MOTU M2 review

The MOTU M2 is a strong pick for people who make music on a computer and want to monitor through it without a distracting delay. MOTU documents 2.5 ms round-trip latency at 96 kHz with a 32 sample buffer, which matters when you play software instruments or guitar amp plug-ins live. Its ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC delivers a measured 120 dB dynamic range on the main outputs, and the mic inputs measure -129 dBu EIN. Two combo inputs take mics, line sources or guitars, each with its own 48V switch and monitor switch. A full color LCD shows level meters for all inputs and outputs, which helps beginners see clipping without opening software. MIDI in and out, loopback channels and mirrored RCA outputs round it out. The tradeoffs: there is no automatic gain feature, the included software is Performer Lite and Ableton Live 10 Lite, and the US price did not load in our check. We compared documented features and published prices; we did not test it.

Who it is for

Keyboard players and producers who want low published latency, clear metering and 5-pin MIDI in one box.

Price

See vendor pricing (USD check pending).

US price check pending. See the vendor pricing page.

Key features

• ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC with 120 dB dynamic range on the main outputs
• 2.5 ms round-trip latency at 96 kHz with a 32 sample buffer, per MOTU
• Full color LCD with input and output level meters
• MIDI in and out
• Loopback channels for streaming and podcasting

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Color meters for every input and output on the front panel
• Strength: MIDI ports for older keyboards and synths
• Strength: Mirrored RCA outputs in addition to balanced TRS
• Weakness: No automatic gain setting
• Weakness: Bundle is lighter, with Performer Lite and Ableton Live 10 Lite
• Weakness: US price did not load in our check

Key facts

• Inputs: 2 x XLR/TRS combo mic/line/Hi-Z guitar
• Mic EIN: -129 dBu, per MOTU
• Outputs: 2 x TRS, 2 x RCA mirrored, headphone
• MIDI: 1 in, 1 out
• Sample rates: 44.1 to 192 kHz

Where it ranks

MOTU M2 is No. 3 in our Best Audio Interfaces verdict.