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Average Price: $969
High-end/Boutique
$150
$501+
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Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Motu 24Ai USB/AVB Ethernet Audio Interface". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Dive into the realm of pristine audio quality and limitless connectivity with the Motu 24Ai USB/AVB Ethernet Audio Interface, a powerhouse designed for the modern musician and audio engineer. This sleek, single-rack unit is not just an audio interface; it's a bridge to your best sound yet. Whether you're in the studio or on stage, the 24Ai stands ready to capture your audio with unmatched clarity and detail.
Crafted for professionals who demand versatility and reliability, the 24Ai offers 24 balanced analog inputs and a total of 72 channels, including 48 optical channels via three 8-channel ADAT optical banks. This means you'll never run out of connections for your instruments, microphones, and other gear, ensuring your creativity is never hindered by hardware limitations. Plus, its ultra-low latency performance ensures that your recordings and live performances are captured with precision, without the delay that can distract from the creative process.
But the 24Ai doesn't stop at superior sound capture. Its integrated 48-channel digital mixer mimics the layout of large console mixers, providing comprehensive control over your mix without the need for an external console. The onboard DSP mixer, equipped with modeled analog EQ and compression, brings the warmth and character of classic analog gear to your digital recordings, offering a blend of modern flexibility and timeless sound.
Expand your setup with ease thanks to AVB audio networking, allowing you to connect multiple interfaces and computers over a standard network for a scalable and customizable audio system. Whether you're mixing in the studio or routing audio across the stage, the 24Ai's flexible matrix routing and splitting capabilities ensure you can send any signal to any destination with just a click.
Key Features:
- 24 balanced analog inputs in a single-rack unit, with additional 48 optical channels via ADAT, totaling 72 channels.
- Ultra-low latency for precise audio recording and monitoring.
- Integrated 48-channel digital mixer with modeled analog EQ and compression for professional mixing capabilities.
- AVB audio networking for system expansion and flexible routing across multiple interfaces and computers.
- Flexible connectivity with Class Compliant USB 2.0, compatible with USB 3.0 and iOS devices.
- Comprehensive control via web-based mixing, accessible from any device on the network.
- Supports a wide range of sample rates, from 44.1kHz to 192kHz, for superior audio quality.
Elevate your audio production to new heights with the Motu 24Ai USB/AVB Ethernet Audio Interface, where unparalleled sound quality meets boundless connectivity.
Product specs
| Type | AVB Audio Interface |
| Computer Connectivity | USB 2.0 |
| Form Factor | Rackmount |
| Simultaneous I/O | 48 x 24 |
| Analog Inputs | 3 x DB-25, 6 x Phoenix |
| Digital Inputs | 3 x Optical (ADAT) |
| Digital Outputs | 3 x Optical (ADAT) |
| USB | 1 x Type B |
| Data I/O | 1 x Ethernet |
| Network | AVB |
| Clock I/O | In, Out/Thru |
| OS Requirements - Mac | iOS/iPad compatible (with camera connection kit) |
| OS Requirements - PC | USB 2.0 audio class compliant hosts |
| Rack Spaces | 1U |
| Power Supply | Standard IEC AC cable |
| Height | 1.75" |
| Width | 19" |
FAQs
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What are the main connectivity options for the MOTU 24Ai USB/AVB Ethernet Audio Interface?
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The MOTU 24Ai offers USB 2.0 and AVB Ethernet connectivity, along with 3 DB-25 and 6 Phoenix analog inputs, and 3 optical ADAT digital inputs and outputs.
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Is the MOTU 24Ai compatible with both Mac and PC systems?
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Yes, the MOTU 24Ai is compatible with Mac systems using iOS/iPad and PC systems through USB 2.0 audio class compliant hosts.
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How many simultaneous inputs and outputs does the MOTU 24Ai support?
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The MOTU 24Ai supports up to 48 simultaneous inputs and 24 outputs, making it suitable for complex recording setups.
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Does the MOTU 24Ai require an external power supply?
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Yes, the MOTU 24Ai uses a standard IEC AC cable for power, ensuring it can be easily integrated into a professional studio environment.
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Can the MOTU 24Ai be used in a rack-mounted setup?
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Yes, the MOTU 24Ai is designed as a 1U rackmount unit, making it ideal for professional studio installations.
