New MOTU 848: Is This the Ultimate Studio Interface Upgrade?

For the past decade, MOTU's product lineup has been split into two distinct categories: one targeting musicians, and another aimed at system engineering applications (featuring AVB networking ports).

Previously, MOTU attempted to bridge these two product lines, including the UltraLite AVB (based on the UltraLite 4) and the 828es (based on the 828x).

Now, it appears MOTU has decided to take a different approach, launching a hybrid model based on the sixth-generation 828, officially dubbed the "848".

Official product page - motu.com/products/848

Exound has compiled a specifications comparison table based on available information:

The 848's audio quality is actually identical to the 828, both offering 120dB input/125dB output dynamic range.

Further Reading - "The Dynamic Range Myth: Why Your 130dB Audio Interface Doesn't Matter"

So there's no need to elaborate on sound quality - those interested can check out the detailed reviews of the previously released sixth-generation 828 audio interface online.

Following the 828's naming convention, the two "8s" represent the number of Line In and Line Out channels, whilst the "2" indicates the number of preamp channels. However, in practice, the sixth-generation 828's "2" (preamp channels using combo XLR/TRS inputs) can simultaneously function as Line inputs as well.

Additionally, beyond the 8 Line Outputs, there's also a stereo pair of XLR Main Outputs. So if we're being pedantic, the 828 could technically be called the "10210".

The 848's naming convention is "again" somewhat different, as it natively features 12 Line Outputs... Moreover, its preamp input channels have increased from the 828's 2 channels to 4 channels (hence the "4" in 848), also using combo inputs that can double as Line inputs.

Combined with the native 8 dedicated Line inputs, the total matches the Line outputs at "8+4" for 12 Line inputs. So, following previous naming conventions based on actual channel counts, it could equally be called the "12412".

At this point, those familiar with MOTU's previous products might notice: MOTU has indeed used "12" in audio interface naming before, with the 1248 (shown below, featuring 12 output channels, 4 preamp inputs, and 8 Line inputs).

The specifications look rather similar, don't they? Precisely! The 848 is essentially an "upgrade" of the 1248.

Like the 16A studio audio interface from the same generation, the MOTU 848 comes bundled with MOTU's "premium" software control interface, CueMix Pro.

Whilst using an UltraLite MK5 or 828 might make you appear "Pro" to the average person,

MOTU reckons you're only truly "Pro" when you're using AVB-enabled interfaces like the 16A and 848! 🤣

At first glance, CueMix Pro's interface doesn't look dramatically different from CueMix 5, but look closer and you'll spot... a "virtual patchbay"...

The software offers a whopping 128 x 128 channels (in/out)! If I've understood correctly... these channels can all serve as "loopback channels".

Previously, when discussing the MK5 and 828, some users complained that "output channels couldn't have effects applied". Well, now you can use any channel to internally loop outputs back, add the desired effects, then output again.

Although I'd mentally prepared myself, I was still rather gobsmacked when I opened the "routing grid" interface...

I carefully counted... the horizontal axis has 386 channels, whilst the vertical axis has 354 channels...

If you're wondering how I counted this - surely I haven't got my hands on an 848 already?

Well, actually you can too. Simply download the 848 driver from MOTU's official website and install CueMix Pro.

Then select "virtual 848" in the main interface, and you can operate the software without the physical hardware...