RME Audio FireFace 800 user reviews ( 7/10) - 55 user reviews

• 04/26/12

  theaudioandvideoguy's review "firewire is fast"

  Characteristics

  The Fireface 800 is a very powerful firewire interface, one of the reasons I chose to use it is because it has the fast technology for a firewire interface. It has real time sample rate lock and sample rat control during playback and recording. Most interface don’t have all of those features either, they mainly have one or the other. Also, I used it on a windows computer for service pack 2 and it worked great because they created an upgrade which fixed some of the lagging and not syncing problems.

  Utilization

  The FireFace 800 has eight line inputs and outputs which was just enough for what we needed to use it for at the time. We used 7 of them though which left one open for something maybe we wanted to add on later down the road but at the time we only needed 7.

  Getting Started

  Another great feature is the Steady clock technology. You can synch reference everything for the whole studio and session with it, I havent had another interface that could do that so it was big for me to be able to do that on this. It includes a midi option as well for those who use a lot of midi set ups.

  Overall Opinion

  There are other versions of the FireFace like the 400 mode which is a step down from the 800 if you are really arent in need of all the inputs and it can basically do the same thing as the Fireface 800 and its cheaper so check that one out if you don’t need this much inputs and outputs. Actually the 400 might be a better fit for a home studio that the 800 is because at home you really don’t have the need for that many ins and outs. But all in all the FireFace 800 is one of the best firewire interfaces out.
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• 09/25/11

  ericthegreat's review "this is great!"

  Characteristics

  A completely professional grade interface. I track live instruments with Neumann M149 tube, AEA R84, RE20, Rode and modified Shure SM 57s , all in a real studio through high end tube pres and 1950s vintage mic pres etc... This interface has phenomenal sound quality even at 44.1.
  
  
  
  The multiple connections allow me to connect a Lexicon hardware digitally via SPDIF. I also use all my vintage tube gear - not only to track- but to mix as well in Logic pro in the same way as you use plugins..except they are the real thing! and with the same flexibility as a plugin. So if you desire to be able to use all your analog gear to mix in the box alongside your plugins simultaneously, this interface makes it happen and Logic pro 9 is set up for it, so it is very easy.

  Utilization

  The clock is so good it has become the master clock in the studio. Clocking makes an audible difference in terms of audible phase shift harshness. I have not yet used the mic pres, as I have plenty of amazing vintage ones by Altec, UA, UREI, and a Buzzaudio MA2.2.
  
  
  
  The headphone monitor volume is very powerful and clean. The overall sound -if coupled with Logic pro 9- approximates the sweetness of 30 ips Ampex tape in general character and vibe (at 44.1). At higher rates it becomes more" Hollywood soundtrack" in detail level and vivid transient response as well as dynamic range perception.

  Getting Started

  getting started was simple, it actually suprised me with how easy it was.

  Overall Opinion

  Overall, I am shure it will sound very different depending on what DAW you have ( protools, nuendo, cubase all have their own sound character due to differing algorithms and design priorities.
  
  
  
  But the great news is it's superb -smooth non ear-fatiguing- performance at CD quality 44.1.
  
  
  
  I hope this gives an idea of how this unit performs in strictly professional circumstances (the studio has a IT 20 series II Furman balanced power supply conditioning) for very long hours at a time.
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• 06/08/10

  songboy's review "Best Interface I have ever heard/seen/used"

  Characteristics

  The main thing that motivated my choice was the High quality preamps, the amazing ad/da converters and the fact that it had both firewire 400 and 800 ports on it. I am currently using a macbook laptop but intend to upgrade to a Mac Pro desktop and having both the firewire 400 and 800 was a must. I use the Fireface 800 to handle all of my instrumentation. I run ableton live 8 with the fireface and I run everything (vocals, guitars, bass, Rhodes piano, synths, computer based synths/effects and outboard effects through effects loops) through the computer, through live in order to loop all audio at my bidding. As for connection types, you get it all; 4 XLR's, 8 analog in/outs, two adats, 1 firewire 400, 2 firewire 800's, word clock in/out, spdif in/out. I run this all on a macbook (2.2ghz 4gb ram, 320hdd).

  Utilization

  I have not had the unit long enough to update again but the unit has been out for a few years and has been updated regularly. I can very easily use all of my inputs and tons of computer synths/effects and loop it all with the looper and set the buffer so it runs with less than 8 milliseconds of latency. Its quite remarkable especially compared to my former unit the Presonus Firebox. The drivers are extremely stable, as to be expected from RME. I use this mainly with ableton 8 but I also use it often with Logic 9. The most amount of tracks I have tried to record simultaneously is 8 and it performed perfectly. xpected from RME. I use this mainly with ableton 8 but I also use it often with Logic 9. The most amount of tracks I have tried to record simultaneously is 8 and it performed perfectly.

