RME - Simply The Best

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[@BarryJohns]

I misstated that the UFX+ has 8 mic preamps, I meant to say 12 I/O to record drums. My old Carbon had 8 Mic Pre’s. The UFX+ has 4 mic plus 8 analog in’s on the back. My bad🤦‍♂️

[@helmanfrow]

When I heard "eight mic preamps" I paused and dove for the comments to issue the correction but you beat me to it. 😂 🥇

[@blazebox4]

Do you have a link where I can buy the UFC’s+? Also would you recommend the RME Fireface UCX II for a small studio?

[@MrAxel1892]

@@blazebox4 I have it and it rocks. Sufficient enough for the most part, but limited by only two mic-preamps. But another two instrument high Z-ins and four line ins, plus adat.

[@joelrudnick]

Any truth to RME discontinuing that unit (being that the chip was discontinued)?

[@BarryJohns]

@@joelrudnick yes, it’s true, expecting a revised one soon.

[@bolttracks]

I’m so incredibly excited to finally have a UFX III coming my way this week after struggling with Antelope’s and Audient’s terrible drivers and reliability for years.

[@darkmaer]

I appreciate my UFX+ the more I use it. 2 years now.

[@liothomasart]

Babyface Pro FS, diamond 💎 in da rough, built like a tank. The best indeed.

[@jermaineflowers1538]

I have the Babyface and ucxii they are easily the best "second choice" decision I've made. I just got back into making music after taking care of my mother with Alzheimer's for 7 years and falling out of the loop... My first instinct was to get the Apollo like everyone else but it wasn't compatible with my m1 Mac. The sale rep recommended RME and I couldn't have made a better second choice. They even have free digicheck metering software. 👌👌👌👌

[@j.stribling2565]

I have been trying get my hands on a UFX+ since around mid 2022. Finally I called my guy at Vintage King and told them to just please send me a BabyFace Pro FS. Why? The answer is simple: TotalMix. As Barry as has stated, RME has the best drivers known to man. Additionally, TotalMix is (IMHO) a game changer. I can't say that I fully understand all its capabilities yet. That is why I am eagerly anticipating Barry's tutorials on TotalMix.

[@jermaineflowers1538]

@@j.stribling2565 yeah total mix is kind of confusing but once you get it it's almost limitless possibilities all done internally. I was going to get one of those software based patchbays but Total mix does what I needed from it. If they included more onboard plugin effects processing it would completely demolish everything else.

[@bigdap100]

I read the title...No lies have been detected. ✅👍

[@FLOSPhotographer]

One additional piece of information regarding RME USB implementations: it isn’t just the custom drivers. RME also uses bespoke FPGA controller chips for USB communication within the interface. This facilitates the extremely tight / stable USB integration RME is famous for.

[@eman0828]

So does other manufacturers such as MOTU. Nothing really special to be honest. I get really low latency with my 828ES with USB but will soon be switching over to thunderbolt connection as I rebuilding a new Windows 10 PC. USB ground noise can be an issue with many motherboards no matter what interface you use or usb cable which is one of the reasons I'm moving away from USB.

[@ryanshook8284]

Although the concept isn’t special, RME’s dedication and diligence in implementation is special. I had a Motu 8 pre-es and had to sell it because of its lack of stability. I tried the 828es as well. Neither compared to the RME UCXii in how rock freakin solid it has worked for me. Long story short: sold Motu, bought RME, not looking back. For anyone wondering what to do - buy nice rather than buying twice.

[@eman0828]

@@ryanshook8284 I never had any issues with my 828ES going on 3 years. Most be your PC. I used my 828ES on three different Windows 10 machines. Not a single glitch. Dave Gozzni doesn't have any issues either as he's been using the MOTU AVB interfaces longer than me.

[@FLOSPhotographer]

@@eman0828 Having owned and used several MOTU interfaces over the years , I can say with authority MOTU, while a great company with great value-for-dollar products, has not historically been able to reach the kind of performance (driver-wise) as RME. The implementation of custom FPGA controllers is a great idea...one they probably copped from RME...who have been doing it all along, and with rock-solid stability. If it's nothing special...why did the other manufacturers decide it is a better pathway to performance?

[@eman0828]

@@FLOSPhotographer Sounds like you never owned any of the new AVB stuff or used MOTU PCI based interfaces. By the way no major studio here in the US uses RME interfaces if drivers were such a big issue. Just walk into Westlake or the Paramount you won't find an RME interface racked mounted anywhere. Typical RME fanboys that thinks they are superior.

[@terrygray7465]

This video is spot on. I've owned many interfaces over the years (Avid, M-Audio, Focusrite, Apogee and Audient) and finally bought my first RME two years ago. Other interfaces may have more bells, whistles and comprehensive feature sets, but as everyone says, it's about the drivers. I plugged my Babyface Pro FS in, and in a technical sense, all but forgot about it. The damn thing is rock solid. No issues over USB. Just good clean conversion and operation. I share your consternation with Total Mix. It can be confusing to wrap your head around, but once you do, you'll ask yourself how you lived without it. I'm already looking at upgrading to a UCX II and dedicating my Babyface Pro to my laptop.

[@floriansimon2578]

UFX+ has 4 Mic Preamps + 8 Line Ins. Still the best USB Interface I am aware of. (2x Adat IO, Madi, Wordclock, Durec, Totalmix including EQ, Compression, Reverb/ Delay under 0,5ms latency which feels analog in the headphones when tracking vocals). Keep working on totalmix. For me it has become the most logical mixer out of all interfaces. It took me a bit, but I now use pretty much every feature of it and couldn't be happier.

