The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 and the RME Fireface UCX II are both high-quality audio/MIDI interfaces, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences, making each suited to specific user profiles.
The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 is a compact and robust USB-C audio/MIDI interface, offering 18 inputs and 22 outputs. It features high-quality ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology, providing exceptional audio fidelity with low latency. The UltraLite-mk5 is designed with portability in mind, making it an excellent choice for musicians and producers who need a reliable interface for both studio and live settings. It includes two mic/line/instrument inputs, six line inputs, and ten line outputs, along with optical I/O and MIDI I/O, ensuring a flexible setup for various recording and playback scenarios. The unit also supports loopback functionality, which is ideal for live streaming and podcasting.
On the other hand, the RME Fireface UCX II is a more extensive interface, offering 40 channels of audio I/O via USB-B and USB-C connections. It includes 8 analog inputs and 8 analog outputs, along with a wealth of digital I/O options, such as ADAT, SPDIF, AES/EBU, and word clock, making it highly versatile for complex studio environments. The Fireface UCX II is renowned for its ultra-low latency and stable performance, thanks to RME’s proprietary drivers and TotalMix FX software, which allows for comprehensive routing and mixing capabilities. The UCX II also features high-quality preamps and converters, ensuring pristine audio quality across all inputs and outputs. Additional features include DURec (Direct USB Recording), which supports standalone recording to USB storage devices, making it a powerful tool for mobile recording setups.
In summary, while the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 is ideal for users seeking a compact, portable interface with excellent sound quality and straightforward functionality, the RME Fireface UCX II is better suited for those requiring extensive connectivity, advanced routing capabilities, and robust standalone recording options. Both interfaces deliver professional-grade audio performance, but the choice between them largely depends on the specific requirements of the user’s workflow and setup.
User Rating Based on Analysis of Reviews |
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Pros: |
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High-quality audio conversion and low-latency performance.
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Extensive connectivity options including USB and MIDI.
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TotalMix FX software for comprehensive routing and effects.
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Sturdy build quality and portable design.
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Support for both Windows and macOS.
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High-quality audio with 24-bit/192kHz resolution.
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Comprehensive I/O options including 10 inputs and 8 outputs.
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User-friendly software for easy control and monitoring.
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Solid build quality and compact design for portability.
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Low-latency performance suitable for professional use.
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Cons: |
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Higher price point compared to other interfaces.
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Complex setup for beginners due to vast features.
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Limited support for Linux operating systems.
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Higher price point compared to some competing models.
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No dedicated physical MIDI controls.
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Learning curve for beginners due to extensive features.
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Limited onboard DSP effects.
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Key Specs |
Channels of I/O |
Analog: 8 Inputs / 8 Outputs Digital: 12 Inputs / 12 Outputs |
Analog: 8 Inputs / 12 Outputs Digital: 10 Inputs / 10 Outputs |
Maximum Sampling Rate |
192 kHz / 24-Bit |
192 kHz / 24-Bit |
Number of Microphone Inputs |
2 |
2 Preamps |
Analog Audio I/O |
2x Combo XLR-1/4" TRS Balanced Mic/Line Input (Front Panel) 2x 1/4" TRS Balanced/Unbalanced Line/Hi-Z Input (Front Panel) 4x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Input 6x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Output (DC-Coupled) 1x 1/4" TRS Unbalanced Headphone Output (Front Panel) |
2x Combo XLR-1/4" TRS Balanced/Unbalanced Mic/Line/Hi-Z Input (Front Panel) 6x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Input 10x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Output (DC-Coupled) 1x 1/4" TRS Unbalanced Headphone Output (Front Panel) |
Digital Audio I/O |
1x TOSLINK Optical ADAT Input 1x TOSLINK Optical ADAT Output 1x XLR 3-Pin AES3 Input (on Breakout Cable) 1x XLR 3-Pin AES3 Output (on Breakout Cable) 1x RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Input (on Breakout Cable) 1x RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Output (on Breakout Cable) |
1x TOSLINK Optical ADAT / S/PDIF Input 1x TOSLINK Optical ADAT / S/PDIF Output 1x RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Input 1x RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Output |
Host Connection |
1x USB-B |
1x USB-C (Class-Compliant) |
OS Compatibility |
macOS 10.12 or Later Windows 7 or Later Linux iPadOS 7 or Later |
macOS 10.11 or Later Windows 10 13.5 or Later |
Power Requirements |
AC/DC Power Adapter (Included) |
AC/DC Power Adapter (Included) |
The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface and the RME Fireface UCX II 40-Channel USB-B Audio/MIDI Interface are both advanced audio/MIDI interfaces, but they differ significantly in their features and connectivity options.
