Pristine, versatile, and portable, the MOTU M4 desktop 4x4 USB-C audio-MIDI interface combines high-class audio performance, a robust bundle of DAWs, virtual instruments, loops, and samples, and a feature set that makes it equally powerful and user-friendly for musicians, podcasters, and producers, all at a highly affordable price point.
With its two front-panel mic/line/instrument preamps and two rear-panel line inputs, the M4 can record anything from dynamic and condenser microphones to electric guitars and drum machines in distortion-free, sparkling clarity. Equipped with top-notch ESS digital-to-analog converters that drive the main outs and the headphone jack, the M4 lets you monitor through your speakers and headphones with the dynamic range normally found only on much more expensive interfaces.
Use the M4 s digital loopback channels to easily route audio from your computer directly into your host software— record remote podcast guests from Skype or any other VoIP software without incurring horrible feedback, or livestream a mix of live inputs and the computer s output.
The M4 is equally suitable for producers, thanks to its MIDI 5-pin I/O. Plug in a MIDI keyboard to control virtual instruments such as the selection of over 100 VIs included with the M4. Or, run MIDI from the M4 to your favorite hardware synth to capture its glorious tones through the M4 s pristine analog preamps.
No matter what you do, the M4 s specially engineered drivers ensure ultralow-latency monitoring so you can rehearse and record in real time without hearing any distracting echo, and the full-color LCD screen shows you high-resolution metering for all inputs and outputs at all times. Take the M4 anywhere you need to work it is bus-powered and compatible with Mac/Windows computers and iOS mobile devices.
Professional-Level Audio Quality
Equipped with the same ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology found in audio interfaces the pros use, the M4 delivers 120 dB of dynamic range on its main outputs. ESS converters 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.
Mirrored Monitoring
The M4 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 also monitor your work privately.
Loopback Channels for Podcast Recording and Live Streaming
The M4 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 programs. You can also use the loopback function while streaming live to sites like Twitch.
Line Inputs and Line Outputs
In addition to the monitor outputs, the M4 offers two 1/4" line outputs and two mirrored RCA line outputs. Use these outputs to feed outboard gear such as compressors, equalizers, stereo-width processors, or whatever else you have in your arsenal. Route audio to channels 3-4, through your favorite hardware pieces, and then back into the two 1/4" line inputs. This makes the unit suitable for hybrid mix engineers.
Low Latency
The M4 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.
Hardware Monitoring and Input Mix Knob
The M4 gives you one-touch hardware monitoring for all inputs, including line inputs 3-4. You ll also note the mix knob for balancing live inputs with computer playback this lets you secure your perfect monitor mix, so you can hear your playing without latency, as well as any playback tracks, all at the same time.
Integrates with MIDI Gear and Analog Synths
The M4 includes traditional 5-pin MIDI input and output ports, so you can connect a MIDI controller, a sound module, or even a keyboard workstation without having to get a separate MIDI interface. The four 1/4" outputs on the M4 are DC-coupled, allowing you to send MIDI data from your DAW as CV to hardware analog synthesizers, Eurorack modules, and sequencers.
Audio Interface or Standalone Operation
The unit is bus-powered over USB for optimal portability and convenience. It includes a USB-C to Type-A cable for compatibility with most computers. If your computer has USB-C ports, simply use a USB-C cable (available separately) to connect the two.
Alternatively, by using a USB-C power adapter, the M4 can be used as a standalone preamp and basic mixer, no host computer required. Simply engage the monitor button for each input (and 48V phantom power, if needed), and adjust the preamp gain. Connect the main outs to any line-level destination, such as a PA or patch bay.
Software Included
The M4 includes Ableton Live Lite and MOTU Performer Lite, popular and capable DAWs geared for music recording and production. Also included are over 100 instruments for Performer Lite, as well as 6GB of loops, sounds, and one-shot samples for either DAW.
