Why RME Rocks. Ultra Low Throughput Latency

Looking for a high-end audio interface with ultra low latency? Have a look at RME and get the best performance for your home or project studio DAW.

RME UFX 30 i/o USB2/Firewire audio interface

RME Germany: AVID, well known and respected manufacturer of the ProTools system, just released a HD Native Thunderbolt bridge to their interface PCIe link port. The AVID webpage is accompanied by a chart comparing the 'Throughput Latency' of AVID's syst ems to Apogee's Symphony 64 system, and to 'Top performing FireWire' and 'Top Performing USB systems'

 

 

At 96 kHz sample rate and a buffer setting of 64 samples their chart shows the best USB interfaces to have a 'throughput latency' of 7.0 ms. The term 'throughput latency' here seems not to be used for direct monitoring, but the complete input - DAW software - output chain. The total value depends mostly on the buffer size used, but has been given in this comparison already as a fixed 64 samples. RME would recommend a setting of 128 samples. With this setup RME's USB interfaces (Fireface UC, Fireface UCX, Fireface UFX, Babyface) measure a total roundtrip time of 365 samples, which - at the given sample rate of 96 kHz - equals 3.8 ms - half of what Avid thinks a 'Top Performing USB interface' can achieve. RME FireWire interfaces have a similar performance. 

Conclusion: RME's FireWire and USB interfaces are double as quick as the industry leader in music production tools and hardware expects.

Check out the full line of RME audio interface at Revolution Audio

Featured Equipment Of The Week: Presonus AudioBox Studio Pack

Presonus AudioBox Studio Pack
The AudioBox Studio Pack includes all the essentials to get started with music production on your computer: an Audio Interface, a quality Condenser Microphone, Headphones, Studio One software and all required cables. All this at a great price!
Add a desktop or boom stand and you are ready to record.

See all the details: Presonus AudioBox Studio Pack

Includes

• AudioBox computer recording interface
• M7 studio condenser microphone
•  Studio One software
• HD7 studio headphones
• 3 meter XLR Cable
• 4+ GB of third-party software, loops, and instruments
  

See all the details: Presonus AudioBox Studio Pack

Featured Equipment Of The Week: RME Fireface UCX

RME Fireface UCX USB/Firewire Interface
The Fireface UCX is a highly integrated pro audio solution in an ultra-compact format for studio and live recordings. It continues RME's long tradition of designing compact high-end interfaces, packing into a half-rack size unit what usually would be spread out over two or three 19 inch panels.

The result is an awesome combination of RME's most successful products: Fireface UFX, Firefaces UC/400 and Babyface. The Fireface UCX is not just a smaller version of the smash hit UFX, with the HFX-core, the preamps and the complete effects engine, the UCX continues the tradition of RME's tremendously successful compact interfaces, and combines it with the great usability of the Babyface through the included RME remote.
 Find out more: Fireface UCX

 
Top Features

• Low Latency mastering grade converters with outstanding specifications.
• Two mic preamps with the premium technology from RME's high-end recording bestsellers Micstasy and UFX, including the AutoSet overload protection.
• A newly developed Hammerfall audio core, supporting USB and FireWire with the maximum performance and ultra-low latency operation, combined with the legendary RME driver stability and maintenance, on both bus protocols.
• TotalMix FX with the complete Fireface UFX DSP engine, including all effects up to 192 kHz.
• Monitoring Controller: combining the impressive flexibility of the TotalMix FX monitoring tool set and the included RME Remote Control.
• RME's unique DIGICheck metering and analysis toolbox for Windows PC and Mac.
• Plus support for RME's Advanced Remote Control, active jitter suppression technology, professional reference level support, advanced stand-alone functionality, full 192 kHz operation, and last but not least two high speed MIDI I/Os.
• On top of it: The Fireface UCX is the first professional audio interface with Class Compliant mode to work with Apple's iPad, for perfect stereo up to 8 channel recording and playback, and the addition of truly professional I/Os.

