MOTU M4 vs Solid State Logic SSL2

Which of these new heavyweight interfaces holds the edge? Which one should you buy? Watch and find out!
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[@FTHonestReviews]

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[@reneliebregt6319]

I bought the Motu M4 for 2 weeks ago and from day 1 it has been running stable on my Windows 10 with a AMD Ryzen 5 2400G 16 Gb Ram. I needed a 4/4 in out interface with low latency because of reamping and a setup with several mics and DI for acoustic guitar. With a 48Khz samplerate and 64 bytes buffer i reach 6ms RTL. What I have seen the Motu is faster than the SSL2+. I am very satisfied with the soundquality, stabilty and latency. I would certainly have considered the SSL if it had 2 line inputs more and 4 TRS line outs. Update : After 2 months my MOTU is still running stabil 😁

[@FTHonestReviews]

2 more TRS outs would've been GREAT! Glad to hear it's working out for you

[@ЕжиКкоторыйлюбитбенды]

Hi, I has this processor on PC. Is this latency 6ms a minimal on this interface? Is this can do harder studying a playing guitar. Simply if it use in guitar rig?

[@DiwDPU]

@@ЕжиКкоторыйлюбитбенды 6ms is excellent to play guitar rig my audio interface 16ms while playing guitar rig just good enough

[@ЕжиКкоторыйлюбитбенды]

@@DiwDPU Thank you! I bought boss katana. It's better and more simple for beginner

[@eman0828]

I have a M4 on back order for my mobile rig. Love the 828ES so the M4 would be another MOTU to the family. I have an Apogee Quartet. I like the Apogee alot but the drivers are not so great on Windows. My 828ES outperforms it in driver performance as I get clicks and pops with the Apogee. The converters between the two sound great that are sonically close that shares the same ESS Sabre DAC. So the difference is very subtle. The Apogee just had a litt bit more sparkle on the top end with slighter wider stereo image than the MOTU. Both have more clarity in the midrange frequencies.

[@RADERFPV]

I'm on windows 10 and have owned the M4 for a little over a week now, here are my thoughts. 1. It can be tricky getting it to work right on Windows. I had to disable the motu aiso driver window from auto-starting, and it took some time to figure out which USB ports would work and which ones don't. 2 out of the 3 ports I have on the front of my desktop don't work with it. One doesn't recognize the device at all, another causes the audio to drop in and out, and the USB 3.0 port works just fine. All of the USB ports (2.0/3.0) on the back of my PC work fine with it. The biggest thing was making sure the aiso driver tool they have doesn't auto-load. It kept opening and closing when enabled, and was very annoying. No issues since disabling it, and calling up the aiso config from within Reaper. Once configured correctly, I've had zero issues with it. 2. The pre-amps are very hot. For my guitars that have active pickups, I have to set the gain almost down to zero, just barely above it. For passive pickups, 40 to 50% is plenty enough. I love having this extra headroom, you can really dial in the perfect amount of gain before clipping. It's hot enough to clip at full gain with anything you throw at it. 3. The headphone output is clean and loud AF!! Very impressive. 4. I thought the display on it was going to be very gimmicky, but that's not the case at all. It's very precise, and shows quite a bit of different info - mono, monitoring, ins/outs in use, etc. It's actually very nice. 5. The build quality is better than I was expecting. All of the knobs are smooth and tight, and the buttons are all recessed evenly across the unit. It's a fairly light interface, but not light enough to wiggle around when you're plugging in and whatnot. 6. The loopback feature is flippin' awesome. Just a quick settings change in your sound settings, and it's good to go. 7. The unit runs fairly cool, doesn't get too hot compared to other interfaces. 8. The DAC. It's very impressive. I'm running guitar DI most of the time, and it picks up everything crystal clear. The headroom and "fullness" is very noticeable, and makes for a great re-amping experience. 9. Everything works on it as advertised, no surprises. I appreciate that. 10. If you're a windows user and are having issues, it's likely related to the power your USB ports are putting out. A dedicated powered USB hub may be required if you only have a laptop with one or two ports. Those ports may not work for you, but something with dedicated power should cause you no problems. When trying out different ports, make sure to restart your PC/laptop each time. This is what helped me figure out which ports work the best. My final thoughts - I love it. For the price, I think it's hard to beat. Having all of the ins/outs on such a little interface is very nice, and the additional line in that bypasses the pre-amps is an added bonus. I'm very happy with my purchase. Oh, one last thing - the latency (or lack there of) is great. At 44.1khz/128 samples, I'm at 6ms with VST's enabled - no pops or cutouts, I could probably go down to 64 without issue. I hope this helps someone out with your buying decision. I was very skeptical in buying this device because of some complaints I've been reading about it not working well with Windows. It took me over a month to finally pull the trigger, and I'm very glad I did!

[@maspesasmasperras5554]

This one or the ssl2+ for electric guitar? Thanks

[@bboysoumo]

Thank you! 🙌🏻 you cleared many doubts I had @rader fpv

[@RADERFPV]

@@bboysoumo You're welcome. It's been 5 months since I wrote that, and I still stand by all of it. It's been a great little box, and I'm recording e-drums in addition to guitar tracks with it now, so it's getting used more now than ever. It's been great for using with my online drum lessons as well, it's been great.

[@bboysoumo]

@@RADERFPV so glad to hear that mahn!

[@Gogies777]

Thanks for the detailed review.May i know what is your computer system specs liek cpu,ram,mobo and ram?I have a M4 but I'm on window 7 ad oldie 3770k .wheni do 44.1k and 128 i get liek 11.6 ms on ableton which i find doable but I guess it has something to do with my cpu .tia

[@tylersnelling]

It’d be interesting to hear the ssl then the m4 and then the ssl with 4k. Hearing the brighter 4k before going back to a normal flat sound on the motu is going to make the motu seem darker than it otherwise would I think.

