description Focusrite Red 16line Overview
The Focusrite Red 16line is a professional audio interface designed for demanding studio environments. Utilizing RedNets AVB networking protocol, it offers flexible routing and scalability. It features 16 high-quality microphone preamps, delivering clean and transparent gain. Its low latency and high-resolution converters ensure accurate and detailed audio reproduction.
Ideal for large studios, live recording, and broadcast applications requiring extensive I/O and network integration.
info Focusrite Red 16line Specifications
| Weight | 4.5kg (10lb) |
| Channels | 16x16 |
| Bit Depth | 24bit |
| Form Factor | 1U rackmount |
| Mic Preamps | 16 Red series |
| Connectivity | Thunderbolt3 (2 ports), DigiLink (2 ports), AVB over Ethernet (1000BASET) |
| Power Supply | External universal AC (100240V) |
| Max Sample Rate | 192kHz |
| Headphone Outputs | 2 independent |
| Roundtrip Latency | <1ms (Thunderbolt) |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 483mm × 44mm × 270mm |
balance Focusrite Red 16line Pros & Cons
- 16 Red series microphone preamps delivering transparent, lownoise gain
- Builtin AVB networking via RedNet for scalable, flexible audio routing
- Dual Thunderbolt3 and dual DigiLink ports ensuring broad compatibility with modern and legacy systems
- Supports up to 24bit/192kHz audio with sub1ms roundtrip latency
- Robust 1U rackmount chassis with talkback mic and two independent headphone outputs
- Comprehensive RedNet Control software for complex routing and mixing
- Premium price point limits accessibility for smaller or home studios
- Not buspowered; requires an external power supply, reducing portability
- AVB networking can be complex to set up without prior network knowledge
- No onboard DSP for plugin processing, relying entirely on host CPU
- Relatively heavy for a portable interface (4.5kg)
help Focusrite Red 16line FAQ
Does the Focusrite Red16line work with both Windows and macOS?
Yes, it includes Thunderbolt drivers for Windows (ASIO) and macOS (Core Audio), plus DigiLink connectivity for Pro Tools|HDX and HD Native systems.
What is the main difference between the Red16line and the Red8line?
The Red16line provides 16 mic preamps versus 8 on the Red8line, more I/O channels, and additional AVB networking ports for larger setups.
Can I use the Red16line without a Thunderbolt connection?
You can connect via DigiLink to a Pro Tools|HDX or HD Native system, but full feature access (including AVB and lowlatency performance) requires a Thunderbolt host.
Does the Red16line support AVB networking out of the box?
Yes, it has an integrated AVB interface; you can link multiple RedNet devices and route audio over standard 1000BASET Ethernet networks.
What is Focusrite Red 16line?
How good is Focusrite Red 16line?
How much does Focusrite Red 16line cost?
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What is Focusrite Red 16line best for?
Professional studios and engineers seeking a highchannel, networkready audio interface with pristine preamps and reliable lowlatency performance.
How does Focusrite Red 16line compare to Audeze Maxwell?
Is Focusrite Red 16line worth it in 2026?
What are the key specifications of Focusrite Red 16line?
- Weight: 4.5kg (10lb)
- Channels: 16x16
- Bit Depth: 24bit
- Form Factor: 1U rackmount
- Mic Preamps: 16 Red series
- Connectivity: Thunderbolt3 (2 ports), DigiLink (2 ports), AVB over Ethernet (1000BASET)
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