In terms of channels of I/O, the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 offers a total of 8 analog inputs and 12 analog outputs, complemented by 10 digital inputs and 10 digital outputs. On the other hand, the RME Fireface UCX II provides 8 analog inputs and 8 analog outputs, with a broader range of digital I/O, including 12 digital inputs and 12 digital outputs, which includes AES3 connectivity via a breakout cable.
Both units support a maximum sampling rate of 192 kHz at 24-bit resolution, ensuring high-fidelity audio recording and playback. They also both include 2 microphone preamps, although their configurations differ slightly. The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 includes 2 combo XLR-1/4" TRS balanced/unbalanced mic/line/Hi-Z inputs on the front panel, while the RME Fireface UCX II has 2 combo XLR-1/4" TRS balanced mic/line inputs and an additional 2 TRS balanced/unbalanced line/Hi-Z inputs on the front panel.
When it comes to analog audio I/O, the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 is equipped with 6 TRS balanced line inputs and 10 TRS balanced line outputs that are DC-coupled, along with a single unbalanced headphone output on the front panel. In contrast, the RME Fireface UCX II features 4 TRS balanced line inputs, 6 TRS balanced line outputs that are also DC-coupled, and one unbalanced headphone output on the front panel.
For digital audio I/O, the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 provides one TOSLINK optical ADAT/S/PDIF input and output, as well as one RCA coaxial S/PDIF input and output. The RME Fireface UCX II, however, offers a more extensive digital I/O setup with one TOSLINK optical ADAT input and output, one XLR 3-pin AES3 input and output via a breakout cable, and one RCA coaxial S/PDIF input and output via a breakout cable.
In terms of host connection, the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 uses a USB-C port, which is class-compliant, making it compatible with macOS 10.11 or later and Windows 10 13.5 or later. The RME Fireface UCX II uses a USB-B connection and is compatible with macOS 10.12 or later, Windows 7 or later, Linux, and iPadOS 7 or later, offering a broader range of OS compatibility.
Both interfaces require an AC/DC power adapter, which is included with each unit. The differences in connectivity options and OS compatibility may influence the choice between these two models, depending on the specific requirements and existing setup of the user.
General |
Channels of I/O |
Analog: 8 Inputs / 8 Outputs Digital: 12 Inputs / 12 Outputs |
Analog: 8 Inputs / 12 Outputs Digital: 10 Inputs / 10 Outputs |
Built-In DSP |
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Yes |
Maximum Sampling Rate |
192 kHz / 24-Bit |
192 kHz / 24-Bit |
Number of Microphone Inputs |
2 |
2 Preamps |
Built-In Microphone |
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Input Level Adjustment |
1x Knob |
2x Knob |
Expansion Slots |
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The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface and the RME Fireface UCX II 40-Channel USB-B Audio/MIDI Interface each offer a variety of features tailored to different user needs.
The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 provides a total of 8 analog inputs and 12 analog outputs, paired with 10 digital inputs and 10 digital outputs. This makes for a versatile array of connectivity options, suitable for complex setups. It also includes built-in DSP, which offers onboard effects processing and mixing capabilities, an attractive feature for those looking to minimize latency and offload some processing tasks from their computer. The UltraLite-mk5 supports a maximum sampling rate of 192 kHz at 24-bit resolution, ensuring high-quality audio fidelity. This interface includes 2 microphone preamps and offers input level adjustment via two knobs, providing straightforward control over input levels. However, it does not feature built-in microphones or expansion slots.
