The Motu family of audio interfaces are all built upon essentially the same platform. The newer generation utilize Texas Instruments TMS320 series of DSP processors to handle bussing and routing. The converters are Asahi Kasei (AKM), and are the same converters used in many other brands of interfaces, including Digidesign, RME, Maudio, Roland, and many more. Given their strong Macintosh drivers, these units are fantastic choices for an Apple-based home studio.
Have you ever read a recording studio magazine review that raves about the audio quality of the device being covered? Most reviews seem to dance around the issue. The article will often tell you about all the bells and whistles, but never touch upon the most important aspect of all: the audio quality. Much of pro audio equipment uses poor quality analog signal chain components. In the world of converters, there is a pervasive myth that the converter quality matters the most, and that the analog stages are not important. We know that this isn't true. In MOTU's case, the use of NJM4580 and NJM2115 opamps is one of the biggest liabilities to sound quality.
A second weak spot is definitely the clock. It's based around Texas Instruments TLC2933, which is a VCO and PLL all in one. Jitter is high in comparison to good converter clocks-the datasheet claims at least 120 picoseconds, although I suspect it's much higher than that because of power supply noise.
We replace the entire analog section with much higher quality components. This drastically reduces THD and improves bandwidth. The result is a much cleaner, more open sound.
The modification allows the AKM converters to perform as they were designed to. It brings the MOTU to life, and improves soundstage and imaging. Vocal tracks are smoother, transients are more focused and less smeared. Guitars are more detailed and lifelike. The soundstage is wider, and instrument placement is much more realistic.
As an inexpensive converter upgrade, we feel that this is well worth the money. You'll find that a modified MOTU will compete with high-end converters that cost twice the price!
Reviews
Click on the link below that will take you to our reviews section. There you can read some customers thoughts on they're modified MOTU units.
Reviews Section
MOTU 1296, 24i, and 1224: $325 for analog only
MOTU HD192 :$350.00
MOTU 896 and 896HD: $250 for analog only -no preamps. *We are no longer offering the additional preamps on the 896 due to time constraints.
MOTU Traveler: $285 for analog only
MOTU 2408, 828 and 828mk2: $295 for analog only
MOTU 24i/o: $595 for analog only
*please note- We do not offer the modification for the Ultralite anymore.
Contact us to schedule an appointment
Here is how it works:
We schedule an appointment for the modification and then send you an initial invoice for 50% down payment that is due within three days. Payment can be made by credit card or through Paypal.
When payment is received we confirm your scheduled appointment.
You ship the unit to us so that it arrives two days before the scheduled modification.
When the modification is finished we notify you and you then pay the remainder of the cost.
We ship you the modified unit.
Please note that there is a cancellation fee of 30% of the scheduling deposit.
If you wish to reschedule, we require two-weeks notice, and there is a $25 rescheduling fee.
There is a $10 a day charge for units that remain on our shop for more than seven days.
We wish we did not have to require these fees, but unfortunately they are necessary in order for us to keep our prices low and to meet our scheduled commitments.
