MOTU 24 I/O Expansion Rack for PCI-424

More details:

Please note that this unit does not come with the PCI-424 card required to use with a computer system and is an expansion option only.

The MOTU Audio 24I/O interface fulfills the promise of host-based hard disk recording to record, edit, mix process, and master multitrack recording projects entirely inside the computer. It provides 24 high quality, 24-bit/96kHz analog inputs and outputs in a cost effective, single rack space package, allowing you to connect and record from 24 simultaneous analog sources.

The 24I/O can be purchased as an expander for an existing PCI-424-based MOTU Audio System, or as a core system which includes the PCI-424 card and Audiodesk workstation software.

Metering

The 24I/O's front panel is essentially a dedicated meter bridge for your hard disk recording system. Audio activity for every input and output is represented by its own five-segment LED bar graph.

Front Panel Power Switch

Useful in the unlikely event you wish to turn off your 24I/O. An interesting fact about MOTU Audio interfaces is that they are hot swappable. This means you can power off, plug-in, add and remove interfaces without turning your computer off or restarting. In fact, if you already have a 2408mk3 or other PCI-424 system, adding a 24I/O is as easy as plugging in an AudioWire cable.

24-bit analog TRS Input and Output

The 24 analog inputs and outputs are professional-grade TRS (balanced/unbalanced) connectors operating at either -10 dB or +4 dB. The input level can be switched via software in banks of eight inputs. In addition, CumixDSP provides continuously variable input trim with up to 12 dB boost per channel.

Word Clock I/O

The 24I/O audio interface provides industry standard word clock sync on a single BNC connector that can be programmed for input or output via software. When operating as a word clock input, the word connector allows the 24I/O to synchronize smoothly with today's digital audio studio. When operating as a word clock output, the word connector can be used as a master clock to drive other digital devices in your studio, such as a digital mixer.

AudioWire

The 24I/O uses the second generation AudioWire we introduced with the 2408mk3. It is a high-bandwidth digital audio format capable of carrying up to 24 channels of 96 kHz digital audio in and out of the computer at the same time. AudioWire can readily handle the 24 simultaneous inputs and outputs of the 24I/O audio interface.

Power Supply

Like all MOTU hardware products, the 24I/O comes with an internal power supply and standard detachable IEC power cable. No wall warts or line lumps.

The 24I/O uses the same PCI-424 card that comes with the 2408mk3. You can connect up to four audio interfaces to a PCI-424 in any combination to create a system that fits your needs.

An ideal companion for the 2408

The 24I/O adds 24 channels of high quality analog input and output to your MOTU Audio system. With that much I/O available, you can keep the outputs of your synthesizers and outboard effects patched into your computer at all times. It is a snap to route the output via the PCI-424 Console Software.

The PCI-424 card features a powerful DSP chip dedicated to creating a custom tailored monitor mix of up to 96 channels of 96kHz audio. Because the mixing takes place on the card itself, instead of making the round trip from the PCI bus to the host processor, the system provides the same near-zero latency performance as today's latest digital mixers. CueMix DSP completely eliminates the buffer latency associated with monitoring on host-based systems. Because the DSP is mixing for you, your computer's CPU is free for other tasks.

Cuemix DSP is the most flexible Cuemix ever, allowing you to mix multiple channels into multiple mix busses or directly assigned outputs. Manage your monitor mix with the intuitive Cuemix Console software included with the 24I/O.

MOTU 24I/O FAQ

How do I use effects such as EQ or reverb on live inputs I'm monitoring with CueMix DSP?

CueMix DSP itself does not provide effects processing, so you have several choices: 1) bus the live signal to your host audio software and apply a plug-in effect or 2) bus the live signal to a hardware reverb or other effects unit that is connected to your 24I/O as a send/return loop. With CueMix DSP, this loop has the same near-zero latency performance as one of today's latest digital mixers. With plug-in effects such as reverb, you can actually combine a little of the dry CueMix signal together with the processed wet signal.

Can I use my original 2408 with the PCI-424 card included with the 24I/O core system?

Yes, older legacy MOTU Audiowire interfaces (2408, 2408mkII, 1224, 308, 24i, 1296) are fully compatible with the PCI-424. Even the new Cuemix DSP and synchronization features can be used with legacy interfaces.

Can I buy a 24I/O expander to use with my PCI-324 card?

No, the 24I/O only works with the latest generation design of the PCI-424.

Can I still use my MTP-AV or Digital Timepiece with the PCI-424?

Yes, use the sample accurate ADAT sync connector on the PCI-424.

What operating systems are supported by the 24I/O?

MacOS 9, MacOS X (10.2 or higher), Windows 98SE, 2K, Me, XP

Does the 24I/O support OS X?

Yes! Download the drivers from the downloads section of the MOTU web site.

What is the difference between a core system and an expander?

A core system includes the PCI-424 card and Audiodesk software.

Can I plug my MOTU 828 or 896 Firewire interfaces into the PCI-424 card?

No. Like the PCI-324, the PCI-424 is an Audiowire interface only.