Archive notice: This article was originally published on June 23, 2009. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
Compact dimensions, a clear layout and high audio quality are just some of the advantages of the new Saffire PRO 24 FireWire audio interface. Its small size and FireWire bus power make it a good choice for both mobile recording and permanent studio use.
With 16 inputs and eight outputs, Saffire PRO 24 offers extensive connectivity for modern home studios and semi-professional users. Two award-winning high-class Focusrite microphone preamps will also please sound purists, as the preamps combine with the A/D conversion to deliver outstanding audio quality. Switchable phantom power also equips them for use with high-quality condenser microphones.
Alongside the two Focusrite preamps is a wide range of further inputs and outputs. Instruments can be connected directly through two Hi-Z inputs with switchable high gain, eliminating the need for a DI box. Two additional analogue inputs connect line signals to Saffire PRO 24. The ADAT input can be used to expand Saffire PRO 24 with Focusrite’s OctoPre, for example.
In addition to MIDI input and output, there are digital S/PDIF input and output and six analogue outputs. Two virtual loopback inputs are unique, allowing digital audio signals to be routed between different software applications.
Five-segment LED level meters on the front panel for every analogue input provide a constant overview of incoming levels.
Saffire PRO 24 performs high-quality 24-bit/96 kHz conversion from analogue to digital, aided by JetPLL jitter-elimination technology.
Another strength is its monitoring capability, making the interface suitable for a wide variety of applications. The front-panel headphone output has its own volume control and provides an individual mix.
Control with Saffire Mix Control
Saffire PRO 24 ships with the clear and easy-to-use Saffire Mix Control software, making control of the zero-latency 18 × 8 DSP mixer/router straightforward. Outputs can be assigned flexibly, and innovative one-click technology handles track, monitor-path and mixer assignments quickly. Saffire PRO 24 therefore sets a new standard in this price category.
Extensive Software Package
A generous software package is also included so users can begin making music immediately. Focusrite Plug-in Suite supplies high-quality compressor, reverb, gate and equaliser effects, allowing the sequencer’s standard effects to remain switched off.
The Xcite+ Bundle includes additional software such as Ableton Live Lite. This sequencing and recording software is ideal for producing, performing and composing. Novation’s Bass Station software synthesiser provides bass sounds, accompanied by one gigabyte of royalty-free samples from Loopmasters and “Mike the Drummer.”
Saffire PRO 24 will be available from June 2009 at a recommended retail price of €339.