Manufacturer's Description
Audio Performance
Superb analog audio quality
Renowned ESS Sabre32â„¢ DAC technology delivers 125 dB dynamic range and extremely low harmonic distortion. Analog performance is driven by decades of engineering expertise in audio interface technology.
Universal Connectivity
Thunderboltâ„¢ and USB connectivity for Mac, PC and iOS
The 16A is the first audio interface to deliver cutting-edge Thunderboltâ„¢ 4 and USB4 universal connectivity for Mac, PC and iOS. Connect your host device with the included 40 Gbps USB-C cable and the 16A negotiates the fastest possible connectivity speed, up to 40 Gbps, with backward compatibility for Thunderbolt 3, USB3 and USB2 host connections. Thunderbolt and USB4 connections deliver an astonishing 256 channels of computer I/O (128 in and 128 out) at sample rates up to 96 kHz.
Audio I/O
66 simultaneous audio channels
Sixteen balanced/unbalanced TRS analog inputs and outputs, 2 x 8-channel ADAT optical ports, and an independent stereo headphone output deliver a total of 32 inputs and 34 outputs. Use the 16A for expanded analog I/O for your computer, or as a flexible, comprehensive patchbay and mixer. Or both!
High Performance Driver
Ultra-low latency performance
Optimized drivers for both Mac and PC deliver renowned, ultra-low latency performance. With a high-
performance DAW such as Digital Performer, the 16A delivers an astonishing round trip latency
(RTL) of ~1.8 ms (milliseconds) over Thunderbolt and USB at 96 kHz with a 32-sample host buffer.
Thunderboltâ„¢ Technology
Plug and play ease with massive bandwidth
Daisy-chain the 16A with up to six other Thunderbolt devices, all connected to your host computer
with massive 40 Gbps bandwidth to easily handle hundreds of audio channels, 8K video, terabytes of
hard drive storage, and more. Thunderbolt 4-compatible USB-C cable included (length = 2 meters).
Mixing and Effects
64-channel mixing with 32-bit floating point precision
The 16A is equipped with a 64-channel mixer designed just like a large format mixing console. The 64 inputs can take signal from anywhere: the physical inputs on the 16A interface itself, audio channels from host software on your computer, audio network streams, or even mixer outputs. The mixer provides 26 aux busses, plus main, reverb, monitor, and solo buses. All inputs and output buses provide 4-band double-precision parametric EQ and a compressor. Additionally, input channels include a High-Pass Filter and Gate. In essence: capable and transparent mixing.
Point-to-Point Routing
Patchbay routing and splitting
Using intuitive, virtual patch cords, you can easily route any source signal to any destination. Sources can be analog or digital inputs on the interface, computer channels, mixer bus outputs, or audio network streams from other devices on the network. Destinations include interface outputs, host software inputs, mixer inputs, or any other device (or computer) on the network. You can even split any single source (or stereo pair) to unlimited multiple output destinations.
Audio Networking
Flexible system expansion
Audio networking has come of age, delivering a world of possibilities. The 16A features an integrated AVB switch with two Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing you to daisy-chain multiple 16A units using standard network cabling. Alternatively, expand your network by connecting an external AVB switch to build a network with multiple interfaces, computers, and ultra-low network latency, even over long cable runs (hundreds of meters). Each 16A can transmit and receive 128 audio channels to and from the network. Stream hundreds of audio channels among devices and computers on the network. The 16A is compatible with previous-generation MOTU AVB devices.
Industry standard networking
Developed by the IEEE, Audio Video Bridging (AVB) is widely adopted across the pro audio industry, with no licensing fees required.
Long cable runs
A point-to-point connection can run up to 100 meters with a standard CAT-5e or CAT-6 cable, or much longer with fiber-optic cables.
Extremely low latency
AVB network latency (from point to point) is fixed at 2 ms throughout the AVB network, even through 100-meter cable runs, daisy-chained devices, and AVB switches.
Guaranteed audio streams
AVB streams are never interrupted by other network traffic to ensure continuous real-time performance.
High channel counts
AVB supports hundreds of audio channels over the network, even at high sample rates.
True plug-and-play operation
Just connect devices and go. No IT expertise required. AVB is a self-managing network protocol.
Network-wide clocking and sync
All devices resolve to a master clock with better-than-sample-accurate phase lock measured in nanoseconds.
Flexible topology
Daisy-chain up to eight devices. Add one or more AVB switches to create a network that covers facilities of any size and configuration.
Additional features
- The new 16A is AVB-compatible with all other MOTU AVB interfaces.
- 256 channels of host computer I/O (128 in / 128 out) via Thunderbolt or USB3.
- 16 8-channel streams for 256 channels of network audio I/O (128 in / 128 out).
- Each audio stream can be individually configured between 1-8 audio channels.
- Use multiple PC hosts on the network. Each host can send/receive to all devices and other hosts.
- Use existing Ethernet wiring. Just replace Ethernet switches with AVB-compatible switches.
- Shared operation with standard Ethernet devices like wireless routers, switches, etc.
- Supports 1722.1 for Connection Management and Control.
