Home
... Musical Instruments
Studio Recording Gear
Audio Interfaces
PreSonus
PreSonus Quantum Thunderbolt Audio Interface

PreSonus Quantum Thunderbolt Audio Interface

$999.99 Price Tier: High-end

1 Critic Review

0 wishlisted

0 saved

Page last updated Jun 19, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 19, 2026.

Store

Reviews

Price

5.0 (7)

$999.99 1 available New

$299.00 16 available Used

View Deal

Average Price: $650

High-end/Boutique

$150

$501+

Price Tier

In the Audio Interfaces category, PreSonus Quantum Thunderbolt Audio Interface is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

^* 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

Edit description

In the world of audio production, speed and clarity are paramount, and the PreSonus Quantum Thunderbolt Audio Interface delivers on both fronts. Known for its blazing-fast Thunderbolt 2 connectivity, this interface is hailed as the "fastest Thunderbolt interface on the planet," ensuring virtually zero latency during recording sessions. Its eight software-recallable XMAX preamps provide pristine sound quality, allowing for a seamless transition between projects with saved gain settings.

The Quantum's 24-bit/192kHz converters offer a remarkable 120dB dynamic range, capturing every nuance of your performance, whether you're recording delicate vocals or thunderous drum kits. Expandability is a breeze with dual ADAT optical ports, giving you the flexibility to connect additional preamps when your setup demands more inputs. Plus, with MIDI I/O, integrating older gear into your modern setup is simple.

The user-friendly interface is complemented by a host of studio-grade features, including a built-in talkback mic, extensive monitor controls, and compatibility with the included Studio One Artist DAW. To elevate your recordings further, the Quantum comes bundled with the Studio Magic Plug-in Suite, packed with emulations of classic studio gear.

This interface is not just a tool but a gateway to professional-grade production, whether you are in a project studio or a larger recording environment.

Key Features:

26-in/32-out audio interface in a 1U rackmount chassis
Thunderbolt 2 connectivity for ultra-low latency
8 software-recallable Class A XMAX preamps
24-bit/192kHz digital converters with 120dB dynamic range
Expandable with 2 ADAT I/O for additional channels
MIDI I/O for connecting legacy gear
Includes Studio One Artist DAW and Studio Magic Plug-in Suite

Product specs

Brand	PreSonus
Model	Quantum Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Year	2010s
Categories	Audio Interfaces
Bit Depth	24-bit
Bus-Powered	No
Compatibility	Windows, macOS
Computer Connectivity	Thunderbolt
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	10
Number of Channels	54
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	8
Sample Rate	192 khz

FAQs

What type of connectivity does the PreSonus Quantum Thunderbolt Audio Interface offer?: The PreSonus Quantum uses Thunderbolt connectivity, ensuring ultra-low latency and high-speed data transfer for seamless audio recording and playback.
Is the PreSonus Quantum compatible with both Windows and macOS?: Yes, the PreSonus Quantum Thunderbolt Audio Interface is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems.
How many mic preamps does the PreSonus Quantum have?: The PreSonus Quantum features 8 high-quality mic preamps, providing ample inputs for microphones and instruments.
Does the PreSonus Quantum support high-resolution audio?: Yes, the PreSonus Quantum supports up to 24-bit/192 kHz audio resolution, ensuring pristine sound quality for professional recording.
Can the PreSonus Quantum be used in a rackmount setup?: Yes, the PreSonus Quantum is designed for a 19-inch rackmount format, making it suitable for studio and live sound applications.
How many analog inputs and outputs are available on the PreSonus Quantum?: The PreSonus Quantum offers 8 analog inputs and 10 analog outputs, providing extensive routing options for your audio setup.
Does the PreSonus Quantum include MIDI connectivity?: Yes, the PreSonus Quantum includes 1 MIDI input and 1 MIDI output, allowing for integration with MIDI devices.

