MOTU 10pre 26x28 Thunderbolt 4/USB4 Audio Interface

MOTU 10pre 26x28 Thunderbolt 4/USB4 Audio Interface

The MOTU 10pre 26x28 Thunderbolt 4/USB4 Audio Interface is a professional 1U rackmount recording interface featuring ten microphone preamps, 54 simultaneous audio channels, and integrated AVB networking. With 192 kHz recording capability, ESS Sabre32 conversion, and onboard digital signal processing, it provides flexible recording, monitoring, and audio routing for professional studios and live productions.

Designed for recording engineers, music producers, live sound technicians, and professional content creators, the 10pre combines extensive analog connectivity with high-speed computer integration. Its ten XLR/TRS combo inputs accommodate microphones, instruments, and line-level equipment, while eight balanced analog outputs connect studio monitors and external processors. Two independent headphone outputs provide dedicated monitoring for performers and engineers. Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 connectivity support up to 128 computer audio channels in each direction at sample rates up to 96 kHz. With round-trip latency as low as approximately 1.8 milliseconds under specified operating conditions, the interface supports responsive recording and monitoring workflows.

The MOTU 10pre integrates a 64-channel DSP mixer, 32-bit floating-point processing, and comprehensive routing through CueMix Pro software. Dual Gigabit Ethernet ports support Audio Video Bridging (AVB), enabling synchronized audio distribution between compatible network devices. Two optical I/O banks provide additional digital connectivity, while dedicated word clock connections support synchronization with external equipment. Compatible with supported macOS, Windows, and iOS systems, the interface also operates as a standalone digital mixer.

Key Features

• 26 Inputs and 28 Outputs: Provides 54 simultaneous audio channels at standard sample rates through ten analog inputs, ADAT optical connections, eight line outputs, and two stereo headphone outputs.
• Ten Microphone Preamps: Eight rear-panel and two front-panel XLR/TRS combo inputs feature adjustable gain, individually switchable 48V phantom power, and microphone input pads.
• Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 Connectivity: Supports high-bandwidth computer audio transfer, with backward compatibility for supported Thunderbolt 3, USB3, and USB2 connections.
• ESS Sabre32 Conversion: Provides a specified 125 dB dynamic range on the balanced line outputs for detailed monitoring and playback.
• 64-Channel DSP Mixer: Includes parametric EQ, compression, gating, high-pass filtering, reverb, and flexible routing without requiring host-based audio processing.
• AVB Network Integration: Dual Gigabit Ethernet ports enable multichannel audio transmission, clock synchronization, and expansion using compatible AVB equipment.
• Professional Monitoring Controls: Features two independent headphone outputs, A/B/C speaker selection, talkback, mute, mono controls, and a 3.9-inch color display.
• Digital Expansion and Synchronization: Includes two ADAT optical I/O banks, BNC word clock connections, and DC-coupled analog outputs for compatible control-voltage applications.

Professional Recording with Ten Microphone Preamps

The MOTU 10pre provides ten microphone, line, and instrument inputs for simultaneous multichannel recording. Eight combination XLR/TRS connectors are located on the rear panel, while two additional inputs are positioned on the front for convenient access during recording sessions.

Each microphone input features digitally controlled gain adjustment from 0 to +74 dB in precise 1 dB increments. Independently switchable 48V phantom power supports compatible condenser microphones, while selectable -20 dB microphone pads accommodate higher-level signals.

The microphone preamps deliver a specified 118 dB dynamic range, -114 dB total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N), and -129 dBu equivalent input noise (EIN). These measured specifications help engineers evaluate the interface for demanding recording applications.

Two balanced insert loops provide connections for external processors on input channels 1 and 2. Engineers can integrate compatible compressors, equalizers, and other analog equipment into the recording signal path before analog-to-digital conversion.

Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 Computer Connectivity

The 10pre features a high-speed Thunderbolt 4/USB4 host connection for professional recording and playback. The interface automatically negotiates the supported connection protocol with the connected computer, accommodating compatible Thunderbolt, USB4, USB3, and USB2 systems.

Under supported Thunderbolt 4 or USB4 operating conditions, the interface provides up to 128 computer audio inputs and 128 outputs at sample rates up to 96 kHz. This expanded host channel capacity supports complex recording systems incorporating multiple interfaces and networked audio devices.

