The folks at MOTU are shipping the 8pre, a one rack-space Firewire audio interface that turns any laptop or desktop Power Mac, Intel Mac or PC into a 24-bit/96kHz recording studio with eight mic inputs (with phantom power), 8-channel ADAT optical digital I/O and MIDI I/O. When not connected to your computer, the 8pre can also function as an 8-channel analog-to-digital converter, essentially making this two products in one. It’s designed for either desktop or rackmount operation, with a variety of controls and status LEDs on the front panel for easy access. The 8pre rear panel provides the following connectors:
- Eight 24-bit/96kHz analog inputs equipped with TRS/XLR combo jacks.
- Two 24-bit/96kHz analog main outs on standard quarter-inch TRS plugs.
- Two banks of ADAT optical digital I/O connectors (in and out).
- MIDI in and out for connecting a MIDI controller or other MIDI device.
- Two 400 Mbit Firewire jacks for easy connection to a Mac or PC.
Because there are two FireWire ports, the 8pre can be daisy-chained (without the need for a Firewire hub) with additional 8pre units or other Firewire audio interfaces for additional audio input and output. Up to four 8pres or other MOTU FireWire audio interfaces can be connected to a single Firewire bus when operating at 44.1 or 48kHz.
