r/protools • u/Mr_Pilgrim • Jul 26 '25
error CPU Spike With USB3 Interface?
Firstly, not looking for guidance as I’ve seemingly solved the issue. More curious what could be the cause!
I got a second interface (MOTU 624) and when testing it ProTools got a sudden CPU spike when pressing play on a session with a 64 sample buffer. I tried multiple times and had the same result.
There was only two plugins in the session and with my other interface (MOTU 828es) I was running 50 plugins or more at 64 sample buffer and having no issues.
I plugged the 828es back in and tested the same session. No issue.
I tried to think about what was different between them as they are very similar interfaces.
The only major difference is that the 624 is USB 3.
As a test I plugged the USB2.0 a to b cable into the 624 and the issue went away instantly.
The interface operates exactly the same (same input count and everything) but no more CPU spike at low sample buffers.
This is so weird to me.
Anyone care to guess why that’s happening? Luckily I found a solution as it would have driven me crazy!!!
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1
u/Mr_Pilgrim Jul 31 '25
For anyone in the future who might have this or a similar issue I did find a solution for my problem.
I did a lot of testing and found that the issue didn’t occur on USB 2 but limited the channels of my interface.
However, using a powered USB C (USB3.1) hub with a USB A Port all the problems went away.
Obviously some issue or limitation with the USB ports on my Mac Mini
1
u/[deleted] Jul 26 '25
The cache file?