Overview

The Neumann MT-48 represents the renowned microphone manufacturer’s first entry into the audio interface market, developed in partnership with Merging Technologies. This desktop 12-in/16-out USB-C interface features reference-class AD/DA conversion (AD dynamic range 136 dB), comprehensive DSP processing, and professional features including a touchscreen mixer and AES67 network audio. The platform is closely aligned with Merging’s converter technology and aims to deliver transparent performance consistent with Neumann’s microphones and monitors. [1]

Scientific Validity

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Manufacturer specifications indicate performance that meets or exceeds transparent thresholds in key areas. Notable figures include: mic preamp + ADC THD+N < −110 dB (0.0003%), line inputs THD+N < −105 dB (0.0006%), instrument inputs THD+N < −112 dB (0.0003%), and headphone output dynamic range up to 122 dB-A (high-gain mode). AD converter dynamic range is specified at 136 dB-A. These values clear the 0.01% distortion and ~105 dB dynamic-range transparency targets used in our criteria. Independent third-party lab measurements remain limited, so this assessment is provisional pending broader verification. [1]

Technology Level

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The MT-48 brings several advanced capabilities to a compact desktop form factor: an intuitive touchscreen UI with four independent monitor mixes and talkback, on-board DSP (parametric EQ, dynamics, reverb), and Dual Output Technology that routes simultaneous pre-FX and post-FX signals to the driver for wet/dry recording and backup capture. Network audio is supported via RAVENNA/AES67, and from Q4 2024 the unit ships Dante Ready™; Dante operation requires installing Neumann’s Dante firmware (free) and purchasing an 8×8 or 64×64 channel license from Audinate. These features position the MT-48 as a technologically forward option for hybrid studio and AoIP workflows. [1][2][3]

Cost-Performance

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Market price for the MT-48 is 1,850 USD (street). [3] For USB-centric workflows (excluding AoIP), the RME Babyface Pro FS delivers equivalent core user functionality (2 mic pres, ADAT expansion to 12×12 I/O, comprehensive DSP mixing via TotalMix FX, mature drivers) at 999 USD, with line-input SNR improvements to 116.3 dB (120 dBA) in the latest revision. [4][5]

Accordingly, CP = 999 USD ÷ 1,850 USD = 0.54 → 0.5.
Note: for integrated AoIP (AES67/Dante) with comparable quality and touchscreen workflow, the closest peer is Merging Anubis Pro SPS at 2,295 USD, i.e., more expensive than MT-48; there is no cheaper like-for-like AoIP/touchscreen alternative with similar analog I/O. [6]

Reliability & Support

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This is Neumann’s first interface, but it benefits from the company’s professional support infrastructure and Merging’s proven platform. Neumann has continued active development: units shipping from Q4 2024 are Dante Ready™, and registrations through 31 September 2025 qualify for a free permanent license for the Monitor Mission (enhanced monitor-control features). Long-term field data is still limited compared with incumbents such as RME, but early firmware and ecosystem updates suggest healthy product support. [1][2]

Rationality of Design Philosophy

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The design prioritizes measurable fidelity and workflow: high-headroom conversion, per-channel DSP, multi-cue monitoring, and network audio integration align with rational studio engineering needs. Pricing leans into brand and ecosystem value rather than purely spec-per-dollar considerations, which is a modest deviation from a strictly utilitarian positioning.

Advice

The MT-48 is compelling for studios that value: (1) a touchscreen mixer with wet/dry Dual Output capture, (2) AES67/Dante integration, and (3) tight alignment with Neumann monitors/headphones. If you don’t require AoIP, the RME Babyface Pro FS (999 USD) offers similar core recording/mixing functionality and excellent drivers at a much lower price. For larger USB-based I/O on a budget, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 (4th Gen) provides 26×26 I/O with two independent headphone outs and modern safety features (Auto Gain, Clip Safe) at 749.99 USD, though without AoIP or a touchscreen. [5][7]

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References

[1] Neumann — “MT 48” (specs & data/diagrams). Accessed 2025-08-14.
https://www.neumann.com/en-us/products/audiointerfaces/mt-48

[2] Neumann Newsroom — “Neumann @ IBC: Say Hello to Dante!” (Dante Ready from Q4 2024). Accessed 2025-08-14.
https://newsroom.neumann.com/neumann–ibc-say-hello-to-dante-hwcm8o

[3] Sweetwater — “Neumann MT 48 U USB-C/Dante Audio Interface” (price & Dante license note). Accessed 2025-08-14.
https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/MT48U–neumann-mt-48-u-usb-c-audio-interface

[4] RME — “Babyface Pro FS” (spec improvements incl. 116.3 dB line-input SNR). Accessed 2025-08-14.
https://rme-audio.de/babyface-pro-fs.html

[5] Sweetwater — “RME Babyface Pro FS USB Audio Interface” (price 999 USD). Accessed 2025-08-14.
https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/BabyfaceProFS–rme-babyface-pro-fs-24-channel-usb-audio-interface

[6] Sweetwater — “Merging Technologies Anubis Pro SPS” (price 2,295 USD). Accessed 2025-08-14.
https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/ANUBISPROSPS–merging-technologies-anubis-pro-sps-networked-audio-interface

[7] Focusrite — “Scarlett 18i20 4th Generation” (price 749.99 USD; 122 dB D-A dynamic range, features). Accessed 2025-08-14.
https://focusrite.com/products/scarlett-18i20

(2025.8.14)