The MOTU 828x is a professional 28×30 audio interface with Thunderbolt technology. At its heart the 828x has a full blown DSP driven mixer called CueMix FX that includes classic reverb modeled analog EQ and modeled vintage compression. It also ships with AudioDesk 3 worklstation software for Mac OS X so you have all the audio production power you need and more! Thunderbolt Technology Thunderbolt fulfills the promise of a truly state-of-the-art connectivity standard for personal computers. With massive bandwidth Thunderbolt allows you to connect displays hard drives and other peripherals to your computer along with the 828x up to six devices total (with the 828x at the end of the chain) and the Thunderbolt bus wont even break a sweat. Thunderbolt combines plug-and-play convenience with massive bandwidth and low latency for truly professional audio interface performance. Hi Speed USB 2.0 As Thunderbolt becomes more widely adopted Hi-speed USB 2.0 provides across-the-board compatibility with virtually all laptops and desktops on both Mac and Windows. Since USB 2.0 devices are compatible with USB 3.0-equipped hosts your 828x interface is a future-proof investment in your studio. 28 Inputs and 30 Outputs MOTU pack it in like no one else can: two combo-style mic/guitar inputs with preamps 8 balanced analog in/out XLR main outs 16 channels of ADAT optical (8 channels at 96 kHz) plus S/PDIF word clock and MIDI. Connect all of your studio gear including microphones guitars synths keyboards drum machines and even effects processors. Recording Up to 192 kHz Now in its fifth generation the 828 has become a benchmark for the industry setting the bar by which others are judged. How has this level of respect been earned? Through consistent design integrity and intelligent use of current-generation parts and design technologies. Studio-Grade Mic Channels Do you work with outboard EQs and compressors? Each 828x mic input offers a pre-converter send for mono or stereo mic channel outboard processing. The 828xs unique V-Limit™ hardware limiter employs a proprietary design to offer an additional 12 dB of headroom over digital zero with no digital clipping or harsh artefacts for that added protection in dynamic recording situations. The 828xs preamps are clean and neutral allowing you to use your favourite plug-ins and host software to colour the sound just the way you want for each recording application. On-Board Digital Mixer with Effects Record monitor route and process all live inputs using the professional on-board CueMix FX digital mixer – with no latency and no processor strain on your computer. Apply DSP-driven compression EQ and reverb to every input and output independent of your host computer. Stand-Alone Operation as a Mixer After programming the on-board mixing in the studio unplug the 828x from the computer and take it on the road for operation as a stand-alone mixer with effects. All mixing and effects parameters are adjustable using the front panel backlit LCD. Solid Metal Chassis Like all MOTU interfaces the 828xs aluminum alloy chassis is lightweight yet incredibly sturdy and durable and designed to withstand the rigours of the studio stage and road. In a world awash with cheap plastic the cool feeling of the 828xs metal exterior in your hands is a reassuring reminder that you are holding quality engineering and construction. Support for Mac OS X and Windows The 828x provides time-tested drivers for Mac OS X and Windows (8 7 and Vista) for cross-platform compatibility with virtually all audio software via WDM ASIO and Core Audio drivers.