The MOTU 8M AVB is an AVB network audio interface with Thunderbolt and USB 2.0 connectivity. So it is possible to use the 8M AVB either via Thunderbolt or USB with the host computer. Further applications include standalone mode, where the MOTU 8M can be used as a digital mixer thanks to on-board DSP. This audio interface can be connected to other MOTU AVB audio interfaces via the AVB Ethernet port.
The MOTU 8M can also be connected to other AVB audio interfaces via the AVB Ethernet port, as mentioned above. This can be done either by a direct Ethernet cable connection from interface to interface or by using the single available MOTU AVB switch, which can be used to connect more than two MOTU audio interfaces simultaneously. In this way, any number of inputs and outputs can be added to an existing AVB network without much effort. The standalone mixer function of the MOTU 8M AVB rounds off the audio interface's highly flexible application profile, as it no longer needs to be rotated, but can be remotely controlled via a web app on an iPhone, iPad, smartphone, tablet or laptop. In this way, certain parameters can be modified. This feature makes the MOTU 8M AVB very interesting for mobile applications, such as stage or general live applications. However, it is also very suitable for studios, as it can be easily expanded through the AVB network. On the other hand, it is also well suited for home studios, as the high quality converters and very good 24-bit/192kHz resolution allow for excellent audio recordings.
Connection options for every application
The MOTU 8M AVB comes with 8 XLR combo inputs that can be used as instrument, microphone or line inputs. These inputs are all accessible from the rear panel and each have a gain control on the front panel and optional switchable pad or +48V phantom power. Among the outputs, which are also located on the rear panel, there are 8 line outputs. With this amount of I/Os a band can be recorded or monitor switches can be installed to switch between several speakers. In addition, the user is left with all possibilities thanks to 2 ADAT inputs and outputs, word clock I/O and Thunderbolt as well as USB 2.0 connectivity.