  Getting Started

  I have had no compatibility issues so far. The manual that came with the fireface is fairly indepth and I highly suggest reading cover to cover if you want to get the most out of this unit. It is a very well written manual and is more than sufficient. I guess I could say the general setup is simple, but this unit can do so much. If you want to use all its amazing options, then you better be ready to do your homework. Yes, the typical functions are accessible via the front of the unit and the software mixer/control panel that automatically loads on the computer when you connect via firewire.

  Overall Opinion

  What I love most about this unit is the pristine ad/da converters. I run my analog instruments (guitar/bass/rhodes/synths) into a Mackie Vlz3 mixer with the output going to a Fender Twin Reverb amp and a Peavey TNT 150 bass amp. I use the Alt Outputs on the mixer to send a "loop" to the RME then back into the mackie so I can "Loop" the instruments in Ableton 8. When I did this with the presonus, there was a little latency and the audio quality was significantly altered. With the the Fireface, the difference between the straight analog pathway and the computer pathway are virtually indistinguishable. I have even thought about getting rid of the Mackie and just running everything direct with the RME, its that good!!!! New these go for $1700 but I got mine used for $1250. Its a lot of money, no doubt, but if you want this kind of quality, you have to pay, and its worth every last penny. 10 out of 10 for sound quality (I'd give it an 11 if I could). I have used a Presonus Firebox, Firepod, Alesis Multimix, and a MOTU 828 mk2 and this blows them all out of the water. I would definitely make the same choice again. I highly recommend this unit.
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• 05/15/13

  Tixu Oty's review ( translated ) Improve this translation " My great friend for life?"

  Characteristics

  To effectively started, I bought this new interface in January 2007 for € 1,270.
  
  I was attracted by the FF800 by the quality of its converters, preamps quality, the number of input / output, integrated DSP, its format and internal routing.
  
  My concern was to find a bcanne able to record with high quality and great different types of neutrality group (Finally I record almost thirty ranging from Jazz, through variety, Raggae, and Hiphop Rock the cutest most HardCore). So at the preamp neutrality 'is the Top!
  
  
  
  The FireFace always turned on my laptop is a Sony Vaio VGN-FE28B (which does not break bricks but that has always been enough and always present) in Windows XP. I must admit that the card communicates Firewire, which forced me to buy a PCMCIA card to connect with my computer .. Apart from that, everything works perfectly.

  Utilization

  Drivers side, everything is very stable, I have never had a bad surprise.
  
  The Soft supplied with RME FF800 are simply ultra-efficient, things are done very quickly and accurately, especially with the Soft FireFaceMixer that turns your sound card exeptionnel patch incorporating a very well thought matrix which gives us a crazy imagination After routing. We believe in possession of a modular machine without limit, which is a comfort and avoids patch / unpatch the connectors on the card.
  
  
  
  I also always made my recordings Cubase4 on this side either, I've never had a single glitch. But I was very busy projects in number of audio and MIDI tracks with a lot of VST plug-ins. It's not complicated, I've never stuck because of hardware related performance FF800.
  
  
  
  Also very strong, non-perceptible latency for musicians. Ability to track routed to a live output without treatment (if you use a computer a little weak for such calculations).

  Getting Started

  Nothing special to say about the installation, this is classic. General side configuration, it is not difficult but obviously need to put a minimum in and be patient and in the manual, and it's a big problem: They are not fucking give in French and they do not want not that users transmit them via the web. I remember the number of forum topics that have been closed by the admins of different sites (including AF). Aside from the annoying details when we have, it is very clear and detailed.
  
  Anyway, if you have a glue, the AF community or else you always respond quickly!

  Overall Opinion

  Since the time I use it, I do not see the point to find something else at my level.
  
  I have preferred certe 8 inputs / outputs additional lines instead of 8 inputs / outputs ADAT, it will have been more convenient to me, but it is a detail view of the performance and (I repeat) the comfort of use of FIREFACE 800. Value / strong price RME.
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• 04/10/13

  Nico_B's review ( translated ) Improve this translation " Excellent interface!"

  Characteristics

  Technique?
  
  Portability, high capacity in terms of connectivity, the 4 pre-amp with phantom power class A.
  
  The possibility of extending digital (ADAT) but also the fact that you can stacker up to 3 fireface as simply as you plug an effects pedal.
  
