10pre vs 8D Audio Interface
The 10pre costs about $300 more than the 8D Audio Interface and buys you 20 more I/O, plus Combo XLR/TRS and TRS 1/4". It draws 25W less, which matters on a full rack.
MOTU
10pre| Spec | 10pre | 8D Audio Interface |
|---|---|---|
| Rack space | 1U | 1U |
| Weight | 11.0 lbs | 5.5 lbs |
| Power draw | Passive | 25W |
| Depth | 311.15 mm | 229 mm |
| I/O count | 35 | 15 |
| Price | ~$1,595 | ~$1,295 |
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
10pre
- Combo XLR/TRS
- TRS 1/4"
- TOSLINK (Optical)
8D Audio Interface
- AES3 XLR
- Thunderbolt
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.

