MOTU UltraLite Mk5 Review
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Our editorial take on the MOTU UltraLite Mk5
The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 desktop audio interface presents a comprehensive solution for various audio production needs. With 18 inputs and 22 outputs, it offers substantial connectivity for its class, including combo XLR-TRS, line, and extensive digital I/O options. The inclusion of improved DACs, a virtual loopback function, and built-in DSP processing broadens its appeal across different creative workflows.
Key features like individually selectable phantom power, switchable -20 dB pads on mic inputs, and a wide gain range up to +74 dB for mic inputs contribute to its versatility. Its ability to function in both host-based and standalone modes further enhances adaptability for musicians, producers, and content creators. The stated low latency of 2.4 ms at 96 kHz positions it as a strong contender for real-time applications.
While offering robust I/O and performance specifications, the UltraLite-mk5 lacks certain features like sync I/O or network connectivity, which might be critical for some studio setups. However, for users prioritizing flexible audio routing, high-quality audio conversion, and a generous software bundle within a USB-C interface, it provides a well-rounded package.
- Extensive 18-in / 22-out connectivity for a desktop interface
- Improved DACs and analog performance for high-quality audio
- Built-in DSP and virtual loopback functionality
- Flexible phantom power and pad controls for mic inputs
- Low latency performance at 2.4 ms (at 96 kHz)
- Lacks dedicated sync I/O (e.g., Word Clock)
- No built-in high-pass filter on inputs
- No wireless or network connectivity
Synthesized by Geared editors from early expert reviews.
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About this product
The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 desktop 18x22 USB-C audio/MIDI interface offers enhancements including updated DACs and improved analog performance. With flexible connectivity, a generous software bundle, virtual loopback function, and host-based or standalone use, it suits musicians, producers, podcasters, and content creators.
Specs
- Display
- 1x Monochrome OLED
- Latency
- 2.4 ms at 96 kHz (Dependent on Buffer S
- Pad Mic
- -20 dB (Switchable per Channel)
- MIDI I/O
- 1x DIN 5-Pin Input 1x DIN 5-Pin Output
- Sync I/O
- No
- Wireless
- No
- Solo/Mute
- No
- Bit Depths
- 24-Bit
- Network I/O
- No
- Built-In DSP
- Yes
- Sample Rates
- 44.1 to 192 kHz
- Phantom Power
- 48 V, Selectable On/Off (Selectable on Individual Inputs)
- EIN Mic Inputs
- -129 dBu
- USB (Non-Host)
- No
- Expansion Slots
- No
- Host Connection
- 1x USB-C (Class-Compliant)
- Analog Audio I/O
- 2x Combo XLR-1/4" TRS Mic/Line/Hi-Z Input 6x 1/4" TRS Line Input 10x 1/4" TRS Line Output 1x 1/4" TRS Headphone Output
- High-Pass Filter
- No
- THD+N Mic Inputs
- -113 dB
- Digital Audio I/O
- TOSLINK Optical ADAT / S/PDIF Input TOSLINK Optical ADAT / S/PDIF Output RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Input RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Output
- THD+N Line Inputs
- -114 dB / 0.0002% (Unweighted)
- Power Requirements
- AC/DC Power Adapter (Included)
- THD+N Line Outputs
- -114 dB / 0.0002% (Unweighted)
- Built-In Microphone
- No
- Maximum Sampling Rate
- 192 kHz / 24-Bit
- Channels Of I/O Analog
- 8 Inputs / 12 Outputs
- Input Level Adjustment
- 2x Knob
- Sample Rate Conversion
- No
- Channels Of I/O Digital
- 10 Inputs / 10 Outputs
- THD+N Headphone Outputs
- -110 dB / 0.0003% (Unweighted)
- Dynamic Range Mic Inputs
- 115 dB (A-Weighted)
- Host Connection Protocol
- USB 2.0
- Analog Audio I/O Detailed
- 2x Combo XLR-1/4" TRS Balanced/Unbalanced Mic/Line/Hi-Z Input (Front Panel) 6x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Input 10x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Output 1x 1/4" TRS Unbalanced Headphone Output (Front Panel)
- Dynamic Range Line Inputs
- 120 dB (A-Weighted)
- Digital Audio I/O Detailed
- 1x TOSLINK Optical ADAT / S/PDIF Input 1x TOSLINK Optical ADAT / S/PDIF Output 1x RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Input 1x RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Output
- Dynamic Range Line Outputs
- 125 dB (A-Weighted)
- Gain/Trim Range Mic Inputs
- Up to +74 dB
- Impedance Line/Hi-Z Inputs
- 1 Megohm
- Number Of Microphone Inputs
- 2
- Maximum Input Level Mic Inputs
- 0 dBu
- Dynamic Range Headphone Outputs
- 118 dB (A-Weighted)
- Maximum Input Level Line Inputs
- +24 dBu
- Maximum Output Level Line Outputs
- +21 dBu
- Maximum Output Level Headphone Outputs
- +14 dBu
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