32 outputs, combining a diverse selection of I/O options in a single, compact unit.

Like the 16A, the updated 828 features ESS Sabre32 Ultra™ DACs, with a dynamic range of 125 dB. This also allows the unit to maintain ultra-low latency, which is critical for real-time tracking and virtual instrument performance.

A full-colour, high-resolution LCD screen provides real-time metering and hardware control, streamlining workflow by giving engineers immediate visual feedback. Additionally, the interface is controllable via CueMix™ software, which supports wireless operation from macOS, Windows, or iOS devices.

Together, the MOTU 16A and the updated 828 reflect the growing demand for interfaces. While the 16A caters specifically to Dolby Atmos and AVB-connected studio setups, the 828 offers a broad range of features aimed at producers, engineers, and musicians working within more compact or hybrid environments.