[@TheListeningParty_TLP]

I’ve owned a Fireface UFX since about 2010. 100% glitch free (no exaggeration) with USB 2. Unbelievable right ? Believe it ! In addition I now own an Apollo Twin Duo.. kind of forced into it because of my L22 Sphere mic. Honestly, RME sounds smoother and more transparent on input (a/d conversion) or on output. Apollo sounds slightly hyped in the low-mids and not as smooth on the top end. Don’t get me wrong, it still sounds good and the plugins are second to none. Anyway, just my two cents.

[@derived-doom]

Hi Barry, the point is value for money: i bought an RME HDSPe AIO card back in 2011for my Windows rig. Today it is running in Thunderbolt-case for my Mac. Nearly 12 years old - but I get current drivers with no issues. TotalMix is the same for each device - very nice! Even new devices like the ARC USB are supporting old cards without any issues. But even more important is the support of RME: Within the last couple of month, Big Sur "forgots" trusted drivers and nothing was running. A short request at the RME-forum and within a day Matthias Carstens (Head of RME) explained how to fix that on the OS level. Tried it - the computer is running again. Clearly not a driver but an OS issue - but they helped me knowing, that the last time I threw money at them were a decade ago... My only issue is that I have no good reason to buy a new toy, since the old one just works... 🙂

[@jahsoul357]

This is why I'm still on my Motu PCIe-424 setup for my virtual instrument setup. Rock solid drivers and latency that still can't be touched by 95% of interfaces out there today. Like you, I have zero reason to look for anything new. If it works, it works..lol.

[@AnnoDominiAudio]

I bought the MADIface Pro for my broadcast setup and I can't even begin to explain how reliable the interface is! I have hot swapped from Mac to PC with not a single hiccup, which is quite the technological achievement I might say! Not to mention it sounds amazing, and having the ability to use optical MADI for 128 channels in this form factor is insane! I love this device.

[@KhasrouhRecords]

Yes They Are!! i am Still Using the Fireface 802 from 2016 and i never had any problems with driver issues because they are the best at supporting and releasing Good Drivers.

[@JedWunderli]

Hi Barry - Pretty sure you meant to say Windows and Mac; Windows and PC are teh same thing!! :). Good video though!!

[@illegalgiant_]

thanks for the video. i keep coming across people saying they love RME but it really does stand out when someone makes a video this long fishing for them. I know what brand the interface i’m upgrading to is, just need to figure out which one. Cheers!

[@damienribot1143]

RME user since 2006. I recorded a live show in 2017 in Toulouse, France, with my MacBook Pro Mid-2012 connected to a Midas console through a RME MADIface USB. 64 channels at 48 kHz in Reaper for a 2h show. A piece of cake ! 😍

[@pascalmerschaudio]

wow can we hear or see that ?

[@damienribot1143]

@@pascalmerschaudio Hi. You can find a song here kzbin.info/www/bejne/imrOhqOLfLOqn8U It was for a dvd to celebrate Sidilarsen's 20 years.

[@pascalmerschaudio]

@@damienribot1143 Great thanks so much Damien, andGreat mix love the Toms Sounds. Since one Month now im a user of RME UFX 2, and i fell in Love with this Interface, even listen normal Music over it is a Gamechanger i never hear my Focals so good since i have the RME

[@plumelenclume1841]

@@pascalmerschaudio Nice. And the Totalmix is a killer app.

[@Cornholio0494]

At the Bikini en plus, perfect place to test audio hardware and mixing skills 8-)

[@park171]

The drivers are exceptional. Even my first generation BabyFace works flawlessly, a buffer of 16. Simply a technical wonder.

[@g.o.9513]

16? Are you serious?

[@wackerburg]

That is because RME employs real engineers. Solid knowledge, dedication towards achieving set goals with solid methods. No wonders. Plain, but great engineering skills. German engineering that is.

[@Lattenknaller04]

The most important Hardware are your Ears, believe it or not! ^^ stop talking bullshit, sho us what you can do, hm? Come one.. you´ve got the hardware, sho us! Jesus Christ ....And i tell you what, Universal Audio are still the Best! I´m not a Fanboy , i´m a german and i know everything between things like Neumann and Universal, hm? ! Give us a live Lesson, hm?

[@grumpyoldmanracing]

I had an rme ufx 1 and it was nothing but trouble. Stopped working altogether after a while. Bought motu never had a problem since. Total mix is pretty cool though

[@bigdap100]

RME Driver Stability. I once, out of curiosity, ran my UFX serially through TWO super cheap Dongles that were connected one to the other for midi, iLock and other stuff.... And The RME was frikking ROCK SOLID...with no cracks or stutters....flawlessly. I was blown away. 🤯🤯

[@davidasher22]

How are you hearing these differences between conversions? Are you actually comparing them in a blind test? Or is it just a feeling you get while listening to one and thinking about the other? Because most people can’t even tell the difference between a 320kbps MP3 and a 44.1 wave file. I’m genuinely curious when it comes to these things. I started blind testing myself a few years ago and let’s just say it’s definitely saved me some money over the years! Lol. But bi to kind of scares me too because I WILL hear that tiny difference all day long, until you throw it in that double blind plugin. And then BAM! All of a sudden, I couldn’t tell you which is which. 😤. Well, I could but I’d be wrong on average about 50% of the time. Lol😂.

