MOTU M4 4×4 USB-C Audio Interface Review

The MOTU M4 4×4 USB-C Audio Interface is a compact, USB-C equipped audio interface designed for musicians, podcasters, and content creators. With 4 inputs and 4 outputs, high-quality mic preamps, Hybrid mixing, and extensive routing options, the M4 provides flexibility and professional sound quality in a portable form factor.

In this in-depth review, we’ll take a close look at the features, performance, and usability of the M4 to help you determine if it’s the right audio interface for your needs.

Key Features

• 4×4 USB-C audio interface with 4 analog inputs, 4 analog outputs
• High-quality microphone preamps with up to 60dB of gain
• 24-bit/192kHz audio conversion
• Hybrid mixing allows routing between analog and digital inputs
• Loopback and video thumbnail options for streaming and podcasting
• Extensive desktop and mobile connectivity options
• Bus-powered for mobile recording or desktop use with included power supply
• Compact and portable design

Inputs and Outputs

The M4 provides 4 balanced combo jack inputs that accept either XLR or 1/4″ connections, making it easy to connect professional mics, instruments, and line-level sources. Each input has an impressive 60dB of gain range, allowing you to achieve clean recordings even with low-output mics.

4 balanced 1/4″ TRS outputs allow you to connect monitors, headphones, or external mixing consoles. There’s also a dedicated 1/4″ headphone output with its own volume control.

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For digital I/O, there’s a USB-C port that handles up to 24-bit/192kHz audio to and from your computer. Drivers are available for Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android, providing broad platform support.

Hybrid Mixing and Routing

A standout feature of the M4 is its Hybrid mixing capability. This allows you to route audio between the analog and digital I/O, enabling creative mixing workflows.

For example, you can record vocals or instruments through the mic preamps while playing backing tracks digitally from your DAW. Or you can utilize onboard DSP plugins when monitoring through the headphone output.

An intuitive mixing matrix in the control software enables extensive routing options between all inputs and outputs. This provides flexibility when recording, mixing, and monitoring.

Streaming and Podcasting Features

The M4 has a few clever features that make it appealing for content creators.

Loopback routing allows you to record or live-stream computer audio through the interface’s outputs. This makes it easy to live stream mixes or gameplay audio.

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The video thumbnail mode automatically downscales video from your computer to a format compatible with streaming services like Twitch or YouTube. No more fiddling with video settings.

These features eliminate common headaches when streaming or podcasting directly from a computer. The M4’s great-sounding mic pre’s also make it an attractive option for broadcasters.

Ease of Use and Workflow

Setting up and using the M4 is straightforward, thanks to the well-designed control software. Key parameters like input levels, phantom power, and routing are easily accessible. Dialing in the right gain staging is assisted by clip indicators and input level meters.

Once configured, the most important options are available from the front panel so you don’t have to reach for your mouse. There are also dedicated controls for headphone and monitor outputs.

The M4 has extensive driver support across Mac, Windows, iOS and Android. This allows you to integrate it into just about any recording, mixing, or broadcasting workflow. MOTU’s reputation for rock-solid drivers also provides peace of mind.

Sound Quality

How does the M4 actually sound? In a word: excellent.

The microphone preamps and AD/DA conversion deliver professional quality recordings. There’s plenty of headroom, low noise, and impressive transparency.

The headphone amp and monitor outputs can accurately reproduce everything from delicate acoustic tones to pounding electronic drums. Even discerning audiophiles will be pleased.

Basically, the M4 sounds as good as interfaces costing considerably more. Its audio quality outperforms anything near its price point.

Portability

The M4’s slim, compact chassis makes it easy to drop into a laptop bag or backpack. It’s constructed from durable aluminum so it can withstand life on the road.

You can power it via the included power supply or directly from a computer’s USB-C port. The latter option makes it ideal for mobile recording with something like an iPad Pro or MacBook.

So whether you want to capture ideas in your bedroom, record podcasts in a hotel room, or track vocals in a tour van, the M4 is up for the task. Its portable design never compromises on connectivity or sound quality.

