Audio Interfaces
Updated 2026-04-06
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MOTU M2 Review 2026

A 2x2 USB-C interface built around ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC chips, which give it 120dB dynamic range at a price where most competitors cut corners on converters. Has full-color LCD meters on the front panel, individual phantom power switches, and 2.5ms latency. Quietly became one of the most recommended interfaces in audio forums.

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Pricing

MOTU M2

$200/

  • ESS Sabre32 DAC
  • 120dB dynamic range
  • Color LCD meters
  • Individual 48V switches
  • Loopback channels

Pros

  • Converters punch above the price
  • LCD meters let you check levels without software
  • Each input gets its own phantom power switch
  • Built-in loopback for streaming

Cons

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

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

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Frequently asked questions

How much does MOTU M2 cost?
MOTU M2 has one plan: MOTU M2 at $200 as a one-time purchase.
Is MOTU M2 free?
No. MOTU M2 has no free plan. The cheapest way in is MOTU M2 at $200 as a one-time purchase.
What DAC chip does the MOTU M2 use?
The M2 is built around ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC chips, which give it 120dB of dynamic range at a price where most competitors use cheaper converters. It runs at up to 192kHz/24-bit with 2.5ms latency.
Does the MOTU M2 have phantom power?
Yes, and each of the two inputs gets its own 48V switch rather than a single shared button. That matters when one channel has a condenser mic and the other does not.
Is the MOTU M2 worth it?
At $200 the converters are the reason to buy it, alongside full-color LCD meters that show levels without opening software and built-in loopback for streaming. There is no onboard DSP or processing, the small chassis means small knobs, and there is no tone-shaping switch like Focusrite's Air mode.
What are the best MOTU M2 alternatives?
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 ($225) is the easiest to set up, with Auto Gain, Clip Safe, and Air mode, though it has no MIDI. The SSL 2 MKII ($230) adds a 4K analog circuit for warmth and 64dB of gain for hungry dynamic mics. The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 ($95) is the budget option and keeps MIDI ports, at 96kHz and with plainer preamps.

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