[@randomschittz9461]

I don’t think the average person even cares, but it does come with time behind a mixer with good converters. I can tell the difference between 44.1 and 88.2 while mixing and that difference is simply headroom. It’s like hearing the space between the instruments. It probably won’t be noticeable with midi instruments and samples unless those were also recorded in higher sample rate. It really doesn’t matter though because you can get an excellent mix with the proper use of gainstaging, dynamics, and eq is absolutely everything. Only audiophiles and mix engineers can tell the difference. Any random person doesn’t give the slightest shit beyond the beat.

[@davidasher22]

@@randomschittz9461 i know the phenomenon of mixing in a higher sample rate that you’re talking about. It’s hard to actually test that though. I’m speaking more about things you can actually put to a blind test. If you’re saying you can hear the difference between a song played back at 88 vs the same song converted to 44 then that’s pretty amazing. As for the converters thing, I’ve personally never tested myself with that. I’ve believed to have heard a difference but I used to think I could hear a difference between sample rates too. Have you ever done a blind test?

[@randomschittz9461]

@@davidasher22 Yes, I have done blind tests with my whole family and they couldn’t tell the difference. That’s what I’m trying to convey, that trained ears are the only ones hearing the difference. But, there are so many different variables as far as DAC and what the song was originally recorded and mixed in, that it’s not worth the extra hard drive space; especially if you don’t have high end converters. I personally do not have a high end system, so I had to learn this from testing it on someone else’s system. I record and mix in 48k 24bit in my system and honestly, would probably do so on a high end system too, unless I was going to tape first.

[@michaelrice6620]

Your right at the end of the day the average person listening cant tell a difference. But then at the end of the day when they hear the mix they either like it or not right, theres never a in between. I will say if there is a good song they may not like the good mixed version, but will like the great mixed version and they wont even be able to tell anyone why. Between actual engineers you should be able to hear the difference between the clarity and if not then your not ready to upgrade to something like better converters. It’s basically like same with preamps right, maybe most people cant hear the difference between preamps so they dont see any reason to buy a external one. But alot of engineers do hear the difference so they buy it.

[@TheParagonAxis]

What a timing! I have just unboxed my Fireface 802 and I literally just opened up KZbin in order to test / mess around with Totalmix for the first time and your video jumped into my face!

[@RoyMaya]

I've used RME interfaces on Windows for the last 17 years. Rock solid, never any issues and low latency for VST instruments. Started with the Fireface 800 and now use the 802. And Total Mix isn't really that hard, once you get the hang of it.

When I was a beginner I used to use a lot of RME stuff including interface, preamps and converter. But since the very moment I heard AD/DA of Prism Sound and Lynx I sold literally all my RME stuff. It took me a while to figure out that RME’s sound isn’t my favorite.

[@thorstenweimar1190]

What I love about the LYRA2 is that you can do analog in/out without using additional hardware just to give a track more analog feel. You can even do analog clipping with the LYRA2. That’s amazing. But I am curious how the ADI 2 series compares to it. There is a serious video comparison regarding converter quality of the PrismSound Titan, RME Babyface and UFX+, and literally there was not much of difference.

[@ezrashanti]

@@thorstenweimar1190 The ADI 2 series is extremely better than UFX+ and more on the level of Dangerous, Cranesong, etc. Totally worthy mastering / printing converter.

[@thorstenweimar1190]

@@ezrashanti Thanks! That’s the reason I bought the Lyra2. Mastering Grade converters plus top class preamps (you really don’t need any Rupert Neve Pre’s anymore). Also you can do analog clipping which is amazing and can take your mixes/masters to another level. The sound of the Lyra2 is pure gold. Maybe someday I will try the ADI 2 line.

[@ezrashanti]

@@thorstenweimar1190 I've never had any Lynx stuff but I typically heard good things. The ADI series does not have preamps, they are only line ins. I used the ADI to as a sort of makeshift monitor controller / printing converter for a while but I currently use it at as the DAC for a Hi-Fi system. I suffer from gas so I think I need every preamp lol

[@thorstenweimar1190]

@@ezrashanti Yes, we are talking about the price range of around 2k. But you can definitely get a converter for >10k 😉, but then the question remains: Is your room ready for that lol...besides the budget. By the way, the Lyra2 is from PrismSound not Lynx.

[@AndrewCCM]

I have the same setup.. UFX+ and Pulse via MADI. You're right about TotalMix. For me, I use a console for my hybrid setup and have Total Mix setup to match the channels on my console In/Out. I then have all of my outboard gear through a patchbay which is patched into the Inserts on the console. Works extremely well. My previous interfaces were the UAD X4 Quad and a X8. This RME setup not only sounds slightly better, the flexibility and price for expansion makes the ROI great. The new Pulse 32 channel sure is interesting. I would have gotten that if it was available at the time. While my console is 48ch, I really only use around 32 typically. Anyway, I left your channel a while back and decided to return. Pretty cool to see you're now on my same platform (sans DAW). Take care.

[@Whiteseastudio]

200% agree with the title… now I’m going to watch the video 😊

[@allthingsmusic2939]

Bought a ufx II because of your videos and it’s levels above my apollo twin. Thanks for the information and I agree with the total mix 😂 I was lost for a few minutes figuring out how to get headphone volume and KZbin didn’t help at all lol

[@ezrashanti]

Rme actually made some totally solid instructional videos a few years ago (finally)

[@hipskind]

I love all of this. I've had a Fireface UFX (the previous version) in my home drum studio for the last 6-7 years, and I couldn't be happier with it. In fact, I just added a UCX II to my system for more high-quality inputs! The setup is incredible. One more RME user right here who can't find one bad thing to say. Thanks!

[@Aurakamenec]

Does usx II sound different in conversion and preamps than ufx?

