MOTU M6 6×4 USB-C Audio Interface
- USB-C connection
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 234 x 120 x 46 mm
- Weight: 0.975 kg
MOTU M6 Review
MOTU has released a brand new audio interface, the M6. This USB-C model works with both Mac and Windows, delivering top-notch audio quality and ultra-low latency. It also features a vibrant full-color LCD display, making it easy to monitor your levels at a glance.
Compared to earlier models like the M2 and M4, the M6 moves the microphone ports to the back of the unit. This change helps keep the front panel less cluttered and allows the interface to stay compact, since you won’t have four extra knobs taking up space on the front.
MOTU M6 Features
This interface features six inputs: four combined XLR/TRS jacks and two 1/4-inch line inputs. As mentioned earlier, MOTU has placed all the inputs on the back of the unit, which helps keep the front panel tidy and reduces cable clutter.
Another useful feature is the ability to connect two sets of studio monitors. You can easily switch between them using the dedicated knob on the front panel.
Both headphone outputs are powered by ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology, which is a great advantage. Each headphone output also has its own separate volume knob. With up to 120dB of dynamic range, this DAC ensures your headphones deliver high-quality, studio-standard audio.
The MOTU M6 supports a buffer size as low as 32 samples, resulting in impressively low round-trip latency—down to 2.5ms at 24-bit/96kHz. All the essential connections you might need are included, giving you plenty of flexibility. MIDI in and out ports are also available.
You can also use the M6 as a standalone device, which means it can function as a preamp or mixer without needing a computer. Simply connect the multi-blade international DC power adapter, and you’re ready to go.
By pressing the monitor button, you’ll be able to track and monitor all 6 inputs, and you can enable 48v phantom power if needed to adjust your levels. You’ll also have the option to connect the main outputs to a line-level receiver, such as a PA system or a patch bay.
According to their marketing director, the MOTU M6 delivers the same sonic quality as its smaller siblings, the M2 and M4, while offering even more features at a similar price.
Loopback functionality
If you work as a streamer or podcaster, the loopback feature on your interface will be very useful. With loopback, you can combine your microphone signal with other audio from your computer, and send the mixed audio back into your computer.
You can easily manage this using the mix knob on the interface, allowing you to achieve a balanced signal that’s perfect for your podcasts or reaction videos.
Software Bundle
With this unit, you’ll also receive some fantastic software freebies, including Performer Lite and Live Lite. Plus, you’ll get a generous collection of loops and one-shot sound effects from trusted brands like Big Fish Audio, Lucidsamples, and Loopmasters.
The MOTU Performer Lite
Performer Lite provides everything you need to record, mix, trim, edit, and post-process a complete song or any recording made with the M6. It includes over 100 virtual instruments and a wide variety of audio-processing plugins for vocals, guitars, drums, and more.
Ableton Live Lite
Live Lite 11, which comes with this interface, is already popular among beginner engineers and producers. This DAW will help you get started with music production and provides all the essential tools you need to develop your skills.
Over 100 VST Instruments
Here’s where things get really interesting: you’ll have access to over 100 virtual instruments bundled with Performer Lite. These cover a wide range of sounds—from acoustic instruments to synths, basses, and drums. It’s up to you to decide which ones to use to enhance your productions.
Sounds and Loops
To help you dive right in and start creating music, you’ll also get 6GB of free loops and samples from leading developers. These can be easily used in your DAW, and how you use them is only limited by your creativity.
- 6-in/4-out USB-C audio interface
- ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology delivers 120dB of dynamic range
- Optimized drivers yield round-trip latency as low as 2.5ms at 24-bit/96kHz with a 32 sample buffer
- Full-color LCD screen
- 4 great-sounding microphone preamps
- 1-touch hardware monitoring on all inputs
- Loopback for live streaming and podcasting
- USB bus-powered for the ultimate in portability
- 6+GB of free loops, samples, and 1-shots from industry-leading libraries
Why You Need the Motu M6
Thinking about upgrading your audio interface and still deciding between different models? If you’re looking for something innovative and easy to use to enhance your workflow, the MOTU M6 definitely deserves your attention.
Packed with the latest technology, this is a truly versatile unit that can handle just about any task. Whether you’re a podcaster, streamer, recording engineer, or mixing engineer, you’ll find the MOTU M6 intuitive and capable of delivering top-quality audio.
Plus, if you’re a beat maker, you’ll be happy to know this interface works seamlessly with all major beat-making software. With the included freebies, you’ll be able to expand your creative possibilities even further. The only downside is the lack of optical ins and outs, but for most users, this won’t be a problem.
Conclusion
MOTU is a brand that has been around for a long time, and with that longevity comes experience and improvement. That’s definitely the case with this unit—we have nothing but good things to say about it. With a great price, all the essential features, and plenty of free extras, the M6 by MOTU is a unit for everyone.
