Motu M2 vs Scarlett 2i2: Which Audio Interface Reigns?
Are you ready to elevate your home studio game? Choosing the right audio interface is crucial for recording quality audio. The market is saturated with options, but two contenders consistently top the list: the MOTU M2 and the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2.
Both interfaces offer impressive features and performance for their price point, making the decision a tough one. This comparison dives deep into the specifications, performance, and overall value of the MOTU M2 and the Scarlett 2i2, helping you determine which is the best fit for your needs.
Whether you’re a seasoned musician, a budding podcaster, or just starting your audio journey, understanding the nuances of these interfaces is essential. Let’s explore the key differences and similarities to find out which interface comes out on top.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | motu m2 | scarlett 2i2 |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Inputs | 2 | 2 |
| Number of Outputs | 2 | 2 |
| Preamp Type | ESS Sabre32 Ultra™ DAC | Focusrite |
| Sample Rate | Up to 192 kHz | Up to 192 kHz |
| Bit Depth | 24-bit | 24-bit |
| Phantom Power | Yes | Yes |
| MIDI I/O | Yes | Yes |
| Headphone Output | Yes | Yes |
| Loopback Functionality | Yes | Yes |
| Software Bundle | Included | Included |
| Direct Monitoring | Yes | Yes |
| Form Factor | Desktop | Desktop |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Preamps
- Motu M2: Features ESS Sabre32 Ultra™ DAC Technology, delivering clean and transparent preamps with impressive gain. Known for its low noise floor and excellent dynamic range. Considered by many to be a top-tier preamp in its class.
- Scarlett 2i2: Uses Focusrite preamps, known for their warmth and clarity. Offers a good amount of gain and is generally considered to be a solid performer for the price. Some users find them slightly less transparent compared to higher-end options.
- Winner: motu m2
AD/DA Conversion
- Motu M2: Boasts excellent AD/DA conversion thanks to its ESS Sabre32 Ultra™ DAC Technology, providing a very clean and detailed sound. This contributes to its overall excellent sonic performance.
- Scarlett 2i2: Provides good AD/DA conversion for its price point, offering a clear and usable sound. While not as high-end as the motu m2, it still delivers a solid performance for home recording.
- Winner: motu m2
Monitoring
- Motu M2: Offers a comprehensive monitoring system with a dedicated output for headphones and zero-latency monitoring options. The front-panel display provides clear metering.
- Scarlett 2i2: Features a headphone output and direct monitoring, allowing for easy monitoring with zero latency. Provides basic monitoring features.
- Winner: motu m2
Build Quality
- Motu M2: Known for its robust build quality, featuring a sturdy metal chassis. It’s designed to withstand the rigors of studio and portable use.
- Scarlett 2i2: Constructed with a metal chassis, offering a durable build. It’s a reliable interface, but some users may find the motu m2 feels slightly more premium.
- Winner: Draw
Inputs/Outputs
- Motu M2: Provides two combo XLR/TRS inputs and balanced TRS outputs. Offers a good selection of I/O for its size.
- Scarlett 2i2: Features two combo XLR/TRS inputs and balanced TRS outputs. Offers a similar I/O configuration to the motu m2.
- Winner: Draw
Software Bundle
- Motu M2: Comes with a basic software bundle. While not as extensive as some competitors, it provides essential tools for recording.
- Scarlett 2i2: Includes a generous software bundle, including Ableton Live Lite, Focusrite Red 2 & 3 Plug-in Suite, and a Splice Sounds subscription.
- Winner: scarlett 2i2
Price
- Motu M2: Generally priced slightly higher than the Scarlett 2i2, reflecting its higher-end components and performance.
- Scarlett 2i2: Usually more affordable, making it a great value for its features.
- Winner: scarlett 2i2
Metering
- Motu M2: Features a clear and informative front-panel display with detailed metering for both input and output levels, making it easy to monitor and adjust levels.
- Scarlett 2i2: Relies on LED indicators for metering. While functional, it’s not as precise or detailed as the motu m2’s display.
- Winner: motu m2
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Sound Quality | motu m2 |
| Ease of Use | scarlett 2i2 |
| Features | motu m2 |
| Value | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Connectivity: Both interfaces connect to a computer via USB, providing a convenient and widely compatible connection method.
- Preamps: Both the MOTU M2 and the Scarlett 2i2 feature preamps, allowing you to connect microphones and instruments directly to your computer for recording.
- Phantom Power: Both interfaces provide 48V phantom power, essential for using condenser microphones.
- Headphone Output: Both units include a headphone output for monitoring your audio during recording and playback.
- 2×2 Configuration: Both offer a standard 2-input, 2-output configuration, suitable for basic recording setups.
- Software Included: Both interfaces typically come bundled with software, like DAWs and plugins, to get you started.
Motu M2 Vs Scarlett 2i2 Buying Guide
Audio Quality and Preamps
The Motu M2 generally boasts a slight edge in audio quality, particularly in its preamps. The M2 utilizes ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology, delivering a cleaner and more transparent sound. This results in a wider dynamic range and lower noise floor, making it ideal for critical listening and recording. The Scarlett 2i2, while still excellent, uses Focusrite preamps, which are known for their warmth and color, but may not be as pristine as the M2’s offerings. Consider the type of audio you’re working with; the M2 shines with acoustic instruments or vocals where clarity is key.
