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Motu M4

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Expert consensus

The Motu M4 audio interface is a versatile and reliable 4x4 USB-C interface suitable for a wide range of recording and playback needs, with low latency levels, clean and transparent preamps, and strong compatibility with various operating systems and major DAWs, making it an excellent choice for musicians, podcasters, and content creators who require a reliable and affordable audio interface with advanced features.

The Motu M4 audio interface is a versatile and reliable 4x4 USB-C interface suitable for a wide range of recording and playback needs. It offers four simultaneous inputs and outputs, including two combo jacks with XLR connectivity for microphones and 1/4" Hi-Z compatibility, two line inputs, two pairs of DC-coupled 1/4" balanced outputs, midi inputs, extra RCA outputs, and loopback functions.

The interface has very low latency levels, making it ideal for recording and monitoring in real-time, resulting in a more natural and accurate recording and monitoring experience. The preamps are clean and transparent, providing excellent sound quality for most applications, including recording vocals, acoustic instruments, and podcasts.

The Motu M4 is highly compatible with various operating systems and major DAWs, making it a versatile and easy-to-use audio interface that works seamlessly with various software and operating systems. The product has a strong reputation in the audio recording industry as one of the best-in-class audio interfaces under $300, making it an excellent choice for musicians, podcasters, and content creators who require a reliable and affordable audio interface with advanced features.

Input/output options

The Motu M4 audio interface is a versatile 4x4 USB-C interface with four simultaneous inputs and outputs, midi inputs, loopback functions, and Input Monitor Mix control, making it suitable for a wide range of recording and playback needs.

The Motu M4 audio interface is a versatile 4x4 USB-C interface that offers four simultaneous inputs and outputs. It has two combo jacks on the front that provide a preamp with XLR connectivity for microphones, as well as 1/4" Hi-Z compatibility, and two line inputs on the back.

The interface also comes with two pairs of DC-coupled 1/4" balanced outputs, one labeled Monitor and the other Line Out, which can be sent to another pair of monitors, PA speakers, or any destination. The M4 is compatible with all common studio setups, as well as with most DJ and FOH mixers.

It also has midi inputs, extra RCA outputs, and loopback functions, making it a versatile choice for podcasters, DJs, and musicians. The loopback functionality allows for recording and playback simultaneously, and the Input Monitor Mix control on the front panel allows for adjusting the mix of computer output sound and input sound for playback.

Overall, the Motu M4 is a reliable and versatile audio interface suitable for a wide range of recording and playback needs.

What are the input and output options for the Motu M4 audio interface?

The Motu M4 audio interface has four simultaneous inputs and outputs, with two combo jacks on the front that provide a preamp with XLR connectivity for microphones, as well as 1/4" Hi-Z compatibility. The other two inputs, which function as pure line ins, are located on the back. For outputs, the interface comes with two pairs of DC-coupled 1/4" balanced outs; one is labeled Monitor and the other Line Out. Line Out can be sent to another pair of monitors, PA speakers, or any destination. Each pair of outputs is independent, and you’ll find them labeled as such in your DAW.
Based on 3 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What types of inputs and outputs are available on the Motu M4?

The Motu M4 has 4 simultaneous inputs and outputs. The two combo jacks on the front provide a preamp with XLR connectivity for microphones, as well as 1/4? Hi-Z compatibility. The other two inputs, which function as pure line ins, are located on the back. For outputs, the Motu M4 comes with two sets of DC-coupled 1/4? balanced outs; one is labeled Monitor and the other Line Out. Each pair of outputs is independent, and you'll find them labeled as such in your DAW. The four adjacent output channels are all (!) Doubled as cinch and jack sockets (the latter symmetrical). The Motu M4 is compatible with all common studio setups as well as with most DJ and FOH mixers.
Based on 13 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the specifications and capabilities of the inputs and outputs on the Motu M4 audio interface?

The Motu M4 is a 4x4 USB-C audio interface. It has 4 simultaneous inputs and outputs. On the front, there are 2 combo jacks that provide a preamp with XLR connectivity for microphones, as well as 1/4" Hi-Z compatibility. There are also 2 line inputs on the back of the interface. The M4 also has 2 pairs of DC-coupled 1/4" balanced outputs - one pair is labeled Monitor and the other Line Out. Each pair of outputs is independent and can be sent to another pair of monitors, PA speakers, or any destination. The M4 also has midi inputs, extra RCA outputs, and loopback functions, which make it a versatile choice for podcasters, DJs, and musicians.
Based on 12 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

Can the Motu M4 be used for recording and playback simultaneously?

