MOTU 1248 32x34 Thunderbolt USB 2.0 Audio Interface

87%

Sound Quality

Connectivity

Setup & Installation

Build Quality

Performance

Latency

Ease of Use

Portability

Compatibility

Value for Money

Customer Support

Digital I/O Performance

Software Integration

Overview

The MOTU 1248 32x34 Thunderbolt USB 2.0 Audio Interface is a high-performance audio interface designed for both professional and home studio environments. This audio interface offers versatile connectivity options, including Thunderbolt, USB 2.0, and AVB Ethernet, ensuring seamless integration with a wide range of systems. It supports up to 32 inputs and 34 outputs, making it a powerful tool for multi-track recording and playback. With compatibility across Mac, PC, and iOS devices, the MOTU 1248 provides a flexible solution for diverse audio production needs.

Features & Benefits

The MOTU 1248 features a 48-channel DSP mixer with onboard processing effects, allowing for comprehensive audio routing and manipulation. With four high-quality mic preamps, this interface delivers clear and accurate audio conversion for professional-grade recordings. Its ADAT and S/PDIF digital I/O ensure compatibility with a wide array of other audio gear, further expanding its versatility. The AVB Ethernet connectivity also offers options for networked audio setups, which is ideal for larger, more complex studio configurations.

Best For

This audio interface is ideal for professional musicians and sound engineers who require a high I/O count for multi-track recording and mixing. It's also a great choice for home studios that need a reliable and expandable interface for recording, mixing, and editing audio. Live performers will appreciate the low-latency recording and playback features, ensuring seamless live sound setups. Whether you're working with a small project or a full-scale production, the MOTU 1248 offers the flexibility and performance needed for any audio task.

User Feedback

Users consistently praise the MOTU 1248 for its excellent sound quality and robust performance in both home studios and professional setups. Many mention the ease of setup and seamless integration with popular DAWs, making it a great choice for both beginners and seasoned professionals. However, some users have noted that its size and weight may be a drawback for those looking for a portable solution. Despite this, the overall consensus is that the MOTU 1248 offers excellent value for its feature set and performance.

#Audio Interfaces

#Computer Recording

#Studio Recording Equipment

#Musical Instruments

Pros

This audio interface offers excellent sound quality, making it ideal for both professional and home studio setups.
The 32-in/34-out I/O configuration provides ample input and output channels for complex recordings or live performances.
Low-latency recording ensures that live performers and musicians can monitor in real time without noticeable delay.
Thunderbolt and USB 2.0 connectivity options give users flexibility when integrating with different devices and platforms.
The 48-channel DSP mixer with onboard processing effects allows for detailed, customized audio routing and real-time mixing.
Integration with major DAWs is straightforward, making setup easy for users familiar with popular recording software.

Cons

The device's larger size and weight may not be suitable for users who require a more portable solution.
While it works well for most users, some find the setup process challenging, especially for those new to high-end audio gear.
It lacks some advanced wireless options like Bluetooth, limiting its flexibility in mobile recording scenarios.
The price point is relatively high, which might be overkill for users with simpler audio needs or limited budgets.
Some users report that it may not be the best option for heavy touring due to its size and durability concerns in travel conditions.
Although highly compatible, occasional software conflicts with certain third-party applications have been noted in user reviews.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple countries and languages, we’ve provided aggregated insights into the MOTU 1248 32x34 Thunderbolt USB 2.0 Audio Interface. The scores reflect authentic feedback, excluding any spam, bot-generated, incentivized, or off-topic reviews. Both strengths and pain points are captured, offering a balanced view of how this audio interface performs across various use cases and setups.

Sound Quality

91%

Many users praise the clear and rich sound quality that this audio interface delivers, making it ideal for both recording and live performances. The high-fidelity audio output ensures professional-grade results for various studio setups and musical genres.

A few buyers have mentioned that the sound quality can be inconsistent in certain complex configurations, particularly when multiple channels are being used simultaneously. Some users expected a more stable performance at higher I/O levels.

Connectivity

89%

The wide range of connectivity options, including Thunderbolt, USB 2.0, and AVB Ethernet, makes this interface incredibly versatile for different studio environments. Users appreciate the fast and stable connections, ensuring minimal latency and smooth data transfer during use.

A handful of users reported occasional issues with AVB Ethernet setup, finding it complicated to integrate into existing networks. While Thunderbolt and USB work well, the Ethernet feature seems less intuitive for some, requiring additional setup effort.

Setup & Installation

88%

Several users found the setup process to be relatively straightforward, especially for those familiar with audio interfaces. The device integrates seamlessly with most major DAWs, allowing quick access to essential features without extensive configuration.

