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RME audio announces Fireface UCX II. The new best audio interface USB audio interface and the long-awaited update of the UCX come with a full list of features. Not many wishes remain unfulfilled. A computer is no longer necessary for standalone operation.
There is so much in the Fireface UCX II that we don’t even know where to start. The manufacturer himself describes it in a nutshell as the “40-channel portable USB audio MIDI interface “.
Okay, let’s look at the 40 channel first. There are a total of eight analog inputs. Two of them are designed as a combination socket for XLR / jack on the front and are suitable for microphone, line, and instrument signals. There are also two jack inputs for instruments. On the back, there are four more balanced jack inputs for line signals. There are also six balanced jack outputs (rear) and a headphone output (front). The outputs of which are by the way DC-coupled (DC-coupled) and are suitable for example for the control of modular equipment via CV/gate.
The remaining channels are available digitally. In this regard, the UCX II is very well equipped. In addition to ADAT, you get AES / EBU and S / PDIF. There is also a switchable input/output for the word clock. SteadyClock FS is the name of the Femto-Clock based clock and jitter suppression technology from RME. And, of course, the interface delivers that too.
We’re still looking forward to the classic MIDI interface in 2021. You will find the entrance and exit for each on the back. Thanks for that!
The connection to the computer works via USB 2.0. There are two modes for this: USB2 and Class Compliant. But you can also do it without a computer. Because the second USB connection is suitable for DURec and transforms the interface into a digital recorder for all inputs and outputs. Then you use USB sticks or hard drives with up to 2TB of storage for the recording. The internal DSP takes care of recording and playback.
The Fireface UCX II can also serve as a multi-channel live player. Class! The internal memory allows the permanent storage of six different device settings. It is operated using a rotary control and a few buttons on the front. The high-resolution color display should always provide an overview.
The DSP mixer TotalMix FX and the DIGICheck Analyzer (software toolbox for testing, measuring, and analyzing digital audio signals) are included in the scope of delivery. If necessary, TotalMix FX replaces an external mixer and enables latency-free monitor mixes with additional effects for any output. It also includes the main monitors or individual headphone mixes. And of course, TotalMix Remote also works with the interface.
RME Fireface UCX II price and availability
The RME Fireface UCX II best audio interface is finally available to buy via Bhphotovideo.com at a price of around $1,499.
Recently, Focusrite has also introduced the new Clarett+ series USB-C interfaces. 2Pre, 4Pre, and 8Pre are aimed at people who run studios, make music, or need an audio / midi interface for all sorts of other reasons. Streamers and podcasters should also find favor.
