16A (Thunderbolt 4) vs 8M Audio Interface
The 8M Audio Interface costs about $100 more than the 16A (Thunderbolt 4) and buys you 14 more I/O, plus XLR Female and DB25.
| Spec | 16A (Thunderbolt 4) | 8M Audio Interface |
|---|---|---|
| Rack space | 1U | 1U |
| Weight | 4.0 lbs | 6.4 lbs |
| Power draw | 18W | 30W |
| Depth | 178 mm | 229 mm |
| I/O count | 5 | 19 |
| Price | ~$1,595 | ~$1,695 |
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
16A (Thunderbolt 4)
- etherCON
8M Audio Interface
- XLR Female
- DB25
- AES3 XLR
- RJ45 (Ethernet)
- USB-C
- BNC
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 plannerFree, no sign-up. Both units are in the catalog.