Round-trip latency can reach approximately 1.8 milliseconds when operating at 96 kHz with a 32-sample host buffer. Actual performance depends on the computer, connection protocol, driver configuration, and recording software.

A second Thunderbolt-compatible USB-C port allows supported peripherals to be connected downstream. Compatible devices include additional audio interfaces, external storage, displays, and Thunderbolt docks.

ESS Sabre32 Conversion and High-Resolution Audio

The MOTU 10pre incorporates ESS Sabre32 digital-to-analog converter technology for professional monitoring and audio playback. The balanced line outputs achieve a specified 125 dB A-weighted dynamic range, -114 dB THD+N, and a maximum output level of +21 dBu.

The interface supports sample rates from 44.1 kHz through 192 kHz, accommodating high-resolution music production and professional recording sessions.

Its analog inputs and outputs feature digitally adjustable gain or trim settings, allowing engineers to manage signal levels throughout the recording and monitoring chain.

All eight balanced TRS line outputs are DC-coupled. This design allows compatible digital audio workstation software to transmit control-voltage signals to modular synthesizers and other suitable electronic music equipment.

64-Channel DSP Mixer and CueMix Pro Software

The integrated digital signal processor provides a comprehensive 64-channel monitoring mixer with 32 mixing buses. Its console-style architecture allows engineers to create monitoring arrangements, process incoming audio, and manage routing independently of the host computer's processing resources.

Available channel processing includes four-band parametric equalization, dynamics compression, noise gating, and high-pass filtering. Integrated reverb provides additional flexibility when configuring performer monitoring mixes.

The DSP engine uses 32-bit floating-point processing, with double-precision calculations for equalization filters. This processing architecture supports extensive internal signal manipulation and monitoring configurations.

CueMix Pro provides software control over input settings, monitoring buses, DSP processing, output assignments, and routing. Compatible computers and supported iOS devices can access these controls, allowing the interface to function in both traditional recording environments and standalone mixing applications.

AVB Networking for Professional Audio Expansion

Two integrated Gigabit Ethernet ports provide AVB network connectivity for expanding the interface beyond its physical analog and optical connections.

AVB is a networking technology designed to transport synchronized audio between compatible devices while maintaining predictable transmission timing. The MOTU implementation supports network-wide synchronization and multichannel audio routing through suitable Ethernet infrastructure.

The 10pre supports up to 16 AVB input and output streams at sample rates through 96 kHz, with configurations of up to eight audio channels per stream. At higher sample rates, the available stream count decreases.

Compatible MOTU AVB interfaces can be incorporated into expanded recording and production systems. This architecture supports distributed input and output placement, larger recording setups, and network-based audio routing.

ADAT Optical Expansion and Word Clock Synchronization

The MOTU 10pre includes two optical input banks and two optical output banks for digital audio expansion.

At 44.1 or 48 kHz, the ADAT connections provide up to 16 digital input channels and 16 digital output channels. At 88.2 or 96 kHz, S/MUX operation provides eight channels in each direction.

Optical Bank A additionally supports stereo TOSLINK optical S/PDIF operation, allowing connections with compatible digital audio equipment.

Dedicated BNC word clock input and output connections provide synchronization options for external converters, digital processors, and other clock-compatible studio devices.

Advanced Studio Monitoring and Surround Sound Control

The 10pre features eight balanced analog line outputs suitable for connecting powered studio monitors, auxiliary speakers, external processing equipment, and multichannel monitoring systems.

Its configurable Monitor Group supports stereo and surround monitoring arrangements, including 5.1 and 7.1 configurations. Front-panel A/B/C controls provide convenient selection between assigned monitoring destinations.

Two independent stereo headphone outputs offer separate level control and programmable audio source selection. Performers and engineers can monitor different signals or mixes according to their recording requirements.

Additional front-panel controls include talkback, mute, and mono functions. The integrated 3.9-inch color TFT display presents detailed metering and operational information for monitoring inputs, outputs, and device settings.

