Hi,

I'm a hobbyist wanting to record an albums-worth of songs. I currently have MOTU M4 interface which I really like mainly because it never gives me problems software-wise. I'm wondering though if upgrading would make my recordings sound better. I don't need the preamp since I have a RND Portico 5012 (also have the 5043 compressor). I record guitar, bass, vocals and analog synths (one at a time) so just need stereo inputs. I use software for drums. Other than capturing the initial sounds, I would also send the final mix out to the 5043 and back in so most sounds would make two trips through the AD. I had an Apogee Duet years ago and it didn't connect well to my Mac. Maybe they've fixed the software since then? I'd prefer to stay in the $500 range but could maybe stretch up to $1k if I thought it would make a significant difference. Is the Motu pretty decent or would it be worth upgrading and if so, any recommendations? Thanks.

You're good with your MOTU converters.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=W5V3eAyIe2c

UAudio Apollo Twin or RME Babyface Pro would be my picks.
Especially the UAudio allows to use real-time FX while tracking.
If that is not important just a plain interface like a UAudio Volt 476 will work as well.
If you want to hook up all the gear you can look at a EVO 16 as well.

Most of them, even the cheap ones, are excellent:

Thanks. This is what I was looking for. Mainly is there a significant difference in audio quality and sound like even the cheap interfaces have excellent sound quality.

Thanks. this vid was right on the nose.