[@hipskind]

@@Aurakamenec You know, that's a good question. Since I got the UCX II, I haven't done any critical A/B testing on them. I will say it's not noticeably different or better, but RME does claim that the A/D conversion and preamps are slightly improved on the newer units. I'm inclined to believe them, but I should do my own blind test one of these days when I get the chance.

[@2011studies]

Subscribed! 😅 Primarily because this is truly cornbread lingo.

[@eman0828]

MOTU has always made great drivers too and they write them in-house. They supported some of their old legacy interfaces for 17 consecutive years. They did have some compatibility issues with some USB and Firewire controllers. The majority of people that had issues were simply using the built in firewire port on their motherboard. All those issues resolved if you bought an Intel firewire 400 card. The modern AVB interfaces don't have any issues that works flawlessly on both Mac and Windows. I had my 828ES for close to 3 years now. Not a single issue on Windows 10.The latency is extremely low even with just USB. I'm how ever going to switch to thunderbolt as I'm rebuilding a new PC. There is an issue with many motherboards out there that has USB port ground noises causing pulse or buzzing noises that travels through the USB line into your interface. I bough one of those USB isolator dongles but that didn't help which is why I'm switching to Thunderbolt. My 828ES has 3 different interface connections as you can connect it USB, Thunderbolt or AVB* (Mac Only). Lynx and Halo Metric also support their drivers long term like RME and MOTU. Lynx also has fantastic drivers. They still support their original Aroura. I much rather buy an Aurora n for the price as a Firewire face UFX II as you are getting mastering grade converters. I only had experience with using the original Aurora 16 which I loved the conversion. My Studio Partner still using it still to this day after buying it 10 years ago.

[@juwayonclarke5755]

I agree with this. I only had to stop using my Motu Ultralite MKII because Apple doesn't support firewire on the new processors even though I tried with 3 adaptors hahah. It worked flawlessly with my 2014 Macbook pro until I upgraded. Had it since 2009 I think lol

[@eman0828]

@@juwayonclarke5755 yeah that's the only problem with interfaces is the computer connection becomes obsolete once hardware is no longer made anymore. Almost no one uses firewire today. Driver support really shouldn't exceed 20+ no way. I think 10+ is good enough for most manufacturers. Most commercial studios upgrade their converters around 8 to 10 years or so. Not many are using interfaces from early 2000s, Def not the 90s. Lol

[@LosFicosMusic]

I am getting mines tomorrow.. Those NEW ES Sabre Ships I heard are Amazing🔥 IN TERMS of outputs signal Quality

[@LosFicosMusic]

@@eman0828 I STILL HAVE A MAC 5,1 (Firewire).. I brought a “Hacked Flashed Card” called “Titan Ridge 2.0” via ebay and it allows me to Run thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 2. Just need to restart my Mac once after the device is on for it to detect it.. works perfect

[@LaminarSound]

Hell yeah!!! I knew the RME fanboy video was coming at some point. Theyre just that damn good. Barry, i think if youve spent many years in other workflows, particularly analog workflows, Totalmix has a larger learning curve. Im a tad younger (37) and never worked in analog. I went straight from an Mobs 2 to my Fireface UFX gen 1 back in 2012 and Totalmix made perfect sense to me from day 1. I even tracked a full band while running FOH from Totalmix, with 6 different IEM sends and a separate send for an aux fed sub with crossovers on the Totalmix outputs all while tracking via DuRec at the same time. There is no other interface that can do that. And it did it with ZERO errors, issues, interruptions or blips. I spent 6 years with first gen UFX, then went to Apollo for 2 years and that entire time i was just desperately missing TotalMix. Ive now been back with RME since Jan 2022, UCX II and boy was that an upgrade in conversion from Apollo Twin X. Hugely! Im so glad to hear the latest RME conversion is basically on par with Carbon. I suspected it was but happy to hear your confirmation. Great video! Cheers!!!

[@markbeling3330]

Hi Barry. I absolutely LOVE your channel and your personality. How can I get to hear your work , could you pls post we all your fans can support your music? Thank you j I’m nice again for a wonderful channel and extremely Informative content 🙏

[@MrTesla808]

RME Total Mix is really simple and logical🤷🏼‍♂️

[@foxytv4896]

My 12 year old RME 800 FF is still the Core of my studio, never ever let me down.

[@ayzeproductions]

I also have a FF 800, is there a way to use it with a newer Mac with thunderbolt or USB connection?

[@foxytv4896]

@@ayzeproductions as its firewire, no usb. It's firewire 400, not 800, don't know if there is a connector. What I would do first is check on RME page for which MacOS there's a driver available. That'll tell you if there's a possibility to use it with your Mac. I use PC only...

[@TazzSmk]

RME videos and manuals suck because German folks are too techy for most sound engineers brains, just joking, RME does make perfect sense once you get used to it - it may take some time, but once you learn it, TotalMix experience is unified across vast majority of their interfaces, so you don't need to re-learn everything again :) PS - things that suck about RME: 1) Babyface (Pro) have no internal Dynamics (and so Dynamics in TotalMix) due to power delivery limitations to make that interface possible to operate just from USB power 2) Digiface Dante routing and IP settings suck because you need to use Audinate's Dante Controller utility only

[@zenguitar65]

Keep up the great work. I'm looking forward to your Total Mix tutorials. Just wanted to add a correction to the content so your viewers aren't misdirected. There are only 4 built-in preamp channels on the RME+.

[@BarryJohns]

Another viewer corrected me. That’s the problem with my age and not using a teleprompter🤫 I got mixed up with my carbon for a second.

[@9srecording]

UFX+ got only 4 mic pre, 12mic got 12 mic pre.

