Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $574
High-end/Boutique
$150
$501+
Price Tier
Budget
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High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 1 merchant for "MOTU 828mk3 Firewire Audio Interface". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 23, 2026.
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Description
The MOTU 828mk3 Firewire Audio Interface is a perfect blend of top-notch technology with practicality. This 19 "Firewire / USB 2.0 audio interface doubles as a 28/16 digital mixer with FX. Whether you're recording at 24-bit / 192 kHz or need integrated DSP for EQ, compressor, and reverb, this audio interface has got you covered.
Equipped with the New CueMix Console, this dynamic interface provides extraordinary control and routing flexibility. The 2 mic-guitar inputs with integrated hardware limiter and 48V phantom power cater to a variety of recording needs. It ensures optimal connectivity with MIDI I / O, word clock I / O, and 8-bit balanced line I / O's plus 2 x XLR Main Out and 2x headphone output.
This versatile instrument is compatible with both Mac & PC, making it a must-have for all musicians and producers. Its 19", 1U style offers a sleek and compact design without compromising on its powerful capabilities.
Key Features:
- 19 "Firewire / USB 2.0 audio interface and 28/16 digital mixer with FX, 24-bit / 192 kHz
- Integrated DSP for EQ, Compressor, and Reverb
- New CueMix Console for enhanced control and routing
- 2 mic-guitar inputs with integrated hardware limiter and 48V phantom power
- 8-bit 96kHz, MIDI I / O, word clock I / O, 8-bit balanced line I / O's + 2 x XLR Main Out, 2x headphone output
- Compatibility with Mac & PC
- Compact size with a 19", 1U style design
Owner's manual
MOTU 828mk3 Firewire Audio Interface User ManualProduct specs
| Brand | MOTU |
| Model | 828mk3 Firewire Audio Interface |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2000s |
| Categories | Audio Interfaces |
| Bit Depth | 24-bit |
| Bus-Powered | No |
| Compatibility | Windows, macOS |
| Computer Connectivity | Firewire, 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 | 10 |
| Number of Analog Outputs | 10 |
| Number of Channels | 56 |
| Number of Digital Inputs | 18 |
| Number of Digital Outputs | 18 |
| Number of Headphone Outputs | 2 |
| Number of MIDI Inputs | 1 |
| Number of MIDI Outputs | 1 |
| Number of Mic Preamps | 2 |
| Sample Rate | 192 khz |
| Simultaneous I/O | 28 x 30 |
FAQs
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What are the main connectivity options for the MOTU 828mk3 Firewire Audio Interface?
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The MOTU 828mk3 offers connectivity via Firewire and USB, enabling versatile integration with both Windows and macOS systems.
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Is the MOTU 828mk3 compatible with popular DAWs like Ableton Live and Pro Tools?
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Yes, the MOTU 828mk3 is compatible with major DAWs, including Ableton Live and Pro Tools, providing seamless integration for your recording and production needs.
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How many simultaneous inputs and outputs does the MOTU 828mk3 support?
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The MOTU 828mk3 supports 28 simultaneous inputs and 30 outputs, making it suitable for complex recording setups.
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Does the MOTU 828mk3 require an external power source?
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Yes, the MOTU 828mk3 is not bus-powered and requires an external power source for operation.
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What is the maximum sample rate supported by the MOTU 828mk3?
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The MOTU 828mk3 supports a maximum sample rate of 192 kHz, ensuring high-fidelity audio recording and playback.
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How many mic preamps are included in the MOTU 828mk3?
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The MOTU 828mk3 features two built-in mic preamps, allowing for direct microphone connectivity.
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What digital input and output formats does the MOTU 828mk3 support?
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The MOTU 828mk3 supports ADAT/Optical and S/PDIF digital input and output formats, providing flexible digital connectivity options.
Videos
Linux Game Cast
Interfacing Linux: MOTU 828 MK3
Interfacing Linux: MOTU 828 MK3
Linux Game Cast
Reviews
PROS
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High-quality sound, even compared to more expensive interfaces
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Large number of inputs and outputs for extensive connectivity
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Low latency performance enhances recording and playback precision
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Dual connection options with USB or Firewire for versatility
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Supports 192kHz recording for superior audio fidelity
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Good base input count, expandable by connecting additional devices
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Compatible with both Mac and Windows, with stable drivers for some setups
CONS
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Cuemix software difficult to use, lacks intuitive control for live adjustments
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Windows drivers can be buggy, leading to frequent restarts
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No option to record raw without onboard EQ and compression, affecting flexibility
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Interface sometimes fails to power up, requiring repairs
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Harsh cracking and popping sounds reported with some Windows setups
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about MOTU 828mk3 Firewire Audio Interface.
Software and compatibility
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The MOTU 828mk3 is not class compliant on Linux; it requires firewire for detection and use with kernel 5.14+.
Source -
Users have struggled to get the MOTU 828mk3 Hybrid recognized on Linux with USB, even when it appears as connected in terminal commands.
Source -
The 828mk3 requires connection via firewire to a firewire card for Linux functionality, without needing additional driver installations.
Source -
The MOTU 828es, paired with a 16a via AVB, works well on M1 Macs, suggesting a reliable setup without mic pres for expanded input needs.
Source
Setup and maintenance
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Users report the 828mk3 unit can produce crackling noises during recording on Windows, indicating potential maintenance issues.
Source
Features and functionality
Comparisons
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Users exploring alternatives to the 828mk3 often consider the Behringer XR18 for its 18 ins/outs, six aux sends, and built-in FX, priced between $440-600.
Source -
The Antelope Audio Discrete 8 is noted as a current affordable option for an 8-in, 8-out thunderbolt interface, priced around $1,400.
Source
4.5 out of 5
Based on 4 Reviews and 21 Ratings
411
Notes
My studio can include 2 828mk3 FW. The first bought new, the latter s/h in good conditions.
Excellent Quality
I have not owned many interfaces... I owned a Presonus Firebox and now this...
This is simply a killer interface that has amazing sound quality.... Pro level.
167
Artist usage
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RWS stage gear Mark Ayres Roland JX-10, JX-3P, Arturia MatrixBrute and Korg MS-20 synths; Yamaha WX11 wind Instrument; Novation SL25 MkII controller; Keith McMillen Qunexus; MacBook Pro running Logic Pro X and Steinberg Nuendo; MOTU 828Mk3 interface; Behringer X32 mixer.
Album Usage
The MOTU 828mk3 Firewire Audio Interface has been featured on the following albums:
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 828mk3 Firewire Audio Interface, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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