  Flashable ROM to store a config (even stand alone without computer)
  
  Instruments?
  
  This is the perfect interface that allows you to save up to 12 sources without flinching (including 4 supplied) and a little more if you use the SPDIF IN.
  
  Drums, amps, any type of microphone for all types of recorded sources.
  
  What purpose?
  
  Home recording studio or mobile at concert.

  Utilization

  drivers are very stable, RME is a very serious club that relies heavily on the user community to improve its products and drivers if they are defective.
  
  Used with Cubase and Logic Pro but Garage band.
  
  The drivers are properly updated and follow the evolution of large OS (Mac and Winblows)
  
  Extremely low latency (I have not measured but I do not perceive nor any musician with whom I worked)

  Getting Started

  The installation consists of a few seconds.
  
  The general configuration gr ^ TotalMix this application is a breeze.
  
  No known incompatibilities so far
  
  The manual is clear (I got it in English because I bought the machine LONDON)

  Overall Opinion

  I use it for almost 8 years to record or play music and I'm very satisfied
  
  I have not tried many other models but guys I know have tried Edirol, Presonus and others ... I confess that I had the budget at the time and that this purchase is one of the best possible technical choices.
  
  What I like most: simple, practical, transparent is the best friend of the musician or engineer in the studio or concert (though FF 400 half-rack is smaller and no doubt easier to transport ).
  
  The default few extra buttons or knobs would not have failed but when you look good, there is absolutely no way that this is a false regret because it would not be so compact to finish.
  
  Excellent value for money: € 1000 LONDON bought while she was in 1150, € 1,200 elsewhere in France.
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• 03/15/13

  dOhm's review ( translated ) Improve this translation " Ergonomics, quality and durability ..."

  Characteristics

  What characteristics have motivated your choice?
  
  I need at least 9 inputs / outputs for the scene, you can send stereo files (. Wav) while playing over virtual instruments ... in peace. At the time (early 2007) reviews the reliability were all very good (this is still the case I guess). Here is the main reason for the time.
  
  
  
  With which instruments or systems you use it and how connections?
  
  * Currently on an i5, 8GB Ram, 2 "small" 250 GB HDD ..
  
  * The entries bah ... microphones, preamps additional instruments ... with an ancient Receptor (Muse Research) which gives me two analog inputs + 6 outputs internal host (Receptor) via a cable adat
  
  * The noon one of my keyboards in EnergyXT password, host plugins in the pc, then soft thru the receptor. Basically, I change by changing vsti midi channel.
  
  * In outputs (balanced) a console for controlling the front ... Here for example are grouped all my synths - whether hard or soft - a stereo pair manageable for the sound technician. Microphones have preamps 4 of the rm and out separately.
  
  * Because of this live recording (up to 12 physical inputs in the state) becomes transparent ...

  Utilization

  Drivers ultra stable ever since 2007, a plant that side. I use an "old" cubase (sx3) but I think reaper ... I'm recording at max of 20 simultaneous tracks but with hardware extensions and see how the map is no doubt that it would turn out as well with 28 physical inputs over ten generated by the host (PC). Reading with twenty tracks the LED of hard disk resource remains in the 2 or 3% ... But I've never had more audio tracks for now ... Regarding the latency is no such concern is also that instant the internal sounds of my Nordstage.

  Getting Started

  The installation is done it without problems? No
  
  
  
  Have you encountered any incompatibilities? But it was not advisable for Texas Instruments chipset firewire interface. Moreover about it is its disappearance signing the judgment of the fireface 800 (and the appearance of its big sister, who despite retains the usb firewire ... ;))
  
  
  
  The general configuration is easy? Yes as soon as we understood the workings of TotalMix: 28 inputs 28 inputs + physical host independently routable to all 28 physical outputs with the possibility of closure ...
  
  
  
  The manual is clear and sufficient? ... Yes

  Overall Opinion

  How long have you been using? 6 years
  
  
  
  What is so special that you like most and least? Of the ball ... With still a downside, the standards war to which manufacturers deliver that firewire has disappeared from new machines ... For laptops and proposed solutions do not really inspire me confidence level connectivity (and therefore reliability)
  
  
  
  Did you try many other models before buying it? Vaguely focusrite, it works but it is less intuitive, and I could not compare the sound for a different system, but I am sure that dynamic converters are better on the ff800. If not before I had a emu 1212M (even on another pc) the sound is very nice but hey it is so much smaller than it is hardly comparable.
  