[@giuseppenovella]

I have an RME UFX since ten years, i hooked it up ten years ago and never had to worry about anything. I was so imoeessed with reliability and totalmix routing and flexibility that i bought an RME UC for my home setup. Those interfaces are are the most reliable piece of gear i own and by far the best interfaces i worked on. They just works, no matter the hardware or OS…they work, and that’s crucial to my business

[@tuneunleashed]

Welcome to the club. RME gang I’ve got a Babyface Pro FS it’s all I need.

[@andiindigo]

I also have the RME UFX+ and added the Ferrofish A32 with MADI to integrate my analogue gear. But I'm also a longterm user of RME audio interfaces since more than 15 years and I can confirm that I didn't have one single issue or dropouts or any other problem in any DAW I used. The drivers are stable as a rock, no glitch at all. And even that I use all 40 analog IO (RME & Ferrofish) I know I can extend the analogue setup with additional 16 IO via the 2 ADAT connections. I don't use the internal DSP because usually the latency of the plugins are sufficient enough to track live in a DAW. Total Mix is another USP since you get a patch bay (even for your hardware) for free and this is only one use case.

[@j.cameronbrett2660]

I know a small fraction about sound engineering as you do, but still somehow ended up in the Cubase/RME system. Kindred spirits. My next step is looking into 500 series lunchbox saw your vid on that too. Keep up the amazing work.

[@officialpoa3171]

*DUDE...TOTAL **#LOOPBACK**!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! it will afford you the ability to run 64 bit plugins in STAND ALONE MODE and chain them and run that as an outboard rack from your 32BIT DAW or a 64BIT DAW, whereas If you normally ran those same plugins within your system as a plugin, it would cap off your CPU! Then you can even route the outcome/MIX and send it either back onto your DAW or split it to anywhere else!*

[@owenchaim610]

For anybody using RME with Windows: how is playback latency? ie latency when playing/recording vsti’s. Is it noticeably lower and more reliable/accurate?

[@larryroyovitz7829]

Coming from a Pro Tools TDM system from PT 4 to 6 (mix cards, 888s etc), then to Focusrite, I was almost ready to pull the trigger on Audient, but after doing MUCH research I am finally, also joining the RME ecosystem. Still using Pro Tools, which sometimes feels like an abusive relationship.

[@perrykeshahwalker5321]

Hey Barry, I have the motu M4. How big of a difference is the conversion quality between the RME baby face and the m4. I mostly do home productions. Is the converter quality worth it for me to upgrade? Is the sound quality that much better? TELL ME THE TRUTH BROTHER, I CAN TAKE IT. lol but truthfully

[@jamesuchek.1657]

I love your videos. Real, Honest and sincere. Not people doing reviews of products they have not actually used.

[@heart_of_dankness9430]

I also like their forum. Always a good prompt response from them and other users if I ever run into any issues. 👍

[@rayholhoy]

Thanks Barry, very interesting as I am now in the position that requires a new mac (chose the mac studio M2max) but all my interfaces (I have 3 now!) are no longer supported! So I am looking for something that will outlast me so RME looks interesting (especially its longevity). I run a home studio tracking drums, bass and guitar live. I'm looking at the 12 mic 12 channel interface, so thanks for the recommendations. Ray

[@williammchugh4361]

I've finally got to a point where my old M-Audio interface works but is causing major issues with Windows 10. I've narrowed it down to their ancient drivers which have not been updated for some time. I'm definitely leaning toward a Babyface but 2 independent headphone outs is almost a must for me for tracking vocals. Does the Babyface have separate routing between the 1/4 and 1/8? My other choice is the Audiofuse.

[@sdbanotts]

I started out in 2004 with a Fireface 400 and it was fantastic. I bought Pro Tools m powered having used the Fireface with Sonar Producer , which meant i had to buy an M-audio device as the fireface was not compatible with Mpowered Pro Tools...The Profire is still going strong having worked out a way to connect it via thunderbolt adaptors as my current laptop doesnt have firewire but i miss the RME. So my question is would any of the RME interfaces be an upgrade on the profire 2626? My feelings are yes, but this Profire has served me well for nearly 20 years!But i feel the recordings lacked the warmth of those i did with an RME...Thanks for a great vid.

[@CaptainMoto]

Traded up from a Focusrite Clarret to an RME UFXII. Still working on Total mix, it's quite a powerful system.

[@billschnake6378]

I hopped on the RME bandwagon about 7 months ago. I purchased the Fireface UCXII for my home project studio. I have paired it with my Focusrite Clarette+ 8 pre. I use the Clarett+ for drums with the exception of kick in, kick out and snare up. It makes for a great combination for me. I am amazed at the difference in quality and clarity of sound between the UCXII and my previous Clarett+ 4 pre. All you have to do is listen to a headphone mix on the RME and you will hear the difference. I am with you on Total Mix. It is complicated, but once you are setup, it can do so much. Hope you have a great Thanksgiving.

[@che-babyface9960]

If you just start with music a Audient or focusrite is the best if you wanna spend money for high quality RME is the best I would spend my money just on 2 company’s RME or MOTU

[@haraldklingsporn4087]

RME for near 20 years now, or more ? Forgotten... Actual Setup: Digi 96/8 Pad ( still alive ) 2x AES card 1x MADI card 1x M-32 DA 1x Babyface Pro fs Never a another brand... never :-)

[@pamboscharalambous3770]

Motu is also a king in their own price range... Still have an Ultra lite Mk3 FireWire... That thing still sounds great works flawlessly and has very low latency

[@BarryJohns]

Agree!

