Motu 896 vs 896HD

  • Thread starter Thread starter bbh03
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bbh03

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Hi,

Anyone know what exactly are the differences here? Having trouble finding info on the older 896 model.

Thanks,

Brian
 
The differences that I knew of where higher sample rates (192 kHz) and supposedly better preamps (perhaps op-amp upgrades) in the HD. I owned the original 896 at one time and thought about upgrading, but decided not to. I never liked the pre's on the 896, and from searching the Net forums, the 896HD wasn't a major increase in quality. In general, I like the 896 and thought it was a nice piece.

I think the MOTU site used to have specs on the 896, but this was a couple years back before the now new 896HD Mark 3.
 
Thanks for that. Yeah, the Motu website has no info about the 896 or the HD anymore.
 
Either one should go directly to Black Lion Audio for an inexpensive mod - with impressive results.

I use a BLA modded 896HD, and don't have any plans to replace it soon.
 
I'll have to check BLA out, thanks. I assume an 896 is compatible to be links to a 896hd for 16 inputs right?
 
Yes, they both have optical in/outs, so you can use either one as your interface, and run the other one into it.
 
I see. So I have one of each here. I have no problem with the 896, works great, but the 896HD is not recognized by the computer (mac pro) or the drivers (Motu audio setup - newest version). Do I have to use the optical? I'll give it a try. I was under the impression that the firewire between them was the way to do it? Thanks in advance for any advice!

Edit - just tried an optical link (out from the slave unit, 896HD, and in to the 896 which is connected to the computer via firewire). Same problem - the clock on convert lights on the HD just blink on and off. Also tried with both cables.

Brian
 
Last edited:
DOA unit. Ship it back and get a new one or call MOTU and they'll swap it out for you.
 
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