MOTU 16A Thunderbolt / USB Audio Interface with AVB
Brand
MOTU
Overview
The MOTU 16A is a professional 32-in / 34-out Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 audio interface designed for studio production, live sound, hybrid mixing, and large-scale synth setups. Built for users who need extensive analog I/O, advanced routing, and ultra-low latency performance, it serves as a powerful centerpiece for modern professional audio systems.
The latest generation of the 16A combines ESS Sabre32 Ultra™ DAC technology, AVB networking, onboard DSP mixing and effects, and advanced monitor control, making it one of MOTU’s most flexible high-end rackmount interfaces.
Key Features
- 32-in / 34-out Thunderbolt 4 / USB4 audio interface
- 16 balanced 1/4-inch TRS line inputs
- 16 balanced 1/4-inch TRS line outputs
- 24-bit / 192kHz audio resolution
- ESS Sabre32 Ultra™ DAC technology
- Dual 3.9-inch full-color TFT displays
- Built-in 64-channel DSP mixer with effects
- AVB networking for system expansion
- DC-coupled outputs for modular synth control
- Loopback support for streaming and routing
- Advanced CueMix Pro software control
Massive Analog Connectivity
With 16 line inputs and 16 line outputs, the 16A is ideal for users with multiple synthesizers, outboard processors, summing mixers, or large studio patchbay systems. Its high I/O count makes it a strong solution for both studio and live environments. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Premium Audio Conversion
The interface uses ESS Sabre32 Ultra™ conversion technology, delivering up to 125 dB dynamic range on outputs and highly accurate low-distortion playback and recording performance for professional production. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Advanced DSP Mixing & Effects
Its onboard DSP engine offers a 64-channel digital mixer with EQ, compression, gate, reverb, and routing capabilities. This allows real-time processing and zero-latency monitoring without using CPU resources.
AVB Network Expansion
The 16A supports AVB networking over standard CAT-5e/CAT-6 Ethernet, allowing expansion up to 128 channels and integration with other MOTU AVB devices for scalable studio or live sound systems. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Modular Synth Integration
Its DC-coupled outputs make it highly suitable for modular synthesizer users, enabling direct CV/Gate control from DAWs without requiring separate converter hardware.
Ideal For
- Professional recording studios
- Large synth and modular setups
- Live performance systems
- Hybrid analog/digital studios
- Broadcast and post-production
- Complex routing environments
Specifications
- Model: MOTU 16A
- Inputs: 32
- Outputs: 34
- Analog Inputs: 16 × TRS Line In
- Analog Outputs: 16 × TRS Line Out
- Headphone Output: 1
- Audio Resolution: 24-bit / 192kHz
- Display: Dual 3.9-inch TFT Screens
- DSP Mixer: 64-channel with onboard FX
- Digital I/O: ADAT Optical, S/PDIF
- Networking: AVB Ethernet
- Connectivity: Thunderbolt 4 / USB4
- Form Factor: 1U Rackmount
Why Choose the MOTU 16A?
The MOTU 16A is built for users who need high channel counts, professional conversion quality, advanced DSP routing, and scalable AVB networking. Its combination of extensive analog connectivity, modern Thunderbolt/USB4 performance, and deep routing flexibility makes it one of the most powerful rackmount interfaces in its class.
| Brands | MOTU |
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