The RME Fireface UFX III 188-Channel Audio Interface with USB 3.0 and the RME Fireface UFX II Audio Interface are both exceptional audio interfaces from RME, known for their high-quality performance and reliability. The UFX III stands out with its USB 3.0 connectivity, allowing for faster data transfer rates and improved performance compared to the Fireface UFX II, which utilizes USB 2.0. This enhanced connectivity makes the UFX III a more suitable option for modern studios requiring high-speed data exchange and lower latency in their audio production processes.
Both interfaces boast the same extensive number of channels, with 94 input channels and 94 output channels, totaling 188 channels. However, the UFX III offers an updated feature set that enhances its functionality. It includes DURec (Direct USB Recording) capabilities for standalone recording, allowing users to record audio directly to USB storage media without a computer, a feature also present in the UFX II but further refined in the UFX III. Additionally, the UFX III supports the RME TotalMix FX software, providing comprehensive control over routing and effects, similar to the UFX II but with improved processing power and flexibility.
Another significant upgrade in the UFX III is its MADI (Multichannel Audio Digital Interface) connectivity, which offers 64 channels of digital I/O, expanding its versatility for complex studio setups and live environments. This feature makes the UFX III highly suitable for professional applications that require an extensive range of digital connections. While the UFX II offers excellent build quality and sound performance, the UFX III's advancements in connectivity options, data transfer speeds, and standalone recording capabilities make it a more future-proof choice for audio professionals looking to maintain cutting-edge technology in their studios.
In this section, we delve into a comprehensive comparison of the RME Fireface UFX III 188-Channel Audio Interface with USB 3.0 and the RME Fireface UFX II Audio Interface. Throughout the article, we will meticulously examine their specifications, highlighting the unique advantages and potential disadvantages of each product. By the end of this review, you will have a clear understanding of which audio interface best suits your needs.
User Rating Based on Analysis of Reviews | |
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Connectivity | |
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Analog Audio I/O | |
8x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Input 4x Combo XLR-1/4" TRS Balanced/Unbalanced Mic/Line/Hi-Z Input 6x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Output 2x XLR 3-Pin Balanced Line Output 2x 1/4" TRS Unbalanced Headphone Output |
4x Combo XLR-1/4" 3-Pin Mic/Line Input (Front Panel) 8x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Input 2x XLR 3-Pin Balanced Line Output 6x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Output 2x 1/4" TRS Headphone Output (Front Panel) |
Phantom Power | |
48 V | 48 V, Selectable On/Off (Selectable on Individual Inputs) |
Digital Audio I/O | |
1x XLR 3-Pin AES3 / S/PDIF Input 1x TOSLINK Optical ADAT Input (S/MUX Support) 1x TOSLINK Optical ADAT / S/PDIF Input (S/MUX Support) 1x XLR 3-Pin AES3 / S/PDIF Output 1x TOSLINK Optical ADAT Output (S/MUX Support) 1x TOSLINK Optical ADAT / S/PDIF Output (S/MUX Support) |
1x SC-Plug Optical MADI Input 2x TOSLINK Optical ADAT Input 1x XLR 3-Pin AES3 Input 1x SC-Plug Optical MADI Output 2x TOSLINK Optical ADAT Output 1x XLR 3-Pin AES3 Output 1x BNC Coaxial MADI Output (Word Clock Support) |
Host Connection Protocol | |
USB 2.0, USB 3.0 / 3.1/3.2 Gen 1 | USB 3.0 / 3.1/3.2 Gen 1 |
USB (Non-Host) | |
1x USB-A (Remote) |
1x USB-A (Remote) 1x USB-A (External Storage, Update) |
Sync I/O | |
1x BNC Word Clock Input 1x BNC Word Clock Output |
1x BNC Word Clock Input 1x BNC Word Clock Output (Shared with MADI) |
Network I/O | |
MIDI I/O | |
1x DIN 5-Pin Input 1x DIN 5-Pin Output |
2x DIN 5-Pin Input 2x DIN 5-Pin Output |
The RME Fireface UFX III offers an extensive analog audio I/O setup with 4x Combo XLR-1/4" 3-Pin Mic/Line Inputs on the front panel, 8x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Inputs, and a total of 8 outputs which include 2x XLR 3-Pin Balanced Line Outputs and 6x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Outputs. In contrast, the RME Fireface UFX II features 8x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Inputs and 4x Combo XLR-1/4" TRS Balanced/Unbalanced Mic/Line/Hi-Z Inputs, with a total of 8 outputs as well, but with a different configuration of 2x XLR 3-Pin Balanced Line Outputs and 6x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Outputs.Show More
When it comes to phantom power, both interfaces provide selectable 48 V power, although the UFX III allows for individual controls on each input, enhancing flexibility for various microphone types. The UFX II also supports 48 V phantom power but does not specify individual control options.