Videos

Add video

PreSonus Audio Electronics

PreSonus Quantum Thunderbolt Audio Interface

PreSonus Audio Electronics

Reviews

Add review

PROS

Extremely low latency, often reported as less than 1ms
High channel count with ADAT expansion up to 26 inputs
Clean and neutral preamps with excellent AD/DA conversion
Seamless integration with Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C systems
Great value under $1000 for high channel count and quality
Comes with Studio One and Studio Magic software
Allows bypass of preamps for higher quality external preamps
Versatile for small-to-medium studios, ideal for project setups
Attractive design with practical front and rear input configuration

CONS

Cannot reorder inputs in Universal Control software
Firmware updates can be unreliable between MacOS and Windows
Clock settings in Universal Control do not save between sessions

Owner Insights

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

Software and compatibility

0 0

The HD8 achieves 6.2 ms round-trip latency on a USB4 connection at 192kHz and 512 samples, performing efficiently for laptop users.
Source
0 0

The Quantum 2626 can face compatibility issues with active Thunderbolt cables, suggesting shorter passive cables may be more reliable in some setups.
Source
0 0

Some users experience BSOD issues with the PreSonus Quantum 2626 on AMD motherboards due to Thunderbolt implementation flaws, requiring specific BIOS updates or cable adjustments.
Source
0 0

The AVB connection on the Studiolive 16R reportedly provides latency as low as Thunderbolt for live monitoring, supported natively on MacOS.
Source

User experience

0 0

Previous Intel-based setups with the Quantum 2626 showed robust performance, contrasting with newer AMD setups where users encountered stability issues.
Source
0 0

Users report achieving an impressive 1.83ms round-trip latency at 48kHz with a 32 sample buffer using Quantum 2626, enabling effects-laden live monitoring.
Source
0 0

Some users experience firmware issues with the HD8, which are quickly resolved by PreSonus, suggesting reliable customer support.
Source
0 0

Some owners express preference for PreSonus converters over Apogee, citing superior clarity after extensive AD conversion tests.
Source

Use cases and applications

0 0

Quantum 2626's low latency allows running multiple live monitoring effects like gates and compressors without latency interference, ideal for streaming and live audio setups.
Source
0 0

The reamping capability of the Quantum HD8 can reduce the need for additional reamping hardware, appealing to users focused on versatile studio setups.
Source
0 0

The Studiolive 16R is appreciated for its dual function as a studio interface and live sound mixer, enhanced by its AVB connection.
Source

Comparisons

0 0

RME interfaces are noted for lasting decades with stable low latency performance comparable to Thunderbolt when using USB, offering a potential alternative to the Quantum 2626.
Source
0 0

Users transitioning from the Quantum 26x32 to Quantum HD8 note potential improvements in preamps and converters, especially for those seeking more headroom.
Source
0 0

Users find PreSonus Quantum's AD/DA conversion competitive with high-end interfaces, often compared favorably to Apogee converters for clarity.
Source

Features and functionality

0 0

The HD8 model offers 10 outputs with flexibility in assigning A and B stereo monitor outs, providing varied routing options for different studio needs.
Source
0 0

The Quantum 2626 offers Thunderbolt 3 for low-latency recording and includes 8 XMAX preamps, providing a unique value at its price point.
Source
0 0

The Quantum HD8 boasts a new widget with recallable amp gain in Logic, enhancing workflow for users who require precise gain adjustments.
Source

Critic Reviews

PreSonus Quantum

soundonsound.com

The PreSonus Quantum Thunderbolt Audio Interface is a powerhouse for those seeking ultra-low latency in their recording setup. By ditching the internal mixer, PreSonus offers a streamlined experience that lets your DAW do all the heavy lifting, making it a breeze to use. With features like digitally controlled mic preamps and a wealth of input/output options, it stands toe-to-toe with, if not outshines, many of its Thunderbolt rivals. The lack of a Thunderbolt cable is a minor gripe, but the sound quality and performance easily justify its price. If you're ready to embrace a software-centric workflow, the Quantum is a top contender.

positive

Full Review

Add review

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star