[@DoctorMcFarlandStudios]

After flip flopping over the years between different interfaces I have come back to the Presonus Studiolive Series III mixer. My goal was to have 24 channels for tracking a band and have a few left over for USB returns for DAW, computer and amp sim playback. To get the same number of inputs and keep it all within the RME family I would have to spend 3x the amount of money and for what I do at this time in my career my clients don't care how much money I have tied up in gear. I am getting great results with my humble setup. Another factor in my decision was the hands on faders and processing on every channel and it being able to control the SL from an iPad incase I was recording drums and wanted to adjust mic pre gain remotely. As much as I liked RME it wasn't worth the extra cost.

[@dab7963]

Barry I have an Apollo 8 and Apollo 8xp. I have patch panels and love routing and using analog hardware. I am thinking of buying a RME III but how many IO would the RME III unit give me ?

[@FelixPatek]

Hey mate, just switched my Interface from my Tascam 16 x 08 to the Fireface 400. With my Tascam i had brilliant latency, even it was not perfect sounding and had distortion issues. Now i installed the Fireface, an unused, brand new one, everything works on win 11, just the latencys are horrbile. I recently upgraded my RAM to 64 GB, and since that, my shitty old Tascam runned perfectly with 48 Samples Settings in Ableton Live and the CPU was just like 10 % , working with Stems.. Now with the Fireface 400, 48 Samples is impossible to use, cause there are heavy crackles. And even with 48 Samples its has like 40-50 % CPU Usage. As its is right now, its just unusable. Do you have an solution for this? thx

[@Ricksterpt]

Great vid. Question CanI hookup he RME to get more channels? Thanks,,,

[@LukeSchneiderEWI]

Hi everybody! Is a fireface 400 still good today ? Still work on new macs using thunderbolt firewire adaptors ? Im considering a motu m2 , since its newer ...

[@hugofuguet]

Hi Berry, Is the UCX 1 still a good interface for 2023? Preamps and converters compared to the new version?

[@FLOSPhotographer]

RME Digiface Dante and Babyface Pro here. Everything you laud in your video is spot on. Latency on my Digiface (USB) is on par with the PCIeR card I used for Dante connectivity previously. RME rocks.👍

[@KyriCB]

Hi Barry, great stuff, I've always shouted it out for RME because they are that good in every aspect!! Loved it man!!!!!!!!

[@Screaming-Trees]

Well they are good in some aspects not sure about every aspect though. I used to be a RME customer but then I discovered things like Crane Song, Burl, Mytek, Lavry etc and just couldn't go back to very "meh" RME converters :(. Great support, great drivers, great latency, shitty sound. Which is kind of a big deal unfortunately. They should hire someone with good ears to design something for them. But otherwise I agree in a lot of aspects RME are tough to beat.

[@fam0usright]

@@Screaming-Trees which one could you recommend in the RME price range?

[@Screaming-Trees]

@@fam0usright I don't really know the RME price range that well anymore. I think probably Mytek 8x192. 8 channels of spectacular AD/DA, a real analogue mix bus and a mastering potentiometer with a basic monitoring section. It is also a good option if price is no object. Sound quality is on par with anything Crane Song or Burl etc etc.

[@afroblue9427]

I know this is a old post, used to be on old gearslutz....Lol! Been using RME early FF800, now using a newer one, that being said had original BFace, it sucked! Mastering with Hilo, still using Prism Orpheus! That being said I really like your posts! rme great drivers, routing is amazing never lets you down, I use ad2022 preamps plus others, anyway thank you for your post!

[@-musiclee-]

I use and Love Audient Audio Interface. Their drivers are rock solid. And sound is super CLEAN

[@moretromain]

Audient is right up there with RME when it come to audio and drivers quality. Today, state of things is that we're left with a handful of companies who are continuing doing things right, audient, RME, tascam, NI and some other are still doing what they can to keep going the right way. Lots of newer or long-timers are either to new to that game, or have given-up. Standardized audio is a complex topic, but at the end not that complicated implementation-wise...either that brand and product is doing things right today, either they don't... Audient is right up there, they're doing things right, so far you can trust them IMO :)

[@bolttracks]

Audient on Windows has been a nightmare for me tbh. Can’t wait for my Fireface to show up.

[@petersinol]

Waiting for ufx+ successor. Maybe around march 2023?

[@GingerDrums]

I always found the RME TotalMix GUI very intuitive. Click on an output and pull up faders for it... Dante is the way forward by the looks of things. Its way more capable than MADI.

[@nine27]

So.. would RME be your number 1 choice still? Contemplating the UFX III but somewhat on the fence at the sametime

[@Ted_Swayinghill]

After dealing with some horrible customer service from Audient (gave me the run around for almost a year after the a/d chip in my asp800 went bad) I found a used RME Octamic D for $800 to connect to my motu 8pre es so I can gave 16 mic channels The rme preamps are night and day and compliment my motu interface.

[@sancessounds]

How do you like the headphone clarity and detail? Im getting a RME API 2 for mixing in Audeze LCDx’s. I’m coming from a focusrite 18i20 since I don’t need IO

[@Rasenschneider]

I had different Audio Interfaces from different companies and price ranges. All of them gone into the garbage because after 2 or 4 years the drivers were not supported anymore or they destroyed the controller of different macs. Except RME. In the End the RME devices are less expensive because I am able to use them for a long time.

[@jamesgregg5689]

been using the HDSPe AIO for over 10 years, still works perfectly.