Yes, the Motu M4 allows for loopback functionality that enables you to mix your input signal with the output from your computer and send that mix back to your computer. This means you can record your computer's output along with the input, making it possible to record and playback simultaneously. Additionally, there is a separate Input Monitor Mix control on the front panel that allows you to adjust the mix of computer output sound and input sound for playback.
Based on 3 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Latency

The Motu M4 is a high-quality audio interface with low latency levels, making it ideal for real-time recording and monitoring of vocals, instruments, live performances, podcasting, and streaming.

The Motu M4 is a high-quality audio interface that provides best-in-class speed for monitoring live inputs through a computer. It has very low latency levels, with a round-trip latency as low as 1. 83 ms at a 96 kHz sample rate and 32 sample buffer. Even with a buffer value of 128 samples suitable for everyday use, the round-trip latency was not higher than 3.

5 ms. This makes it ideal for recording and monitoring in real-time, resulting in a more natural and accurate recording and monitoring experience. The M4 is suitable for a range of use cases, including recording vocals, instruments, and live performances. It is also ideal for podcasting and streaming, where low latency is essential for real-time communication.

Overall, the Motu M4 is a reliable and high-performing audio interface that delivers exceptional latency levels for a seamless recording and monitoring experience.

What is the latency of the Motu M4 when recording and monitoring?

According to various sources, including gemtracks.com, the latency of the Motu M4 is very low, with a round-trip latency as low as 1.83 ms at a 96 kHz sample rate and 32 sample buffer. Even with a buffer value of 128 samples suitable for everyday use, the round-trip latency was not higher than 3.5 ms. The producelikeapro.com website tested the M4 at 2.5 ms roundtrip recording at 24-bit/96 kHz, which is virtually non-existent. Therefore, the Motu M4 provides best-in-class speed for monitoring live inputs.
Based on 6 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the latency levels of the Motu M4 and how do they affect the recording and monitoring process?

According to reviews from verified product experts in ReviewFinder's database, the Motu M4 provides best-in-class speed for monitoring live inputs through your computer, thanks to MOTU's expertly engineered USB drivers, which deliver class-leading, ultra-low 2.5 ms Round Trip Latency at 96 kHz with a 32 sample buffer. The M4 offers extremely low latency as well, tested at 2.5 ms roundtrip recording at 24-bit/96 kHz—virtually non-existent. Even with a buffer value of 128 samples suitable for everyday use, the round-trip latency was not higher than 3.5 ms. This means that the Motu M4 has very low latency levels, which are essential for recording and monitoring in real-time. Low latency levels result in less lag between when a sound is produced and when it is heard through the interface, allowing for a more natural and accurate recording and monitoring experience.
Based on 6 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

Preamp quality

The Motu M4 Audio Interface is a high-quality device with excellent preamp quality, suitable for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, podcasts, live streaming, and gaming.

The Motu M4 Audio Interface has two preamps that provide XLR connectivity for microphones and 1/4" Hi-Z compatibility. The dynamic range on the line and mic inputs is impressive, with a noise level of 115 dB. Each of the four input channels has its own +48V phantom power switch to enable the use of condenser microphones.

The ESS Sabre32 Ultra converters included in the M4 are of high quality and provide exceptional audio fidelity. The preamps are clean and transparent, providing excellent sound quality for most applications. The Motu M4 is a great choice for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, and podcasts.

It is also suitable for live streaming and gaming. Overall, the Motu M4 is a high-quality audio interface with excellent preamp quality that is suitable for a wide range of applications.

What is the frequency response range of the preamps in the Motu M4?

According to the information available in our database, the frequency response range of the preamps in the Motu M4 Audio Interface is not specified. However, it is mentioned that the sound quality offered by this interface is up to 192kHz, which is quite high and can provide excellent audio quality for most applications. Additionally, the ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC converter technology used in this interface is also found in many of MOTU's high-end audio interfaces, which further indicates the quality of the sound produced by this device.
Based on 1 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

How many preamps are included in the Motu M4, and what are their gain and noise levels?

The Motu M4 has 2 preamps, which provide XLR connectivity for microphones and 1/4" Hi-Z compatibility. According to thegreatestsong.com, the Motu M4 has an impressive dynamic range on the line and mic inputs, with a noise level of 115 dB.
Based on 4 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Motu M4 provide phantom power for condenser microphones?

Yes, each of the four input channels on the Motu M4 Audio Interface has its own +48V phantom power switch to enable the use of condenser microphones. According to gemtracks.com, this feature makes it easier to mix and match microphones.
Based on 3 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the level of distortion and harmonic distortion in the preamps of the Motu M4?

I'm sorry, I do not have any information about the level of distortion or harmonic distortion in the preamps of the Motu M4. However, according to Sweetwater, the Motu M4 has 2 great-sounding microphone preamps with individual gain and phantom power.

