The MOTU 896mk3 audio interface delivers advanced design, high-end performance, superb sound, and universal "hybrid" FireWire/USB2 connectivity to your Mac or Windows computer.
As a hybrid audio interface, the 896mk3 provides flexible connectivity to any Mac or PC via FireWire or high-speed USB 2.0, with eight channels of pristine 24-bit 192 kHz analog recording and playback, combined with sixteen channels of optical digital I/O, stereo AES/EBU, S/PDIF and separate analog main outs. Expand your system by connecting the 8pre mic input expander or other MOTU audio interfaces.
As an interface or standalone mixer, the 896mk3 provides 28 separate inputs and 32 separate outputs, including dedicated main outs on XLRs and two front panel headphone outs. Connect all of your studio gear, including microphones, guitars, synths, keyboards, drum machines and even effects processors. Record, monitor, route and process all of these live inputs using the professional on-board CueMix FX digital mixer – with no latency and no processor strain on your computer.
Apply hardware DSP-driven effects processing to inputs, outputs, and busses independent of your host computer. Add Classic Reverb with lengths up to 60 seconds. Further sculpt your sound with 7-band parametric EQ featuring filter types carefully modeled after British analog console EQs. Choose between two forms of compression: a conventional compressor and the Leveler, an accurate model of the legendary LA-2A optical compressor that provides vintage, musical automatic gain control.
The main features of the 896mk3 include:
I originally had the 896mk1 so I’m aware of all the upgrades on the Mk3. Taken a little while to get used to.
I’m not very happy about the way you toggle the phantom power on each channel is the same if u want a Db cut.. would rather have a separate switch for this as not to ruin ribbon mics etc
The volume switches are a lot better and there’s more room for refined gain control.
Easily recognisable in DAW and I had no need to set up any hardware. I have it linked into an 8pre and the MK1 and an ADA8000.
Takes a little getting used to toggling through the menus.
Would have preferred 2 headphone outs and a couple of inputs on the front for easy access.
All in all, I needed a FireWire unit with good pres and this was the cheapest option on my budget. dVd24/7 beats their competitors hands down on price so quite happy I got this.. let’s hope it stands the test of time.