Key Features at a Glance
- USB-C audio interface with professional-level sound, four inputs, and four outputs
- Easy-to-read metering for all inputs/outputs, with a full-color LCD
- Two XLR-1/4" mic/line/Hi-Z guitar inputs and two balanced 1/4" line inputs
- Individual preamp gain and 48V phantom power for each input
- Four balanced, DC-coupled 1/4" TRS outputs for feeding monitors, outboard gear, or even hardware synthesizers and sequencers
- Four mirrored RCA unbalanced outputs
- One stereo headphone output, driven by ESS converters, with independent volume control
- Supports resolutions up to 24-bit / 192 kHz
- USB audio class compliant for plug-and-play operation on Mac or iOS (driver required for Windows)
- Driver loopback for capturing host output, live streaming, and podcasting
- MIDI I/O on 5-pin DIN jacks
- Rugged metal construction
- Kensington security slot
EAN: 839128006126
MOTU M4 Specs
Form Factor | Desktop |
Display | 1 x Color LCD |
Channels of I/O | Analog: 4 Inputs / 4 Outputs |
Maximum Sampling Rate | 192 kHz / 24-Bit |
Number of Microphone Preamps | 2 Preamps |
Input Level Adjustment | 2 x Knob |
Expansion Slots | None |
Signal Processing
Pad | None |
Gain/Trim Range | Mic Inputs: 0 dB to +60 dB Line/Hi-Z Inputs: 0 dB to +57 dB |
High-Pass Filter | None |
Solo/Mute | None |
Connectivity
Analog Audio I/O | 2 x Combo XLR-1/4" TRS Balanced/Unbalanced Mic/Line/Hi-Z Input 2 x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Input 1 x 1/4" TRS Unbalanced Headphone Output 4 x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Output (DC-Coupled) 4 x RCA TS Unbalanced Line Output |
Phantom Power | 48 V, Selectable On/Off (Selectable on Individual Inputs) |
Digital Audio I/O | None |
Host Connection / USB | 1 x USB-C |
Host Connection Protocol | USB 2.0 |
USB (Non-Host) | None |
Sync I/O | None |
Network I/O | None |
MIDI I/O | 1 x DIN 5-Pin Input 1 x DIN 5-Pin Output |
Performance
Frequency Response | Mic Inputs: 20 Hz to 20 kHz +0/-0.1 dB Line, Hi-Z Inputs: 20 Hz to 20 kHz ±0.15 dB Line Inputs: 20 Hz to 20 kHz ±0.07 dB Line Outputs: 20 Hz to 20 kHz +0/-0.1 dB |
Maximum Input Level | Mic Inputs: +10 dBu (Min Gain) Line/Hi-Z Inputs: +16 dBu (Min Gain) Line Inputs: +18 dBu (Min Gain) |
Maximum Output Level | Line Outputs: +16 dBu (Balanced) Line Outputs: +9.5 dBu (Unbalanced) Headphone Outputs: +12.5 dBu |
Impedance | Mic Inputs: 2.65 Kilohms Line Inputs: 2 Megohms Hi-Z Inputs: 1 Megohm Line Outputs: 100 Ohms |
Dynamic Range | Mic Inputs: 115 dBA Line/Hi-Z Inputs: 114 dBA Line Inputs: 115 dBA Line/Monitor Outputs: 120 dBA RCA Outputs: 119 dBA Headphone Outputs: 115 dBA |
THD+N | Mic Inputs: < -97 dB / < 0.0014% Line/Hi-Z Inputs: < -100 dB / < 0.001% Line Inputs: < -106 dB / < 0.0005% Line/Monitor Outputs: < -110 dB / < 0.00032% RCA Outputs: < -105 dB / < 0.00056% Headphone Outputs: < -110 dB / < 0.0003% |
EIN | Mic Inputs: -129 dB A-Weighted (150-Ohm Source, Max Gain) |
Digital Audio
Sample Rates | Up to 192 kHz |
Sample Rate Conversion | None |
Bit Depths | 24-Bit |
Latency | Zero-Latency Direct Monitoring2.5 ms at 96 kHz (Dependent on Buffer Size, Input to Output) |
Sync Sources | Internal |
Audio Storage & Playback
Memory Card Slot | None |
Compatibility
OS Compatibility | macOS 10.11 or Later Windows 7 or Later iOS 9 or Later *As of November, 2021: Check with manufacturer for the most up-to-date compatibility |
Included Software | Ableton Live Lite Digital Performer Lite |
Compatible Software (Not Included) | Any Core Audio (Mac) Compliant Software |
Supported Drivers/API & Plug-Ins | macOS Class-Compliant (No Driver Needed) |
Processor Requirement | Mac: 1 GHz Intel PC: 1 GHz Intel Pentium |
RAM Requirements | 2 GB, 4 GB Recommended |
Required Hardware | Available USB 2.0 Port USB Cable (Included) |
Internet Connection | Required for Software/Driver Download |
Power
Power Requirements | USB Bus Power |
Physical
Anti-Theft Features | Kensington Security Slot |
Dimensions | 8.25 x 4.25 x 1.75" / 20.96 x 10.79 x 4.45 cm (Chassis Only) |
Weight | 1.6 lb / 0.7 kg |
Packaging Info
Package Weight | 2.15 lb |
Box Dimensions (LxWxH) | 10.6 x 7.3 x 2.8" |
In the Box
- MOTU M4 USB-C Audio-MIDI Interface
- USB-C to USB-A Cable
- 2-Year Manufacturer Warranty
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