Does the Motu M4 have any additional features or technologies that affect the quality of the preamps, such as analog modeling or digital processing?

According to the information available, the Motu M4 does not include any additional features or technologies that affect the quality of the preamps, such as analog modeling or digital processing. However, the M4 does feature two great-sounding microphone preamps with individual gain and phantom power, which provide clean and transparent amplification of your microphones. The ESS Sabre32 Ultra converters included in the M4 are also of high quality and provide exceptional audio fidelity.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

DSP processing

The Motu M4 is a high-quality audio interface with no built-in DSP processing, but offers low latency, reliable performance, and impressive dynamic range, making it ideal for recording, playback, live streaming, and podcasting.

The Motu M4 does not have any built-in DSP processing, but it is designed to provide high-quality audio recording and playback with low latency and reliable performance. It has an impressive dynamic range on the line and mic inputs and outputs, and it comes with ESS Sabre32 Ultra converters that provide an astounding 120 dB of dynamic range.

The interface is user-friendly and straightforward, with no launch software or driver necessary, and everything can be controlled from the dials and buttons on the interface. The M4 is ideal for users who need a reliable and high-quality audio interface for recording and playback, with low latency and no built-in DSP processing.

It is also suitable for live streaming or podcasting, thanks to its loopback channels and convenient LCD display.

What types of DSP processing are available in the Motu M4?

I'm sorry, but the Motu M4 doesn't have any built-in DSP processing. It's a straight-forward audio interface that is designed to provide high-quality audio recording and playback with low latency and reliable performance.

What is the quality of DSP processing in the Motu M4?

I'm sorry, I don't have information about the DSP processing in the Motu M4. However, I can tell you that the Motu M4 has an impressive dynamic range on the line and mic inputs (115 dB) and on the main outputs (120 dB) and headphone output (115 dB) along with very low self-noise and low round-trip latency. Additionally, it comes with ESS Sabre32 Ultra converters, which are normally found in interfaces in the thousand dollar and up range, and they provide an astounding 120 dB of dynamic range at the M4’s main outputs.
Based on 6 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Motu M4 have any limitations or restrictions on DSP processing?

The Motu M4 does not have any DSP processing limitations or restrictions. It is designed to provide best-in-class speed for monitoring live inputs through your computer, thanks to MOTU's expertly engineered USB drivers with class-leading ultra-low 2.5 ms Round Trip Latency (at 96 kHz with a 32 sample buffer). Additionally, the M4 is the only audio interface in its class with a full color LCD featuring clear, detailed level meters for all inputs and outputs. It also provides convenient loopback channels to your host computer, enabling you to easily route computer output back to the computer, where you can mix it with live mics and/or guitar inputs from the M4 in your host software for live streaming or podcasting.

How user-friendly is the DSP processing interface in the Motu M4?

The Motu M4 does not have a DSP processing interface, as it does not come with built-in digital signal processing (DSP) effects. However, the interface itself is described as refreshingly straightforward, with no launch software or driver necessary, and everything can be controlled from the dials and buttons on the interface according to The Greatest Song.
Based on 8 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Motu M4 have customizable or adjustable DSP processing?

Sorry, the Motu M4 does not have built-in DSP processing.
Based on 4 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Compatibility

The Motu M4 audio interface is highly compatible with various operating systems and major DAWs, with no known widespread compatibility issues reported when used with software or plugins.

The Motu M4 audio interface is highly compatible with various operating systems, including Mac OS X, Windows, Linux, and iOS. It is also compatible with all major DAWs, such as Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, Pro Tools, and Cubase, among others. The interface should work with any third-party plugin that is compatible with the chosen DAW.

There are no known widespread compatibility issues reported with the Motu M4 when used with software or plugins. Setting up and configuring the device is generally straightforward, with no launch software or driver needed for most operating systems. However, Mac users need an additional driver to access all the features.

The Motu M4 is an excellent choice for musicians, podcasters, and content creators who need a versatile and easy-to-use audio interface that works seamlessly with various software and operating systems.

What operating systems are compatible with the Motu M4 audio interface?

The Motu M4 audio interface is compatible with Mac OS X, Windows, Linux, and iOS operating systems.
Based on 3 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) are compatible with the Motu M4?

The Motu M4 is compatible with all major DAWs such as Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, Pro Tools, Cubase, and many others. It also works with macOS, Windows, and iOS. According to thegreatestsong.com, you do not need to install any additional software to use the M4 with your DAW. Simply plug it in and start using it.
Based on 15 quotes from 5 sources [show quotes and sources]

What third-party plugins are compatible with the Motu M4 interface?