On the other hand, the RME Fireface UCX II offers 8 analog inputs and 8 analog outputs, complemented by 12 digital inputs and 12 digital outputs, providing slightly more digital I/O options compared to the UltraLite-mk5. Unlike the MOTU, the RME Fireface UCX II does not include built-in DSP, which may be a consideration for users who rely on onboard processing. It also supports a maximum sampling rate of 192 kHz at 24-bit resolution, ensuring similarly high-quality audio. The interface includes 2 microphone inputs and features a single knob for input level adjustment, which may be seen as less flexible compared to the dual-knob configuration of the UltraLite-mk5. Like the MOTU, it does not have built-in microphones or expansion slots.
In summary, the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 stands out with its built-in DSP and slightly more analog output channels, while the RME Fireface UCX II offers more digital I/O options but lacks built-in DSP. Both interfaces support high-resolution audio and have similar microphone input capabilities, but the user experience and specific needs will determine the better choice between the two.
Signal Processing |
Pad |
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Mic: -20 dB (Switchable per Channel) |
Gain/Trim Range |
1/4" Hi-Z Inputs: +6 dB Combo XLR-1/4" Mic/Line Inputs: +75 dB 1/4" Line Inputs: +12 dB |
Mic Inputs: Up to +74 dB |
High-Pass Filter |
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Solo/Mute |
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The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface and the RME Fireface UCX II 40-Channel USB-B Audio/MIDI Interface both offer distinct features tailored for different user needs.
The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 provides a switchable pad for its mic inputs, allowing for a -20 dB reduction per channel. It supports a substantial gain/trim range for mic inputs, offering up to +74 dB. However, it does not include a high-pass filter or solo/mute functionality for its inputs.
In comparison, the RME Fireface UCX II does not feature a pad for its inputs. It offers a varied gain/trim range across different input types: +6 dB for 1/4" Hi-Z inputs, up to +75 dB for combo XLR-1/4" mic/line inputs, and +12 dB for 1/4" line inputs. Like the MOTU UltraLite-mk5, the RME Fireface UCX II also lacks a high-pass filter and solo/mute functionality.
In summary, while both interfaces lack high-pass filters and solo/mute options, the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 includes a switchable pad for mic inputs and offers a slightly lower maximum gain for mic inputs compared to the RME Fireface UCX II. The RME Fireface UCX II, on the other hand, has a more extensive gain/trim range across different input types but does not feature a pad.
Connectivity |
Analog Audio I/O |
2x Combo XLR-1/4" TRS Balanced Mic/Line Input (Front Panel) 2x 1/4" TRS Balanced/Unbalanced Line/Hi-Z Input (Front Panel) 4x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Input 6x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Output (DC-Coupled) 1x 1/4" TRS Unbalanced Headphone Output (Front Panel) |
2x Combo XLR-1/4" TRS Balanced/Unbalanced Mic/Line/Hi-Z Input (Front Panel) 6x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Input 10x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Output (DC-Coupled) 1x 1/4" TRS Unbalanced Headphone Output (Front Panel) |
Phantom Power |
48 V, Selectable On/Off (Selectable on Individual Inputs) |
48 V, Selectable On/Off (Selectable on Individual Inputs) |
Digital Audio I/O |
1x TOSLINK Optical ADAT Input 1x TOSLINK Optical ADAT Output 1x XLR 3-Pin AES3 Input (on Breakout Cable) 1x XLR 3-Pin AES3 Output (on Breakout Cable) 1x RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Input (on Breakout Cable) 1x RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Output (on Breakout Cable) |
1x TOSLINK Optical ADAT / S/PDIF Input 1x TOSLINK Optical ADAT / S/PDIF Output 1x RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Input 1x RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Output |
Host Connection |
1x USB-B |
1x USB-C (Class-Compliant) |
Host Connection Protocol |
USB 2.0 |
USB 2.0 |
USB (Non-Host) |
1x USB-A (External Storage) |
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Sync I/O |
1x BNC Word Clock Input or Output |
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Network I/O |
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MIDI I/O |
1x DIN 5-Pin Input 1x DIN 5-Pin Output |
1x DIN 5-Pin Input 1x DIN 5-Pin Output |
The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface and the RME Fireface UCX II 40-Channel USB-B Audio/MIDI Interface offer distinct features in terms of analog and digital audio I/O, host connection, and other capabilities.
