MOTU 828 MK1

$40.00 Price Tier: Budget

5.0 (2)

1 Review

Newer option

MOTU 828mkII FireWire Audio Interface

$93.97

4.5 (18)

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Page last updated May 23, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated May 23, 2026.

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5.0 (5)

$40.00 4 available Used

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Average Price: $40

Budget/Beginner

$150

$501+

Price Tier

In the Audio Interfaces category, MOTU 828 MK1 is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

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Description

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Step into the world of professional audio recording with the MOTU 828 MK1, a trailblazing audio interface that has set the standard for studio-quality sound. This rackmount unit combines versatility and precision, making it an enduring favorite among musicians and sound engineers alike. Ideal for both home studios and live setups, the MOTU 828 MK1 offers a comprehensive range of connectivity options that cater to any recording scenario.

Equipped with FireWire technology, the 828 MK1 ensures high-speed data transfer for seamless integration with your computer. This interface features 20 inputs and 22 outputs, including two mic preamps with phantom power, allowing you to capture vocals and instruments with exceptional clarity. The 24-bit, 48kHz converters deliver pristine audio quality, ensuring your recordings sound as close to reality as possible. With its built-in CueMix DSP, you can enjoy zero-latency monitoring without burdening your CPU, making it a reliable choice for demanding sessions.

Whether you’re tracking a full band or a solo project, the MOTU 828 MK1 offers the flexibility and reliability you need to achieve professional results. Its robust build and intuitive design make it an enduring piece of gear in any studio setup.

Key Features:

FireWire connectivity for high-speed data transfer
20 inputs and 22 outputs
Dual mic preamps with phantom power
24-bit, 48kHz audio resolution
Built-in CueMix DSP for zero-latency monitoring
Compatible with both Mac and Windows systems
Rugged rackmount design for durability

Videos

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Twin Creek Audio

Favorite Gear Ep 3: MOTU 828(original)

Twin Creek Audio

Interfacing Linux: MOTU 828 MK1

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about MOTU 828 MK1.

Features and functionality

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The MOTU 828 Mk1 operates stably at a 7ms latency on older hardware like a 2GHz Core 2 Duo Mac Mini using FireWire 400.
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Software and compatibility

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MOTU still provides drivers and manuals for the 828 Mk1, ensuring continued compatibility and usability with modern systems.
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Some owners use a FireWire to Thunderbolt adapter to connect the 828 MK1 to newer Macs, reporting successful operation.
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There are mixed experiences with adapter reliability, with some reporting disconnection issues when using poor-quality adapters.
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Despite being an older model, the 828 MK1 can function with Mac OS that hasn't shifted to 64-bit exclusivity.
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Some users experience issues with the 828 Mk1 not being recognized by newer operating systems, despite successful past usage on older iMacs with Snow Leopard.
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Users suggest downloading necessary drivers directly from MOTU's website, requiring account registration but no cost, for better compatibility with DAWs like Logic.
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User experience

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The 828 Mk1 is noted for its reliability and rock-solid performance, even when used in aggregate device setups with other interfaces like the Behringer UMC1820 on OSX.
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It's noted that some units may stop working after a short period, suggesting potential reliability issues with certain 828 Mk1 units.
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Comparisons

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Compared to newer models like the 828x, the Mk1 is favored for its stability, with fewer problems reported during usage.
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Use cases and applications

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The 828 Mk1's output channels can be used creatively, such as sending audio sync pulses for more stable drum machine synchronization.
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Users are actively considering the 828 MK1 for synthesizer and drum machine recording due to its multiple input capabilities.
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