- Supports AAF stream formats and the legacy AM8-24 format, configurable per stream.
- Gigabit Ethernet speeds support many devices on the network.
CueMixâ„¢ Pro
Control everything from your laptop, tablet and phone
CueMixâ„¢ Pro is the consummate app for controlling everything in the 16A, including device settings, signal routing and 64-channel mixing and effects. Available for macOS, Windows, and iOS, you can run CueMix Pro on multiple devices at the same time and access the 16A wirelessly through Wi-Fi. As a 1722.1 controller, CueMix Pro can also be used to access AVB-related settings in 3rd-party devices on the network.
Wireless Control
CueMix Pro for iOS
Control all settings and mixing from your host PC or from an iPhone or iPad running the CueMix Pro app. You can even use multiple iOS devices simultaneously.
ADVANCED EXTRAS
Balanced analog
The 16A's balanced I/O connections are well-protected against RF interference, AC hum, and other noise-producing environmental factors.
Optical I/O and optical expansion
Two optical banks provide 16 channels of ADAT optical at 48 kHz, 8 channels of S/MUX optical I/O at 96 kHz, with optional stereo TOSLink at rates up to 96kHz. Expand your 16A with other optical gear, or use it as an optical expander.
DC-coupled TRS outputs
All analog outputs are DC-coupled. This means you can use the 16A to manipulate and sequence modular
synthesizers from a host DAW using control voltage (CV).
Meter Views
Not using the optical I/O? Or any analog I/O? The 16A provides customized meter views for analog I/O only, digital I/O only and other combinations to best support your workflow.
Start making music right away with included workstation software, virtual instruments and loops
Connect the 16A to your Mac or PC and start laying down tracks with the included Performer Lite production software, plus hundreds of loops, one-shots and sounds from industry leaders Big Fish Audio, Lucidsamples and Loopmasters.
6 GB of free loops and sample packs
Performer Lite includes 6 GB of free loops and sample packs from leading sample content providers to help you start making music right away. From Performer Lite's Content Browser, choose from dozens of musical styles, click to audition, then drag and drop in your projects timeline to build your track quick.
16A Feature Highlights
- Next-gen 32 x 34 Thunderbolt 4 / USB4 audio interface — The world’s first Thunderbolt 4 audio interface built on 30 years of proven success as an industry-leading audio interface brand.
- New 3.9-inch TFT displays — Two bright, 24-bit RGB LCDs provide 480 x 128 pixel high-resolution metering for all analog and digital I/O, plus detailed status info and access to hardware settings from a simple and convenient menu.
- Superb analog audio quality and high-end converters — Renowned ESS Sabre32™ DAC technology delivers 125 dB dynamic range. Support for all standard sample rates up to 192 kHz.
- Ultra-low latency and proven, high-performance MOTU drivers — Round-trip latency (RTL) performance as low as 1.8 ms at 96kHz with high-performance DAW hosts.
- Universal Thunderbolt/USB-C connectivity — Connect to any computer with the included 40 Gbps Thunderbolt-compatible USB4 cable (compatible with USB3 and USB2) for up to 256 audio channels (128 in and 128 out), depending on the host computer connection. Class-compliant firmware and industry standard drivers work with any audio apps. Connects to an iPad™ with USB-C or a Lightning adapter kit (sold separately). Use the second Thunderbolt port to connect additional computer peripherals, a USB hub or Thunderbolt dock.
- 66 simultaneous audio channels — 32 inputs and 34 outputs, including 16 TRS analog (line-level) in/out, two banks of 8-channel optical I/O, and a front-panel headphone output.
- 64-channel mixing with effects — Powerful 32-bit floating point DSP delivers 64-channel mixing with 64 inputs, 32 busses, and effects processing, including reverb, 4-band double-precision EQ, high-pass filter, gate and compression at all sample rates up to 96 kHz.
- Patchbay routing and splitting — Using intuitive, virtual patch cords, easily route any source signal to any destination. Split any source to multiple destinations.
- AVB Networking — Use two Gigabit network ports to daisy-chain multiple units using standard network cabling, or add an AVB switch to build a network with multiple interfaces and computers with ultra-low network latency, even over long cable runs (hundreds of meters). Stream hundreds of audio channels among devices and computers on the network. Compatible with previous-generation MOTU AVB devices.
- Wi-Fi control — Control everything wirelessly over Wi-Fi from the CueMix Pro app running on mobile devices or other computers on the same network — even multiple devices at the same time.
- Precision boost/trim for analog I/O — Calibrate analog input and output signals in precise 1 dB increments. Apply phase invert individually to analog inputs.
- Control room features — Control your sessions with "talk" button and "A/B/C" speaker select buttons to quickly compare your mixes on three sets of studio monitors.
- Flexible headphone output — With independent volume control and front panel source select knob, the headphone output can mirror any output pair, any CueMix bus, or any Thunderbolt/USB channels. Or create a completely customized mix that includes live 16A inputs and built-in reverb.