Technical Specifications

General Specifications

• Manufacturer: MOTU
• Model: 10pre
• Manufacturer Part Number: 9311
• Product Type: Thunderbolt 4/USB4 Audio Interface
• Form Factor: 1U Rackmount
• Total Simultaneous Audio Channels: 54 at 44.1/48 kHz
• Total Inputs: 26 at 44.1/48 kHz
• Total Outputs: 28 at 44.1/48 kHz
• Analog Input Channels: 10
• Analog Line Outputs: 8
• Headphone Outputs: 2 Stereo
• Built-In DSP: Yes
• Maximum Sample Rate: 192 kHz
• Supported Sample Rates: 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192 kHz
• Analog Conversion: 32-Bit ADC/DAC Hardware
• Internal DSP Processing: 32-Bit Floating Point
• EQ Processing: 64-Bit Double Precision
• DAC Technology: ESS Sabre32
• Display: 3.9" Color TFT
• Display Resolution: 480 x 128 Pixels
• Display Color Depth: 24-Bit RGB
• Enclosure Color: Black

Microphone, Line, and Instrument Inputs

• Microphone Preamplifiers: 10
• Input Connectors: 10 x XLR/1/4" TRS Combo
• Front-Panel Inputs: 2
• Rear-Panel Inputs: 8
• Supported Input Signals: Microphone, Balanced Line, Unbalanced Line, Instrument
• Microphone Gain Range: 0 to +74 dB
• Gain Adjustment Increments: 1 dB
• Microphone Pad: -20 dB, Individually Switchable
• Phantom Power: +48V, Individually Switchable
• Microphone Input Impedance: 2.8 Kilohms
• Unbalanced TRS Input Impedance: 1 Megohm
• Balanced TRS Input Impedance: 2 Megohms
• Microphone Input Dynamic Range: 118 dB A-Weighted
• TRS Input Dynamic Range: 115 dB A-Weighted
• Microphone THD+N: -114 dB
• TRS Input THD+N: -109 dB
• Microphone Equivalent Input Noise: -129 dBu A-Weighted
• Microphone Frequency Response: 26 Hz - 20 kHz (+0.05/-0.1 dB)
• TRS Input Frequency Response: 40 Hz - 20 kHz (+0.05/-0.6 dB)
• Maximum Microphone Input Level with Pad: +21.5 dBu
• Maximum Microphone Input Level without Pad: +0.5 dBu
• Maximum Balanced TRS Input Level: +20 dBu
• Maximum Unbalanced TRS Input Level: +18 dBu
• Analog Insert Sends: 2 x Balanced 1/4" TRS
• Analog Insert Returns: 2 x Balanced 1/4" TRS
• Insert Channels: Inputs 1 and 2

Analog Line Outputs

• Line Output Connectors: 8 x 1/4" Balanced TRS
• Line Output Configuration: DC-Coupled
• Output Dynamic Range: 125 dB A-Weighted
• Output THD+N: -114 dB
• Maximum Output Level: +21 dBu
• Output Impedance: 220 Ohms Per Leg
• Output Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz (+0.01/-0.15 dB)
• Output Trim Range: 0 to -99 dB, Plus Mute
• Output Trim Increments: 1 dB
• Control Voltage Support: Yes, Through DC-Coupled Outputs

Headphone Outputs

• Headphone Connectors: 2 x 1/4" Stereo TRS
• Independent Headphone Level Controls: Yes
• Programmable Monitoring Sources: Yes
• Headphone Dynamic Range: 118 dB
• Headphone THD+N: -110 dB
• Headphone Output Impedance: Less Than 1 Ohm
• Maximum Headphone Output Level: +13.3 dBu, Unloaded
• Headphone Frequency Response: 22 Hz - 20 kHz (+0.01/-0.1 dB)
• Headphone Trim Range: 0 to -99 dB, Plus Mute