Connectivity and Features
Both interfaces offer essential connectivity, including XLR and 1/4″ inputs for microphones and instruments, as well as balanced outputs for studio monitors. The M2 adds a key feature: a comprehensive LCD screen that provides clear metering for inputs and outputs, greatly simplifying gain staging and monitoring. This visual feedback is a significant advantage over the Scarlett 2i2, which relies on LED indicators. Both interfaces offer MIDI I/O, allowing them to communicate with external MIDI devices such as keyboards and synthesizers. Consider your workflow and the level of visual feedback you need.
Build Quality and Portability
Both the Motu M2 and the Scarlett 2i2 are built to be robust and portable. The M2 features a solid metal chassis, giving it a premium feel and added durability. The Scarlett 2i2 is also well-built, with a focus on a compact design. Both interfaces are suitable for both studio and on-the-go recording. The M2’s build quality may feel more solid, but both are designed to withstand the rigors of travel and regular use. Consider your needs for ruggedness and portability.
Software and Drivers
Both interfaces include software bundles and provide reliable drivers for both Mac and Windows operating systems. The Scarlett 2i2 comes with Focusrite’s Plug-in Collective, offering a range of free plugins. The M2 has a good track record of driver stability, and the included software is adequate for most users. Ensure compatibility with your operating system before purchasing. Both manufacturers are generally good about providing updates and support. Consider the value of the included software bundles.
Price and Value
The Motu M2 and the Scarlett 2i2 are generally priced competitively in the entry-level audio interface market. The Scarlett 2i2 often has a slight advantage in terms of price. However, the M2 offers a more premium feature set, including the LCD screen and potentially superior audio quality, making it a better value for some users. Consider your budget and the features you need. Both interfaces provide excellent value for their price, but the M2 might offer a better return on investment for those who value higher audio fidelity and visual feedback.
Ease of Use and Workflow
Both interfaces are designed to be user-friendly, catering to both beginners and experienced audio engineers. The Scarlett 2i2 has a particularly straightforward interface, making it easy to set up and start recording quickly. The M2, with its LCD screen, provides a more visual and intuitive experience, facilitating accurate gain staging and monitoring. Both interfaces are plug-and-play, with minimal setup required. The Scarlett 2i2’s simplicity might be ideal for beginners, while the M2’s features could offer a smoother workflow for more experienced users.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy motu m2 If…
- You prioritize exceptionally clean and transparent audio reproduction.
- You value the detailed metering on the front panel display.
- You need a loopback function for streaming or podcasting.
- You want a slightly more versatile feature set, like MIDI I/O.
Buy scarlett 2i2 If…
- You’re looking for a user-friendly interface with a well-established reputation.
- You want a sound with a distinct Focusrite character, often described as warm and colored.
- You are on a budget and the slight price difference is a factor.
- You value the widely available software bundles that come with the Focusrite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences in audio quality?
The Motu M2 typically offers a slightly cleaner and more transparent sound thanks to its ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology, resulting in a wider dynamic range and lower noise floor. The Scarlett 2i2 uses Focusrite preamps, which are known for their warmth and color. The M2 is better for critical listening and recording, while the Scarlett 2i2 can provide a pleasing color to recordings.
Which interface is better for beginners?
The Scarlett 2i2’s simplicity and straightforward interface make it an excellent choice for beginners. Its plug-and-play design and easy-to-understand controls make it easy to get started recording quickly. The M2, while also easy to use, has a few more features that might be overwhelming for a complete beginner. The Scarlett 2i2’s simplicity is a great asset.
Does the M2 offer better monitoring options?
Yes, the M2 excels in monitoring due to its comprehensive LCD screen. This screen provides clear metering for inputs and outputs, allowing for precise gain staging and monitoring. The Scarlett 2i2 relies on LED indicators, which are less precise. The M2’s visual feedback is a significant advantage for accurate monitoring.
What software comes with each interface?
Both interfaces come with software bundles. The Scarlett 2i2 includes the Focusrite Plug-in Collective, providing access to a range of free plugins. The M2 includes a basic software package for recording and mixing. The specific software included with each interface may vary slightly based on the retailer and current promotions. Check the details before purchase.
Which interface is more portable?
Both the Motu M2 and the Scarlett 2i2 are designed to be portable. Both are compact and can easily fit in a backpack or carrying case. The M2 has a slightly more robust build quality, which may provide more durability during transport. However, both are suitable for on-the-go recording and use in various environments.
How do the preamps compare?
The M2 utilizes preamps designed for clarity and transparency, allowing the true sound of the source to shine through. The Scarlett 2i2’s preamps are known for their warmth and character, adding a subtle color to the recorded signal. The choice depends on the desired sound. The M2 is preferable if you want to record the source with the least amount of change from the original sound.
Which interface offers better value for the price?
Both interfaces provide excellent value for their price point. The Scarlett 2i2 often has a slightly lower price. However, the M2 offers a more premium feature set, including the LCD screen and potentially superior audio quality, which might make it a better overall value for some users. The choice depends on your specific needs and priorities.
Final Verdict
Both the Motu M2 and the Scarlett 2i2 are excellent entry-level audio interfaces, each with its strengths. The M2 distinguishes itself with superior audio quality, thanks to its ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology, and a helpful LCD screen. The Scarlett 2i2 provides user-friendliness and a great value for the price. The M2 is the more versatile, feature-rich interface.
Winner: Motu M2