[@Likwidl]

SSL2 with the 4k button got that "industry" sound like it was recorded in a high-end studio. I'm sure that sound can be recreated with plugins but it's nice to have it at your fingertips at all times. The monitors also sounded more pleasing when connected to the SSL2 but I'm not sure if that's a good or bad thing.

[@jubilantyogurt]

That's actually a really good point. Since the 4k "industry sound" is just a toggle, then it could easily be done in post, making the actual button on the SSL2 irrelevant

[@tw364]

@@jubilantyogurt that's a waste of my time.

[@sikwitit773]

@Luke the SSL2+ stomps the volt 276 version, but the volt 476 is great though from what I'm hearing and seeing for others compare it with Apollo twin x

[@JesusHChrist-q9d]

I'm thinking an E.Q can do the same as the button but it still looks a nice unit.. Better made than the Motu but the Motu seems like better value.. Anyone buy both?

[@paulp5310]

I own both the Motu M4 and the SSL2+ and am running them through Adam monitors with an I9 9900k CPU and 32GB 3200mhz RAM. I love the LCD meters on the Motu, however that is the only plus side against the SSL in my opinion. The Motu gave me more of a darker recording compared to the SSL which stayed true to the original sound. The 2 headphone outputs on the SSL are great for recording an artist while monitoring and it also comes with 2 amazing plugins, vocal strip and drum strip which are world class! I also have a very annoying issue with the Motu. When the monitors go into standby mode, the Motu won't recognise any output once the monitors go back into ready mode. The only solution is to turn the Motu on and off a couple of times to get it to work again. I have contacted their support in length and after all of the testing, have not got a resolution, therefore the Motu will be returned to the store. That has been my experience and I though it would be helpful to share as I couldn't find much comparing both of these great audio interfaces. Thanks for the video!

[@mikelo303]

How did you compare output quality between two? Not preamps. Just playing same file on both units. Which one wins?

[@manuinjapan]

Hey man I'm looking to upgrade my UR22 mk2 for one of those two. I just intend to use it do some guitar practice through some vst plugins and record some stuff. Should I go for the SSL?

[@N0va]

@@manuinjapan I just upgraded to the SSL and I think it's fantastic and easy to use. No issues at all. Quality is beautiful on my new songs :)

[@joefromhk8775]

To my ear, the VO test was won by Motu. It has more solid mid range, while other aspects being the same.

[@alexc8287]

Ok, I went with the SSL2, and than I had second thoughts, that maybe I should have gone Motu. Poor availability and dropout issues aside, on the M4, I just wanted the warmer sounding one. But after listening to recordings of both, I can hear a pleasing midrange on the M4 and a pleasing whole range on the SSL2 (No 4K). That 4K is an extra for some scenarios, make a neat addition for vocals and electric guitars. And the connectivity on the M4 is superior, also the spec sheet. But if both units fill all your specific needs, in my humble view, SSL is the more reliable winner. And looks better. But Motu has those great meters. This could go on forever :)

[@adamgreenhill110]

And for guitar players, the SSL wins for preamps too! The Motu was a bit disappointing for the instrument input

[@AI-Consultant]

ssl vs audient's version, hmmmmm

[@adamgreenhill110]

@@AI-Consultant I was just in the same boat. It seems like both have great preamps, but the SSL has the slight edge (from what I've read). It'll barely fit on my desk, but hey, it matches the style + knobs of my Behringer Xenyx mixer :)

[@despot666]

Been using the M4 for about 6 months. It’s wonderful. I was hoping the SSL would have more character but I am just not hearing it.

[@jonkthompson]

Thought I'd add that I got the M2 in April and love it! I have not had the issue that he mentioned at the end, possibly a bad box...

[@itsChris.x]

MOTU M4 take the W! And that joint is sexy af

[@djerikfox]

... i have ssl2 for almost 2 years and i love it, great sound and build like a tank...regards

[@vividprotection5038]

*Skip to 6:50 for the mic/preamp test

[@2maac550]

I own both and i can tell you now, the SSL2+ is the better choice overall. The differences in audio quality are minimal. The Headphone output on the SSL2+ is much louder and distortion free. The SSL2+ driver is way ahead in terms of stability. Latency on the M4 is slightly lower at higher sample rates but the SSL2+ has a 3ms latency with WASAPI Exclusive mode where the M4 has 10.6ms. The monitor function on the SSL2+ is actually better although the volume is halved when you put the knob in the middle. This ensures that if you have a hot input signal as well as a hot output signal, you wont get any clipping.

[@guyb7005]

-- Headphone output on the SSL2+ is much louder and distortion free -- Julian Krauss said the opposite ?

[@kpmlinho]

@@guyb7005 I own a SSL2+ and a Motu M2 and the SSL2 gets louder (but both are loud enough...)

[@SlightlyRadMTB]

I can't tell a difference in sound quality (I usually can't, and they're both "good enough" for me).. I chose the SSL 2+ because I like the desktop design, and because of the SSL heritage. I also really want to check out the SSL drum software, and dabble with Pro Tools. I understand that the MOTU interface has better specs, and costs less. I guess I just like having that big volume knob, and SSL logo on my desk. It actually entices me to sit down and make music. You can't go wrong with either, I think.

[@VyomGoyal]

Well, i think the recording sounds is bit better/crisp and have a good low end details in SSL 2 + It was clear to me ears ❤️😁

[@bobbydragulescu8914]

Thanks for the review. I haven't tried the SSL2 but I own an M4 and and M2 based on Julian Krause's reviews. I've been very happy with both.

[@FTHonestReviews]

Good to hear! I've reviewed so many interfaces since this video I've come to the conclusion that as long as there are no driver issues literally every interface over $200-300 will give you great results

[@Jeff_369]

I've had the Motu M2 for a while with zero issues. The SSL2 looks like a solid option. In the video it seems like you are a little bias, but being a Motu owner I know I have some bias there. haha

[@elvissanchez8985]

SSL sounds way better. comparing products just by specs is tricky, specially because manufacturers perform tests in a deceitful manner to make the product more appealing in advertisements. The proof is in the pudding, and the ssl sounds more open and clear, event with the 4K off. SSL all the way.