- Two banks of optical I/O — Connect outboard digital processors, digital mixers or other gear with 16 channels of ADAT at 44.1/48 kHz or 8 channels of S/MUX at 88.2/96 kHz. Bank A can optionally provide stereo TOSLink (optical S/PDIF) I/O up to 96 kHz.
- Word clock in/out/thru — Supports all sample rates up to 192 kHz.
- DC-coupled TRS outputs — Use the 16A to manipulate and sequence voltage-controlled modular synthesizers from a host DAW.
- Loopback for live streaming and podcasting — Easily route computer output back to the computer, where you can mix it with live inputs from the 16A in your host software for live streaming or podcasting.
- Flexible front-panel metering — Choose customized meter views for analog I/O only, digital I/O only and other combinations to best support your workflow.
- CueMix Pro app — Control mixing and settings from your Mac, PC or iOS device. Note: iOS app coming soon.
- Performer Lite — Workstation software with over 100 included instruments, dozens of effects and 6 GB of included loops to make music right away.
Specifications
- Sample rates: 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192 kHz
- Analog inputs
- 16 x 1/4-inch TRS line in (balanced/unbalanced)
- Max level: +21 dBu
- +20 dB digital gain on each input
- Analog outputs
- 16 x 1/4-inch TRS line out (balanced, DC coupled)
- Max level: +21 dBu
- -99 dB digital trim on each output
- 1 x 1/4-inch TRS stereo headphone (see below)
- Digital I/O
- 2 banks (16 ch) of ADAT optical I/O at 1x sample rates
- 2 banks (8 ch) of S/MUX optical I/O at 2x sample rates
- Bank A switchable to stereo TOSLink I/O (optical S/PDIF)
- Computer I/O
- 2 x Thunderbolt 4 / USB 4.1 (40 Gbps) Type C
- USB3 / USB2 compatible
- USB audio class compliant (no driver needed)
- 1 x Thunderbolt-compatible / USB4 GEN3 C-to-C cable
- 40Gpbs / 240W
- Length = 2 meters
- Cable included
- Provides 15W power downstream / 0W upstream
- Compatible with USB2 Type A with a C-to-A cable (sold separately)
- Round Trip Latency (RTL): ~1.8 ms
- (32 sample buffer at 96K)
- Total audio channels: see "Total Audio I/O" below
- Total audio I/O
- 32 in / 34 out (66 total channels) at 1x sample rates
- 24 in / 26 out (50 total channels) at 2x sample rates
- 16 in / 18 out (34 total channels) at 4x sample rates
- Headphone
- 1 x 1/4-inch TRS stereo headphone with channel select
- Output impedance: <1Ω
- Max output: 13.3 dBu
- Networking
- 2x Gigabit AVB Ethernet ports
- 16 AVB streams in/out at sample rates up to 96 kHz
- 8 AVB streams in/out at 176.4 or 192 kHz
- 1-8 audio channels configurable per stream
- Up to 128 audio channels in & out (up to 96 kHz)
- Supports 1722.1 for Connection Management and Control
- Supports AAF stream formats & legacy AM8-24 format
- Stream format configurable per stream
- Sync I/O
- 1 x BNC Word Clock In
- 1 x BNC Word Clock Out/Thru
- Sample rates: all (from 44.1 to 192 kHz)
- Front panel
- 1 x 1/4" TRS headphone output
- 1 x encoder • headphone volume
- 1 x encoder • headphone channel select
- 1 x encoder • menu navigation
- 1 x large encoder • main volume
- 3 x switches • (1) headphone mono, (2) menu nav
- 2 x 3.9-inch 480 x 128 pixel 24-bit RGB TFT display
- 1 x latching power button
- Power
- Internal 100-240V autoswitching supply
- 50-60 Hz • 1.0A max
- Dimensions and weight (width x depth x height, enclosure only)
- 19 x 12.25 x 1.75 inches / 48.26 x 31.1 x 4.44 cm
- 11 lbs / 5 kgs
System Requirements
- Mac System Requirements
- Intel Core i3 Mac or faster (including Apple silicon Macs) 4 GB RAM; 8 GB or more recommended macOS 12 or later (with driver or USB class compliant)
- Available Thunderbolt 3+ or USB port
- A large hard drive (at least 500 GB for recording)
- Windows System Requirements
- Intel Core i3 PC (or AMD equivalent) 4 GB RAM; 8 GB or more recommended
- Windows 10 22H2 or later (x64 AMD/Intel only)
- Windows 11 23H2 or later (x64 AMD/Intel only)
- Available Thunderbolt 3+ or USB port
- A large hard drive (at least 500 GB for recording)
- iOS System Requirements: iOS 17.5 or later*
- Class-Compliant Support: USB audio class compliant for plug-and-play operation on macOS or iOS (no driver required)
- Included Software
- CueMix Pro for macOS, Windows and iOS
- Drivers for macOS, Windows and iOS**
- MOTU Performer Lite for macOS and Windows
- 6GB of loops and sounds from Big Fish Audio, LucidSamples, Loopmasters and MOTU
*iPhone models and iPad models compatible with iOS 17.
**Low-latency Thunderbolt driver support available only for
iPad models with an M series processor.