Pros and Cons

Here’s a quick rundown of the M4’s biggest advantages and any potential drawbacks:

Pros:

• Excellent sound quality from preamps, converters, and outputs
• Flexible Hybrid mixing and routing options
• Purpose-built features for streaming and podcasting
• Quality construction and ultra-portable form factor
• Works seamlessly with major desktop and mobile platforms

Cons:

• No onboard DSP for effects (must use computer plug-ins)
• Limited to 4 inputs/outputs (no expandability)
• Headphone output is 1/4″ only (no 1/8″ connector)

Who is it For?

The M4 hits a sweet spot between affordability, quality, and portability. Here are some of the user types who will benefit most from its capabilities:

• Musicians who want pro-level recording while on the go
• Podcasters who need excellent mic pre’s and mobile compatibility
• Streamers looking for an all-in-one interface with loopback
• Producers and composers working in small home studios
• Mobile content creators using iOS or Android devices
• Guitarists seeking great tone from modelers and amp sims

Comparison to Other Interfaces

The M4 goes head-to-head with some of the top selling portable audio interfaces. Here’s a quick rundown of how it stacks up to a few competitors:

Vs. Focusrite Scarlett Solo:

• Fewer I/O but adds Hybrid mixing and iOS/Android support
• Similar preamp quality but much better conversion

Vs. Audient Evo 4:

• Evo 4 has one more mic input but lacks other inputs/outputs
• M4 has more flexible routing, mixing, and gain staging

Vs. UA Volt 1:

• Volt 1 offers UA’s excellent DSP plugins but only 2 inputs
• M4 gives more I/O flexibility but lacks onboard effects

Vs. Zoom Podtrak P4:

• Podtrak specialized for podcasting with multitrack recording
• M4 provides wider compatibility and pro-grade audio

Overall, the M4 compares very favorably thanks to its unique feature set, great sound, and multi-platform support. It holds its own against more expensive competitors.

Verdict – An Amazing Package

With its 4 pristine inputs, flexible mixing, optimized streaming features, ultra-portable design, and professional sound quality, the MOTU M4 is an exceptional value.

It’s amazing MOTU can pack this much functionality into such a compact, affordable interface. Yet nothing feels compromised.

If you’re looking to take your music, podcast, or video content creation to the next level, the M4 is difficult to beat. It’s a powerful production tool equally at home on the desktop, mobile device, or makeshift recording rig.

In summary, the MOTU M4 4×4 USB-C Audio Interface punches well above its weight. It’s easy to recommend for almost any application where professional-grade sound and mobility are required.

Frequently Asked Questions

What computer platforms and operating systems are supported?

The M4 supports Mac, Windows, iOS and Android operating systems. On Mac it requires macOS 10.13 or later. On Windows, Windows 10 or later versions are supported.

Does the M4 work with iPad/iPhone?

Yes, with the Apple Camera Connection Kit you can connect the M4 to any iPad or iPhone with a lightning port and use it as a 4-in/4-out interface.

Can the M4 provide phantom power?

Yes, each of the 4 mic/line inputs supplies 48V phantom power, which can be switched on/off individually. This allows you to use professional condenser mics.

Is Thunderbolt compatibility supported?

No, the M4 connects via USB-C only. So you’ll need a USB-C port or adapter to use it. However, the latest Macs and PCs generally have native USB-C.

Does the M4 offer any onboard DSP or effects?

No, there are no onboard effects or plugins. You’ll need to use your computer’s DAW software for any effects processing.

Can I expand the M4 with additional inputs or outputs?

No, the 4 inputs and 4 outputs cannot be expanded. To add more I/O you would need to use the M4 in conjunction with another interface.

Does the M4 come with any included software or plugins?

Yes, it comes with the MOTU Performer Lite DAW for Mac/Windows, as well as Ableton Live Lite and free plugins. There is also iOS/Android app support.

What is the maximum supported sample rate?

The M4 support sample rates up to 192kHz at 24-bit depth via its USB-C connection.

Does the M4 allow for direct monitoring?

Yes, the M4 provides near-zero latency direct monitoring so you can hear live inputs without audible delay while recording.

Conclusion

The MOTU M4 4×4 USB-C Audio Interface delivers outstanding quality and versatility in a highly portable form factor. Its excellent mic preamps, pristine audio conversion, flexible mixing/routing, and purpose-built features make it suitable for music recording, podcasting, live streaming, and content creation in any setting. Overall, the M4 provides incredible value at its modest price point.

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