The Motu M4 is compatible with most audio software, including popular DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, and Pro Tools. As for third-party plugins, the interface should be compatible with any plugin that is compatible with your chosen DAW. The Motu M4 does not come with any built-in plugins or effects, but you can use any plugins that you have installed on your computer with the interface.

Are there any known compatibility issues with Motu M4 when used with certain software or plugins?

There are no widespread compatibility issues reported with the Motu M4 when used with software or plugins. However, it's always a good idea to check with the specific software or plugin manufacturer for any compatibility issues before making a purchase.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

How easy is it to set up and configure the Motu M4 with different software and operating systems?

According to our sources, setting up the Motu M4 is generally straightforward. The device is USB class-compliant, so no launch software or driver is needed for most operating systems. However, for Mac users, an additional driver is required to access all the features, such as loopback. The setup involves registering online to download the driver software and perform any firmware updates necessary. The experience of using the Motu M4 on Linux has been fantastic, with Linux 5.10+ and 5.11+ instantly identifying the device and allowing playback. In summary, the setup and configuration process should be relatively easy across different software and operating systems.
Based on 13 quotes from 5 sources [show quotes and sources]

Brand reputation

The Motu M4 is a highly regarded audio interface under $300, known for its exceptional technical performance, low latency, and advanced features.

The Motu M4 has a strong reputation in the audio recording industry as one of the best-in-class audio interfaces under $300. It is highly regarded for its exceptional technical performance, low latency, and stable operation. The product offers features that are not commonly found in this price range, such as MIDI inputs, extra RCA outputs, loopback functions, and direct monitoring.

The Motu M4 has received a high consumer score of 9. 5 out of 10, indicating that customers are generally satisfied with the product and the support provided by the company. The product is ideal for musicians, podcasters, and content creators who require a reliable and affordable audio interface with advanced features.

Overall, the Motu M4 is considered a high-quality, reliable, and affordable audio interface that is well-suited for a variety of use cases in the audio recording industry.

What is the reputation of Motu M4 in the audio recording industry?

According to expert opinions and customer reviews, the Motu M4 has a very good reputation in the audio recording industry. It is considered one of the best-in-class audio interfaces under $300, with exceptional technical performance, low latency, and stable operation. It also offers features that are not commonly found in this price range, such as MIDI inputs, extra RCA outputs, loopback functions, and direct monitoring. The Motu M4 has received a high consumer score of 9.5 out of 10, which is significantly higher than the median consumer score of 8.6 for audio recording interfaces. Overall, the Motu M4 is considered a high-quality, reliable, and affordable audio interface.
Based on 14 quotes from 5 sources [show quotes and sources]

How do customers perceive the customer support provided by Motu M4?

There is no specific information available on how customers perceive the customer support provided by Motu M4. However, based on the high consumer score of 9.5, it can be assumed that customers are generally satisfied with the product and the support provided by the company.
Based on 12 quotes from 5 sources [show quotes and sources]

Best Alternatives

3 best audio recording interfaces in the same price range as Motu M4

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Universal Audio Volt 276 Solid State Logic SSL2+ Focusrite Scarlett 2i4
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The Universal Audio Volt 276 audio interface is a versatile and high-quality option for recording and playback needs, offering a range of input and output options, vintage and 76 compressor buttons, and a class-leading 24-bit/192 kHz audio conversion. The Solid State Logic SSL2+ audio interface is a versatile and high-quality option for musicians, podcasters, and content creators, offering a range of input and output options, high-quality preamps, low-latency input monitoring, and powerful digital processing tools.
Expert consensus not yet generated.
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Audio Recording Interfaces above are offered because they are in the same price range as Motu M4. To browse more budget and premium audio recording interfaces go to our audio interface ranking .

Position in ranking

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PreSonus AudioBox USB 96
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Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII
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Highest recommended audio recording interfaces this month

ReviewFinder ranks based on a combination of customer reviews, expert reviews / mentions and popularity. Expert recommendations carry the highest weight in the ranking. We do not rank based on price, our commission or brand. audio recording interfaces below are at the top of our ranking this April.

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Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII Behringer UMC22
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The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface is a versatile and reliable device with low latency levels, upgraded preamp design, and a new Air mode that enhances high-end detail, making it a great choice for solo artists and mobile recording. The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is a versatile and reliable audio interface with low latency, high-quality mic preamps, and compatibility with almost all recording software, making it an excellent choice for musicians, podcasters, and other audio professionals. The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII is a versatile and high-quality audio interface suitable for professional recording studios, home studios, and musicians who demand the best in preamp quality, offering a range of input and output options for recording and playback, extremely low latency levels, and powerful DSP processing capabilities. The Behringer UMC22 audio interface is a versatile and affordable device suitable for home recording, podcasting, and other similar applications, offering a range of input and output options, low latency playback, and Midas-designed preamps.
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