The digital audio I/O capabilities are notably different. The UFX III includes a more comprehensive setup with 1x SC-Plug Optical MADI Input, 2x TOSLINK Optical ADAT Inputs, and 1x XLR 3-Pin AES3 Input. It also has 1x BNC Coaxial MADI Output with word clock support, expanding its versatility for digital audio routing. The UFX II, while capable, has a more limited digital I/O configuration with 1x XLR 3-Pin AES3/S/PDIF Input and Output, along with TOSLINK Optical ADAT Inputs and Outputs that support S/MUX.
In terms of host connection protocol, the UFX III supports USB 3.0, 3.1, and 3.2 Gen 1, while the UFX II operates primarily on USB 2.0 and also supports USB 3.0/3.1/3.2 Gen 1. This difference may affect the overall data transfer speeds and efficiency during operation, particularly in high-channel-count scenarios.
Both interfaces feature similar sync I/O capabilities with 1x BNC Word Clock Input and Output, and they lack network I/O options. Additionally, the MIDI I/O configurations are slightly different; the UFX III has 2x DIN 5-Pin Inputs and Outputs, whereas the UFX II includes 1x DIN 5-Pin Input and 1x DIN 5-Pin Output, indicating a more robust MIDI connection on the UFX III.
Digital Audio | |
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Sample Rates | |
192 kHz | Up to 192 kHz |
Bit Depths | |
24-Bit | 24-Bit |
Sync Sources | |
ADAT, AES3, Internal, MADI, Word Clock | ADAT, MADI, Word Clock |
The RME Fireface UFX III offers enhanced capabilities compared to its predecessor, the RME Fireface UFX II. Both interfaces support a maximum sample rate of 192 kHz and a bit depth of 24-bit. However, the UFX III features improved connectivity with USB 3.0, allowing for higher data transfer rates and overall better performance in demanding audio applications.Show More
In terms of sync sources, the UFX II has a slightly broader range, supporting ADAT, AES3, Internal, MADI, and Word Clock. In contrast, the UFX III supports ADAT, MADI, and Word Clock only. This means that while UFX III is more streamlined, UFX II provides additional options for synchronization with various audio equipment.
Another notable difference lies in the clocking features of the UFX II, which include input termination, input voltage range, output voltage range, lock range, jitter specifications, and jitter suppression metrics. The UFX III lacks these detailed clocking specifications, focusing instead on its high-speed USB connectivity and overall audio performance. This makes the UFX II a more versatile choice for those who prioritize clocking options in their audio setup.
Audio Storage & Playback | |
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Media/Memory Card Slot | |
The RME Fireface UFX III and RME Fireface UFX II are both high-performance audio interfaces designed for professional audio applications. One notable feature of both models is that they do not include a Media/Memory Card Slot, which may limit their standalone recording capabilities. This characteristic allows both devices to maintain a streamlined design focused on connectivity and performance rather than integrated media storage solutions.Show More
In terms of connectivity, the RME Fireface UFX III enhances the user experience with its USB 3.0 interface, providing faster data transfer rates compared to the USB 2.0 interface found in the RME Fireface UFX II. This improvement allows for a more efficient workflow, especially when working with larger projects or multiple channels simultaneously.
Furthermore, the RME Fireface UFX III supports up to 188 channels of audio, making it suitable for extensive recording sessions and complex setups. In contrast, the RME Fireface UFX II offers a slightly lower channel count, which may be sufficient for many users but could be a limiting factor for larger productions. Overall, while both interfaces share some similarities, the RME Fireface UFX III stands out with its advanced connectivity and increased channel capacity.
