About Us
The Professional's Source Since 1973
  • Help
  • 800.606.6969
Hello, Log InAccount & Orders
My Cart
Video Chat with a Pro Audio Expert - Live
Home

MOTU M6 USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface

BH #MAM6 • MFR #3160
2 reviews
Print
MOTU M6 USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface
Key Features
  • Musicians, Podcasters, and Producers
  • AC and Bus Powered / Mac, Windows
  • 4 Mic / Line / Hi-Z Preamps, 2 Line In
  • 2 Headphone Out, 4 Line Out
Pristine, versatile, and portable, the MOTU M6 desktop 6x4 (not counting headphone outputs) 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 four mic/line/instrument preamps and two balanced line inputs, the M6 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 M6 lets you monitor through your speakers and headphones with the dynamic range normally found only on much more expensive interfaces.
More Details
In Stock
$399.95
+
Save the Tax‡
or Pay $67/mo. suggested payments for 6 Mos.§ when you use the Payboo credit card. Learn More
Free Expedited Shipping
Protect Your Gear
Add a protection plan from $58.99
See Options
Ask an Expert
800.606.6969

MOTU M6 Overview

By B&H Photo's

Pristine, versatile, and portable, the MOTU M6 desktop 6x4 (not counting headphone outputs) 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 four mic/line/instrument preamps and two balanced line inputs, the M6 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 M6 lets you monitor through your speakers and headphones with the dynamic range normally found only on much more expensive interfaces.

The M6 is equally suitable for producers, thanks to its MIDI 5-pin I/O. Plug in a MIDI keyboard to control virtual instruments or run MIDI from the M6 to your favorite hardware synth to capture its glorious tones through the M6's pristine analog preamps. No matter what you do, the M6'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. The MOTU M6 includes Performer Lite and Ableton Live Lite 11, as well as 100+ virtual instruments (Performer Lite), and over 6GB of free loops, samples, and one-shots from industry-leading libraries.

At a Glance
  • 6-in / 4-out USB audio interface with studio-quality sound
  • Best-in-class audio quality driven by ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC Technology
  • Best-in-class speed (ultralow latency) for host software processing
  • Best-in-class metering for all inputs/outputs with a full-color LCD
  • 4 mic / line / Hi-Z guitar inputs on combo XLR/TRS
  • Individual preamp gain and 48V phantom power for each mic input
  • 2 balanced 1/4-inch line inputs
  • Hardware (direct) monitoring for all inputs
  • Monitor mix knob to balance live inputs and computer playback
  • A/B switch to compare mix output on two sets of studio monitors
  • Measured -129 dB EIN on mic inputs
  • 4 balanced DC-coupled 1/4-inch TRS outputs
  • Measured 120 dB dynamic range on the 1/4-inch balanced TRS outputs
  • 2 headphone outputs (driven by ESS converters) with independent volume control
  • Switch for optional headphone monitoring through line outputs 3-4
  • MIDI in/out (16 channels to/from USB host)
  • 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 roundtrip latency (32-sample buffer at 96 kHz)
  • Mac driver (optional, for 2.5 ms RTL at 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-A) with power switch (USB cables included)
  • Multiblade international DC power adapter for standalone operation without a computer
  • Rugged metal construction (extruded case, faceplates, and knobs)
  • Workstation software included (MOTU Performer Lite and Ableton Live Lite 11)
  • 100+ instruments (in Performer Lite)
  • Over 6GB of included free loops, samples, and one-shots from industry leading libraries
  • Kensington security slot
  • Two-year warranty
Professional-Level Audio Quality
Equipped with the same ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology found in audio interfaces the pros use, the M6 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.
Balanced Monitoring
The M6 has balanced 1/4" outputs for professional level monitoring. With two 1/4" headphone outputs, you can also monitor your work privately, plus the 3-4 switch allows for headphone monitoring through line ouputs 3-4.
Loopback Channels for Podcast Recording and Live Streaming
The M6'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 M6 offers two 1/4" 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 out channels 3-4, through your favorite hardware pieces, and then back in through the two balanced 1/4" line inputs. This makes the unit suitable for hybrid mix engineers.
Low Latency
The M6 provides ultralow latency for monitoring live inputs through your computer, thanks to MOTU's expertly engineered USB drivers. These deliver 2.5 ms of roundtrip latency, measured with a 32-sample buffer at 96 kHz.
Hardware Monitoring and Input Mix Knob
The M6 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, along with playback tracks, all at the same time.
Integrates with MIDI Gear and Analog Synths
The M6 includes full-sized 5-pin DIN 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 M6 are DC coupled, allowing you to send data from your DAW as control voltage (CV) to hardware analog synthesizers, Eurorack modules, and sequencers.
Audio Interface or Standalone Operation
With the included multiblade international DC power adapter, the M6 can be used as a standalone preamp and basic mixer with no host computer required. Simply engage the monitor button for all six 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.
Software Included
The M6 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.
UPC: 839128006263