Check out all the details: Fireface UCX USB/Firewire audio interface

Featured Equipment Of The Week: RME Fireface UCX USB/Firewire interface

RME Fireface UCX USB/Firewire interface
The Fireface UCX is a highly integrated pro audio solution in an ultra-compact format for studio and live recordings. It continues RME's long tradition of designing compact high-end interfaces, packing into a half-rack size unit what usually would be spread out over two or three 19 inch panels.
Find out more: RME Fireface UCX

FEATURES
With the Fireface UCX RME reinvented an already perfect product, by improving existing features and characteristics plus adding sophisticated new ones:

• Low Latency mastering grade converters with outstanding specifications.
• Two mic preamps with the premium technology from RME's high-end recording bestsellers Micstasy and UFX, including the AutoSet overload protection.
• A newly developed Hammerfall audio core, supporting USB and FireWire with the maximum performance and ultra-low latency operation, combined with the legendary RME driver stability and maintenance, on both bus protocols.
• TotalMix FX with the complete Fireface UFX DSP engine, including all effects up to 192 kHz.
• Monitoring Controller: combining the impressive flexibility of the TotalMix FX monitoring tool set and the included RME Remote Control.
• RME's unique DIGICheck metering and analysis toolbox for Windows PC and Mac.
• Plus support for RME's Advanced Remote Control, active jitter suppression technology, professional reference level support, advanced stand-alone functionality, full 192 kHz operation, and last but not least two high speed MIDI I/Os.
• On top of it: The Fireface UCX is the first professional audio interface with Class Compliant mode to work with Apple's iPad, for perfect stereo up to 8 channel recording and playback, and the addition of truly professional I/Os.

All in all the Fireface UCX is the new compact-sized dream interface, created with care for every detail, and a new premium solution for any desktop and live usage, without compromises in sound, stability and ultra-low latency operation.

Buy RME Fireface UCX at Revolution Audio

Featured Equipment Of The Week: Propellerhead Balance with Reason Essential

Propellerhead Balance with Reason Essential
The music production package that has everything you need to create anything you want.
2-in 2-out audio interface
Sounds as good as it looks. Works as great as it feels. We've taken care of all the tedious stuff — installation, setup, the works. You can concentrate on having fun instead: making music. With two channels of pristine audio recording, and with inputs for all your gear, your instruments are always connected and you are always ready to record. Integrated music recording environment
Balance is perfectly integrated with Reason and Reason Essentials. With Clip Safe you'll never lose a good take to distortion again. Big Meter lets you tune your guitar and set the levels from across the room. Use it with our software, other pro audio apps, or even iTunes™ — Balance works with everything.
Reason Essentials
Reason Essentials packs all the recording, editing, effects, instruments, and mixing tools you need to sound great. With its generous sound bank and familiar creative flow, it's the software that lets you focus on the music and finish that song. Find out more about Reason Essentials
Need more? Upgrade to Reason for even more instruments, sounds, and effects.
Find out more about Propellerhead Balance

TECH SPECS

• 2-in by 2-out audio interface
• USB 2.0 – bus powered
• Hi-end pre-amplifiers
• Hi-end 24-bit ADC/DACs, 44.1 to 96kHz
• Low latency design
• Clip Safe — Never again a lost take because of inadequate level settings. The “built-in recording engineer” watches over your session and automatically heals any clipped recordings.
• Mac OS class compliant (no driver on Mac OS). ASIO drivers for Windows installed with the software.
• Built-in Propellerhead Ignition Key
• Direct monitoring (for stand-alone or DAW use)
• Two XLR microphone inputs w. 48V phantom power
• Two 1/4" guitar inputs with padding
• Four 1/4" balanced line inputs (two stereo pairs)
• One 1/4” headphone output
• Two 1/4" TRS balanced main outputs
• Hardware input source selection
• Input level control
• Separate output and headphone level control
• Output muting

Find out more about Propellerhead Balance

Featured Equipment Of The Week: M-Audio Fast Track C400

M-Audio Fast Track C400
The original, best-selling M-Audio Fast Track recording interfaces set the standard for quality and ease of use. Now the Fast Track C400 audio interface makes it simpler than ever to transform your ideas into professional-quality music. Stay in the creative flow and capture amazing performances with convenient controls plus built-in reverb and delay effects. Sound incredible with an all-new signal path that delivers pristine audio quality. Easily check your mixes on multiple sets of speakers using the built-in monitor management system. And enjoy the flexibility to record with your favorite music software—including Pro Tools. Fast Track C400 gives you the freedom to make music at the speed of your creativity.
Find out more: Fast Track C400