[@gabrieldonl2311]

I have an legacy RME Fireface UFX for about 10 years now, which I love. Do you think there's a huge upgrade on AD/DA converters from there to the new UFX 3 ? In terms of features and channel count I don't really need much more than the legacy UFX already gives me.

[@didadere7212]

I have both. Original UFX is definitely a keeper. No need to sell it, even though the 3 has more depth in sound stage.

[@proaudionajia]

I have used an RME interface since 2010 (the babyface) so I can attest to how good they're. However I got an iMac (2015) for a bargain and suddenly the babyface won't work with the mac. I have done all I can and have given up. I am only able to work because I have this tiny Centrance Micport Pro interface which has excellent preamp and converters. I did find out in my research that this is a known issue using some rme drivers on the mac.. I ran windows on bootcamp and it's still the same problem. Any work would be appreciated.

[@SoundSlingers]

What you to about focusrite clarett octopre+ conversion. I think it’s amazing and this unit does not even connect to the computer. It’s a standalone adat what’s your opinion on this unit?

[@karmelomarin9592]

Have RME Fireface 800 since 2007. Still working, drivers till updatable. RME built quality is the greatest. I think of buying me some babyface pro. You cannot go wrong with RME.

[@officialpoa3171]

*My live SAC RIG | SOFTWARE AUDIO CONSOLE, is 72in/72out, we mix stadiums, arenas, festivals and use (x3) RME DIGIFACE adat with Behringer ADA8200 in WINDOWS 7 on a DELL running 24bit@48k! Never crashes, sound ANALOG SILK SMOOTH, tons of headroom and with SAC we run up to 25 full mixers LIVE all in the box and still have 12 channels of SPDIF from the DIGIFACE units to use!* .....dig this I purchased those RME digifaces for a total of $750 USED, these units are 18 years old

[@Cookie-Yeah197]

Just got an RME UCX II a few months back, blown away by its quality and conversion.

[@JessicaPerry-u1q]

Taylor Helen Martin Scott Thomas Edward

[@bulletproofzest]

After 10 years of using my RME UFX, which has been ultra reliable and glitch free, I finally started having an issue with the unit dropping out and generating noise. A google search revealed it was a problem with the caps in the power supply. $15 in parts and a half hour of labor later and it’s back up. I have been absolutely pleased with this unit. Never even had so much as a crash, couldn’t say the same for my previous interface which would need constant reboots.

[@AaezZzze]

Would you recommend an RME against Lynx Hilo 2 for DA monitoring > mastering ? I have a budget around 5k but can go abit higher if needed, I just need max fidelity to make good decisions..

[@BarryJohns]

No

[@AaezZzze]

@@BarryJohns are you saying RME DAC is not as good as Hilo’s one ? Why are you using RME then ?

[@ViejoGameL]

1+2=3

[@AaezZzze]

@@ViejoGameL ? Actually after reading a lot about it they mesure the same ( RME even a little bit better) , and RME is way cheaper, so he was wrong.

[@kemeticifaspiritualcultiva5429]

Ok you was talking about the Apollo and now you talking about RME damn tell me the difference between the two..my mentor in music told me they are both good but this video you hold RME up there high..so should I get a RME..sounds like I should

[@mattrixx_audio]

You can still get drivers for current OS's for RME Multifacete, which came out around 2001. Quite the feat!! I've been using RME product since then and they are absolutely incredible.

[@mattrixx_audio]

Oh and Barry... totalmix frees your mind once ya' get ya' head around it.. It offers so much. ... as you're clearly discovering. I've just managed to setup scenes with Totalmix and a Streamdeck, that associates with muti-chanel Sonarworks Sound ID... all switchable from the Streamdeck.. It's so amazing

[@mattrixx_audio]

Oh and I'm also preparing to do some crazy stuff videos on using Totalmix, SourceNexus, Sonarworks Sound ID multichannel... all controlled by a stream deck.

[@BarryJohns]

@@mattrixx_audio let me know when you’ve got those videos out

[@mattrixx_audio]

@@BarryJohns I certainly will mate. Just wrangling some time in the next few days to sort. We definitely need to change the stigma re TotalMix being unintuitive. When you’ve been using for so many years, you kind of get this sense of “why don’t people get it?”… however, we’d all been there.

[@Ricksterpt]

Lynx Aurora N...

[@nathanwarrick]

I’m on the wait list for a UCX II. Installed TotalMix to play around with it before my hardware arrives. Coming from Metric Halo land, which is amazing by the way, TotalMix seems so logical and intuitive. Everything just makes sense once you get a handle on it. I can’t understand why people think it’s confusing. Inputs top row, software middle, outputs bottom row, route as required.

[@pascalmerschaudio]

exactly, i think its logical

[@nathanwarrick]

Couldn’t wait, bought a UFX II. Brilliant! Had it up and running in 10 mins, with 2 headphones and speaker A and B. Piece of cake!

[@KeenanCrow]

Recently upgraded from Focusrite Saffire products to an RME Fireface UCX II. Giant leap forward. Latency is about 40% faster in identical conditions.

[@AironExTv]

I've used RME interfaces for around 20 years, and I've used just two of their devices in that time. The Digi-96 with an ADI-2 converter, and for the past 12+ years the Fireface UC. One thing went bad, but not in the actual units. The power brick. Support in the forum recommended I try a power source with 12V/2A. Anything decent works. A replacement unit costs ~30 Euros here, so it was a very easy fix after I'd tested with a power brick I use for hooking up various external harddrives that could be set to 12V and had the ampage. The drivers are still up to date. M1 compatibility and all for those Mac users. I love this thing. They're the top of the line of reliability. I've been mixing shows for ten years with this.

