The MOTU M2 is a compact 2-in/2-out USB audio and MIDI interface that focuses on pristine conversion, fast driver performance, accurate metering, and everyday practicality for music creation, live streaming, podcasting, and mobile recording. At its core, the MOTU M2 employs ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology on the main outputs to deliver a measured 120 dB dynamic range, a specification normally associated with audio interfaces costing significantly more. The headphone output is also driven by ESS conversion so that detailed monitoring is consistent on speakers and headphones. On the inputs, ultra-clean mic preamp circuits achieve a measured −129 dBu EIN so vocals, dialogue, acoustic instruments, and quiet sources can be captured with exceptional clarity and low noise.
Engineered for speed, the MOTU M2’s USB drivers provide class-leading, ultra-low 2.5 ms round trip latency at 96 kHz with a 32-sample buffer, so you can monitor live microphones, guitars, and keyboards through your computer with a responsive feel. A full-colour LCD on the front panel presents clear, detailed level meters for all inputs and outputs, giving you immediate visual feedback to optimise recording levels and mix balance. Hardware direct monitoring is available for simple, latency-free foldback, and independent +48 V phantom power can be applied to each mic input as required.
For live streaming and podcasting, the MOTU M2 driver offers convenient loopback channels that route computer audio back to the host, where it can be mixed with live microphones or instrument inputs in your software. This makes it straightforward to incorporate system audio, backing tracks, or remote guests into a stream while maintaining the MOTU M2’s sound quality. Connectivity covers small studio needs with two mic/line/Hi-Z guitar inputs on XLR/TRS combo sockets, balanced 6.35 mm TRS line outputs for monitors, mirrored RCA outputs for consumer devices, a stereo headphone output with its own level control, and standard MIDI in and out for keyboards, controllers, and external sound modules.
The MOTU M2 connects via bus-powered USB-C and is also compatible with USB Type A, so it partners easily with modern laptops and desktops. It operates with class-compliant drivers and provides an optional Mac driver and a Windows driver. It is compatible with iOS when used with an appropriate adapter kit and powered USB hub. Sample rates from 44.1 kHz up to 192 kHz are supported for high-resolution recording. The chassis is rugged and compact for travel, home studio, stage use, or on-location work, and MOTU’s long tradition of engineering for high-profile music, broadcast, and film projects underpins the design and performance.
To get you creating immediately, the MOTU M2 includes Performer Lite and Ableton Live Lite production software. Performer Lite provides recording, editing, mixing, processing, and mastering tools with over 100 virtual instruments and a wide range of effects and guitar processing. Live Lite 11 delivers essential Ableton workflows for recording, performance, and creative experimentation. You also receive more than 6 GB of loops, one-shots, and sounds from Big Fish Audio, Lucidsamples, and Loopmasters, covering dozens of musical styles so you can start building tracks on day one.
Features
- ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology on main outputs
- Measured 120 dB dynamic range on outputs
- Measured −129 dBu EIN on mic inputs
- ESS-driven headphone output
- Ultra-low 2.5 ms round trip latency at 96 kHz with 32-sample buffer
- Full-colour LCD with detailed meters for all inputs and outputs
- Loopback channels for live streaming and podcasting
- 2 mic/line/Hi-Z inputs on XLR/TRS combo sockets
- Balanced 6.35 mm TRS line outputs plus mirrored RCA outputs
- Stereo headphone output with front-panel volume
- MIDI in and out
- Bus-powered USB-C, compatible with USB Type A
- Class-compliant operation, Windows driver, optional Mac driver
- iOS compatible with adapter kit and powered USB hub
- Plug-and-play operation with hardware direct monitoring
- Independent +48 V phantom power per input
- Rugged metal construction
- 44.1 to 192 kHz sample rates
- Includes Performer Lite and Ableton Live Lite
- Includes over 6 GB of loops and sounds