Not all users found the installation process as smooth, with some reporting minor difficulties, particularly with driver compatibility on certain systems. Users unfamiliar with audio gear might need a little more time to fully set up the interface for optimal use.

Build Quality

87%

The build quality is generally regarded as solid, with the device feeling sturdy and well-constructed. Many users value the premium look and feel of the interface, which adds a professional touch to their setups.

Despite its solid build, some users have pointed out that the device feels a bit bulky, making it less ideal for those looking for a lightweight and portable audio interface. This could be a downside for musicians or engineers on the move.

Performance

93%

This audio interface excels in performance, with exceptional handling of high I/O counts and low-latency recording. Users rave about its ability to manage multiple channels without sacrificing audio quality or introducing lag, making it ideal for both studio and live settings.

Some users mentioned occasional minor hiccups when pushing the interface to its limits, particularly in highly demanding live recording scenarios. However, these issues seem to be rare and mostly related to specific system setups.

Latency

90%

The low-latency performance is one of the standout features of this interface, with many users noting near-instantaneous audio playback during recording and mixing. This makes it an excellent choice for live performers and those working with complex sessions.

A few users have expressed frustration with latency spikes when using the device with certain software or during intensive sessions. While generally reliable, the interface can sometimes experience latency issues under heavy loads or less optimized setups.

Ease of Use

85%

The interface is relatively user-friendly, with a clean layout and accessible controls. Many users appreciate the intuitive software interface that complements the hardware, making it easy to configure and navigate for most audio tasks.

Some users found the interface's learning curve steep, especially for those new to professional-grade audio equipment. The manual could be clearer, and certain features may require more time to fully understand and use effectively.

Portability

72%

28%

For a high-performance audio interface, the MOTU 1248 is compact enough to fit into most studio environments. The sturdy design also makes it a reliable piece of gear for those who do occasionally need to move it around.

The interface's size and weight have been a common point of criticism, particularly for users who need a more portable solution for mobile or touring setups. At 2.2 pounds and with its bulky dimensions, it can be cumbersome for those on the go.

Compatibility

94%

The interface is highly compatible with a wide range of devices and operating systems, including Mac, PC, and iOS. Users appreciate the seamless integration with different DAWs and audio applications, making it versatile for various setups.

A small number of users reported minor compatibility issues with certain iOS versions or older Mac OS setups. These issues were often resolved with software updates, but initial users found the need for troubleshooting somewhat frustrating.

Value for Money

92%

This audio interface offers excellent value for money, providing a high level of functionality and professional-grade performance at a competitive price point. Users agree that the combination of features and quality justifies the investment for serious audio professionals.

While most users feel that the MOTU 1248 delivers great value, some believe it may be overkill for those with smaller, less complex setups. The interface's features may not be fully utilized by hobbyists or those needing fewer inputs, making it a costly option for basic home studios.

Customer Support

80%

20%

Many users have reported positive experiences with customer support, particularly when dealing with technical issues. The team is often praised for being responsive and helpful in resolving issues quickly.

Some users have expressed dissatisfaction with response times during peak hours or more complex support requests. While generally good, a few felt that customer support could be more proactive in assisting with specific hardware-related inquiries.

Digital I/O Performance

86%

The digital I/O capabilities of this device, including ADAT and S/PDIF, offer superior flexibility in integrating with other studio equipment. Users find these features especially useful when routing digital audio between multiple devices in a setup.

A few users mentioned that the digital I/O performance can be inconsistent at times, especially when used with older equipment. Some users experienced sync issues or compatibility glitches with certain external digital devices.

Software Integration

81%

19%

The interface integrates well with most popular DAWs, making it an ideal choice for users working with Pro Tools, Logic, or Ableton. Many users appreciate how the software syncs seamlessly with their existing workflows and offers a range of flexible routing options.

A small subset of users reported occasional compatibility problems with newer software updates or non-standard DAWs. The software interface, while functional, could benefit from more advanced features for professional users with more demanding needs.

Suitable for:

The MOTU 1248 32x34 Thunderbolt USB 2.0 Audio Interface is ideal for professional musicians, sound engineers, and home studio owners who need a high-performance, flexible solution with robust connectivity. Its 32-in/34-out channels, Thunderbolt, and USB 2.0 options make it perfect for those working with multiple instruments or complex audio setups. The device excels in low-latency recording, making it a strong choice for live performers or anyone needing near-instantaneous audio feedback. Whether you're recording a full band, running a podcast, or mixing a live performance, this audio interface offers the high-quality performance and versatility required for demanding applications.