The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 provides a broad range of analog audio I/O options, including 2 combo XLR-1/4" TRS balanced/unbalanced mic/line/Hi-Z inputs, 6x 1/4" TRS balanced line inputs, 10x 1/4" TRS balanced line outputs (DC-coupled), and a 1/4" TRS unbalanced headphone output on the front panel. In comparison, the RME Fireface UCX II offers 2 combo XLR-1/4" TRS balanced mic/line inputs, 2x 1/4" TRS balanced/unbalanced line/Hi-Z inputs, 4x 1/4" TRS balanced line inputs, 6x 1/4" TRS balanced line outputs (DC-coupled), and a single 1/4" TRS unbalanced headphone output on the front panel. Both interfaces provide 48 V phantom power, selectable on individual inputs.
For digital audio I/O, the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 features 1x TOSLINK optical ADAT/S/PDIF input and output, and 1x RCA coaxial S/PDIF input and output. On the other hand, the RME Fireface UCX II expands its digital audio I/O options with 1x TOSLINK optical ADAT input and output, 1x XLR 3-pin AES3 input and output (on a breakout cable), and 1x RCA coaxial S/PDIF input and output (on a breakout cable).
Regarding host connection, the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 uses a USB-C connection with a USB 2.0 protocol. In contrast, the RME Fireface UCX II relies on a USB-B connection with a USB 2.0 protocol. Additionally, the RME model supports external storage through a USB-A port, a feature not available on the MOTU UltraLite-mk5.
The RME Fireface UCX II includes sync I/O with a BNC word clock input or output, a feature absent in the MOTU UltraLite-mk5. Both interfaces offer MIDI I/O with 1x DIN 5-pin input and output. The RME Fireface UCX II also incorporates a DE-9/DB-9 9-pin breakout cable for additional in/out options, which is not present on the MOTU UltraLite-mk5.
These differences highlight the specific strengths of each interface, with the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 offering more analog outputs and the RME Fireface UCX II providing more extensive digital connectivity and synchronization capabilities.
Performance |
Maximum Input Level |
1/4" Hi-Z Inputs: +13 dBu (Min Gain) -5 dBu (Max Gain) Combo XLR-1/4" Mic Inputs: +18 dBu (Min Gain) -57 dBu (Max Gain) Combo XLR-1/4" Line Inputs: +24 dBu (Min Gain) -51 dBu (Max Gain) 1/4" Line Inputs: +19 dBu (Min Gain) +1 dBu (Max Gain) |
Mic Inputs: 0 dBu Line Inputs: +24 dBu |
Maximum Output Level |
Line/Headphone Outputs: +19 dBu |
Line Outputs: +21 dBu Headphone Outputs: +14 dBu |
Impedance |
Combo XLR-1/4" Mic Inputs: 5.4 Kilohms Combo XLR-1/4" Line Inputs: 10 Kilohms (Balanced) 5 Kilohms (Unbalanced) Hi-Z Inputs: 1 Megohm 1/4" Line Inputs: 12 Kilohms (Balanced) 8 Kilohms (Unbalanced) Line Outputs: 75 Ohms Headphone Outputs: 1 Ohm |
Line/Hi-Z Inputs: 1 Megohm |
Dynamic Range |
Line Outputs: 115 dB (A-Weighted) 112 dB RMS (Unweighted) |
Mic Inputs: 115 dB (A-Weighted) Line Inputs: 120 dB (A-Weighted) Line Outputs: 125 dB (A-Weighted) Headphone Outputs: 118 dB (A-Weighted) |
THD+N |
Inputs: < -104 dB / < 0.00063% Outputs: < -104 dB / < 0.00063% |
Mic Inputs: -113 dB Line Inputs: -114 dB / 0.0002% (Unweighted) Line Outputs: -114 dB / 0.0002% (Unweighted) Headphone Outputs: -110 dB / 0.0003% (Unweighted) |
EIN |
Mic Inputs: -128 dBu A-Weighted (150-Ohm Source, +60 dB Gain, 20 Hz to 20 kHz) |
Mic Inputs: -129 dBu |
The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface and the RME Fireface UCX II 40-Channel USB-B Audio/MIDI Interface both offer high-quality audio performance, but they have distinct specifications that cater to different professional needs.