Digital Audio Connectivity

• Host Connection: 1 x USB-C
• Downstream Device Connection: 1 x USB-C
• Host Connection Protocols: Thunderbolt 4, USB4, USB3, USB2
• Thunderbolt Compatibility: Thunderbolt 3 or Later
• Maximum Host Audio Channels: 128 Inputs / 128 Outputs at 96 kHz via Thunderbolt 4 or USB4
• Optical Inputs: 2 x TOSLINK
• Optical Outputs: 2 x TOSLINK
• Optical Formats: ADAT, S/MUX, Stereo Optical S/PDIF on Bank A
• ADAT Channels at 44.1/48 kHz: 16 Inputs / 16 Outputs
• ADAT Channels at 88.2/96 kHz: 8 Inputs / 8 Outputs
• ADAT Availability at 176.4/192 kHz: Disabled
• Maximum ADAT Resolution: 24-Bit
• Word Clock Input: 1 x BNC
• Word Clock Output/Thru: 1 x BNC
• Word Clock Termination: 75 Ohms
• Word Clock Input Voltage: 1 to 3 V Peak-to-Peak
• Word Clock Output Voltage: 5 V Peak-to-Peak Unloaded
• Word Clock Standard: AES-11 2009 Annex B
• Maximum Supported Sample Rate: 192 kHz
• Specified Round-Trip Latency: Approximately 1.8 ms at 96 kHz with 32-Sample Buffer

AVB Networking

• Network Connections: 2 x Gigabit Ethernet
• Network Protocol: Audio Video Bridging (AVB)
• Maximum AVB Streams at Up to 96 kHz: 16 Inputs / 16 Outputs
• Maximum AVB Streams at 176.4/192 kHz: 8 Inputs / 8 Outputs
• Audio Channels Per Stream: 1 to 8
• Maximum Network Audio Channels at Up to 96 kHz: 128 Inputs / 128 Outputs
• AVB Connection Management: IEEE 1722.1
• Supported Stream Formats: AAF, Legacy AM8-24
• Network Clock Synchronization: Supported
• Compatible Network Equipment: MOTU AVB Interfaces and Compatible AVB Networking Devices

Internal DSP and Monitoring

• DSP Mixer Input Channels: 64
• DSP Mixing Buses: 32
• Available Processing: Four-Band Parametric EQ, Compressor, Gate, High-Pass Filter, Reverb
• Internal Processing Resolution: 32-Bit Floating Point
• Equalizer Processing: 64-Bit Double Precision
• Delay Compensation: Four 16-Channel Delay Banks
• Monitor Speaker Selection: A/B/C
• Surround Monitoring: Up to 7.1
• Front-Panel Controls: Input Selection, Preamp Gain, Pad, Phantom Power, Headphone Levels, Monitor Level, Mute, Mono, Talkback, Menu Navigation
• Standalone Mixer Operation: Supported
• Loopback Recording: Supported
• Control Software: MOTU CueMix Pro

Computer Compatibility

• Mac Compatibility: Intel and Apple Silicon
• Minimum macOS Version: macOS 12 for USB Class-Compliant Operation
• Recommended macOS Version: macOS 13 or Later
• Windows Compatibility: Windows 11 Version 23H2 or Later
• iOS Compatibility: iOS 17 or Later
• Minimum Processor: Intel Core i3 or Equivalent AMD Processor
• Recommended Processor: Apple Silicon or Faster Supported Intel/AMD Processor
• Minimum RAM: 4 GB
• Recommended RAM: 8 GB or More
• Recommended Storage: At Least 512 GB
• Required Computer Port: Compatible Thunderbolt or USB Connection
• Thunderbolt Operation: Requires Thunderbolt 3 or Later
• USB Class-Compliant Operation: Supported on macOS and iOS

Included Software

• Interface Control: MOTU CueMix Pro
• Recording Software: MOTU Performer Lite
• Supported Desktop Platforms: macOS and Windows
• Sound Library: Approximately 6 GB of Loops and Samples

Power and Physical Specifications

• Power Supply: Internal Universal AC
• AC Input Voltage: 100 - 240 VAC
• AC Frequency: 50/60 Hz
• Maximum Input Current: 1 A
• Power Connector: IEC
• Rackmount Size: 1U
• Rack Width: 19"
• Dimensions (W x D x H): 19" x 12.3" x 1.8"
• Weight: 11 lb
• Operating Temperature: 50 - 104 Degrees Fahrenheit

What's in the Box

• MOTU 10pre Audio Interface
• 40 Gbps / 240W USB-C Cable
• IEC Power Cord
• Printed User Guide
• Getting Started Card