[@dannykedose]

I’m really inclined towards SSL2/2+ (upgrading from Audient Evo4) but I keep getting confused watching id14 mkii reviews hearing that it has the best preamps for recording.. i don’t need to extend more than 2 inputs so the extension capability of id14 is not of any use to me. Any suggestions?

[@FTHonestReviews]

Don't stress too hard I've had them both and they're both great devices, both with great preamps, buy based on which one has connections you prefer

[@dannykedose]

@@FTHonestReviews thanks much for the prompt response Jacob! Btw how much of an upgrade it’ll be over evo4 if I were to get SSL2+ for home studio setup? Any thoughts?

[@digitaltrash_]

6:53 SSL 7:13 MOTU

[@Enzoheavenly]

I hear more noise in the SSL but they both are good enough, the 4k helps the SSL for vocals

[@MiriAstro]

Sweet review! My SSL 2+ is being delivered in a few days and can’t wait.

[@therealb_angel8774]

Miri Astro I preordered mine, wont receive until June 😩

[@MiriAstro]

Therealb_angel Oh wow! I got lucky and found them on Alto Music’s eBay Store and had it in a few days. You may keep an eye out there for sooner availability and cancel your preorder. Good luck and stay safe 🙏🏽

[@MiriAstro]

Tiago Alv3s Congrats! Hopefully it will arrive soon.

[@aces3261]

Apogee is the best

[@MiriAstro]

Ace s Apogee duet was my first interface before I moved on to UA Apollo gear. Apogee does make solid products especially on iOS/MacOS platforms.

[@LMacNeill]

I could not tell a difference between the SSL and the Motu as far as the mic-input was concerned -- unless you used the 4K feature on the SSL. Then there was a clear difference. Brighter, and a bit punchier... Kind of like an old analog board... So if that's the sound you're going for, clearly the SSL2 is the one that'll give it to you without having to add it in post. But if you don't need that 4K button, I don't hear any difference between the two. I'd hope that, almost 4 years since you made this video, the driver issues have been worked out by Motu.

[@GwcMuso]

Thanks for the review. Three years on from this review; I don't have any drop outs or crashes with the M4. Plus, my VST's and VSTI's run great on a low latency setting with a high track count. No Audio popping or crackling.

[@menshealth870]

4k in ssl it makes it better then motu m2?

[@mawo1096]

The M4 sounds pretty much like my Zoom Uac2. But SSL seems to be much more clearer, 3D, and vibey.

[@FTHonestReviews]

The 4K button was a big part of why I kept it!

[@robertbrown8796]

The Legacy 4K button, when engaged, made the microphone sound too bright, causing excessive sibilence issues. I personally thought it sounded better without it if not a bit dark. The M4 had a good balance, but if it won’t run consistently, it is useless, no matter how good...

[@rylandweet7750]

Just stay away from Mojave mics they are horrible

[@MsRobstar]

The SSL sounds better in your vox test. Plus I have heard that the included plugins are really great! Keep it up. Great video 👍🏾❗️

[@bakerg_]

Depending on what you are looking for, the M4 sounds much more "full body" and the SLL more "brighter". I don't record instruments or strings, so the M4 gives me a better feeling for the sound I am looking for

[@rjb7569]

So, it would've been the Moto, except for the driver glitching. What are you using, computer-wise? PC or Mac? What CPU? How much RAM? What DAW? Need more onfo. Legacy 4K button sounded like it added an unwanted distortion on the voice-over to me; a treblish edge. The voice-over without it and the Moto sample sounded better to me via KZbin. May be different in person. Good comparison, though. Did you decide on the SSL2 or the SSL2+ version?

[@FTHonestReviews]

PC 9th Gen i7 8 core, 32 GB RAM, Studio One, Motu had the edge spec wise but my ears liked the SSL better, for my needs the SSL2 works, no regrets

[@rjb7569]

@@FTHonestReviews Thanks for the hyperfast reply, Jacob. Was still editing my entry but you answered so fast, like you were living in the future! Your computer certainly wasn't an issue with the Moto, then. Too bad. Products shouldn't be released until all driver issues are settled. Who wants to waste valuable time dealing with that nonsense. Will be using Studio One myself. In the market right now for an interface. This info from your comparison helps. Many thanks.

[@jjbailey01]

@@FTHonestReviews besides the hardware stats of the computer, the operating system and system revision number, usb driver version, and any drivers specific to the device play a big part of USB stability issues. It'd be helpful to list these. Hardware specs alone don't tell much of the story.

[@kolysion164]

for VST use only, what has better low latency, M4 or 2+ ?

[@markguitarsounds]

I think anyone who is a guitar player should check out ola englunds review of the SSL 2...His findings are quite surprising...definitely if you plan reamp signals being recorded on it. This is coming from a guy who grew up using SSL consoles. I am not sure that the 4K mods are really the SSL sound. Sure its louder. But Recording those bumps in the 4k arent always the best option.....Plus the SSL signal to noise ratio is not good. Unacceptable for SSL

[@wakenwaken3618]

Would m2 in headroom test be better than Ola SSL2 test where SSL was noisy like hell when preamp cranked up?

[@markguitarsounds]

When I had an M4, I had thought the S:N ratio was pretty good….to be honest - I thought the conversion was good but this is why you’ll spend a lot of money on a great interface - headroom. This is what you are paying for and why it’s so important to find out what your interface is rated dynamically speaking.

[@wakenwaken3618]

@@markguitarsounds I am considering quantum 2 or m2 or ssl2.. my goal is low latency good headroom and preferably live monitor knob .. I know motu and quantum 2 doesn’t have it.. and so SSL is leading now.. unless you have some advice for me within 230e? Pls?

