Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $1,242

High-end/Boutique

$150

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "MOTU 1248 Thunderbolt Audio Interface". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Experience the epitome of flexibility and sound quality with the MOTU 1248 Thunderbolt Audio Interface. This hybrid audio interface is a versatile tool, ideal for single-room studios, multi-room production houses, and even live sound applications. With 32 inputs and 34 outputs, it gives you total control over your sound, all in a compact and affordable package.

The 1248 comes equipped with four MOTU preamps that deliver clean and clear amplification. It operates with ultra-high-speed Thunderbolt connectivity which virtually eliminates latency. The onboard DSP mixer packs a powerful punch, equipped with effects, EQ, and dynamics. With the MOTU AVB Ethernet, you can network multiple interfaces to your 1248 and the advanced capabilities even allow you to use it as a standalone, iPad-controlled digital mixer.

The MOTU 1248 is not just about connectivity and control, it's about sound quality too. With a noise rating (-110dB THD+N) and dynamic range (123dB, A-weighted, 20Hz-20kHz) that compete with the most impressive gear on the market, you can expect top-notch sound quality from this interface.

Key Features:

  • 32-in/34-out hybrid audio interface suitable for a variety of applications
  • Four high-quality MOTU preamps for clean and clear amplification
  • Ultra-fast Thunderbolt connectivity minimizes latency
  • Onboard 32-bit floating point DSP-driven digital mixer with EQ, dynamics, and effects
  • MOTU AVB Ethernet allows for networking multiple interfaces
  • Ability to function as a standalone, iPad-controlled digital mixer
  • Dynamic range of 123dB, A-weighted, 20Hz-20kHz
  • Noise rating of -110dB THD+N
  • ADAT optical and S/PDIF digital I/O for system expansion
  • Compatible with ultra-low-latency Thunderbolt, high-speed USB 2.0, or iPad/iOS (w/ Camera Connection Kit) connectivity
  • Wireless router compatibility for control of the onboard mixer from iOS devices
  • AVB audio networking for easy system expansion with additional AVB equipped audio interfaces
  • Optional AVB Switches support for up to five compatible interfaces.

Product specs

Brand MOTU
Model 1248 48-Channel Thunderbolt / USB 3.0 Audio Interface
Finish Black
Year 2014 - 2025
Made In China
Categories Audio Interfaces
Bit Depth 24-bit
Bus-Powered No
Compatibility Android, Windows, iOS, macOS
Computer Connectivity Ethernet, Thunderbolt, USB
Digital Input Format ADAT/Optical, S/PIDF
Digital Output Format ADAT/Optical, S/PIDF
Electronics Analog, Digital, Solid State
Format 19-inch Rackmount
Number of Analog Inputs 8
Number of Analog Outputs 12
Number of Channels 66
Number of Digital Inputs 24
Number of Digital Outputs 22
Number of Headphone Outputs 2
Number of MIDI Inputs 0
Number of MIDI Outputs 0
Number of Mic Preamps 4
Sample Rate 192 khz
Simultaneous I/O 32 x 34

FAQs

What are the main connectivity options for the MOTU 1248 Thunderbolt Audio Interface?

The MOTU 1248 offers connectivity via Thunderbolt, USB 3.0, and Ethernet, making it versatile for different studio setups and ensuring compatibility with both modern and legacy systems.

Is the MOTU 1248 compatible with major DAWs like Ableton Live and Pro Tools?

Yes, the MOTU 1248 is compatible with all major DAWs, including Ableton Live and Pro Tools, thanks to its universal drivers that support both Windows and macOS platforms.

How many mic preamps are included in the MOTU 1248?

The MOTU 1248 features 4 high-quality mic preamps, providing clean and transparent amplification for microphones in your recording setup.

What sample rate does the MOTU 1248 support?

The MOTU 1248 supports a high sample rate of up to 192 kHz, allowing for detailed and accurate audio capture and playback.

Does the MOTU 1248 Thunderbolt Audio Interface support bus power?

No, the MOTU 1248 is not bus-powered; it requires an external power source to operate, ensuring stable performance and power for all its features.

How many total input and output channels does the MOTU 1248 provide?

The MOTU 1248 offers a total of 66 channels, with 32 simultaneous inputs and 34 outputs, providing extensive routing and recording capabilities for complex studio environments.