Top Features

• Pristine, 24-bit/96 kHz audio fidelity > ensure your recordings sound amazing
• 4-input/6-output design > capture and play back multiple sources
• Top-panel controls and assignable Multi button > get immediate access to the most commonly used functions
• Near-zero latency monitor mixer with built-in reverb and delay effects > inspire great performances
• Built-in monitor management system > verify that your mixes sound great—and translate well

 See all the details: M-Audio Fast Track C400

Featured Equipment Of The Week: M-Audio Profire 2626 Firewire Audio Interface

M-Audio Profire 2626 Firewire Audio Interface
Building on a legacy of award-winning FireWire audio interfaces, the M-Audio ProFire™ 2626 brings next-generation performance to your PC or Mac host-based recording system. This powerful interface delivers 26 x 26 simultaneous I/O, complete with an onboard DSP mixer sourced from up to 52 audio streams. It features every kind of connection you need—including award-winning Octane™ preamp technology on all eight analog inputs, ADAT, S/PDIF, word clock and MIDI. Critically acclaimed JetPLL jitter elimination technology ensures pristine audio quality and reliable synchronization all the way up to high-definition 24-bit/192kHz resolution. In addition, ProFire 2626 offers easy FireWire connectivity, extremely low latency, dual headphone outputs, front-panel ¼” instrument inputs and standalone operation.
Find out more: M-Audio Profire 2626

 Top Features

26 x 26 simultaneous analog/digital I/O > ideal for project studios eight preamps with Octane™ technology > award-winning quality flexible on-board DSP mixer > create multiple unique cue mixes user-assignable master volume knob > customize your setup functions as eight-channel mic pre/eight-channel A/D-D/A converter > standalone operation up to 24-bit/192kHz > pristine high-definition digital audio JetPLL technology > critically acclaimed jitter elimination

M-Audio Profire 2626 is available in the Revolution Audio online store

Featured Equipment Of The Week: Mackie Onyx 1620i 16ch firewire mixer

Onyx-i Series FireWire Production Mixers combine the benefits of a powerful computer interface with the tactile, hands-on control of a premium analog mixer, creating an easy-to-use system that’s perfect for studio or live applications. Eight full channels of mic pres and four stereo channels means there are few sessions that the Onyx 1620i cannot handle. Each mic channel features 4-band Perkins EQ with dual sweepable mids, providing truly professional tone-shaping. Band-friendly features like the dedicated talkback section with built-in mic allow you to easily communicate with the talent, whether behind the glass or in front of stage monitors. Deep FireWire integration, along with complete platform support allows you to easily record in the studio, or at the gig. The matter is settled then…the 1620i is a true band workhorse.
Find out more: Mackie Onyx 1620i 16ch mixer with firewire

Top Features
* 12-channel premium analog mixer with integrated 24-bit/96kHz FireWire I/O
* 8 Onyx boutique-quality mic preamps
* 3-band Perkins EQ with sweepable mids on mic/line channels
* 3-band Perkins EQ on stereo Line channels
*16x2 FireWire allows for simultaneous streaming of all channels, auxes and master L/R
* 4 aux sends with pre/post assignment
* Smooth 60mm channel and master faders
* Built-in DI on first two channels for direct connection of guitars, bass, etc.
* Individual 48V phantom power switches on all mic inputs
* Talkback section with built in mic and flexible routing
* "Planet Earth" switching power supply for worldwide use
* Optional rack kit available
Find out more about Mackie Onyx 1620i at Revolution Audio

Featured Equipment Of The Week: Focusrite Scarlett 18i6 USB2 audio interface

Focusrite Scarlett 18i6 USB2 audio interface
The Focusrite Scarlett 18i6 is an 18 in / 6 out USB 2.0 audio interface designed to make home multitrack recording a breeze. Alongside two award-winning Focusrite preamps, six high-quality analogue inputs allow you to simultaneously record guitar, bass, vocals and keys. You don’t need to stop there either – pop in the ADAT optical cable from an outboard eight-channel mic pre unit such as the Focusrite OctoPre MkII and you can track the drums at the same time.
Focusrite Scarlett 18i6 USB2 audio interface

