PULSE16 vs Quantum HD 8
The PULSE16 costs about $99.01 more than the Quantum HD 8 and buys you 13 more I/O, plus DC Barrel and MIDI 5-pin DIN.
Ferrofish
PULSE16PreSonus
Quantum HD 8| Spec | PULSE16 | Quantum HD 8 |
|---|---|---|
| Rack space | 1U | 1U |
| Weight | 4.4 lbs | 6.3 lbs |
| Power draw | Passive | Passive |
| Depth | 190 mm | 219 mm |
| I/O count | 46 | 33 |
| Price | ~$899 | ~$799.99 |
Highlighted where one is plainly lighter, smaller, cheaper or draws less. I/O count is left unmarked on purpose — more connectors you don't need is weight, cost and a bigger case.
Connectors only one of them has
PULSE16
- DC Barrel
- MIDI 5-pin DIN
Quantum HD 8
- TS 1/4"
- IEC C14
- USB-C
- D-sub 9
- Combo XLR/TRS
Settle it in your own rack
Specs decide less than fit does. Drop either one into your rig and see the real answer — what space is left, what the circuit draws, and whether every cable it needs actually lands somewhere.
Open the rack plannerTry 15 minutes without an account. Both units are in the catalog.