MOTU M6Specs

Key Specs
Channels of I/O
Analog:
6 Inputs / 4 Outputs
Maximum Sampling Rate
192 kHz / 24-Bit
Number of Microphone Inputs
4
Analog Audio I/O
4x Combo XLR-1/4" TRS Balanced/Unbalanced Mic/Line/Hi-Z Input
2x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Input
2x 1/4" TRS Unbalanced Headphone Output
4x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Output (DC-Coupled)
Digital Audio I/O
No
Host Connection
1x USB-C
OS Compatibility
macOS 10.11 or Later (64-Bit Only)
macOS 10.13 or Later (64-Bit Only)
Windows 10 or Later (64-Bit Only)
Power Requirements
AC/DC Power Adapter (Included)
Channels of I/O
Analog:
6 Inputs / 4 Outputs
Built-In DSP
No
Maximum Sampling Rate
192 kHz / 24-Bit
Number of Microphone Inputs
4
Built-In Microphone
No
Input Level Adjustment
4x Knob
Signal Processing
Pad
No
Gain/Trim Range
Mic Inputs:
0 dB to +60 dB
Line/Hi-Z Inputs:
0 dB to +57 dB
High-Pass Filter
No
Solo/Mute
No
Connectivity
Analog Audio I/O
4x Combo XLR-1/4" TRS Balanced/Unbalanced Mic/Line/Hi-Z Input
2x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Input
2x 1/4" TRS Unbalanced Headphone Output
4x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Output (DC-Coupled)
Phantom Power
48 V, Selectable On/Off (Selectable on Individual Inputs)
Digital Audio I/O
No
Host Connection
1x USB-C
Host Connection Protocol
USB 2.0
USB (Non-Host)
No
Sync I/O
No
Network I/O
No
MIDI I/O
1x DIN 5-Pin Input
1x DIN 5-Pin Output
Expansion Slots
No
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 (Max Level In)
Line Inputs:
+16 dBu (Max Level In)
Maximum Output Level
Line Outputs:
+18 dBu (Balanced)
Line Outputs:
+16 dBu (Unbalanced)
Headphone Outputs:
+12.5 dBu
Impedance
Mic Inputs:
2.65 Kilohms
Line Inputs:
2 Megohms
Line Outputs:
100 Ohms
Hi-Z Inputs:
1 Megohm
Dynamic Range
Mic Inputs:
115 dBA
Line Inputs:
114 dBA
Line/Monitor Outputs:
120 dBA
Headphone Outputs:
115 dBA
THD+N
Mic Inputs:
-97 dB
Line Inputs:
< -100 dB / < 0.001% (@ 14 dBu)
Line/Monitor Outputs:
< -110 dB / < 0.00032% (@ -1 dBFS, Unweighted, 1 kHz)
Headphone Outputs:
< -110 dB
EIN
Mic Inputs:
-129 dBu A-Weighted (@ Max Gain, 150 Ohms)
Digital Audio
Sample Rates
Up to 192 kHz
Sample Rate Conversion
No
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
Media/Memory Card Slot
No
Compatibility
OS Compatibility
macOS 10.11 or Later / macOS 10.13 or Later / Windows 10 or Later
OS Compatibility
macOS 10.11 or Later (64-Bit Only)
macOS 10.13 or Later (64-Bit Only)
Windows 10 or Later (64-Bit Only)
Processor Requirement
Mac:
1 GHz Intel Core i3 (64-Bit)
PC:
1 GHz Intel Pentium
RAM Requirements
2 GB, 4 GB Recommended
Storage Requirements
500 GB
Required Hardware
Available USB 2.0 Port
USB Cable (Included)
Power
Power Requirements
AC/DC Power Adapter (Included)
Physical
Dimensions
9.21 x 4.75 x 1.8" / 23.39 x 12.06 x 4.6 cm (Chassis Only)
Weight
2.2 lb / 1.0 kg
Packaging Info
Package Weight
3.21 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
13.9 x 7.8 x 3.2"

MOTU M6 Reviews

See any errors on this page? Let us know

Are there separate buses for the two headphone ...

Are there separate buses for the two headphone amps, or do they share buses with the line outs?
Asked by: Warren
The Headphone outs on the MOTU M6 USB-C Audio/Midi Interface are mirroring the Line Outs (1/2 and 3/4). You can toggle between monitoring line out 1/2 or 3/4.
Answered by: Alex D
Date published: 2024-11-09

I have 250ohm headphones, can this unit power a ...

I have 250ohm headphones, can this unit power a pair of them?
Asked by: Paul
Thanks Roman! I've attached a 250ohm and another 250ohm and it worked nicely.
Answered by: Paul
Date published: 2023-08-05

It appears that the Monitor 1/2 and Line 1/2 both ...

It appears that the Monitor 1/2 and Line 1/2 both only output Channels 1 and 2. Is that correct? Can Channels 3/4 be outputted
Asked by: James
Both the Monitor 1 and 2, and Line Out 3 and 4 connectors on the MOTU M6 USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface can be used for connecting monitor speakers or sending line level output to another destination, carrying the output signal from all four input channels. Additionally, the Monitor 1 and 2 outputs are labeled as &quot;A&quot; to use for primary monitor speakers, while the Line Out 3 and 4 connectors are labeled as &quot;B&quot; to use for a secondary pair of monitor speakers.
Answered by: Lisa S
Date published: 2024-11-09

Can I connect this to an M2 mac mini using ...

Can I connect this to an M2 mac mini using thunderbolt 4??
Asked by: Michael
The MOTU M6 USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface uses a USB-C connection, so it is compatible with both Thunderbolt 3 and 4.
Answered by: Calvin M
Date published: 2024-11-09

Can this be used as a decent field ...

Can this be used as a decent field mixer/recorder? Given the rear XLR's and USB, it seems to have potential!
Asked by: Echo
Regarding the DC power issue in BHs response to your question, in some cases the M6 (and the M2 and M4) can be powered via USB. The following is copied from the user manual: When the M6 is connected to a USB-C host computer or iPad, it can be powered by its USB connection to the host. When connected to a USB-A host computer, youll need to connect the DC power adapter to supply enough power.
Answered by: eric
Date published: 2023-06-01
  • y_2024, m_12, d_12, h_7CST
  • bvseo_bulk, prod_bvqa, vn_bulk_3.0.42
  • cp_1, bvpage1
  • co_hasquestionsanswers, tq_5
  • loc_en_US, sid_1733035, prod, sort_[SortEntry(order=HAS_STAFF_ANSWERS, direction=DESCENDING)]
  • clientName_bhphotovideo