Focusrite
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen)
XLR interface · USB-C · 2
8.6
$240Nov 9
MOTU M2
A compact metal USB-C interface with ESS converters, per-input phantom and unusually low latency.
- XLR interface
- USB-C
- 2
- 192 kHz
PCPR score
8.5
Great
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R1
The short version
The M2 is MOTU's two-in, two-out USB-C interface, with two combo mic/line/instrument inputs, individually switched 48 V phantom power, ESS converters and a claimed 120 dB of dynamic range on its main outputs. Sound On Sound found it raised the bar for entry-level interfaces, with loopback, low-noise preamps and round-trip latency as low as 2.5 ms. It suits home studios and podcasters who want clean conversion and metering on a metal desktop interface; Sound On Sound noted no USB-C cable in its box.
Pros
- Individual 48 V and monitor buttons per input
- ESS converters with 120 dB dynamic range on the main outputs
- Round-trip latency as low as 2.5 ms, per MOTU and Sound On Sound
- Solid metal case and detailed level metering
- Loopback for streaming and podcasts
Cons
- Only two inputs and a single headphone output
- Sound On Sound noted no USB-C cable in the box
Best for
- Home studios wanting a clean two-channel interface
- Podcasters who value low latency and loopback
J3
Full specifications
Core
- Type
- XLR interface
Connectivity
- Connection
- USB-C
Ports & I/O
- XLR inputs
- 2
- 48V phantom
- 2
Performance
- Max sample rate
- 192 kHz
Compatibility notes
- USB-C connection; phantom power is switched per input.
- MIDI In and Out are on the rear panel, per Sound On Sound.
P1
Where to buy
- Buy from the maker
MOTU official page
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AV1
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AV2
What reviewers and owners say
Sound On Sound
PositiveSays MOTU's first entry-level interfaces outclass rivals with very quiet preamps, per-channel phantom and direct-monitor switches, loopback and DC-coupled outputs, with only a missing USB-C cable to complain about.
Review
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Summaries are written in our words. Follow the links for each source’s own review.
R9
Common questions
Does the MOTU M2 include loopback for streaming?
Yes. Sound On Sound highlights a loopback facility, which routes computer audio back into recordings or streams.
How many microphones can the M2 record at once?
Two. Both inputs accept mic, line or Hi-Z instrument signals, with independently switched 48 V phantom power.
Is a USB-C cable included?
Sound On Sound reported no USB-C cable in the box at review, so check the listing if you need one.
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