The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 provides a maximum input level of 0 dBu for mic inputs and +24 dBu for line inputs. Its maximum output level is +21 dBu for line outputs and +14 dBu for headphone outputs. The impedance for line/Hi-Z inputs is 1 Megohm. In terms of dynamic range, the UltraLite-mk5 delivers 115 dB (A-Weighted) for mic inputs, 120 dB (A-Weighted) for line inputs, 125 dB (A-Weighted) for line outputs, and 118 dB (A-Weighted) for headphone outputs. The THD+N values are impressive with -113 dB for mic inputs, -114 dB / 0.0002% (unweighted) for line inputs and outputs, and -110 dB / 0.0003% (unweighted) for headphone outputs. The EIN for mic inputs is -129 dBu.
On the other hand, the RME Fireface UCX II offers a frequency response that ranges from 5 Hz to 20.8 kHz (-0.1 dB at 44.1 kHz) to 2 Hz to 92 kHz (-1 dB at 192 kHz) for inputs, and from 5 Hz to 20.8 kHz (-0.5 dB at 44.1 kHz) to 5 Hz to 89 kHz (-1 dB at 192 kHz) for outputs. The maximum input level varies significantly depending on the input type: +13 dBu (min gain) to -5 dBu (max gain) for 1/4" Hi-Z inputs, +18 dBu (min gain) to -57 dBu (max gain) for combo XLR-1/4" mic inputs, +24 dBu (min gain) to -51 dBu (max gain) for combo XLR-1/4" line inputs, and +19 dBu (min gain) to +1 dBu (max gain) for 1/4" line inputs. The maximum output level for line/headphone outputs is +19 dBu, with headphone output power being 210 mW per channel into 32 Ohms (max, 0.1% THD). The impedance for different inputs ranges from 1 Megohm for Hi-Z inputs to various values for other inputs and outputs. The dynamic range for line outputs is 115 dB (A-Weighted) and 112 dB RMS (Unweighted), while the SNR for 1/4" line inputs is 115 dB (A-Weighted) and 112 dB RMS (Unweighted). The THD values are less than -110 dB / less than 0.00032% for inputs and less than -108 dB / less than 0.0004% for outputs. The THD+N for both inputs and outputs is less than -104 dB / less than 0.00063%. The EIN for mic inputs is -128 dBu A-Weighted (150-Ohm Source, +60 dB Gain, 20 Hz to 20 kHz).
In summary, while both interfaces offer professional-grade audio performance, the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 stands out with its extremely low THD+N values and higher dynamic range for line outputs. The RME Fireface UCX II, however, offers a wider frequency response range and greater flexibility in input levels, making it suitable for a broader range of recording scenarios.
Digital Audio |
Sample Rates |
Up to 192 kHz |
44.1 / 48 / 88.2 / 96 / 176.4 / 192 kHz |
Sample Rate Conversion |
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Bit Depths |
24-Bit |
24-Bit |
Latency |
Zero-Latency Direct Monitoring A/D Conversion: 0.11 ms at 44.1 kHz A/D Conversion: 0.1 ms at 48 kHz A/D Conversion: 0.057 ms at 88.2 kHz A/D Conversion: 0.052 ms at 96 kHz A/D Conversion: 0.034 ms at 176.4 kHz A/D Conversion: 0.031 ms at 192 kHz |
2.4 ms at 96 kHz (Dependent on Buffer Size, Input to Output) |
Sync Sources |
ADAT, AES3, Internal, S/PDIF, Word Clock |
ADAT, Internal, S/PDIF |
The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 and RME Fireface UCX II are both high-quality audio/MIDI interfaces, but they cater to slightly different professional needs based on their specifications.
The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 supports sample rates of 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, and 192 kHz, with a bit depth of 24-bit. It does not offer sample rate conversion. The interface boasts a low latency of 2.4 ms at 96 kHz, which can vary depending on the buffer size and the input-output configuration. Sync sources for the UltraLite-mk5 include ADAT, internal clock, and S/PDIF, but it does not provide additional clocking features.
