Essential Information About the MOTU 112D Digital Audio Interface
- Ultra-comprehensive digital hub: up to 112 simultaneous inputs and 112 outputs to centralize MADI, AES/EBU, and ADAT in a single rack.
- Versatile computer connectivity: Thunderbolt, AVB Ethernet, or high-speed USB 2.0 (compatible with USB 3.0 and iOS) to integrate into various studio and live workflows.
- Standalone routing, format conversion, and mixing: channel distribution, conversion, and digital patching managed without constant dependence on the computer.
- Network and wireless control: operation via web application, detailed VU meters, and preset recalls for quick changes.
A Key Component in the MOTU AVB Ecosystem: The "Bridge" Between MADI, AES/EBU, and ADAT
The MOTU 112D is designed as a reference digital audio interface for studios and control rooms that handle multiple digital standards daily. Instead of multiplying external converters and patch bays, it consolidates a high density of I/O and a routing engine capable of interfacing MADI, AES/EBU, and ADAT within a single chassis, while offering direct computer connection via Thunderbolt or USB, and network integration through AVB Ethernet. In multi-room, broadcast, or live configurations, it becomes a clear and professional junction point to organize signal flows, secure synchronization, and streamline cabling.
Who It's For and Intended Uses: Studio, Broadcast, Live, Post-Production, and Audio Networks
This interface targets environments that require many simultaneous digital channels with simple and reliable management: studios equipped with external preamps and converters in AES/EBU, extension systems via ADAT, consoles and stageboxes in MADI, or installations where audio passes through an AVB network. The 112D is also suitable for mobile setups that need fast digital patching, with settings recall and remote control. In practice, it can serve as a "central router" between multiple digital sources, a format converter, or the main multi-channel capture and playback interface on a computer.
Routing, Mixing, and Control: An Interface Designed for Workflow, Not Just Recording
112 Simultaneous Digital Channels and True Distribution Flexibility
The 112D provides 24 AES/EBU input and output channels, 24 ADAT optical input and output channels, and 64 MADI input and output channels. All channels can be activated simultaneously, enabling management of heavy sessions, live splits, stage monitors, or complex routings without compromise. The goal is clear: simplify exchanges between formats and make channel distribution direct and transparent.
Standalone Mixing, Low Latency, and Analog-Style Processing
Beyond I/O, the 112D includes 48 channels of digital mixing. It is designed to operate with ultra-low input and output latency and also offers input-to-analog output latency at 48 kHz (depending on configuration). For headphone mixes, comfort mixes, or broadcast sub-mixes, standalone mixing avoids dependence on the computer's buffer. The analog-style EQ and compression emulation allow shaping mixes with a musical and effective approach, particularly useful in recording, streaming, or control room environments.
AVB Ethernet, System Expansion, and Browser-Based Control
The 112D can integrate into an AVB audio network and be controlled via the internet, including wirelessly. The comprehensive and precise VU meters, front LCD screen, and quick presets facilitate daily operation. For expandable systems, an AVB switch (sold separately) allows connecting up to 5 MOTU interfaces to extend the number of inputs/outputs and distribute audio across multiple workstations.
Technical Specifications
Sampling Frequencies
- 44.1 kHz
- 48 kHz
- 88.2 kHz
- 96 kHz
- 176.4 kHz
- 192 kHz
Digital Inputs and Outputs
- Optical ADAT: 3 banks of 8 channels at sample-accurate timing
- Optical SMUX: 6 banks of 4 channels at 2-sample timing accuracy
- AES/EBU: 3 banks of 8 channels on 25-pin D-sub connectors
- MADI: 1 input/output (64/56 channels at sample-accurate timing, 32 channels at 2-sample timing, and 16 channels at 4-sample timing)
Total Inputs and Outputs
- 112 inputs and 112 outputs (224 total) at sample-accurate timing
- 80 inputs and 80 outputs (160 total) at 2-sample timing accuracy
- 16 inputs and 16 outputs (32 total) at 4-sample timing accuracy
Computer Connections
- 1 Thunderbolt port (compatible with Thunderbolt 1 and 2)
- 1 USB 2.0 port compatible with audio, USB 3.0, and iOS
- 1 AVB Ethernet port (requires OS X Yosemite)
Synchronization
- 1 Word Clock input
- 1 Word Clock output/thru
Controls and Display (Front Panel)
- 5 navigation menu switches
- 324 x 24 pixel LCD screen (VU meters and navigation menu)
- 1 AC power switch
Mixing and Processing
- 48 channels of digital mixing
- Analog-style EQ and compression emulation
Power Supply
- International 100-240 V with automatic 110 V or 220 V switching
- 50-60 Hz
- Maximum consumption 0.5 A
System Requirements: Mac
- Intel Mac 1 GHz or higher
- 2 GB RAM (4 GB or more recommended)
- Mac OS X 10.8 or higher
- Available Thunderbolt, USB 2.0, or AVB Ethernet port
- Minimum 500 GB hard drive for recording
- AVB Ethernet interface operations require OS X Yosemite
System Requirements: Windows
- Pentium PC or compatible, 1 GHz or higher
- 2 GB RAM (4 GB or more recommended)
- Windows 7 or higher
- Available USB 2.0 or 3.0 port
- Available Ethernet port for firmware updates
- Minimum 500 GB hard drive for recording
Internet Access and Control
- Client platforms: Mac, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android
- Browsers: Safari, Firefox, Chrome, Opera, Explorer, etc.
- Internet clients must be connected to the same network as the MOTU AVB interface (wired or WiFi)
Included Software
- Thunderbolt and USB 2.0 drivers
- MOTU AVB Discovery App for Mac (identifies connected MOTU interfaces)
- MOTU AVB Discovery App for iOS
- MOTU AVB Control (web application accessible from the interface)
- AudioDesk 4.0 for Mac and Windows (separate downloads), digital audio workstation software
Systems: General Compatibility
- For computer audio I/O: Mac OS X 10.8 or higher, Windows 7 or higher
- For internet control applications: Mac, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android
Compatible Software on Mac (Core Audio)
- MOTU Digital Performer
- Avid Pro Tools (version 9 or higher)
- Apple Logic Pro
- Apple Logic Express
- Apple GarageBand
- Apple SoundTrack Pro
- Ableton Live
- Propellerhead Record and Reason
- Steinberg Cubase
- Cockos Reaper
- Native Instruments Kontakt
- Waves: standalone applications (and plug-ins via compatible host software)
Compatible Software on Windows (ASIO and Wave)
- MOTU Digital Performer
- Avid Pro Tools (version 9 or higher)
- Ableton Live
- Cakewalk Sonar
- Steinberg Cubase
en 
