Overview

The M-Audio M-Track Duo is a 2-in/2-out USB audio interface aimed at entry-level recording, streaming, and podcasting. It features dual XLR/TRS combo inputs with M-Audio’s Crystal preamps, 16-bit/48 kHz maximum resolution, and USB bus power. A basic software bundle is included for quick start-up. [1][2]

Scientific Validity

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Key specifications reach transparent-level performance for typical home-studio use. Frequency response for mic/line inputs and main outputs is 20 Hz–20 kHz (+0.1 dB) (manufacturer). SNR is 109 dB A-weighted at mic inputs and main outputs. THD/THD+N: line input 0.002% (min gain, 0 dBu out, A-wtd), Hi-Z input 0.005%; main outputs 0.002% (0 dBu out, A-wtd). Additional useful numbers: preamp EIN −128 dBu (max gain, 40 Ω source, A-wtd); headphone out 60 mW/ch @ 32 Ω, SNR 100 dB A-wtd. All values per manufacturer documentation; third-party lab data is scarce at this time. The 16-bit/48 kHz ceiling and basic converter architecture cap the score despite meeting audibility thresholds. [2][3]

Technology Level

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Conservative design prioritizes cost over innovation: 16-bit/48 kHz only, USB 2.0 (Type-B), and lightweight plastic chassis. Useful monitor-mode switching (USB / Direct Mono / Direct Stereo) is present, but there are no advanced features (auto-gain, loopback DSP, high-res 192 kHz, etc.).

Cost-Performance

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Current market price (review target): 49 USD. [4]

To comply with equivalence, the comparator must offer two mic preamps with equal-or-better measured performance. The Behringer UMC202HD (2 mic pres, 24-bit/192 kHz; dynamic range spec ≈110 dB A-wtd) is among the cheapest qualifying alternatives; current market price observed at 58 USD. Because no cheaper two-preamp interface with equal-or-better performance is stably available below the Duo’s 49 USD price, the Duo is effectively the cheapest equivalent option at review time → CP = 1.0. [5][6]

Reliability & Support

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Standard limited warranty and driver support. Notable US backorder status at a major retailer with estimated September 2025 shipping, which negatively affects practical availability despite generally adequate support. (Regional stock varies.) [4]

Rationality of Design Philosophy

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Clear focus on delivering essential two-channel functionality with transparent-level basic specs at minimal cost, avoiding non-scientific claims. Rational for beginners needing two mic inputs without extras.

Advice

Choose the M-Track Duo when you specifically need two simultaneous mic inputs at the lowest possible price while keeping transparent-level basics. If you only ever record one mic, a single-preamp interface can be cheaper, but that is not equivalent for CP evaluation.

References

[1] M-Audio, “M-Track Duo (product page),” https://www.m-audio.com/audio-midi-interfaces/m-track-duo.html, accessed 2025-08-21.
[2] M-Audio, “M-Track Duo — User Guide v1.5 (PDF),” https://cdn.inmusicbrands.com/m-audio/maudio_documentation/M-Track%20Duo%20-%20User%20Guide%20-%20v1.5.pdf, accessed 2025-08-21.
[3] Sound On Sound, “M-Audio M-Track Solo & Duo,” https://www.soundonsound.com/reviews/m-audio-m-track-solo-duo, accessed 2025-08-21.
[4] Sweetwater, “M-Audio M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface,” https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/MTrackDuo–m-audio-m-track-duo-usb-audio-interface, accessed 2025-08-21.
[5] Thomann, “Behringer U-Phoria UMC202HD,” https://www.thomannmusic.com/behringer_u_phoria_umc202hd.htm, accessed 2025-08-21.
[6] Gear4music, “Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD USB Audio Interface — Specifications,” https://www.gear4music.com/us/en/Recording-and-Computers/Behringer-U-PHORIA-UMC202HD-USB-Audio-Interface/1WMW, accessed 2025-08-21.

(2025.8.21)