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Average Price: $224
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$150
$501+
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Description
The RME Fireface 400 FireWire Computer Recording Interface is a versatile powerhouse designed for musicians who demand high-fidelity sound and seamless connectivity. This audio interface is a bridge between your creativity and your computer, offering 18 channels of simultaneous record and playback to fuel your studio ambitions. With its compact design, it fits comfortably into any studio setup, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a passionate hobbyist.
Harnessing the acclaimed SteadyClock technology, the Fireface 400 ensures ultra-low jitter and pristine audio quality, making it perfect for both studio recording and live performances. Its DSP TotalMix mixer provides total control over routing and monitoring, allowing you to tailor your sound with precision. Thanks to ADI-8 converters and OctaMic microphone technology, every detail of your sound is captured with remarkable clarity and depth.
The Fireface 400 is not just about capturing sound; it's about capturing it with character. Whether you're laying down tracks, mixing, or mastering, this interface delivers the reliability and performance you need to produce professional-grade music. Its FireWire connectivity ensures fast and stable data transfer, making it an ideal choice for any setup.
Key Features:
- 18 channels of simultaneous record/playback
- SteadyClock technology for ultra-low jitter
- ADI-8 converters and OctaMic microphone technology
- DSP TotalMix mixer for complete control over routing and monitoring
- Supports up to 192 kHz sample rate
- Compact design suitable for any studio setup
- FireWire connectivity for fast and stable data transfer
Product specs
| Brand | RME |
| Model | Fireface 400 Audio Interface |
| Finish | Blue |
| Year | 2000s |
| Categories | Audio Interfaces |
| Bit Depth | 24-bit |
| Bus-Powered | No |
| Compatibility | Windows, macOS |
| Computer Connectivity | Firewire |
| Digital Input Format | ADAT/Optical, S/PIDF |
| Digital Output Format | ADAT/Optical, S/PIDF |
| Electronics | Analog, Digital, Solid State |
| Format | Half Rackmount |
| Number of Analog Inputs | 8 |
| Number of Analog Outputs | 8 |
| Number of Channels | 36 |
| Number of Digital Inputs | 10 |
| Number of Digital Outputs | 10 |
| Number of Headphone Outputs | 1 |
| Number of MIDI Inputs | 1 |
| Number of MIDI Outputs | 1 |
| Number of Mic Preamps | 2 |
| Sample Rate | 192 khz |
FAQs
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How do I connect the RME Fireface 400 to my computer?
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Connect the RME Fireface 400 to your computer using a FireWire cable. Ensure that the appropriate drivers are installed on your system, which will allow the computer to recognize and use the interface properly.
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Is the RME Fireface 400 compatible with macOS and Windows?
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Yes, the RME Fireface 400 is compatible with both macOS and Windows operating systems, providing flexibility for users across different platforms.
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What are the main connectivity options available on the RME Fireface 400?
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The RME Fireface 400 offers FireWire connectivity, along with ADAT/Optical and S/PIDF digital input and output formats, providing versatile options for integrating with your studio setup.
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How many channels does the RME Fireface 400 support?
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The RME Fireface 400 supports a total of 36 channels, including 8 analog inputs, 8 analog outputs, and multiple digital I/O options, making it suitable for comprehensive recording and mixing tasks.
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Does the RME Fireface 400 have built-in mic preamps?
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Yes, the RME Fireface 400 includes 2 built-in mic preamps, allowing you to connect microphones directly for recording vocals or instruments without needing an external preamp.
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What is the sample rate capability of the RME Fireface 400?
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The RME Fireface 400 supports a sample rate of up to 192 kHz, ensuring high-resolution audio recording and playback for professional-grade sound quality.
Videos
Гитарист Илья Драгунов
RME fireface 400 vs Universal Audio UAD apollo QUAD
RME fireface 400 vs Universal Audio UAD apollo QUAD
Гитарист Илья Драгунов
RME FIREFACE 400 AND KRK K10S UNBOXING AND REVIEW - (1.26.11 - Day 27)
VleraBrite (TeraBrite Vlogs)
Reviews
PROS
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Outstanding sound quality, even compared to newer models
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Noticeable upgrade in sound from older interfaces
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Reliable bus power functionality on older MacBooks
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High-quality converters and preamps, including headphone high gain
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Offers additional rack ears for 19" rack mounting
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Warm and punchy sound quality attributed to German engineering
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Described as reliable and potentially the last soundcard needed
CONS
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FireWire connection may pose compatibility issues or require additional setup
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Some users experience audio distortion and clicks under medium CPU load
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Power supply issues not solved even with an external supply
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about RME Fireface 400 FireWire Computer Recording Interface.
Software and compatibility
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RME Fireface 400 lacks official Linux drivers; users report challenges with Linux Mint setups involving multiple FireWire and Thunderbolt adapters.
Source -
Pipewire is noted as a potential solution for integrating PulseAudio and JACK, with users reporting fewer issues compared to traditional setups.
Source -
The SIIG NN-E20012-S2 FireWire card, with a TI chip, is generally reliable but compatibility with newer Intel chipsets may affect performance.
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Thunderbolt to PCIe expansion chassis is necessary for stable Fireface 400 integration with Thunderbolt 3; StarTech offers a reliable chassis + card bundle.
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For Windows users, the "Legacy Firewire Driver" may be required if compatibility issues arise with modern VIA chips.
Source
Setup and maintenance
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Successful Linux configuration involves using KXStudio repository, Cadence Catia, and ffado, highlighting the complexity of achieving stable audio routing.
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On Windows, ensure both RME and FireWire drivers are installed to avoid detection issues in TotalMix software.
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Switching from the "legacy" to the original Windows FireWire driver may resolve playback issues, despite the common recommendation to use the legacy driver.
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Using a FireWire adapter chain (FW800 to Thunderbolt 2, then Thunderbolt 2 to Thunderbolt 3) can lead to unreliable connection issues.
Source
User experience
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Audio playback issues manifest as continuous beeping sounds, indicating potential driver or compatibility problems with new hardware configurations.
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Firewire's high capabilities are offset by fragile interconnections and port-interface issues, requiring multiple adapter purchases over time.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 7 Reviews and 21 Ratings
269
Great interface
I went to the RME from a MOTU 828, and the difference in quality was very noticeable. RME stuff isn't cheap, but it's well-made and has epic sound quality.
52
Observations
The sound quality is amazing. I had problems with the sound on this card such as distort or clicks. Was distortion during medium loads CPU during a performance using Ableton Live. I think that all problems from-for weak nutrition firewire. The power supply didn't help either. Very upset that I had to look for another card.
Artist usage
Add artist
Syn Cole includes the Fireface 400 interface amongst his studio equipment in his Facebook post.
I use an RME Fireface 400 soundcard and Mackie HR824 monitors, which I bought ofd a friend recently, because even though they are very old, they sound great!
The Canadian techno mastermind reveals how his live set works at the 2014 Red Bull Music Academy in Tokyo.
We can see RME Fireface 400 under the Spectrum Analyzer in Flashmob's studio.
In a YouTube studio tour, Johnny Franck states that he uses the RME Fireface 400 FireWire Computer Recording Interface (which is discontinued) as an audio interface for recording Bilmuri at the 0:35 mark.
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use RME Fireface 400 FireWire Computer Recording Interface, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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