MOTU UltraLite - MK5 USB Audio Interface
Product details
Unleash Studio-Grade Sound with the MOTU UltraLite - MK5 USB Audio Interface
Supercharge your sonic potential with the MOTU UltraLite - mk5, a compact powerhouse USB audio interface designed to ignite your creativity. This versatile interface boasts a staggering 40 simultaneous channels (18 inputs, 22 outputs), pristine audio quality, and rock-solid performance, making it the perfect companion for musicians, producers, and audio engineers alike.
Uncompromising Audio Fidelity:
Experience the difference of reference-quality ESS Sabre32â„¢ DAC technology. The UltraLite - mk5 delivers a remarkable 125 dB dynamic range and an astonishing -114 dB THD+N (Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise), ensuring every detail of your audio is captured with unparalleled clarity and depth. Whether you're recording vocals, laying down intricate instrument tracks, or mixing complex projects, the UltraLite - mk5 guarantees a transparent and breathtaking listening experience.
Unleash Your Creative Flow:
Ditch the latency demons with the UltraLite - mk5's industry-leading low latency performance. Optimized drivers ensure seamless recording and monitoring, allowing you to focus on capturing your inspiration without technical distractions. Jam along with virtual instruments in real-time, record overdubs with pinpoint accuracy, and experience the joy of a truly fluid creative workflow.
A Studio Command Center at Your Fingertips:
Take complete control of your audio with the intuitive CueMix 5™ software. This powerful mixer lets you create custom monitor mixes, apply DSP effects, and route signals with ease, all from your computer or even your iPad® thanks to USB class compliance.
Unmatched Versatility for Any Recording Scenario:
The UltraLite - mk5 boasts a comprehensive suite of connections to accommodate your ever-expanding studio needs. Capture pristine vocals with the high-performance microphone preamps, integrate your favorite outboard gear through the line inputs, and expand your sonic palette with the optical I/O. Whether you're recording a solo performance, a full band, or collaborating with remote musicians, the UltraLite-mk5 has the connectivity to handle it all.
Beyond the Studio Walls:
The UltraLite - mk5 isn't just a studio powerhouse; it's your portable production partner. Its compact, road-worthy design makes it ideal for capturing high-quality audio on location. The bus-powered operation eliminates the need for an external power supply, ensuring seamless recording wherever inspiration strikes.
Invest in the Sound You Deserve:
The MOTU UltraLite - mk5 is more than just an audio interface; it's an investment in your sonic future. With its exceptional audio quality, unmatched versatility, and intuitive workflow, the UltraLite-mk5 empowers you to create professional-sounding recordings that will captivate your audience.
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MOTU UltraLite - mk5 USB Audio Interface: SEO Optimized Pros, Cons, and Ideal Users
Advantages:
- Superior Audio Quality:Â Boasts reference-grade ESS Sabre32â„¢ DAC technology for exceptional 125 dB dynamic range and -114 dB THD+N, capturing audio with unparalleled clarity.
- Ultra-Low Latency Performance:Â Optimized drivers deliver industry-leading low latency, ensuring seamless recording, monitoring, and real-time virtual instrument use.
- Versatile I/O Options:Â Features 18 inputs and 22 outputs, including high-performance mic preamps, line inputs, optical I/O, and headphone output, accommodating diverse recording needs.
- Portable and Bus-Powered:Â Compact design and bus-powered operation make it ideal for mobile recording and location work.
- iOS Compatibility: USB class compliant for plug-and-play use with iPad® and other Apple® devices, perfect for on-the-go recording and live performances.
- Intuitive Mixing Control: Powerful CueMix 5™ software allows for creating custom monitor mixes, applying effects, and routing signals with ease, accessible from computer or iPad®.
Disadvantages:
- Price: Compared to some basic audio interfaces, the UltraLite - mk5 falls in a higher price range due to its advanced features and audio quality.
- Learning Curve:Â The comprehensive feature set might require some familiarization for beginners compared to simpler interfaces.
Best Suited For:
- Musicians:Â Ideal for recording vocals, instruments, and creating overdubs with superior audio quality and low latency.
- Producers:Â Well-equipped for handling complex projects with its versatile I/O options and intuitive mixing software.
- Audio Engineers:Â Provides professional-grade audio fidelity for critical recording, mixing, and mastering applications.
- Live Performers:Â Compact size and bus-powered operation make it perfect for capturing live performances or using as a portable mixer with iOS devices.
- Content Creators:Â Well-suited for recording podcasts, livestreams, and voiceovers with pristine audio and easy integration with recording software.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the MOTU UltraLite - mk5 require drivers?
- A: The UltraLite-mk5 is USB class-compliant for Mac (OS 10.11 or higher) and works without driver installation. Windows 10 or later requires ASIO and Wave drivers provided by MOTU.
Q: Can I use the UltraLite - mk5 with my iPad?
- A: Yes! The UltraLite - mk5 is USB class-compliant and works seamlessly with iPad® and other Apple® devices for on-location recording and live performances.