[@DoktrDub]

Perfectly stable MOTU M4 running here, must have patched the stability issues, running better than my Scarlett 6i6 ever did.. even though that was a great interface

[@mathieufleury6787]

Love the epic introduction!!

[@FTHonestReviews]

Thanks! It just sort of happened lol

[@tdoto]

the ssl2 seems somehow a lot more highend heavy while the m4 sounded super balanced

[@olegmikhnoka-038]

What does it mean? That sound of ssl2 is darker?

[@aces3261]

Imagine your interface is right infront of you and u have to reach to the back of the unit to plug in a bloody headphone.

[@aces3261]

@@MichaelxRHS youre just trying to be nice to ssl's stupid design. You dont sit to the back of an audio interface. when u plug to the back you must bend/wrap the headphone cord back around.

[@musicfrommicksroom]

Imagine if you paid that much for it to find that it only has a headphones input and no headphones output! ;)

[@chiefyovany572]

Imagine being that lazy

[@aces3261]

@@MichaelxRHS but have u heard of a 90 degree angled headphone adapter? Would have solved your problem i stead of a new interface. This design is clearly more problematic than good. In fact seems like every ssl2 owner will need this adapter now to avoid stressing their headphone jack.

[@tonepilot]

My headphones are always plugged in. Prefer the cleaner look of a rear jack.

[@adrianjeffrey2897]

i felt the motu was more balanced sounding and the 4k just addedd eq that made the vocals sound edgier in a synthetic way

[@Adarkjet]

It would be helpful if those of you who own the Motu would state whether you are running on windows or OS X. I believe the Motu is class compliant on a Mac which means no drivers are necessary. And I assume without drivers there would be no issues. If I’m wrong, please let me know.

[@TheKocton]

Yes it work's smooth on Mac, I haven't had any issues.

[@ghostfly97]

Have had the Motu M4 since it came out and is definitely a workhorse! No problems as of yet! For me it was between SSL and Motu M4, ended up going for the M4 and haven’t looked back. I love the on and off switch which really really comes in handy. Of course we all love the sound of the 4k legacy button, I mean come on, it’s that SSL sound we’ve loved for years! But the M4 even without that function is extremely good and reliable. Also it should be noted that the M4 offers independent phantom power on each channel, something other don’t. I’ll be definitely getting an SSL + down the road, only for that 4k legacy sound, but having these two monsters is a perfect combo.

[@dennishunter5552]

Wow, i didn't expect this from Motu about the freezing part. I hope i won't get problems with the ssl 2 when i use many vst plugins in my daw.

[@FTHonestReviews]

This was when the Motu had just released, it's been quite some time since then so things may have been patched

[@just_drums_please]

Let's not forget that the MOTU M4 has an ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC. Does that not also give this interface a slight edge? However, I do honestly think you received a faulty unit because I've had my M4 since it was available to the public and I've had absolutely no problems or and NEVER has it got stuck or froze during use.

[@FTHonestReviews]

The Sabre32 definitely is an advantage however I've now paired my SSL with an Audient Nero and DAC is pretty fantastic. It's very possible I got a faulty unit, while rare I have had to return things from time to time and exchange in the past, but since this was a head to head "which one am I going to keep" the SSL won out because of my experience.

[@eman0828]

@@FTHonestReviews You are double converting the singal plugging the outs of one interface into another interface. Its not like the SSL2 is an outboard analog pre amp they you are using it. It would be different if the SSL2 even had ADAT to bypass the DAC to ADC conversion.

[@jonpittman5845]

@@eman0828 He's plugging a great river preamp into the ssl. It's not an interface with multiple steps of conversion.

[@eman0828]

@@jonpittman5845 where did the great river pre amp come from? I'm just reading a Audient Nero.

[@nuti19]

Is it worth to buy Motu M2 for 250$? SSL2 is priced 250$ too and i cant decide

[@TheRealNewBlackMusic]

M4 is great. no dropouts or freezing or any issues. absolutely plug and play. to bad it does not have spdif in. motto never dissapoints!

[@Sam-rz3rd]

Are you using it with a Mac?

[@hyunmineun9322]

@@Sam-rz3rd I'm using with windows and no problems what so ever! In my opinion you can't go wrong with both Motu or SSL2.

[@jessegonzalez4518]

I second that! Had m4 for about 5 months now. It solid on win 8.1... Haven't had one hiccup. Was, looking for reliability in home studio n' found it. It's got prob best latency #s not thunderdolt too! Got external pre's, comp's or might have tried ssl. Was not sold on there stability yet new to consumer gear. Unicorn been focused on interfaces almost as long as I been around. Born in 83! Both are great compared to focus, presonus lines for price!....

[@princessl.d.g.]

Will the 4K button make my audio recording of my digital piano sound better?

[@FTHonestReviews]

It gives it a high frequency boost, whether you think it will be better is subjective

[@princessl.d.g.]

@@FTHonestReviews Do you think that would be beneficial for a piano recording?

[@harrisfrankou2368]

The SSL sounded better for Vox. It sounded fatter with 4K off. 4 K on was good though. Maybe for rap and low vocals off is better. I'll pass on the motu...due to your concerns. Perhaps 4 K is better for guitars horns etc I'm down to SSL, Audient and maybe Focusrite. Thanks

[@fatihakturko]

Friend M2 doesn't have that "input monitoring mix" button which m4 has..... so when will be needed that Knob ? I think if we add instrument to our vocal ?

[@YanivhmTube]

Waited for this kind of review for the 2 best budget audio interface out there. Good bye 2i2. Thanks man!

[@olafkliemt1145]

ever checked on the Tascam 102i ?

[@1ad7solo]

LOL! I hear ya man!

[@maikuusa]

No one ever talks about Tascam 102i, I cannot find many reviews or comparisons.

