MOTU 4pre 6x8 Compact Audio Interface with Four Mic Preamps & Mixing, Hybrid FireWire 400/USB 2.0, 24-bit Converters

The MOTU 4pre is a compact hybrid digital audio interface that features both FireWire and USB 2.0 connectivity. The interface can also function as a standalone mixer without the need for a computer. Four individual microphones or two stereo pairs can be recorded via the combo microphone/guitar inputs.

The transparent preamps offer individually switchable phantom power and a -20dB pad, with all settings adjustable on the front panel, or from the included CueMix software. Two guitar jacks provide high-impedance load characteristics suitable for passive and active pickups. Line inputs can be matched for keyboards, analog mixers, effects processors, or other equipment with difference reference levels.

Four analog outputs allow for connecting powered studio monitors to the main outs, while separate line outs can be used for a variety of purposes, either mirroring the main outs, or acting as a completely independent output pair. Two headphone jacks facilitate working with others. Digital input/output make digital transfers easy with support for sample rates of up to 96kHz.

Digitally controlled analog trim deliver analog quality with digital precision with the ability to save and recall trim settings. The S/PDIF digital inputs can also be trimmed. Immediate volume adjustments are always within reach, so the interface serves as the perfect compact, portable live mixer, with or without a computer.

The included CueMix software delivers on-screen mixing and control and can be operated side by side with any host audio software for Mac or Windows. It can also be controlled from the Mackie Control Universal Pro work surface, or any HUI-compatible controller. Additionally it provides talkback and listen back features, along with a range of software analysis tools.

The 4pre can be daisy chained to another pre or MOTU audio interface. Direct SMPTE time code sync is supported without the need for a separate synchronizer. The included SMPTE Console software (for Mac OS X and Windows) provides a complete set of tools to generate SMPTE for striping, regenerating or slaving other devices to the computer.

Four mic preamps
The 4pre packs four mic inputs into an impressively small half-rack form factor, along with a healthy complement of additional professional-grade audio connections. Just think of the possibilities. You can record and mix vocals plus guitar for two musicians simultaneously. Or mic a drum kit with overheads and close-ups. Or record lead and background vocals in one take. With an interface this flexible, capable and great-sounding, you'll be ready for any situation your music throws at you.

Compact size
The 4pre is an impressively small 8.5 by 7 by 1.75", which means that it slides easily into your backpack. It also sits nicely next to your laptop or desktop computer.

Flexible combo-style inputs
The four inputs are not just for mics: they are combo jacks that also accept a quarter-inch plug. Inputs 1-2 take line-level signals, such as the output from a synth or keyboard. Inputs 3-4 are "hi-Z" DI inputs with proper impedance for plugging in your electric guitar directly, without an amp or cabinet, to process your guitar sound through amp and cab simulation plug-ins in your host software.

Universal connectivity
Thanks to MOTU's Hybrid interface technology, the 4pre connects to any Mac or PC via FireWire or high-speed USB 2.0. Connect your mic, guitar, keyboard and digital input and you are ready to make pro-quality recordings.

Bus-powered FireWire
The 4pre can draw power from its FireWire connection to the computer, so you can operate remotely on laptop battery power.

High-speed USB 2.0
The 4pre can record and play all channels simultaneously and high-speed USB 2.0 provides plenty of bandwidth, even at 96 kHz.

Mixing made simple
Quickly balance the levels of mics, guitars, a keyboard, or other inputs right from the front panel. Each input has its own volume control. Route inputs directly to any output pair, each with its own unique mix: main outs, line outs, S/PDIF out and phones.

Studio grade sound
The 4pre has been engineered with MOTU's renowned, award-winning audio interface technology, which delivers the pristine audio quality and rock-solid performance that MOTU interfaces are known for worldwide. You can always record and mix with confidence, knowing that decades of engineering experience are behind you, every step of the way.

Solid metal chassis
The 4pre aluminum alloy chassis is lightweight, yet incredibly sturdy and durable and designed to withstand the rigors of the studio, stage and tour bus. In a world awash with cheap plastic, the cool touch of the 4pre's metal exterior in your hands is a reassuring reminder that you are holding quality engineering and construction built to last.

Rack mounting brackets
The 4pre can be joined with another MOTU half-rack interface (MIDI or audio) and together they can be mounted in a standard 19" equipment rack, or you can mount them on rack rails with other MOTU gear for convenient desktop operation, as shown here. Use the included brackets and hex bolts to join the 4pre with another MOTU interface, such as the micro lite MIDI interface shown here (or second 4pre), to mount them in a standard 19" equipment rack.