B&H Photo Video Pro Audio

B&H Photo Video Pro Audio

First Look: MOTU | 1248, 8M & 16A Audio Interfaces with AVB

Video thumbnail for First Look: MOTU | 1248, 8M & 16A Audio Interfaces with AVB by B&H Photo Video Pro Audio

First Look: MOTU | 1248, 8M & 16A Audio Interfaces with AVB

B&H Photo Video Pro Audio

B&H Photo Video Pro Audio

Video thumbnail for MOTU 8PRE-es Thunderbolt & USB High End Studio Interface Remote Contollable 8 Preamps Review by MixbusTv

MOTU 8PRE-es Thunderbolt & USB High End Studio Interface Remote Contollable 8 Preamps Review

MixbusTv

MixbusTv

Video thumbnail for MOTU AVB Interfaces by White Sea Studio

MOTU AVB Interfaces

White Sea Studio

White Sea Studio

Video thumbnail for MOTU 1248 Demo by Richie Castellano

MOTU 1248 Demo

Richie Castellano

Richie Castellano

Reviews

PROS

  • Superior audio quality reveals problems missed by other interfaces

  • Flexible software mixer with intuitive routing and monitoring options

  • Stable performance with zero hardware crashes reported

  • Clean and precise A/D and D/A converters

  • Thunderbolt connectivity ensures fast, reliable operation

  • Compact design with durable exterior

  • Compatible with both Windows 10 and Mac OS X

  • Networking capabilities allow remote control over mixing

  • Favorably compared to more expensive brands in blind tests

  • Web-based mixer accessible from any device on the same network

CONS

  • Steep learning curve for routing and software control

  • No wireless connectivity for firmware updates or app use

  • Internal DSP effects cannot be used at 192kHz resolution

  • DSP effects integration with DAWs can be cumbersome

  • Lacks the ability to completely bypass preamps when using phantom power

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about MOTU 1248 Thunderbolt Audio Interface.

Features and functionality

  • The MOTU 1248's web-based DSP mixer allows control from a networked computer, enhancing its utility in multi-computer setups.

    Source
  • The interface presents two different devices to the WDM system, offering both a 2-channel and a 24-channel option for playback and recording.

    Source
  • The IP-based software control of the MOTU 1248 is highlighted for its convenience, enabling seamless remote management without physical proximity to the unit.

    Source
  • Users appreciate the MOTU 1248's ability to integrate with older MOTU interfaces via ADAT, enhancing input/output flexibility in larger setups.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The newest driver significantly reduces CPU overhead compared to previous versions, enhancing performance in demanding DAW scenarios.

    Source
  • MOTU's AVB features are praised for flexibility, but the scarcity of compatible AVB network switches and high costs are noted as barriers.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The MOTU 1248's 32-bit DACs and sonic profile are considered nearly equivalent to the Symphony, contributing to its appeal over the RME UFX.

    Source
  • Some users find the MOTU 1248 to offer more routing options than the Universal Audio interfaces, despite lacking built-in DSP plugins.

    Source
  • Users highlight the preference for RME interfaces due to their superior driver stability compared to MOTU, despite the latter's strong reputation for long-term support.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The unit's AVB support and low noise level make it suitable for complex setups and clean recordings, even with multiple tracks and effects.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that the MOTU 1248's routing grid is praised for its flexibility, allowing for complex audio path configurations not commonly found in other interfaces.

    Source
  • Over four years of ownership, the MOTU 1248 has proven reliable with no technical failures, contrasting earlier MOTU models known for issues.

    Source
  • Owners have reported issues with MOTU's driver performance on certain setups, leading some to switch to alternative brands for more reliable operation.

    Source

Other

  • Due to supply chain issues, MOTU products, including the 1248, are reportedly difficult to procure, impacting potential new buyers and leading to shifts towards available alternatives.