Videos
Sweetwater
MOTU UltraLite AVB USB/AVB Audio Interface Review by Sweetwater Sound
Reviews
PROS
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High-quality sound, superior to some competitors
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Rock-solid drivers, ensuring stable performance
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Customizable routing table for flexible system integration
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Allows for extensive input/output configurations with AVB networking
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Onboard DSP processing for per-channel compression and gate
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Can operate as a standalone card with preset flash
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Easy firmware updates via Ethernet
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Low CPU load, efficient for older systems
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Simple setup and operation
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Can network multiple units for expanded channel capacity
CONS
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Poor build and finish quality
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Limited customer service for international users
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No USB 3.0 support, limiting channel capacity with higher sample rates
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Some users experience early product failure
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Firmware updates require unit recognition, posing challenges if unit fails
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MOTU tech support may not offer repair or replacement for out-of-warranty products
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Motu 24Ai USB/AVB Ethernet Audio Interface.
User experience
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Owners report that MOTU's customer service is exceptional, offering remote support and phone calls for registered products.
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Some users have encountered persistent driver issues with MOTU interfaces, notably on i9 MacBook Pro setups, despite detailed troubleshooting efforts.
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Owners appreciate the MOTU 24Ai for its lifetime support and compatibility with operating systems, even for older models.
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Owners report latency issues in Cubase increasing from 12ms to 50ms, requiring adjustments to reduce phasing problems.
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Other
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A coax cable connecting word clock in and out on the MOTU 24Ai has led to successful syncing with older Roland mixers using proprietary digital protocols.
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Software and compatibility
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MOTU's web app UI is considered subpar by some, but it allows for control via phones or tablets on the same network.
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macOS 14/15 updates have improved the AVB management app, streamlining initial configuration for MOTU interfaces.
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Recent firmware updates for the MOTU 828es and 24Ai may change configuration processes, suggesting improved compatibility with new configuration apps.
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Phasing issues arise when routing drums from Cubase as signals replicate across channels, causing playback discrepancies.
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Features and functionality
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The MOTU 24Ai's DB25 connectors necessitate investing in specific cabling, with 1.5 ft DB-25 snakes often costing more than 3 ft versions.
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The MOTU 24Ai uses DB25 connectors, requiring additional budget for 25-pin to 1/4" breakout cables or punchdown blocks.
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The internal routing web app for the MOTU 24Ai can be confusing, complicating signal routing from Cubase back to a mixing desk.
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Use cases and applications
Build quality
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Users note that short 25-pin to 1/4" breakout cables can be heavy, potentially causing connectivity issues with certain patchbays.
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Setup and maintenance
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings
417
What, a 24 channel half duty sound board ?
Hey there!
Well yeah, it only is an input board... But luckily I tired if for a few months with the 24AO board so I can explain how all this works.
Basically you have the 24AI and 24AO plugged in tandem, and then those are networked into your computer with a classic LAN cable, so essentially no need for any extra hardware, no unreliable USB to computer shenanigans.
Next the controls are all through a gateway through a web browser :P So you get to use the mixer, and even update the boards using Chrome or Firefox! Isn't that neat modern MOTU stuff, eh?
Well that's not all, as the POWERFUL DSP processing in those allow per channel compression, and gate, and that saves you a lot of headache!!! And finally they never EVER fail!!! Well as far as I can tell I never had a glitch with them. Maybe the only scary moment is updating the firmware, but really it is easy.
So what then? Well you have 24 channels of input with a 24AI, all in gigabit lan, freeing up the USB portion of your setup, and it sounds really good, yet somehow it could feel a tad bland compared to something like an RME. But then why bother? In fact no, the MOTU units still sound really dynamic and good, with tons of headroom, but it will sound flat, so it is up to you to make sure your mixing is up to par with your expectations, so there are no freebees, as it will not butter up your audio with unicorn rainbows (no pun intended !).
So the point fo these units are an very easy and affordable way to get 24 separates into your DAW with minimum effort and maximum reliability. If you want to go further with the sound quality, simply bring your unit to BlackLionAudio for an upgrade of the oscillators and op-amp decoupling for the top of the line quality you would expect from an Antelope or an RME. That'll do it.
Essentially it could be the best, if modded, otherwise it's absolutely a no brainer.
Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Motu 24Ai USB/AVB Ethernet Audio Interface, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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