MOTU M2 2x2 USB-C Audio Interface - 2 Analog Inputs

92
GEARANK

92 out of 100. Incorporating 2000+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$200
MOTU M2 2x2 USB-C Audio Interface

Gearank Recommended

Cons

  • No dial for tweaking balance of zero-latency monitoring and computer playback

Pros

  • Low noise, high headroom preamps
  • Relatively affordable without sacrificing the premium MOTU experience
  • Dependable low latency performance

Mark of the Unicorn, or MOTU for short, took the audio engineering community by surprise when they released their M2 and M4 USB Audio Interfaces.

MOTU interfaces have a good track record for quality and long-term use though it is only with their release of the M2 and M4 that their renowned premium quality has been made more affordable.

The M2 features up to 192kHz,120dB output dynamic range, and -129dBu EIN input dynamic range - specifications not usually seen on interfaces at this price.

Despite being a more budget-oriented interface, I highly appreciate the low noise floor, low latency, and great compatibility that the M2 offers. While getting the gain staging right with other interfaces can be tricky, the MOTU M2 allows you to record very dynamic tracks with low noise and higher headroom when compared to certain popular "Red" interfaces.

This is good podcast equipment for beginners, especially since it works great with condenser mics and dynamic mics. Even gain-hungry broadcast dynamic microphones like the Shure SM7b runs decently well on the M2

If you're looking for top-of-the-line quality at a surprisingly affordable price, the MOTU M2 will more than satisfy your needs.

Tech Specs

  • A/D Resolution: up to 24-bit/192kHz
  • Preamp: 2
  • Channels: 2
  • Inputs: 2 x XLR-1/4" combo (mic/line/Hi-Z)
  • Outputs: 2 x 1/4" TRS (DC coupled), 1 x Dual RCA Stereo
  • MIDI: In/Out/USB
  • Power: USB bus powered
  • Phantom Power: +48V
  • Bundled Software: MOTU Performer Lite, Ableton Live 10 Lite, Bundled Loops/Sounds

Rating Source Highlights

Website Source *Rating Value
Audio Science Review amirm 88/100
YouTube Julian Krause 90/100
YouTube Podcastage 96/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.