Top Features

• Two high-quality award-winning Focusrite preamps
  The best sounding interface in its class. Focusrite's 25-year legacy forms the foundation of this new interface, with two award-winning preamps.
• Total I/O count of 18 inputs and 6 outputs
  All of the analogue and digital inputs you need for home multitrack recording. No need for breakout cables - every input & output has a dedicated socket.
• High-quality 24-bit/96kHz USB interface
  Features professional conversion and jitter elimination technology, guaranteeing pristine audio quality and reliable synchronization.
• Scarlett MixControl ultra-low-latency DSP mixer/router
  Provides an 18 x 6 DSP mixer with excellent routing flexibility, intuitive one-click configurations, and lower than 1.4ms latency (less than the time it takes sound to travel two feet through air!).
• Scarlett VST/AU/RTAS Plug-in Suite, for use in the mix
  Upgrade your standard sequencer effects and bring a touch of class to your session with Focusrite’s Scarlett compression, reverb, gating and EQ.

Find out more and buy Focusrite Scarlett 18i6 at Revolution Audio

New M-Audio Fast Track C Series USB2 Audio Interfaces

Transform your ideas into professional-quality music with two new interfaces and Pro Tools MP music creation systems

The original, best-selling* M-Audio Fast Track recording interfaces set the standard for quality and ease of use. Now the new Fast Track C-series audio interfaces make it simpler than ever to transform your ideas into professional-quality music. Get the Fast Track C600 or C400 bundled with industry-leading Pro Tools MP recording software—or buy the interfaces separately for use with your favorite software.

With Fast Track C600 and C400, top-panel controls make it easy to stay in the creative flow. You’ll capture amazing performances with built-in reverb and delay effects, sound incredible with an all-new signal path, and easily check your mixes on multiple sets of speakers using the built-in monitor management system. You’ll also enjoy the flexibility to record with your favorite music software—including Pro Tools. Fast Track C-series interfaces give you the freedom to make music at the speed of your creativity.



Buy M-Audio Fast Track C Series USB2 Audio Interfaces At Revolution Audio:

M-Audio Fast Track C400 w/ Pro Tools SE

M-Audio Fast Track C400 + Pro Tools MP9

M-Audio Fast Track C600 w/ Pro Tools SE

M-Audio Fast Track C600 + Pro Tools MP9

Featured Equipment Of The Week - Presonus AudioBox 22VSL

Presonus AudioBox 22VSL

The Presonus AudioBox 22VSL is a cool new portable USB2 audio interface with some great features. The AudioBox 22VSL introduces a new generation of PreSonus USB 2.0 audio/MIDI interfaces that take hardware/software integration to the logical next step. Using your computer CPU and PreSonus Virtual StudioLive™ (VSL) software, AudioBox VSL-series interfaces provide reverb and and delay effects and the same Fat Channel compression, limiting, semi-parametric EQ, and high-pass filter, as the PreSonus StudioLive™ 16.0.2 digital mixer— all with inaudible latency. Now you can monitor and record with or without real-time dynamics processing and EQ!
Find out more - Presonus AudioBox 22VSL

TOP FEATURES

• 24-bit / 96 kHz 2 x 2 USB 2.0 recording interface
• 2 dual-purpose front-panel input channels, each with:
• Combo XLR mic and balanced ¼" instrument input
• Class A XMAX™ mic / instrument preamp
• Individual channel-trim controls with 0 to +35 dBu mic gain range
• 48V phantom power for condenser microphones (global)
• Mixer control (blends the input signal with the computer playback stream for zero-latency monitoring)
• Headphone jack with level control
• Main-output level control
• LED clip indicator for each channel
• Studio One™ Artist digital audio workstation software included
• Virtual StudioLive™ (VSL) control software included; manages:
• Near-zero-latency monitoring with extensive signal processing
• 4 x 2 DSP mixer
• StudioLive™16.0.2 Fat Channel compressor, limiter, expander, high-pass filter, and semi-parametric EQ for each analog input and its DAW return
• 2 stereo effects buses with reverb and delay
• More than 50 Fat Channel DSP presets for enhancing instrument and vocal recordings
Get the Presonus AudioBox 22VSL at Revolution Audio!