  
  
  How do you rate the quality / price? Occaze today, and knowing that it connects firewire is a great value.
  
  
  
  With experience, you do again this choice? ... I have it working, I care! With a bigger wallet I revendrais to buy his "little" sister ... If I win the lottery (I noted nothing 10/10) I invite a sound engineer at the restaurant and maybe I asked him to assist me in planning my new home studio ... Then maybe I would change brand ... And if it falls in a carafe, I would look at the state of the market that day, but now that I had a rm I know also have a more critical eye ... :)
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• 02/10/13

  soundcurve's review ( translated ) Improve this translation " A reference that is"

  Characteristics

  Hello everyone.
  
  
  
  In order not to add to the already numerous posts that say what it is - well -! ....
  
  Nothing to say about this card.
  
  When I bought it, I was looking for a card without problem, offering the ultimate in features and technical possibilities (Adat etc etc) with minimum 4-6 entries with minimum 2-3 pre-outs, serious pre-amp and an ultra-low latency. (The Fireface-400 did not exist at the time). I was looking for a card with external rack, willing to work on mac (not necessarily immediately or only on Pro-Tools).
  
  This card - like any soundcard with 8 input channels simultaneous recording - which is useless does not need all the inputs (or who do not have the infrastructure that allows place- such records). But if you're drummer example ... there is on.

  Utilization

  I use it almost daily since, in all situations. Nickel. Usually with Logic and Nuendo.
  
  Drivers hyper-stable.
  
  Latency-office is less than 6 msec, easily reducible to zero by playing just the size of the buffers.

  Getting Started

  Install without any problem. Just at the beginning, on Mac OS 10.5.8, the core-PM should be updated by connecting to apple. That's it.
  
  The manual is not available in French to my knowledge. The manual is very clear English.
  
  No incompatibility. (We just hope that one day ... Digidesign opens next RME interface and map). Because in my opinion, surpasses the RME Pro-Tools, by its pre-amp.

  Overall Opinion

  Previously, I worked with a little map on the acclaimed forums: the Hoontech; surprised to read at the time of driver problems and latency, and mottled because I found a driver who was driving ASIO2 hell (latency of 3 at 0 msec). But the quality was not meeting my expectations.
  
  When we know that, under warranty, purchased in stores in Belgium anyway, RME will replace automatically the card to any problem is to say the seriousness of this brand.
  
  The pre-amp is one of the strongest points (next to a series of points that are all the same).
  
  Solid and efficient. I've never had a single crash linked to this card. The possibilities that can be drawn are far-reaching.
  
  Apart from other RME products are well designed and associable 'Note half-rack version Fireface 400, which may be enough for some users.
  
  The price is justified. This material is top. Almost 6 years of use. You know, that kind of stuff as it was "time" without planned obsolescence!
  
  I am I still RME.
  
  If I had to buy a map, yes it would be the same or his successor later.
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• 01/20/13

  Pbony's review ( translated ) Improve this translation " Product without concern"

  Characteristics

  All included in a 1U: Audio, ADAT and MIDI

  Utilization

  Drivers perfectly stable, no worries latency (3 to 7 ms) according to config.

  Getting Started

  No hassle install.

  Overall Opinion

  Product never read, I am also in RME.
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• 01/18/13

  pepite54's review ( translated ) Improve this translation " To top"

  Characteristics

  The map is extraordinary in terms of converters, ergonomics, etc ... Implatation
  
  I have two!
  
  I use a neve 8816.
  
  Imac I7 2012.
  
  32GB of RAM.

  Utilization

  Driver stable.
  
  Used with Logic Pro 9
  
  0 latency.

  Getting Started

  Installation very easy.
  
  Manual very complete and clear.

  Overall Opinion

  Use since 2010.
  
  Nothing to say negative.
  
  If this were to redo .... YES!!
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• 01/17/13

  noj's review ( translated ) Improve this translation

  Characteristics

  See overall opinion.

  Utilization

  See overall opinion.

  Getting Started

  See overall opinion.

  Overall Opinion

  I had a 800 for FF qques months. I've never driven into her entrenchment, so I can not testify intelligently on its technical characteristics.
  
  
  
  The only thing I can say: pay attention to the FireWire interface that you take. I first took a low-end in Conrad failure, the card was not running (200 ms latency in Cubase ...). I took a Texas Instrument chipset, and then everything changed.
  
  
  
  I sold and have opted for a Focusrite, who does the same job for half the price.
  
  
  
  The Fireface is a safe bet, even if it is an older generation (therefore less optimized at prices that Focusrite has rightly).
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