AudioChainsDB
MOTU

M6

interface_dac

$400

Used market: $280*

Manufacturer datasheet

Specifications

4 of 12 values have a recorded source
Type
Audio Interface·
Ein dBu
-129
Bus Powered
yes·
Max Gain dB
60
Analog Inputs
4x XLR/TRS combo (Mic/Line/Inst), 2x 1/4" TRS Line In·
Analog Outputs
4x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Out, 2x 1/4" TRS Headphones·
Digital Inputs
USB-C·
Min Usb Power W
4.5·
Headphone Output
Max Voltage Vrms: 3.27·
Max Input Level dBu
10
Phantom Power Provided
yes·
Release Year
2023·

Expert Audio Engineering Commentary

Gain Staging Advice

MOTU's appendix B covers the M2, M4 and M6 in one table, and the preamp rows are shared: 0 to +60 dB, -129 dBu EIN, +10 dBu maximum input. The M6 differs from the M4 in channel count and in having two headphone outputs, not in preamp.

Amplification Warning

+12.5 dBu at the headphone jack is 3.27 V unloaded — the sheet does not say into what. Both headphone outputs mirror the main monitor mix, so the second one is a second pair of ears on the same signal, not a second independent cue mix.

* Estimated with the depreciation fallback (~70% retained value). · checked on 8/5/2026