FAQ: What is latency?

Latency
Latency is the time delay between input and output. The lower the latency the better it is for recording, however it is harder on the system and is not always possible.
Latency can make recording very difficult, wherever possible try to minimize it.
Firewire interfaces should be capable of near-zero latency (64 samples) and most USB interfaces have a zero latency monitoring control which sends the unprocessed input directly to the output. This is also called direct monitoring, I strongly advise against using this feature as you don't hear if there is a problem with the recording until it is too late. To adjust the latency of the interface you want to look for the ‘buffer size’ control. A higher buffer size is useful when mixing with a lot of plugins, and a low buffer size is preferable when recording, adjust as necessary.

Featured Equipment Of The Week: Roland UA-101 Octa-capture USB2 audio interface

Roland UA-101 Octa-capture USB2 audio interface
With ten inputs, ten outputs, eight VS PREAMPS, and superb 24-bit/192 kHz audio quality, OCTA-CAPTURE sets a new standard in portable USB 2.0 audio interfaces. Designed for high-level audio production, it combines premium components, Roland-quality engineering, and proprietary preamp and streaming technology. With its compact design and pristine audio quality, OCTA-CAPTURE is not only the perfect interface for multi-channel computer-based production, but also a great solution for expanding the I/O capability of the V-STUDIO 700 and V-STUDIO 100.Brimming with quality and performance that far exceeds its size and price, OCTA-CAPTURE is the next-generation audio interface.
Find out more about the Roland UA-101

TOP FEATURES

• Eight premium mic preamps built in (VS PREAMP)
• AUTO-SENS function intelligently sets optimal input levels for all preamps
• Extremely stable low-latency VS STREAMING driver
• Four independent software-controlled Direct Mixers for creating custom monitor mixes
• Supports all major DAW platforms on Mac or PC, including OSX 10.6 and Windows 7, through ASIO 2.0/WDM (Windows) and Core Audio (Mac) drivers
• Rackmount ears included
• Bundled with Cakewalk Production Plus Pack

Buy Roland UA-101 at Revolution Audio

Featured Equipment Of The Week - M-Audio Fast Track Ultra

M-Audio Fast Track Ultra
The Fast Track® Ultra 8 x 8 audio/MIDI interface takes M-Audio’s acclaimed mobile recording line to the next level with high-speed USB 2.0 connectivity, MX Core™ DSP mixer and four preamps with award-winning Octane™ technology. Featuring both analog and digital I/O, it allows recording on all eight channels simultaneously with pristine 24-bit/96kHz fidelity—while M-Audio’s mature low-latency drivers ensure rock-solid stability and performance. The on-board MX Core™ DSP mixer processes eight hardware inputs and eight software returns to the eight hardware outputs, delivering flexible routing and monitoring with delay and reverb. Compatible with most major audio software*, Fast Track Ultra lets you record the way you want—in the studio or on the go. Read all the details.

Top Features

high-speed USB 2.0 interface > simultaneous 8 x 8 24-bit/96kHz audio

MX Core™ DSP technology > flexible channel routing, monitor sub-mixing and effects processing

4 preamps with award-winning M-Audio Octane™ technology > premium input circuitry

compatible with Mac and PC > works with most audio production software

Buy the M-Audio Fast Track Ultra at Revolution Audio

Featured Equipment: Focusrite Liquid Saffire 56 Firewire Audio Interface

Focusrite Liquid Saffire 56 Firewire Audio Interface

Liquid Saffire 56 is Focusrite’s new flagship 2U multi-channel firewire audio interface. Liquid technology combines with Saffire PRO firewire interfacing to deliver a host of authentic pre-amp flavours, seamless software integration, excellent routing flexibility and future-proof, rock-solid driver stability.
Find out more about the Liquid Saffire 56