    Source

Critic Reviews

MOTU 1248

soundonsound.com

The MOTU 1248 Thunderbolt Audio Interface impresses with its superb audio specifications and versatile connectivity options, making it an excellent choice for project studios. With a powerful 48-channel internal DSP mixer and low latency performance even over USB, it offers great value for money. However, setup can be complex, and the browser-based interface for DSP control is less than ideal, with slow page switching and a lack of intuitive design. Minimal monitor control functions and the absence of a Thunderbolt cable are notable drawbacks. Despite these issues, the 1248's expandability and sound quality make it a standout contender.

positive

MOTU 1248 Thunderbolt Audio Interface review on cinemasound.com

cinemasound.com

The MOTU 1248 Thunderbolt Audio Interface impresses with its robust build, high fidelity, and versatile connectivity options, making it ideal for both post-production and on-set recording. Its standout features include 192 kHz recording, latency-free routing, and browser-based mixing, allowing control from any device. Despite its lack of MIDI capability, the interface excels with strong drivers and jitter-free clocking, outperforming pricier competitors. The form factor is portable yet durable, though navigating menus via knobs can be cumbersome. While the price is on the higher side, the 1248's extensive I/O options and advanced capabilities provide exceptional value, particularly for musicians. The review lauds its performance but notes that media creatives may find some features superfluous.

positive

Review: MOTU 1248 & Ultralite AVB — AudioTechnology

audiotechnology.com

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Charlie Clouser uses MOTU 1248 Thunderbolt Audio Interface

Charlie Clouser

Keyboardist, Composer

Nine Inch Nails

...
Verified via Vintage King Blog

I do all my main composition, recording, and mixing inside Logic X on a Mac Pro cylinder, and output the results to as many as eight 5.1 stems which are routed via MADI over to a second Mac Pro running Pro Tools HD-Native, which is acting as a basic layback recorder. A third computer, a Mac Mini, is slaved to Logic via MTC and is running Video Slave software that I helped to develop. This takes the video playback load off of the main Logic machine and simplifies things a bit. I use MOTU 112d and 1248 AVB interfaces, along with a UAD Octo, on the Logic machine, and Avid MADI and SyncHD interfaces on the Pro Tools stem recorder. I repurposed a couple of older Mac Pro towers as orchestral slaves running Vienna Ensemble Pro, although I use these pretty rarely, and I do a fair bit of sound design and rhythm programming in Ableton Live and Reason which run as ReWire slaves behind Logic. Tons of plugins, as you'd expect, ranging from the amazing UAD stuff to more out-there stuff like Sinevibes and Audio Damage.

See how Richie Castellano uses MOTU 1248 Thunderbolt Audio Interface

Richie Castellano

Guitarist, Bassist

Blue Öyster Cult

...
Verified via Photo

In this rack photo taken by Castellano, the MOTU 1248 can be seen in his rack.

See how Paddy Kingsland uses MOTU 1248 Thunderbolt Audio Interface

Paddy Kingsland

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via MusicTech

In an interview featured in MusicTech, Paddy Kingsland of the Radiophonic Workshop discusses his live setup, which includes the MOTU 1248 Thunderbolt Audio Interface alongside other gear like the Roland Jupiter-8, AKAI Advance 61 keyboard, and a MacBook running Pro Tools.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use MOTU 1248 Thunderbolt Audio Interface, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Roland Jupiter-8
Roland Jupiter-8 Synthesizers
2
Apple Mac Mini (General)
Apple Mac Mini (General) Computers & Peripherals
2
Arturia Jupiter-8V
Arturia Jupiter-8V Music Software
1
Electro-Harmonix POG2 Polyphonic Octave Generator
Electro-Harmonix POG2 Polyphonic Octave Generator Harmonizer & Octave Effects Pedals
1
Avid Pro Tools
Avid Pro Tools DAW Software
1
Apple Mac Pro (Cylinder)
Apple Mac Pro (Cylinder) Computers & Peripherals
1
Vox AC15
Vox AC15 Combo Guitar Amplifiers
1
Electro-Harmonix Pitch Fork
Electro-Harmonix Pitch Fork Harmonizer & Octave Effects Pedals
1

Community setups

Show yours
beaudamion

beaudamion

Gear IQ 189

More MOTU Audio Interfaces

MOTU M4

$261.50 - $279.95

# 85

Rank

Nuphory Danilo Vicari
2 artists using
MOTU 8pre

$250.00 - $679.00

 
Richie Castellano The 45 King Heccra
4 artists using
MOTU 828x

$470.66 - $849.00

 
Eivind Aarset
1 artist using
MOTU 828es

$800.00 - $995.00

 
Temu
1 artist using

Accessories & Related Items

Similar

Gear Guides