Essential Information About the USB-C Audio Interface "MOTU M2"
- ESS Sabre32 Ultra Conversion for a dynamic range of 120 dB on the main outputs and a headphone output driven by the same converters.
- Ultra-low latency down to 2.5 ms round-trip at 96 kHz (32-sample buffer) thanks to MOTU USB drivers.
- Pro-grade front panel meters with a color LCD screen displaying detailed VU meters on all inputs/outputs.
- Simplified streaming via built-in loopback channels to mix computer audio and live sources (microphone, guitar) in real time.
The MOTU M Series: Premium Conversion Made Accessible
The "M2" launches MOTU's M series with a clear promise: to offer the conversion quality and monitoring of high-end interfaces in a compact 2x2 format. With its ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC, color LCD screen, and software loopback, it positions itself as the benchmark in its category for the modern home studio.
Who Is It For and What Are Its Uses?
Solo creators, streamers, podcasters, and instrumentalists find a reliable plug-and-play solution to record vocals, guitar, or keyboards, mix, and broadcast live. The M2 combines quiet preamps, zero-latency direct monitoring, and Mac/Windows/iOS compatibility to fit into all workflows.
Key Features and Notable Innovations
The ultra-clean preamps feature a measured EIN of -129 dBu, ensuring clean and dynamic vocal recordings. The DC-coupled balanced TRS outputs deliver a stable level and precise stereo image, while the independent headphone output rivals dedicated amplifiers. The driver offers a loopback function to capture system audio and combine it with physical inputs, ideal for YouTube streaming or podcasting.
The front color LCD screen-rare in this range-ensures optimal levels during recording and mixing. Performance-wise, round-trip latency reaches 2.5 ms at 96 kHz (32-sample buffer), with a dedicated Windows driver and, on Mac, USB audio class operation without a driver (optional driver available to benefit from loopback and advanced latency settings).
Technical Specifications
Audio Connections
- MOTU M2 USB Type-C audio interface, 2 inputs / 2 outputs (studio-quality sound)
- 2 combo XLR/TRS mic/line/Hi-Z inputs with individual gains
- Independent 48 V phantom power per input
- 2 balanced DC-coupled 1/4" TRS outputs
- 2 unbalanced RCA analog outputs mirroring the 1/4" outputs
- 1 headphone output with independent volume control (driven by ESS converters)
- MIDI input/output
Audio Performance and Processing
- ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC
- Measured dynamic range: 120 dB on 1/4" TRS outputs
- Measured EIN: -129 dBu on mic inputs
- Round-trip latency: 2.5 ms at 96 kHz (32-sample buffer)
- Hardware monitoring (direct monitoring) for each input
Meters and Controls
- Color LCD screen with level indicators for all inputs and outputs
- Front panel volume control for outputs and headphones
Compatibility and Drivers
- Supports sample rates from 44.1 to 192 kHz
- USB audio class compatible for plug-and-play operation on Mac (no driver required)
- Dedicated Windows driver (2.5 ms RTL, 32/96 kHz)
- Optional Mac driver for 2.5 ms RTL (32/96 kHz) and loopback function
- iOS compatible (USB audio class)
- Driver loopback to capture host output, live streaming, and podcasting
Power and Construction
- Bus-powered USB-C (USB Type-A compatible) with power switch
- Robust metal construction
- Made in the USA
Included Software
- MOTU Performer Lite 10 and Ableton Live Lite 10
- 100+ instruments (in Performer Lite)
- Over 6 GB of loops, samples, and sequences provided by major libraries
Dimensions and Weight
- Dimensions: 19.05 x 10.08 x 4.5 cm
- Weight: 0.61 kg