On the other hand, the RME Fireface UCX II supports sample rates up to 192 kHz and also operates at a 24-bit depth, without the option for sample rate conversion. RME's interface excels in latency, featuring zero-latency direct monitoring and extremely low A/D conversion latencies across various sample rates, such as 0.11 ms at 44.1 kHz, 0.1 ms at 48 kHz, and down to 0.031 ms at 192 kHz. This makes the Fireface UCX II particularly suitable for real-time applications that demand minimal delay. Additionally, the Fireface UCX II offers more extensive sync and clocking options, including ADAT, AES3, internal clock, S/PDIF, and word clock. Its clocking features are highly detailed, including word clock input termination at 75 ohms, various voltage ranges for inputs and outputs, and significant jitter suppression capabilities across different formats.
In summary, while both interfaces support high sample rates and 24-bit depth, the RME Fireface UCX II stands out with its superior latency performance and comprehensive sync and clocking options, making it more suitable for professional environments requiring robust real-time audio processing. The MOTU UltraLite-mk5, with its competent but less extensive feature set, offers a solid choice for users who need high-quality audio capture without the need for advanced clocking and ultra-low latency performance.
Compatibility |
OS Compatibility |
macOS 10.12 or Later Windows 7 or Later Linux iPadOS 7 or Later |
macOS 10.11 or Later Windows 10 13.5 or Later |
Processor Requirement |
Intel Core i3 or Better |
Mac: Intel Core i3 or Better PC: Intel Core i3 or Better AMD |
Mobile App Compatible |
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Yes |
Mobile Device Compatibility |
iPad iPad Pro iPhone |
iPad iPhone iPod Touch |
Required Hardware |
Available USB 2.0 Port or USB 3.0 / 3.1/3.2 Gen 1 Port USB Cable (Included) |
Available USB 2.0 Port |
The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface and the RME Fireface UCX II 40-Channel USB-B Audio/MIDI Interface both offer robust features and high-quality performance, but they differ significantly in their specifications and system requirements.
The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 is compatible with macOS 10.11 or later and Windows 10 13.5 or later, whereas the RME Fireface UCX II supports macOS 10.12 or later, Windows 7 or later, and even Linux. This makes the RME Fireface UCX II more versatile in terms of operating system compatibility. Both interfaces require an Intel Core i3 or better processor, ensuring that they can handle intensive audio tasks efficiently.
In terms of RAM requirements, the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 suggests a minimum of 4 GB, with 8 GB recommended. The RME Fireface UCX II does not specify a RAM requirement, which might imply a broader range of compatible systems, though users should ensure their system meets standard DAW requirements for optimal performance. The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 also specifies a storage requirement of 500 GB, which is not mentioned for the RME Fireface UCX II.
When it comes to mobile app compatibility, the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 is compatible with iPad, iPhone, and iPod Touch, offering more flexibility for mobile device integration. On the other hand, the RME Fireface UCX II supports iPad and iPad Pro but does not include mobile app compatibility, which limits its use with mobile devices.
Both interfaces require an available USB 2.0 port for connectivity. However, the RME Fireface UCX II also supports USB 3.0/3.1/3.2 Gen 1 ports and includes a USB cable, providing more options for connectivity and potentially faster data transfer rates.
In summary, the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 offers broader mobile device compatibility and specific RAM and storage requirements, while the RME Fireface UCX II boasts wider OS compatibility and more versatile connectivity options. Both interfaces cater to different needs and preferences, making them suitable for various audio production environments.
Power |
Power Requirements |
AC/DC Power Adapter (Included) |
AC/DC Power Adapter (Included) |
AC/DC Power Adapter |
9 to 18 VDC at 2 A, Center-Positive (Included) |
12 to 18 VDC at 1 A, Center-Positive or Negative (Included) |
The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface and the RME Fireface UCX II 40-Channel USB-B Audio/MIDI Interface both include AC/DC power adapters, but they differ significantly in their power requirements and specifications.
The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 requires an AC/DC power adapter that operates at 12 to 18 VDC with a current of 1 A, either center-positive or negative. This power adapter is included with the unit. The device does not specify a wide AC input range for the adapter, implying it primarily focuses on the DC voltage range for its operation.
