Audio Interfaces

MOTU M2vsPreSonus AudioBox USB 96

Compare MOTU M2 and PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 side by side. See pricing, features, and which is right for your podcast.

MOTU M2 logo

MOTU M2

Strong converters with LCD meters

Full MOTU M2 Review →
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 logo

PreSonus AudioBox USB 96

Under-$100 interface with MIDI

Full PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 Review →

Pricing Comparison

TierMOTU M2PreSonus AudioBox USB 96
Price$200$95

Feature Comparison

FeatureMOTU M2PreSonus AudioBox USB 96
Inputs22
Outputs22
Preamps22
Sample Rate192kHz96kHz
Bit Depth2424
48V Phantom Power
Direct Monitoring
MIDI

MOTU M2 Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Converters punch above the price
  • LCD meters let you check levels without software
  • Each input gets its own phantom power switch

Cons

  • No onboard DSP or processing
  • Small chassis means smaller knobs
  • No EQ boost feature like Focusrite Air

PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Hard to beat at this price
  • MIDI ports that most budget interfaces skip
  • Steel build feels solid

Cons

  • USB 2.0 connector (need an adapter for newer laptops)
  • Tops out at 96kHz sample rate
  • Preamps are functional but nothing special

The Verdict

MOTU M2 is best for:

  • →Podcasters who care about converter quality over brand name
  • →Streamers who need loopback without extra software
  • →People who like checking meters at a glance

PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is best for:

  • →Beginners who don't want to spend much
  • →Anyone who needs MIDI ports on a budget
  • →Simple mobile recording rigs

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