Not suitable for:

This audio interface may not be the best choice for casual users, hobbyists, or those with limited space. Its relatively large size and weight could make it less practical for mobile setups, and its advanced features might be overkill for simpler home studio environments. Additionally, individuals looking for a lightweight and portable solution may find the MOTU 1248 too bulky for their needs. Users without a deep understanding of professional audio gear may also face a steeper learning curve when setting it up, as the interface can be complex for beginners. For smaller-scale home studios or those primarily recording basic setups, this device may not provide sufficient value.

Specifications

Channels: Supports 32 input channels and 34 output channels for complex audio routing.
Connectivity: Offers Thunderbolt, USB 2.0, and AVB Ethernet connections for versatile setup options.
Mic Preamps: Equipped with 4 high-quality mic preamps for clear and accurate audio conversion.
DSP Mixer: Includes a 48-channel DSP mixer with onboard processing effects for flexible audio management.
Digital I/O: Supports ADAT and S/PDIF digital input/output for enhanced audio flexibility.
Operating System Compatibility: Compatible with Mac, PC, and iOS devices for cross-platform functionality.
Weight: Weighs 2.2 pounds, providing a solid, sturdy build for studio use.
Dimensions: Measures 11.42 x 7.48 x 3.54 inches, suitable for desk-mounted setups.
Audio Interface Type: Hybrid interface with both Thunderbolt and USB connectivity for flexible audio setups.
AVB Ethernet: AVB Ethernet support allows for networked audio streaming and expanded routing.
Sample Rate: Supports sample rates up to 192kHz for high-definition audio recording and playback.
Latency: Low-latency performance, ideal for live recording and real-time audio processing.
Power Supply: Powered via USB or external AC adapter for stable performance.
Software Compatibility: Works seamlessly with major DAWs such as Pro Tools, Logic Pro, and Ableton Live.
Included Software: Bundled with MOTU’s AudioDesk software for easy recording and mixing.
Digital Clock: Equipped with a high-quality digital clock for precise synchronization in multi-device setups.
Expansion: Supports additional hardware expansions via ADAT and AVB for scalable setups.
Input Types: Accepts line, instrument, and mic inputs for versatile recording options.
MIDI I/O: Includes MIDI input and output for integrating MIDI devices into your setup.

FAQ

This audio interface offers 32-in/34-out channels, making it ideal for handling complex recordings with high I/O demands. It features both Thunderbolt and USB 2.0 connectivity for versatile use across various platforms, and the onboard 48-channel DSP mixer provides flexibility for mixing and processing audio in real-time.

Setup is straightforward, as the MOTU 1248 integrates seamlessly with most major DAWs, including Pro Tools, Ableton Live, and Logic Pro. Many users report a simple installation process, especially for those familiar with Mac or PC systems. Just connect via Thunderbolt or USB 2.0, install the necessary drivers, and you're good to go.

Yes, this audio interface is fully compatible with both Mac and PC systems. It also supports iOS devices, allowing for flexible use across different platforms. Whether you're using a desktop, laptop, or mobile device, this device offers a versatile solution for your audio needs.

The 48-channel DSP mixer in the MOTU 1248 allows for detailed, real-time audio routing and mixing. It includes onboard processing effects that can be applied to your recordings, reducing the need for additional software or external hardware. This mixer is especially beneficial for users with complex setups or those who need real-time adjustments during performances or recordings.

Yes, this device is designed for low-latency recording and playback, making it an excellent choice for live performances. Its Thunderbolt and USB 2.0 connectivity provide stable and fast data transfer, while the high-quality mic preamps ensure clear, distortion-free sound for live sound applications.

The MOTU 1248 supports a variety of audio I/O options, including ADAT, S/PDIF, and AVB Ethernet. These digital and network-based connections enhance its versatility, allowing for expanded audio routing options and integration with other professional audio equipment in both studio and live environments.

While the MOTU 1248 is highly functional, its weight and size may make it less suitable for truly mobile setups. At 2.2 pounds and with a larger footprint, it's better suited for fixed studio environments or setups where portability is not a top priority.

The audio quality from the MOTU 1248 is highly praised by users. The 4 mic preamps provide high-quality audio conversion, ensuring clear, professional-grade recordings. Combined with the onboard DSP effects, it offers excellent performance for both studio and live environments, delivering clean and accurate sound reproduction.

While the MOTU 1248 is compatible with most major DAWs and platforms, some users have reported occasional software conflicts with specific third-party applications. However, these issues are relatively rare and can often be resolved through firmware or driver updates.

Consider your specific audio needs. The MOTU 1248 is ideal for professionals and home studio setups that require high I/O capacity, low-latency performance, and versatile connectivity. If portability is a concern or if you don't need a high I/O count, there may be smaller, more cost-effective options available.