MOTU M2 2x2 USB-C Audio Interface for Recording, Mixing & Podcasting
Features
- High-Performance 24-Bit / 192 kHz AD/DA.
- Record, Mix, and Monitor Audio.
- Two XLR-1/4" Mic/Line/Instrument Inputs.
- Virtual Loopback for Mix-Minus Setup.
- Professional Quality ESS-Sabre DAC Chip.
Description
If you want a professional-quality audio interface at a wallet-friendly price, consider the MOTU M2 2x2 USB-C Audio Interface for Recording, Mixing & Podcasting, a USB-C device designed for recording, mixing, podcasting, and more. Offering loopback connections that allow podcasters to record skype calls with absolutely no fuss, the M2 can feed audio to both computers and iOS devices, thanks to its USB-C connection.
With two XLR-1/4" inputs, the M2 can handle microphones, line-level instruments, or Hi-Z instruments such as guitars and basses. Selectable phantom power is on hand for your condenser mics, and the preamps are exceedingly clean, with an EIN of -129 dB; this ensures you only hear the instrument or voice being captured, rather than any noise from the preamp. Whether you need a clear-sounding vocal for a podcast or a transparently-recorded guitar for a mix, the M2 will deliver the goods.
The M2 also has digital loopback channels, so you can route audio from your computer directly into your recording software. What does this mean? If you're recording podcasts, you can record guests from Skype or any other VoIP software without incurring horrible feedback or other audio issues; it all works seamlessly.
The M2 is equally suitable for producers, thanks to its MIDI I/O. You can use your favourite MIDI controller with the M2 and free up a USB port on your computer in the process. Or, you can run MIDI from the M2 to your favourite hardware synth, capturing the glorious tones of your favourite, compatible hardware synth through the M2's analogue pres.
In this way, the M2 is all about providing the budding content-creator options, no matter the discipline. The M2 puts everything from podcasting to music production within your grasp.
Key Features:
Mirrored Monitoring
The M2 has balanced 1/4" outputs for professional-level monitoring, and also features mirrored RCA outputs for feeding receivers and other unbalanced gear. With a 1/4" headphone output, you can monitor your work privately.
Low Latency
The M2 provides ultralow latency for monitoring live inputs through your computer, thanks to MOTU's expertly engineered USB drivers. These deliver 2.5 ms of round-trip latency, measured with a 32 sample buffer at 96 kHz. This means you won't hear a pesky delay while tracking instruments or vocals.
Loopback Channels for Podcast Recording and Live Streaming
The M2's included driver provides convenient loopback channels to your host computer, so you can easily capture your computer's output. Combine computer audio with live mics while recording in your DAW, allowing you to capture guests over Skype or other VoIP programmes. You can also use the loopback function while streaming live to sites like Twitch.
Professional-Level Audio Quality
Equipped with the same ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology found in audio interfaces the pros use, the M2 delivers 120 dB of dynamic range on its main outputs. ESS convertors also drive the headphone output. Ultraclean preamp circuits produce a measured -129 dBu EIN on the mic inputs; this means while recording, you'll only hear the mic, not the mic pre.
Software Included
The M2 includes Ableton Live Lite and MOTU Performer Lite, which are DAWs geared for music recording and production. Also included are over 100 instruments for Performer Lite, as well as 6 GB of loops, sounds, and one-shot samples for either DAW.
Standalone Operation
The M2 can be used as a standalone preamp and basic mixer, with no host computer required. Simply engage the monitor button for each input (and 48V phantom power, if needed) and adjust the preamp gain as needed. Connect the main outs to any line-level destination, such as a PA or patch bay. The unit is bus-powered over USB, but with a USB Type-C power adapter.
Specifications
Interface | |
Channels of I/O | Analogue: 2 Inputs / 2 Outputs |
Max Sample Rate/Resolution | 192 kHz / 24-Bit |
Display and Indicators | 2 x LCDs (Monitoring Mode) |
Connectivity | |
Host Connection | 1 x USB Type-C |
Analogue I/O | 2 x Combo XLR-1/4" Balanced/Unbalanced Mic/Line/Hi-Z Input 2 x 1/4" TRS Balanced Monitor Output 1 x 1/4" TRS Unbalanced Headphone Output 2 x RCA Unbalanced Monitor Output |
Phantom Power | +48 V, Selectable On/Off (Selectable on Individual Inputs) |
MIDI I/O | 1 x 5-Pin MIDI In 1 x 5-Pin MIDI Out |
Performance | |
Dynamic Range | Balanced Outputs: 120 dB |
EIN | Mic Inputs: -129 dB |
Digital Audio | |
Sample Rates | Up to 192 kHz |
Bit Depth | 24-Bit |
Latency | Zero-Latency Direct Monitoring2.5 ms at kHz (Dependant on Buffer Size) |
Compatibility | |
OS Compatibility | iOS macOS Windows |
Power | |
Power Requirements | USB Bus-Power |
Physical | |
Anti-Theft Features | Kensington Security Slot |
In The Box
- MOTU M2 2x2 USB-C Audio Interface for Recording, Mixing & Podcasting.
- USB Cable.
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Details
- Product: MOTU M2 2x2 USB-C Audio Interface for Recording, Mixing & Podcasting
- Manufacturer: Motu
- Model: MOTU_3120
- SKU: MOTU_3120
- RM Product #: 64243