[@xJunioorx]

Hell yeah! I hated mine, used to be all buggy with FL Studio, still deciding between the M4 and 2+ though!

[@bthellam]

I was waiting for the headphone test. Which one sounded better using headphones?

[@POVMTB1]

i use to have motu ultra lite mk3 , never again buying from them anything, constant issues

[@andreunaqui7680]

Para producir música electrónica (sintetizador moog y reaktor) , cual de las dos me recomiendas y porqué?

[@TavoIce]

Ssl2 our audient id4??

[@KaninManeepairoj]

SSL2+ output sounds more oldskool, but MOTU sounds more grounded

[@lindseyjohn4789]

I used the Motu M4 and I don't experience any drop outs or disconnects. Could be the USB C to A cable.

[@FTHonestReviews]

This video is 4-5 years old, I'm sure they've released plenty of firmware updates since then.

[@bumerangrabaciones]

Hope the M4 stability issues only happened with PC, I use it with an iMac

[@housebrigade]

I've just bought the m4 and for 2 days now I can't get it to work. When I play back music from my daw or KZbin on the headphones and it all sounds like it's going through tonnes of reverb and flange and I can't hear anything clearly. I'm using windows 11 and have installed the latest firmware. I've tried all the buffer settings and other things too but still can't get it to work. I did notice though when I playback the windows test sounds, they played back perfectly and clear. Any ideas anyone?

[@chatter7653]

I like the compactness and sleek appearance of the M4 much better. The SSL wastes a ton of space. I will say that the SSL with 4k engaged and even without it seemed to have a bit more top end clarity. Those hi res meters on the M4 are SO cool and something I've wanted forever on a lower priced interface. Everything like you say, is just way inferior...the SSL has like a 6 or so LED input meter than just pales by comparison. I really want the small footprint of the M2, but need to see if they get their driver or performance issues worked out first.

[@meldmagic]

🦉 Better to use the LED meters of your DAW. More resolution.

[@RumpelStiltskindarkone]

something a lot of reviewers tend to skim over about this unit is the ESS Sabre DAC it has, that is a BIG deal, it's much better digital to analog conversion compared to average interfaces and certainly miles better than stock ones bult in PC. Compared with m old M-Audio interface I hear a noticeable improvement in all outbound audio fidelity.

[@SaveManWoman]

Easy call m4, 2.5 ms latency is unbelievable for this price range under $700

[@darekk7459]

Hey guys! I see almost everybody says that SSL has better AD converters, but please say which one has the DA output of better quality? According to the specifications, Motu's dynamic range is greater, but I wonder is it audible that the sound is more dynamic and detailed?

[@bighousemusic628]

Ssl is so close to prism and lynx the only killer rival to it is black lion revolution 2x2

[@darekk7459]

@@bighousemusic628 Thanks for your opinion. So you think Black Lion has better converters and DAC than SSL and Motu? To be honest I haven't even heard of this interface so far...

[@bighousemusic628]

@@darekk7459 black lion is a mastering grade device in the league of prism . Lynx. Burl. And lavry. It carry some hybrid components . Nichicon . Veshay. And wima. Capacitor with high-end cirrus logic converter

[@cesaroliveros1985]

in the hypothetical case that you just wanted to listen to music, Which of the 2 sounds better?

[@lolilollolilol7773]

The MOTU sounds flatter and more natural than the SSL with whatever, which sounds brighter.

[@mindbodysoul69]

The specific comparison/review I was looking for. Nice

[@IcePlays]

SSL2 sounded way better. With the 4k it was much clearer, although brighter, than the M4, but without the 4K it was still warmer than the M4.

[@Fokeezy]

Agreed!

[@carlosserrano3985]

The 4k add distortion and coloration it's just like a loudness in a radio, you don't want that in a recording.

[@dawoud8013]

M4 is more "bassy". i hope you have good monitoring for ear it. the SSL is like zombie without the 4K mode compared to the M4. fortunately there is the 4k mode to raise the level.

[@andrelefebvre5453]

Do you know if the MOTU drop-out issues have been solved, Jacob? I'm mostly using virtual instruments, and the audio inputs would allow me to plug my synth for recording the audio out. But the dropouts have been mentioned elsewhere too, so I'm curious. Thanks!

[@FTHonestReviews]

Have no clue, I've been using an iD24 and have been super happy with it, not a single issue

[@flyguy4653]

ssl2 clean and loud enough for mixing 300ohm hd 600's? or pair with external amp?

[@michaeltrenier]

Greatest. Intro. Ever 😝😎 Great vid bro.

[@Rawbits13013]

Which has the better build quality?

[@Sam-rz3rd]

Fantastic comparison. Kudos for being the only one mentioning the bundled software. I went from MOTU ultralite (Firewire) to Focusrite 2i2 just for the stability issues of the MOTU (Windows PC, I even bought a separate Texas Instruments firewire card as motu suggested since day one). It seemed every single time I had some important audio to record with singers, it would spasm out with all of the levels going nuts and crazy dropouts. The MOTU definitely has a very solid beefy and true/clear recording of what we hear. The 2i2 just doesn't fill the void in quality (although I do love its design), but having years of issues with motu, it's a welcome change for the moment. I'm now again looking between the M2 and SSL 2. Just not sure yet, especially as the driver issues seem to run across all of MOTUs product range.

[@pumpkinheadjrb]

I'm wondering if anyone knows if the M4 has fixed their software since this video has released?

[@joonajks]

Would you recommend the Solid State Logic over the universal audio volt for podcasting?

[@joonajks]

@@FTHonestReviews thank you!

[@elibolonur]

Hi, thanks for the video! I wonder if it is possible to control the volume level with apple keyboard. Many external audio interfaces has volume controls greyed out on MacOS. I wonder if that is the case for Motu M4 or SSL as well? Googled a bit but can't find something about it, would really appreciate if you could answer!