Key Features

Two Liquid Pre-amps
The marriage of a hugely flexible analogue front end with cutting-edge dynamic convolution DSP, each Liquid Pre-amp lets you choose from ten different classic pre-amp emulations, with an eleventh ‘flat’ option.
Six High Quality Award-winning Focusrite Pre-amps
Six award-winning Saffire pre-amps complement two Liquid pre-amps. All eight pre-amps demonstrate the same wide bandwidth philosophy behind the early vintage Focusrite units.
High Quality 24-bit/192kHz Firewire Interface
Professional digital conversion and JetPLLTM jitter elimination technology; pristine audio quality and reliable synchronisation are guaranteed.
Total I/O Count of 28 Inputs and 28 Outputs
A host of i/o options are provided*, including a unique loop-back facility for routing audio between software applications via Saffire Mix Control.
Suite of Focusrite VST/AU plug-ins
Upgrade your standard sequencer effects and bring a touch of class to your session with Focusrite Compression, Reverb, Gating and EQ VST/AU plug-ins.
Two separate headphone buses
Two artists can receive independent and fully customised monitor mixes. Each output has an independent level control available on the front panel.
Saffire Mix Control Zero-latency DSP Mixer/Router
Routing flexibility and intuitive one-click set-up solutions; Saffire Mix Control provides an 18 x 16 DSP mixer with excellent output routing and monitoring capabilities.
Front panel 5-LED metering
LED metering for each of the analogue, ADAT1, ADAT2 or S/PDIF inputs offers accurate viewing of levels direct from the front fascia.

Find out more about the Focusrite Liquid Saffire 56

Featured Equipment: Mackie Onyx Blackjack recording interface

Mackie Onyx Blackjack USB audio interface

Need a compact, high quality recording interface? Check this out - The Mackie Onyx Blackjack is a simple, rugged and affordable usb recording interface.

Find out more about the Mackie Onyx Blackjack, in stock and ready to ship

TOP FEATURES

• Two boutique-quality Onyx mic preamps with class-leading fidelity and dynamic range
• High-headroom design with ultra-low noise and distortion
• Professional 24-bit recording/playback via 2x2 USB
• High-end Cirrus Logic® AD/DA converters with 114dB dynamic range (A-weighted)
• True analog hardware monitoring of inputs, in mono or stereo, for easy zero-latency recording
• Compatible with most major DAWs
  • Pro Tools® 9
  • Logic®
  • SONAR™
  • Cubase®
  • Ableton® Live
  • Final Cut Pro®
  • ...and more
• Built-in DI on each input for direct connection of guitars, basses, etc.
• 48V phantom power for use with studio-quality condenser microphones
• USB bus-powered, eliminating need for separate power cable
• Separate studio monitor and headphone outs with independent level control
• Sleek, ergonomic “Built-Like-A-Tank” desktop design
• Includes Tracktion 3™ Music Production Software for Mac or PC

Find out more about the Mackie Onyx Blackjack

Featured Equipment Of The Week - TC Electronic Desktop Konnect 6

TC Electronic Desktop Konnect 6
Desktop Konnekt 6 offers the same high quality recording features as the rest of the Konnekt line of interfaces, but in a desktop design that allows you to focus on performance rather than technology.
Bundled with Cubase LE4 - Desktop Konnekt 6 has all the features you need to instantly record instruments and vocals into your Mac or PC.
Monitor control - With the high resolution meter, the big volume knob and the feature dedicated knobs, you have all you need for monitor control.
IMPACT™ Mic preamp and I/O - The IMPACT™ mic pre and the two instrument inputs give you an extraordinary recording quality. The output section has all you need to get the job done.
M40 Studio Reverb - Included is the M40 Studio Reverb, a simple to use, great sounding reverb powered by AlgoFlex™.
Cubase LE4 Included - Bundled with Cubase LE4 - Desktop Konnekt has all the features you need to instantly record instruments and vocals into your Mac or PC.
Find out more about the TC Electronic Desktop Konnect 6

 

Top Features

• Big volume knob
• High resolution meter
• IMPACT™ mic pre
• Hi-Z guitar / line inputs
• M40 Studio Reverb
• Cubase LE4 included
• Intuitive control panel for direct monitoring control
• FireWire 1394, bus powered

Find out more about the TC Electronic Desktop Konnect 6