MOTU Audio Express Hybrid - Professional 6x6 Audio Interface with USB and FireWire
The MOTU Audio Express Hybrid is a compact and robust audio interface that delivers exceptional sound quality and unparalleled flexibility for personal studios and mobile recording setups. Designed with MOTU's award-winning technology, this interface combines analog and digital I/O, high-quality preamps, and the power of internal DSP to provide a complete and reliable recording solution. Its unique Hybrid technology allows connection to any modern Mac or PC via a high-speed FireWire port or a USB 2.0 port, ensuring universal compatibility and stable, low-latency performance so you can focus solely on your music.
Equipped with a total of 6 inputs and 6 outputs, the Audio Express Hybrid is perfect for singer-songwriters, producers, and small bands. It features two combo mic/guitar inputs with crystal-clear, transparent preamps, 48V phantom power for condenser microphones, and 20dB pads. In addition, it has two balanced TRS line inputs for keyboards, synthesizers, or effects processors, and stereo S/PDIF digital I/O. Each analog input has its own front-panel gain control, allowing for quick and precise level adjustments. Its aluminum alloy chassis not only provides exceptional durability for live use but also makes it lightweight and portable.
Main Features
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Hybrid Connectivity: Universal connection to Mac and PC computers via FireWire 400 or high-speed USB 2.0 ports.
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Versatile Inputs and Outputs (6x6): Includes 2 XLR/TRS combo microphone/instrument inputs, 2 TRS line inputs, S/PDIF digital I/O and 2 TRS main outputs, 2 TRS line outputs and headphone output.
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High-Quality Microphone Preamps: Two transparent, low-noise microphone preamps with individually switchable 48V phantom power and attenuation pad.
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CueMix DSP Mixer: Internal 8-bus digital mixer that allows you to create up to four independent, latency-free stereo mixes of the input signals, ideal for artist monitoring.
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Audio Analysis Tools: CueMix software includes an instrument tuner and advanced analysis tools such as a real-time FFT spectrogram and an oscilloscope for detailed audio visualization.
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SMPTE Synchronization: Ability to generate and read SMPTE timecode, allowing perfect synchronization with other devices or video software, without the need for an external synchronizer.
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Direct Control from the Front Panel: Quick and manual access to the volume of each main input and output, as well as the headphone output, without the need to use software.
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Professional Audio Quality: Recording and playback with a resolution of up to 24 bits and a sampling rate of 96 kHz.
Benefits for the Musician and Producer
The MOTU Audio Express Hybrid is designed to optimize your workflow. Its flexible USB and FireWire connectivity ensures compatibility with virtually any computer, whether in your own studio or a friend's. The CueMix DSP mixer is a game-changer, allowing you to provide musicians with customized, zero-latency headphone mixes directly from the interface, without overloading your computer's CPU. This results in improved performances and a smoother recording experience. High-quality preamps guarantee that your vocal and instrument recordings are captured with pristine clarity and detail, ready for mixing.
Use Cases
This interface is the ideal tool for a wide range of applications. It's perfect for the singer-songwriter who needs to record vocals and guitar simultaneously with studio-quality sound. For the home studio producer , it offers the necessary I/O to integrate synthesizers, drum machines, and other external equipment. Podcasters can connect two condenser microphones and easily manage their levels. Thanks to its robust construction and compact size, it's also an excellent choice for live musicians who need to play backing tracks and process instruments on stage. Furthermore, its SMPTE synchronization capability makes it a valuable tool for audio post-production for video .
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the interface require an external power supply?
The Audio Express Hybrid can be powered directly via the FireWire bus. If using the USB 2.0 connection, the included power adapter must be connected for proper operation.
Is it compatible with the latest operating systems like Windows 11 or macOS Sonoma?
MOTU regularly updates its drivers. It is recommended to check the official MOTU website to download the latest drivers and confirm compatibility with the latest operating system versions.
Which recording software (DAW) is it compatible with?
It is compatible with virtually any audio software that supports ASIO, Core Audio, or Wave drivers, including Pro Tools, Ableton Live, Cubase, Logic Pro, Reaper, Studio One, and many others.
Can I use all analog inputs at the same time?
Yes, you can record from all four analog inputs (2 microphone/instrument + 2 line) simultaneously.
Project description
Audio interface with hybrid FireWire 400 and USB 2.0 connectivity. It features 6 simultaneous inputs and 6 outputs. Inputs include two XLR/TRS combo jacks with microphone preamps, 48V phantom power, and a 20dB pad; two 1/4" TRS line inputs; and a stereo S/PDIF digital input. Outputs include two balanced TRS main outputs; two TRS line outputs; a 1/4" stereo headphone output; and a stereo S/PDIF digital output. It incorporates MIDI I/O and offers up to 24-bit/96kHz resolution. The integrated CueMix DSP mixer allows for low-latency monitoring and the creation of up to four stereo mixes. It supports SMPTE (LTC) timecode synchronization. The chassis is made of aluminum alloy. Independent volume controls are located on the front panel for each input and the main output.