[@FTHonestReviews]

That's not something I've ever tried to do, no idea, maybe someone will chime in who knows

[@cesaroliveros1985]

in the hypothetical case that you just wanted to listen to music, Which of the 2 sounds better?

[@FTHonestReviews]

I'd personally go SSL

[@cesaroliveros1985]

Hello friend, I have seen the black lion but I can see that it does not have xlr inputs for monitors, does that affect the audio?

[@djalexia]

Wish SSL 2 would have a second pair of output for second pair of monitors. Not thrilled about the unbalanced rca

[@FTHonestReviews]

I hear you, had to buy a monitor controller, I would've paid more money if it had two TRS outputs and a monitor switch button

[@kingblack6965]

Fact

[@Drakendor123]

In terms of the mic preamp tests with no 4k / 4k / m4, i think they are both really comparable, only difference is when you enable SSL's 4k, you get more high end, I think this is a similar effect to Focusrite Scarlett's AIR mode, I guess in some situations you want to instantly have a higher presence in your audio source. Nothing you can't do (with similar results) with post-processing anyways, so it's more of a time-saver (which can be useful for some people). Personally I'm going for an M4, the metering is super useful and, in paper, it seems to outdo other interfaces in many other situations such as dynamic range and latency (with test videos all over youtube). Can't say I'm giving a fair point to SSL because I haven't looked that much into it, but it also seems like a great interface, and you did some good tests in here to show where it shines (direct monitoring for example is a huge difference). Good video and hope everyone decides which to get!

[@mikyncdm]

I've got the Motu M4 and it sounds really great, natural, flat, clear and clean (motu style if you know what I mean) but, with windows and Pc I still have some freezing and other problems, the last firmware fix some issue but it isn't perfect yet, I hope they can resolve it very soon because, for now, I can't recommend it if you are a Pc/windows user, it's not entirely reliable

[@motuTV]

Hey Michele - I'm sorry to hear you're running into some trouble with your interface. We would be very interested in your experience and resolving this issue, so please contact our tech support team at your earliest convenience. motu.com/support

[@jazzyman9959]

@@motuTV motu sucks !!! you're gonna be jobless ㅋㅋㅋㅋ

[@RADERFPV]

@@jazzyman9959 Considering the motus are the most popular interface out there right now, I don't think he'll be jobless anytime soon. I've had the m4 for a week now, and it's been rock solid. Blows the old focusrite I have out of the water, not even a comparison. Most folks having issues don't know how to troubleshoot USB issues. The motu requires stable power, that's it's only downfall. Some USB ports are super sensitive to this, so results can vary for some.

[@wolves8930]

What interface is more powerful for sound I mean deliveres higher sound to speakers

[@juliancraft4503]

I would go with the SSL

[@bighousemusic628]

The motu is good but the ssl is on another planet

[@canalaudiospot]

Simple is better...I switched my apollo to SSl just becouse is a pain in the ass solving connection problems every single fuckin day!

[@righteousone8454]

I bought MOTU M4, and returned it immediately. Pops, clicks, sounds muddy/muffled, low speaker gain output. Worst sound I heard since 2009 year Behringer consoles. Some said my unit was "broken", let's hope so. It was bad.

[@Josh_GS__]

to be fair it should be the ssl2+

[@FTHonestReviews]

I wanted to but they were sold out everywhere at the time

[@echocovelofi]

Do the back line inputs(3 and 4) on the MOTU bypass the front pre-amps to allow for their own separate gain? I'm looking for an interface I can use to record acoustic in an X/Y mic setup with a DI track at the same time.

[@dawoud8013]

it's line, so it bypass the preamp circuit.

[@arthurw8054]

Thanks Jacob, great review! I really want to like the M4, but the dropout issues (which other users have noted too) are an absolute deal killer. I'm already set for a DAW-based home studio, but I need something both affordable & portable, and am adding the SSL2 or SSL2+ to the list of potentials.

[@jaroslavhojny6178]

Maybe try to have a look at M-AUDIO Air - 192/6 or 192/8. Much better value / money ratio.

[@jeanpaul.mma_]

@@jaroslavhojny6178 driver issues

[@jaroslavhojny6178]

@@jeanpaul.mma_ Oh yes, you´r right, unfortunately :-/ I´ve recognized it too... after some time. Now I wouldn´t recommend any M-AUDIO AIR equipment... though they have not bad converters.

[@audiolego]

I like MOTU M4 for the extra outs.

[@FTHonestReviews]

I now use the iD24 and am super happy with it

[@Mika-sq5pp]

need some advise between the MOTU M4 and Audient ID14 which one better and why ? thank you in advance

[@FTHonestReviews]

Personally I'd choose the iD14, while both have great specs the MOTU gave me driver issues while the iD14 was always flawless

[@DarkPa1adin]

@@FTHonestReviews I am using iD14, am thinking of side-grade to M4... iD14 has quirks... very power/electricity sensitive. The USB output hasn't been consistent. I had to use power adapter to stablise it. Audient Support gave the same useless advice. update firmware to latest and change USB cable. Problem persists regardless of laptop or desktop (x570 Aorus Xtreme). so now I can't even switch off my iD14 unless I want to warm up again... and it doesn't record 32bit float.

[@kobbyampofo]

DarkPa1adin this might help ur issue but the id14 cannot supply enough power for phantom power on usb only operation. It can work for other uses like play back but it doesn’t get all the juice and performance it’s needs on bus power only. I would always just have it plugged in if possible

[@mez9767]

I just got my SSL 2. I’m already back to recording on my 2i2 3rd gen. The SSL doesn’t not give high quality recordings. Recording the vocals and mixing them like normal has never sounded so meh. The vocals are distorted no matter which way you go. Maybe the boost in harmonic distortion just does not sit well with my raspy voice. The vocals in the DAW raw sound flat and lifeless. Like it’s been compressed on the way in. But a bad compression that cannot be undone. I’m getting little to no dynamic range. When I record on the Focusrite the raw vocals are clean and clear. And super dynamic. I just can’t like this interface. The recordings I’m getting from it are very boxy & unmusical. I admit, the converters are a bit better sounding on monitors than the 2i2, but it’s not worth the sacrifice. So I am currently recording vocals through the 2i2 and then mixing on the SSL. Was a waste of money IMHO.

