MOTU

collapse expand iconDescription

The M4 is a 4-in/4-out USB-C audio interface for Mac, Windows and iOS that offers best-in-class audio quality, best-in-class speed (ultra-low latency) and best-in-class metering with a full-color LCD. Record vocals, instruments or other audio sources quickly and easily. The M4 includes MOTU Performer Lite and Ableton Live Lite production software, 100+ instruments, dozens of plug-ins, and over 6 GB of loops and samples to start making music right away. Additional features include two mic/line/hi-Z instrument XLR combo inputs, individual preamp gain and 48V phantom power, two balanced 1/4-inch line inputs, one-touch hardware monitoring for all inputs, support for stereo monitoring, four balanced 1/4-inch DC-coupled outputs, four unbalanced RCA outputs (mirrored), mix knob for balancing live input with computer playback, ESS-driven headphone output with independent volume control, MIDI in/out, driver "loopback" channels for live-streaming and podcasting, and USB bus power with power switch (USB cable included).

Best-in-class Audio Quality
Equipped with the same ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC Technology found in audio interfaces costing thousands, the M4 delivers an astonishing 120 dB Dynamic Range on its line outputs. ESS converters also drive the headphone output, which rivals dedicated headphone amplifiers costing hundreds. Ultra-clean preamp circuits produce a measured -129 dBu EIN on the mic inputs. Capture and monitor your audio with pristine clarity.

Best-in-class Speed
The M4 provides best-in-class speed for monitoring live inputs (mic, guitar or keyboard) through your computer, thanks to MOTU's expertly engineered USB drivers, which deliver class-leading, ultra-low 2.5 ms Round Trip Latency (32 sample buffer at 96 kHz).

Best-in-class Metering
When recording and mixing, nothing is more critical than achieving optimum levels. The M4 is the only audio interface in its class with a full color 160x120 pixel LCD featuring clear, detailed level meters for all inputs and outputs. Enjoy professional-level volume control and feedback to get your sound just right.

Loopback for Live Streaming and Podcasting
The M4 driver provides convenient loopback channels to your host computer, so you can easily route computer output back to the computer, where you can mix it with live mics and/or guitar inputs from the M2 in your host software for live streaming or podcasting. Streaming and podcasting has never been easier and better-sounding.

MOTU Performer Lite
Performer Lite provides everything you need to record, edit, mix, process and master your own music tracks quickly and easily. Plug in your mic, guitar and MIDI keyboard and start tracking with over 100 instruments, dozens of effects plug-ins, guitar FX processing and much more.

Ableton Live Lite
Live 10 Lite is a lightweight version of Ableton Live 10. It comes with all of Live’s essential workflows, instruments and effects – everything you need to record songs, create hands-on with your controller, take music made in your apps further and so much more.

100+ Instruments
Performer Lite includes over 100 instruments, including acoustic and electric pianos, guitars, basses, drums, organs, synths, orchestral instruments, choirs, world instruments and much more. Take your musical muse wherever it wants to go.

Loops and Sounds
You get over 6 GB of free loops and sample packs from industry leaders MOTU, Big Fish Audio, Lucidsamples and Loopmasters to help you start making music right away. Choose from dozens of musical styles, then drag and drop into your project's timeline to build your track quickly.

Stand-alone Operation
With a standard USB-C power adapter, the M4 can be used as a stand-alone preamp and basic mixer, with no host computer required. Simply engage the monitor button for all four inputs (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.
MOTU M4 4x4 USB-C Audio Interface
MOTU M4 4x4 USB-C Audio Interface
MOTU M4 4x4 USB-C Audio Interface

collapse expand iconSpecs

  • 2-in / 2-out and 4-in / 4-out USB audio interfaces with studio-quality sound
  • Best-in-class audio quality driven by ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC Technology
  • Best-in-class speed(ultra-low latency) for host software processing
  • Best-in-class metering for all inputs/outputs with a full-color LCD
  • 2x mic/line/hi-Z guitar inputs on combo XLR/TRS
  • Individual preamp gain and 48V phantom power for each input
  • 2x balanced 1/4-inch line inputs (M4 only)
  • Hardware (direct) monitoring for each input
  • Monitor mix knob to balance live inputs and computer playback (M4 only)
  • Measured -129 dB EIN on mic inputs
  • Balanced, DC-coupled 1/4-inch TRS outputs (2x for M2; 4x for M4)
  • Measured 120 dB dynamic range on the 1/4-inch balanced TRS outputs
  • RCA (unbalanced) analog outs that mirror 1/4-inch outs (2x for M2; 4x for M4)
  • 1x headphone out (driven by ESS converters) with independent volume control
  • MIDI in/out
  • Support for 44.1 to 192 kHz sample rates
  • USB audio class compliant for plug-and-play operation on Mac (no driver required)
  • Windows driver with 2.5 ms Round Trip Latency (32 sample buffer at 96 kHz)
  • Mac driver (optional, for 2.5 ms RTL@32/96 kHz and loopback feature)
  • iOS compatible (USB audio class compliant)
  • Driver loopback for capturing host output, live streaming and podcasting
  • Bus powered USB-C (compatible with USB Type A) with power switch (USB cable included)
  • Rugged metal construction
  • Workstation software included (MOTU Performer Lite 10 and Ableton Live Lite10)
  • 100+ instruments (in Performer Lite)
  • Over 6 GB of included free loops, samples and one-shots from industry leading libraries
  • Kensington security slot
  • Built in the USA
  • Two-year manufacturer's warranty

