Allowing standalone recording and playback.
RME has unveiled the Fireface UCX II USB audio interface before its 25th anniversary, an upgrade from its predecessor that has steadily sold since its release a decade ago. Boasting new standalone functionality and DC coupled outputs, this compact device packs a punch.
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While many have used its predecessor including Australian artist Flume, the upgrade was certainly necessary. With changes including additional DC-coupled outputs, SteadyClock FS, a new metering display and direct recording to a thumb drive.
This expandable 40-channel, 192kHz interface features plenty of routing options. The front panel maintains its four input slots featuring two microphone/line, XLR/TRS combo jacks and two instrument/line inputs with a 6.5mm headphone jack out.
Adorning the front of the unit is a high-resolution metering display, an improved feature from the first model which shows all in and out signals simultaneously. Navigation has been made easier through its large value/volume knob and four buttons to adjust settings with ease.
The back panel has four additional line inputs, and six line outputs which are all DC coupled, meaning you can use them to generate control voltages (CV) for modular synths and other analogue gear. In its previous iteration, only the headphone output was DC coupled.
Another new feature, Direct USB Recording (DuRec), adds functionality to which RME explain “converts the Fireface UCX II into a stand-alone field recorder and a powerful multichannel live player for previous recordings.” Using this, recordings can be made and played back directly on the interface without the need for a computer to be connected.
Class Compliant audio via USB means no additional drivers need to be installed on PC, Mac or Linux. Other connections include word clock, ADAT I/O and AES/EBU. The AES/EBU port also provides S/PDIF via the included breakout cable, which replaces the Fireface UCX’s RCA S/PDIF connectors.
This portable, and hotly anticipated compact interface is set to begin shipping in July.
Read more on the UCX II on RME’s website.