[@casadasmelodias3379]

Hy I really really need your help, I was about to switch from focusrite 2i2 3gen to ssl 2+ still now I sold my the distortion, latency and stability on win are the most important, you are the only one that had a different comment, I won't feel pleasure with distortion the quality matter, so what about to switch from focusrite to M2 or focusrite to Ssl 2+ and why?

[@itztoonable]

What type mic are you running??

[@tw364]

@@casadasmelodias3379 it's probably his voice. I do VO and it sounds awesome.

[@dulla8469]

man the ssl just looks good and easy to get to the knobs big ass volume knobs and everything is on top

[@FTHonestReviews]

Agreed! Part of the reason I kept it

[@3alarm247]

I don’t understand why more manufacturers don’t put the controls on top of the device? Smh

[@FTHonestReviews]

@@3alarm247 all depends on one's set up I suppose, front faced make sense for rackmountable gear otherwise I agree

[@RaghuRoxx]

And headphones jack on back? 😂

[@dawoud8013]

@@RaghuRoxx Yes, in this rack view, nothing should be behind !

[@lucasjuniorproducer]

Hi, congratz on your channel, i have a question please. When you plug the Great River Preamp on the SSL do you use a balanced TRS Jack and engage the LINE ? Can you still use the 4K Buton? Or not? Well, how do you connect the preamp to the SSL channel input? Thank you very much.

[@fatih9135]

One of the other video that reviewed motu m2 said that "MON" buttons for monitoring. Whats wrong?

[@rileyioacura]

Dude I clicked subscribe just because of the dragon ball z reference on the intro!!! Your voice sounds like Android 17 in dragon ball super!!! I like your style dude!!!

[@MsMila2910]

Audient id 4 vs Motu m2, who is better ? I want a interface between this ones but i dont know who is better:( i need only record voices for music and i wish a better quality posible. Pd: my english is bad sorry xd

[@marcchapleau8343]

Audient ID4 and ID14 have better preamp and lower nose floor than the Motu. Every single bench and test prove that.

[@hang-sangitch]

Damn. The motu m4 sounds the most natural on the mic test. Very impressed!

[@reneliebregt6319]

Colum Nolan I bought the Motu M4 a few weeks ago and I am really satisfied with this box. The HI-Z input gives also a very good sound ( DI acoustic guitar). See also my comment on stability of the Motu. I have no problems at all and the driver is also very fast. I am not a specific motu fan but want to share my good experience with this interface. 4 in 4 out high quality interface !!

[@hang-sangitch]

@@reneliebregt6319 thanks man I really appreciate it . Good to know :) because I really want one 😁👍 can you use all 4 inputs at the same time? Have you tried that.

[@reneliebregt6319]

Colum Nolan You are welome. Yes I tried all 4 inputs at the same time. I connected the output of my studiolive 16.0.2 mixer to the line inputs 3 and 4 of the motu and recorded an acoustic guitar with 2 mics connected to input 1 and 2 and a direct signal from the same acoustic guitar via a zoom a1 four in stereo to the mixer. No problem with 4 at once but you need a line level signal !! A cheap small mixer would give you 4 mic inputs. My studiolive firewire mixer is now my preamp for input 3 and 4. I like the motu better than my presonus studiolive mixer , that has been working fine for 8 years now. 😁

[@hang-sangitch]

@@reneliebregt6319 Oh great news thanks. Yeah I have an m audio dmp3, so that should do fine for line level into 3 & 4 inputs. Great that it works on all four inputs at once. Being able to record acoustic guitar through all four inputs will help me a lot. I currently only have two so will be a big upgrade 😁

[@reneliebregt6319]

Colum Nolan Hi again I didn’t knew the m-audio mp3 but I found the specs and this preamp unit is a perfect match for line input 3 and 4 of the motu m4. It has more gain than the motu 66db !! and to should be very low noise and have an incredible frequency range. It has 2 balanced TRS outputs which fits nicely to the balanced line inputs of the motu4. Yes you get 4 mic inputs then or any combination of mic and hi-z inputs. This is even better than a small mixer. Thanks for listening to my music. Within 2 weeks I will have a track with acoustic guitars and drums only recorded with the motu. 😀👍

[@demodeiowa]

I mean I don’t think it’s completely fair to announce the ssl as the winner based on a possibly faulty m4 that you received. I just got an M4 n so far it’s been pretty stellar on performance and I run a lot of cpu intensive plugins and vst and not to mention mixbus outboard gear. So far no complaints here. Overall nice video! Great to see someone comparing both units.

[@FTHonestReviews]

I hear you, while it's possible it was faulty I have read up through forums about other PC users encountering issues. Either way I had to make a choice based on my experience and the SSL has been great. At the end of the day either interface is going to get great results.

[@demodeiowa]

@@FTHonestReviews kudos!

[@reneliebregt6319]

Demode I agree with you , I have the Motu M4 for 2 weeks now and the performance is excellent better than my Presonus firewire mixer !!! 👍😀

[@demodeiowa]

@@reneliebregt6319 awesome dude! congrats on on that!