collapse expand iconWarranty

Warranty terms vary. Check with manufacturer for specific product warranty.

Featured Articles

collapse expand iconReviews

5

3 Reviews

100%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend

Filters
Best Uses
  1. Amateur Recording3
  2. Home Studio3
  3. Performances1
  4. Professional Recording1
Cons
  1. NONE!1
Describe Yourself
  1. Experienced3
Pros
  1. Compact3
  2. Easy To Use3
  3. Good Audio3
  4. Versatile3
  5. Durable2
  • Incredible, detailed sound. Beyond my expectation

    5

    submitted3 years ago

    byKamyar

    fromSacramento, CA

    ESS converters usually have the reputation of sounding thin and lifeless. But these new ES9026PRO's that are used in 2022 M4 are breathtaking. I would have never imagined they sounded even more clear and crisp than my older interface with cirrus logic CS4398 converter. I opened my M4 up to check the parts; indeed they use ESS for ADC as well, and it sounds extraordinary. They use very good quality opamps and a superb Burr Brown amplifier (OPA1688) for headphone output. Though I would have preferred larger coupling capacitors (they only used 22uF), so that will result in a small roll-off in the low frequencies for the ADC, maybe a dB or two below 30Hz, which isn't really noticeable. The thing I love about it the most is the fact that its so Linux friendly. Runs on Ubuntu with no drivers needed. All the levels and monitoring and mixing controls are right there on the interface with no need for software headache. Just fantastic. They really have a winner product here. Compared to the run-of-the-mill Scarletts and other mediocre interfaces on the market, it stands a head and shoulder above, with state-of-the-art digital conversion resulting in extremely low noise and distortion, and some meticulous analog engineering that in my opinion, pushes the limits of budget audio interfaces today. Highly recommended.

  • Something I should have purchased years ago

    5

    submitted4 years ago

    byChuck

    fromMargate, Florida

    Before finally purchasing this particular Audio Interface, an item I have needed for some time to use with my DAW, I went to YouTube and viewed a ton of unboxing and reviews of the MOTU M2 & M4. Every single one of them said that this was the most amazing and feature-packed DAC in its price range on the market. And every single one of them was correct. This little monster is mind-blowing in its build, its features, its complete lack of latency, and anything else you would want in a compact DAC. The monitoring features are killer, as is the powerful separate headphone volume. And as every YouTube reviewer stated, the LCD meters are so accurate it's unbelievable. I am so pleased that I purchased this DAC that I haven't the words to express just how glad I am. It's a complete game changer for my DAW recording, and something I wish I had purchased a long time ago, rather than using the generic ASIO driver that came with Cubase that just wasn't up to par. If you're looking for a 4in/4out DAC with enough I/Os, including MIDI ones, to record and monitor a limited amount of hardware, look no further. This is the only one to buy!

  • I will have this forever. Will buy again and again.

    5

    submitted4 years ago

    byGrace B.

    fromSan Francisco, CA

    I have produced music, podcasts, and voiceovers using a variety of audio interfaces and most always leave me searching. I've had to make compromises on in bit-depth, noise floor, affordability, on/off switch. Yes, some interfaces may have more advanced features. But...I've never had a giddy-ness about receiving an interface as I've had with this one (not even with the UA). Upon receiving it, I wasn't disappointed at all! It does what it says it will do...and for the price?!?!?! what. a. steal.

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collapse expand iconQ&A

Have a question about this product? Our expert Gear Advisers have the answers.

  • asked byBigben

    fromPhoenix, AZ

    Will this allow me to connect up to 4 separate monitors(speakers) and play music thru them simultaneously?

    Will this allow me to connect up to 4 separate monitors(speakers) and play music thru them simultaneously?

    Open Reply - Gear-Support
    Can you use an Audio Interface as a mixer? It's not designed for it but it does have "line level" outputs. I've never tried it. It probably will.
  • asked byCaptain

    fromMassena NY

    Will this product produce a WAV file?

    Will this product produce a WAV file?

    Open Reply - Thomas
    It will accept any line level signal.