On the other hand, the RME Fireface UCX II also comes with an AC/DC power adapter, but it offers a more versatile AC input power range of 100 to 240 VAC at 50/60 Hz. The AC/DC adapter for the RME Fireface UCX II provides an output of 9 to 18 VDC at 2 A with a center-positive configuration. Additionally, the RME Fireface UCX II specifies a typical power consumption of 13 watts, providing a clearer picture of its power efficiency and requirements during operation.
In summary, the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 uses a DC voltage range of 12 to 18 VDC at 1 A with a flexible center-positive or negative configuration. Conversely, the RME Fireface UCX II accommodates a broader AC input range and requires 9 to 18 VDC at 2 A with a center-positive configuration, consuming 13 watts typically. These distinctions reflect differences in flexibility, power requirements, and potentially in the operational environments they are designed for.
Physical |
Rackmount Size |
1 RU (with Non-Included Hardware, 1/2-Rack) |
1 RU (with Optional Hardware, 1/2-Rack) |
Dimensions |
8.5 x 5.1 x 1.73" / 21.6 x 13 x 4.39 cm (without Rack Ears) 10.16 x 6.1 x 1.73" / 25.81 x 15.5 x 4.39 cm (with Rack Ears) |
8.6 x 6.9 x 1.75" / 21.8 x 17.5 x 4.45 cm |
Weight |
2.0 lb / 0.9 kg |
2.9 lb / 1.3 kg |
The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface and the RME Fireface UCX II 40-Channel USB-B Audio/MIDI Interface are both compact, half-rack units designed for high-quality audio and MIDI interfacing, but they differ in several key specifications.
In terms of rackmount size, both interfaces are 1 RU and can be mounted with optional hardware. However, the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 has dimensions of 8.6 x 6.9 x 1.75 inches (21.8 x 17.5 x 4.45 cm), making it slightly larger in depth and width compared to the RME Fireface UCX II, which measures 8.5 x 5.1 x 1.73 inches (21.6 x 13 x 4.39 cm) without rack ears and 10.16 x 6.1 x 1.73 inches (25.81 x 15.5 x 4.39 cm) with rack ears. Thus, the RME unit offers a slightly more compact footprint when not considering the additional rack ears.
Weight-wise, the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 is heavier at 2.9 lb (1.3 kg), whereas the RME Fireface UCX II is lighter at 2.0 lb (0.9 kg). This difference in weight might be a consideration for users who prioritize portability.
The RME Fireface UCX II is specified to operate within a humidity range of up to 75% and a temperature range of 41 to 122°F (5 to 50°C). The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 does not provide explicit specifications for operating humidity and temperature, which could be a factor for users in varying environmental conditions.
Overall, the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 is slightly larger and heavier, which might affect portability and rack space considerations. On the other hand, the RME Fireface UCX II provides explicit environmental operating conditions and is lighter, potentially making it more suitable for users needing a more portable solution with clear environmental specifications.
Packaging Info |
Package Weight |
3.955 lb |
4.87 lb |
Box Dimensions (LxWxH) |
13.7 x 7.7 x 3.7" |
14.8 x 11.4 x 5.5" |
When comparing the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface and the RME Fireface UCX II 40-Channel USB-B Audio/MIDI Interface based on their physical specifications, several differences are evident.
Firstly, the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 has a package weight of 4.87 lb, making it slightly heavier than the RME Fireface UCX II, which has a package weight of 3.955 lb. This indicates that the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 might be more robust or contain additional components, contributing to the increased weight.
In terms of dimensions, the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 measures 14.8 x 11.4 x 5.5 inches (LxWxH). On the other hand, the RME Fireface UCX II is more compact, with box dimensions of 13.7 x 7.7 x 3.7 inches (LxWxH). The smaller size of the RME Fireface UCX II may make it a more portable option, easier to fit into tight spaces or carry around for mobile recording setups.
Both interfaces are designed to cater to professional audio and MIDI needs, but the physical differences in weight and dimensions might influence a user's decision based on their specific requirements for portability and space.