[@DJURBANBG]

so how do you compare the DA converters of the Apollo to DA of SSL, which one is better for mixing/mastering ? tnx

[@FTHonestReviews]

I would expect the Apollo to be better because of the price range however your room acoustics are going to play a bigger role imo

[@AnthonyMartinsRock]

@@FTHonestReviews I have found that the ADDA to be. identical although I actually give the edge to the ssl for fidelity and flat conversion without adding anything which the uad did on the same source material. Ssl clearer without translating higher frequencies subtley grating data which the ua did. Price should be ignored. Ua a bit muddied which can be interpreted as "warmth". I prefer to colour my signal with my intended chosen hardware

[@tommasoannoni4836]

Anthony Martins Rock - Thank you so much for this reply. On those youtube videos, it always seems like the Motu and Apollo have more “body/warmth” in the mid-low, and the SSL may sound more crispy and “thin”.. but I never head the acoustic/original sound, so I never know which one is actually more close to the real sound. I guess especially male singers love that slightly darker tone, anyway, I just ordered my SSL2 today and I am happy to see your comment clarifying this last point (for many other reasons, people who have the SSL told me that is great).

[@AnthonyMartinsRock]

@@tommasoannoni4836 Yeah Tommaso, the SSL gives you what you put into it. That is important. People may like an interface that sounds "warm". This is called a "character preamp" that for me has no place at that stage when you can not remove this added effect. It compounds itself if you plan on going in and out of the same interface. You will find that the better that an interface gets(and more expensive), the less and less you have any idea its there!

[@Fwuzeem]

Is it really better than the UH-7000 though? That's the one I'm currently running, and it beats the hell out of everything I've heard so far.

[@FTHonestReviews]

Keep the UH7000, while I ultimately chose to move on with the SSL, I miss the Tascam lol

[@Fwuzeem]

@@FTHonestReviews Cool, thanks!

[@A1DULLU]

Would you recommend the SSL2 over the ID14...really wanted the apollo twin but it seems the usb version isn't really reliable

[@FTHonestReviews]

I think it comes down to the pre amps, go SSL if you want a colored sound and iD14 for clean

[@A1DULLU]

@@FTHonestReviews thank you for responding

[@FEEDBACK000ZOTAS]

Ssl way better than id14

[@kozihoppy]

Hey Jacob, did you get a new unit sent from MOTU? It's been a month already. I'm still torn between the SSL and the M4.

[@kozihoppy]

I went for the MOTU M4 in the end and I couldn't be happier. I'm rediscovering music listening experience with those DACs. Amazing.

[@carlosserrano3985]

Good choice, the Motu M4 Is better than the SSL, the specs are there, the converters alone are waaay better too, I got the M4 and I'm very happy with it.

[@rallzam]

@@carlosserrano3985 lol, thats not true, i had both, atm im team antilope, ssl is better and the converters are a bit better too. stop talk bull, just cuz u are a fanboy of motu.

[@carlosserrano3985]

@@rallzam No I'm not fan of anything and I bought my M4 with my 💰 just to be clear, check the specs in overall, the only thing that those SSL have really good is the EIN -131db but the outputs are no that good including the headphones, the 4k buttons ads coloration and distortion, who needs that, a good EQ do a better job, I think right now for the money the Motu M2/M4 and the Audient Evo are the best ones and then the SSL, next level UA Apollo, Antelope, Apogee. If you don't know how read specs, start to do it because not everything that you think this is good because have a prestigious brand. Same with microphones, the cheapest and really good with professional results is the Rode NT-1, next level Neumann TLM-103 or U87AI.

[@dawoud8013]

​@@carlosserrano3985 good specs on the paper don't means that the final rendering is here... saddly... But thank you for your feed back... always not decided between M2/M4 or SSL2/+ or Audient iD14 MKII .... this last one seems to have a great HiZ input ! from another world ! as a futur guitar player... maybe i should go to the iD 14 MKII

[@SM57]

Is it possible to bypass internal preamps on SSL? Thank you!

[@mr.nervedamagegaming8050]

If you are having drop outs and freezing... that’s either an issue with your OS, your usb cable/port, or your M4 itself has a defect. I’ve been using the M2 since last year and have had zero issues with performance.

[@DJANGELMONROY]

Could you tell me if the Motu knobs are hard plastic or are kind of rubber? The rubber type of knobs always ends feeling sticky... Thanks!

[@bumerangrabaciones]

The knobs are metallic, and very sensitive, I liked it so much

[@DJANGELMONROY]

@@bumerangrabaciones Thanks! Finally I bought it and I'm quite happy with it. Really like the feel of the knobs.

[@bumerangrabaciones]

@@DJANGELMONROY Y como suena es lo principal!

[@DJANGELMONROY]

@@bumerangrabaciones jajaja sí, eso también tiene su importancia ;)

[@dannydaniel8975]

I had got both, but when l bought the apollo twin x, it blew both of them out of the water...The AD/DA converters are way way way better and the headphone jack is unmatched...sorry Motu & SSL..try again!!

[@user-hn9mt8ti3o]

Apollo is another league, its price too.

[@dannydaniel8975]

​@@user-hn9mt8ti3o Yeah. It cost me a grand.

[@DalleyMusic]

Motu M4 mic test sounded much better to me.

[@musiquemacabre]

Jacob Dark Z. You dang on nerd. Subscribed!

[@kirstensray]

SSL 2 sounded better, but not that much better and certainly nothing that couldn't be fixed in post with some EQ. The specs on the M4 are fantastic. Perhaps firmware upgrades will fix the issues.

[@FTHonestReviews]

Perhaps, imo you can't go wrong either way, go with what suits your connectivity needs

[@bighousemusic628]

Stop dreaming the ssl is as close to the lynx and the prism sound orpheus that motu is muddy unbalanced and full of bass less detail

[@kirstensray]

@@bighousemusic628 Thanks for this info, it's clear you've compared all of these devices and have a better perspective than those of us listening to just this KZbin video. Go SSL!

[@vigneshpiramanayagam2058]

Hey Jacob, I picked up the SSL 2 today and I'm using a Blue Spark condenser mic. Even with the gain turned up about 70% of the way, my recording levels are quite low. Barely getting 2 of the LEDs on the SSL unit lighting up. Is this normal?

[@johnhickman1597]

Phantom power turned on?

[@dcoverzsessions]

What about the latency of those?