[@petersinol]

Two questions regarding ufx II which has no madi but only 2 adat ports. 1. Can I record 30 microphones with ufx II somehow? Or only 20 with 4 built in preamps plus 16 via two adat? 2. What is the best preamp extension for ufx II from rme now? Two octamics xtc or octamic II? I understand that 12 mic will „leave” 4 unused channels from adats. Thanks

[@BarryJohns]

4 built in mic pre’s + 8 balanced inputs that you’d need to use separate mic pre’s connected via 1/4 balanced cables + 16 channels of mic Pre’s via Adat. Total of 28 inputs at either 44.1 or 48. You still have two channels of AES that can be converted to either SPDIF or light pipe, but finding a 2 channel mic pre with either of those outputs won’t be easy.

[@petersinol]

@@BarryJohns Thank You Barry for quick response. So could You tell to an noob like me which rme pres would be the best for me for 24 microphones recordings? I think of two octamics XTC that have 1 adat i/o each for 16 channels via adat (but have no line outputs). And for 8 balanced inputs in ufx II could I use octamic II which has 2 adat i/o (not used here) and also 8 line outputs? Will it work or maybe Im missing something and maybe You could advise me better setup? Thanks again.

[@dpinskey]

I was lucky to find an RME Digiface unit on Reverb in good condition for just a few bills when I needed to add some ADAT I/O to my system. It has to be clocked via ADAT but is really solid and have not had any glitches/or sync issues ever, which I cannot say the same about my Quantum 2626, which connects via thunderbolt and needs to be clocked with an external clock generator or it suffers some really bad drift. The only thing I don’t like about it, and not sure if it’s just an issue with my particular unit, is that the headphone jack signal has some high-pitched noise. But it records clean, and I manage to monitor its signal through my DAW monitoring which I’ve worked pretty hard to very low imperceptible latency. The TotalMix software to control it does take a little bit to understand but once you get it you’re good. I don’t think the Digiface has DSP though, or at least I have’t found it in any of the dropdown menus in TotalMix.

[@keithclayton1271]

I just realized... sometimes you sound like Ralphie May 🤣

[@neuroscope9052]

As a user of the RME Digi9652, hdsp9652, hdspe raydat , hdspe AIO & Babyface, I'll never go with another brand for Audio IO. They are the best by far. ROCK SOLID. They are worth the extra cost if you hate latency and high CPU overhead.

[@markshaffer4514]

Just thought I would add a comment as a long time RME user. I agree with your endorsement of RME products as being the most reliable and robust in the industry. I have been using their products ever since the Fireface 400! I presently use an UFX+ as you do and have been for 3 to 4 years. However, my unit failed a couple of months ago. My dealer couldn't believe it either as it was one of the first units he had ever heard of with a hardware issue. The power supply failed. I was able to get it repaired here in the US at a reasonable cost, about 10% the cost of a new unit and the turnaround time was within a couple of weeks. As a retired electronics engineer, heat is the enemy of any integrated electronics system. What I have decided to do and what I would recommend is that, if your unit is installed in a mixing desk or rack, to add some type of cooling fan near the unit. Nothing sophisticated but as simple as a muffin fan mounted near the unit so there is some air circulation around it so you don't have any heat buildup that can't be dissipated normally. Maybe even some spacing between pieces of hardware would be sufficient but I preferred to have the active air flow around my unit which is now cool to the touch! Finally I agree with you regarding TotalMix. It is a great piece of software but RME could do a better job of explaining its functions. Do you know that you can host VST plugins inside TotalMix? There is a video on KZbin but again its a bit of a struggle to get through. I thought it would be interesting of hosting one of the headphone correction programs inside TotalMix without modifying your DAW mix to get the same effect. Happy mixing !!!

[@TrevorNew]

No kidding! Going to go find that one

[@AdamMGuitar]

Thank you for all the videos on interfaces. This one in particular convinced me. I've just set up my new UCX II and I'm loving it!

[@MaestrroMusician]

Ditto

[@pascalmerschaudio]

me too i have now the UFX2 i love it men,

[@runutsutube]

I've been using my fireface 400 everyday since 2009, and it was a second hand. Wouldn't think of going to another brand if it died, which I highly doubt at this point.

[@ScantlessBeatz]

I have had a apollo twin usb for about 2yrs now and it has been flawless no issues now with the dsp i can only run about 10 plugins before i run out of dsp but i dont use a lot of of uad outside my vocal chain but starting to use more plugins on projects i have the subscription base also now.

[@davidterry8252]

I jumped ship on Digidesign/Avid in 2002. I also went to Nuendo at that time. I will never use anything other than RME interfaces. Their rock solid drivers have NEVER caused me a single issue in 20 years. I use their MADI pcie cards and their Digiface Dante USB interfaces. Nothing is better at any price in my opinion.

[@bennybe1977]

I find the compressor/expander to be a very good clean digital one, I even routed it es an "external" FX in Cubase - which I can do easily, thanks to ToatalMix, also the auto level control for recording, already saved my a** a few times. (UCXII)

[@Jonathan-ec9pp]

I've been using my Fireface 802 since 2015. Not a single error in 9 years. And as you said, preamps are transparent, and conversion is pristine! Everything sounds so open. I love it

[@gregrodrigueziii8075]

Still using Fireface 800 and still working solid. Those drivers alone are just worth it. Then they give you total mix! we aint talking about the hardware yet.

[@briguy1960]

The only weakness is the power supplies. Well known and not that difficult to fix. Otherwise brilliant kit

[@ADGreen-es6hm]

I have an RME Babyface fs , best interface than I’ve ever had.