Q: How many channels does the UltraLite - mk5 offer?
- A: The UltraLite - mk5 boasts an impressive 40 simultaneous channels (18 inputs and 22 outputs), providing ample flexibility for recording and mixing complex projects.
Q: What type of microphone preamps does the UltraLite - mk5 have?
- A: The UltraLite - mk5 features high-performance microphone preamps with individual 48v phantom power, ideal for capturing studio-quality vocals and instruments.
Q: Does the UltraLite - mk5 have MIDI connectivity?
- A: No, the UltraLite - mk5 does not have dedicated MIDI ports. However, some digital audio formats like ADAT can carry MIDI data over a single optical cable.
Q: Is the UltraLite - mk5 good for beginners?
- A: The UltraLite - mk5 offers exceptional audio quality and versatility. While beginners can benefit from it, its comprehensive feature set might have a steeper learning curve compared to simpler interfaces.
Q: What software is included with the UltraLite - mk5?
- A: The UltraLite - mk5 includes the powerful CueMix 5â„¢ software for mixing, applying effects, and routing signals with ease.
Q: Is the UltraLite - mk5 portable?
- A: Absolutely! The compact design and bus-powered operation make the UltraLite - mk5 ideal for mobile recording and use on location.
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TECH SPECS
Technical Specifications
| Sample rates | 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192 kHz |
|---|---|
| Mic/line/guitar inputs | 2 x XLR/TRS "combo" jacks 1 MΩ impedance on the line/instr inputs |
| Analog inputs | 6 x 1/4" TRS line in (balanced) |
| Analog outputs | 10 x 1/4" TRS line out (balanced, DC coupled) |
| Digital I/O | 1 bank (8 ch) of ADAT optical at 1x sample rates 1 bank (4 ch) of SMUX optical at 2x sample rates Switchable to stereo TOSLink (optical S/PDIF) 1 x stereo S/PDIF on RCA (up to 96 kHz) |
| Computer I/O | 1 x USB-C 2.0 audio class compliant Compatible with USB Type A (with adapter or C-to-A cable) |
| Total audio I/O | 18 in / 22 out (40 total) at 1x sample rates 14 in / 18 out (32 total) at 2x sample rates 8 in / 12 out (20 total) at 4x sample rates |
| MIDI I/O | 1 x MIDI IN 1 x MIDI OUT 16 MIDI channels to/from computer host |
| Headphone | 1 x 1/4" TRS stereo phone |
| Phantom power | 2 x individual +48V |
| Front panel | 2 x XLR/TRS combo inputs 1 x 1/4" TRS headphone output 1 x potentiometer • phone/monitor vol 2 x potentiometer • mic/instr input gain 4 x switches • (2) 48V and (2) pad 1x high-resolution white OLED display for metering/status |
| Power | Multi-blade international 15V DC power adapter 1.0A max • tip pos or neg Supports 100-240V power sources (US/Japan, EU, UK, Australia) |
| Dimensions and weight | (width x depth x height, enclosure only) 8.6 x 6.9 x 1.75 inches 22 x 17.5 x 4.5 cm 2.875 lbs / 1.31 kg |
System Requirements
| Mac System Requirements | Intel Core i3 Mac or faster (including Apple silicon Macs) 4 GB RAM; 8 GB or more recommended macOS version 10.11 or later (Optional driver requires 10.13 or later) Available USB port A large hard drive (at least 500 GB for recording) |
|---|---|
| Windows System Requirements | Intel Core i3 PC (or AMD equivalent) 4 GB RAM; 8 GB or more recommended Windows 10 or later (x64 AMD/Intel only) Available USB port A large hard drive (at least 500 GB for recording) |
| Class-Compliant Support | USB audio class compliant for plug-and-play operation on Mac or iOS (no driver required) |
| Included Software | CueMix 5 MOTU Performer Lite 6GB of loops and sounds from Big Fish Audio, LucidSamples, Loopmasters and MOTU |
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More FAQs
Q: What is the difference between the Motu UltraLite mk5 and previous generations?
A: The Motu UltraLite mk5 boasts several improvements over its predecessors, including a wider dynamic range, lower THD+N, and enhanced connectivity options. Additionally, it features an updated design and improved workflow features.
Q: How many microphones can I connect to the Motu UltraLite mk5?
A: The Motu UltraLite mk5 features two microphone preamps with phantom power, allowing you to connect two condenser microphones simultaneously.
Q: Can I use the Motu UltraLite mk5 with my laptop?
A: Yes, the Motu UltraLite mk5 is bus-powered and fully compatible with both Mac and PC laptops.
Q: Is the Motu UltraLite mk5 a good choice for live sound?
A: Absolutely! The Motu UltraLite mk5's compact design, versatile I/O options, and low latency make it a great choice for capturing live performances.
Q: What software is included with the Motu UltraLite mk5?
A: The Motu UltraLite mk5 includes a suite of powerful software tools, including Performer Lite DAW, CueMix Lite for control and mixing, and additional utilities for system setup and configuration.