Compatibility | |
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OS Compatibility | |
macOS 10.6 or Later Windows 7 or Later |
Windows macOS |
Mobile App Compatible | |
Yes: iPadOS Only App Name: TotalMix FX Functionality: Adjust Settings, Remote Control |
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Mobile Device Compatibility | |
The RME Fireface UFX III audio interface boasts enhanced compatibility with both Windows and macOS, further emphasizing its versatility in modern audio production environments. It operates using a USB 3.0/3.1/3.2 Gen 1 Port, ensuring high-speed data transfer, which is essential for handling its impressive 188-channel capability. However, it does not include any bundled software or plugins, nor does it support mobile applications, making it primarily a desktop-focused device.Show More
In contrast, the RME Fireface UFX II also supports both Windows and macOS operating systems, but it has a more specific system requirement, necessitating macOS 10.6 or later and Windows 7 or later. It requires an Intel Core i5 processor as a minimum, which could limit its use on older systems. The UFX II stands out with its compatibility for mobile apps, specifically designed for iPadOS. The TotalMix FX app allows users to adjust settings and control the audio interface remotely, adding a layer of convenience for mobile producers.
While both interfaces cater to professional audio needs, the RME Fireface UFX III positions itself as a more high-capacity, desktop-centric solution without mobile app support, focusing on extensive channel management. Conversely, the RME Fireface UFX II offers mobile app compatibility, making it a more flexible option for users who require remote control capabilities on iPad devices, albeit with a lower channel capacity and specific processor requirements.
Power | |
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Power Requirements | |
AC Input | AC Input |
AC Input Power | |
100 to 240 VAC, 50 / 60 Hz | 100 to 240 VAC, 50 / 60 Hz |
Power Consumption | |
19 W (Idle) 25 W (Typical) |
38 W |
The RME Fireface UFX III and RME Fireface UFX II are both high-quality audio interfaces designed for professional use, yet they differ in power consumption specifications. The UFX III has a power consumption of 38 W, while the UFX II consumes 19 W (Idle) and 25 W (Typical). This difference indicates that the UFX III may require more power under similar operating conditions compared to the UFX II.Show More
Both interfaces share similar power requirements, accepting an AC input range of 100 to 240 VAC at 50 / 60 Hz. This feature ensures compatibility with various power systems globally, making both models suitable for international use. However, the increased power consumption of the UFX III could be a consideration for users mindful of energy efficiency.
In summary, while both the RME Fireface UFX III and RME Fireface UFX II offer robust specifications for professional audio interfaces, the UFX III's higher power consumption might influence a user's choice depending on their specific needs and power management preferences.
Physical | |
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Rackmount Size | |
1 RU | 1 RU |
Dimensions | |
19 x 1.7 x 8.3" / 48.3 x 4.4 x 21 cm (with Rack Ears) 17.3 x 1.7 x 8.3" / 44 x 4.4 x 21 cm (without Rack Ears) |
19" / 48.3 cm |
The RME Fireface UFX III is a 188-channel audio interface that features a USB 3.0 connection, enhancing its data transfer capabilities and overall performance. It maintains a rackmount size of 1 RU and adheres to various certifications including CE, FCC, and WEEE. The dimensions of the UFX III are 19" / 48.3 cm, making it a space-efficient option for professional setups.Show More
In contrast, the RME Fireface UFX II also has a rackmount size of 1 RU and offers a slightly different set of dimensions. With rack ears, it measures 19 x 1.7 x 8.3" / 48.3 x 4.4 x 21 cm and without them, it is 17.3 x 1.7 x 8.3" / 44 x 4.4 x 21 cm. This model is designed to operate within a temperature range of 41 to 122°F / 5 to 50°C and can withstand humidity levels of 0 to 75%.
When it comes to weight, the UFX II is notably lighter at 6.2 lb / 2.8 kg, making it easier to transport compared to the UFX III, which has not been specified. Both models are designed for robust performance in studio settings, but the UFX III's USB 3.0 interface may provide better efficiency for high channel counts.
Packaging Info | |
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Package Weight | |
11.115 lb | 11.475 lb |
Box Dimensions (LxWxH) | |
22.2 x 12.9 x 4.6" | 22.1 x 12.2 x 4.6" |
The RME Fireface UFX III is a robust audio interface boasting a package weight of 11.475 lb and dimensions of 22.1 x 12.2 x 4.6 inches. This model enhances the performance of its predecessor with upgraded features, making it an ideal choice for professional audio recording and production environments.Show More
In comparison, the RME Fireface UFX II has a slightly lighter package weight of 11.115 lb and dimensions of 22.2 x 12.9 x 4.6 inches. While it maintains a similar overall design, the UFX II lacks some of the advanced capabilities and optimizations present in the UFX III, making it a solid but less contemporary option.
Both interfaces are designed for high performance, but the UFX III’s additional weight and compact dimensions may contribute to improved build quality and thermal management. The differences in dimensions are minimal, yet they can affect rack space and portability in certain setups.
Overall, while both the RME Fireface UFX III and RME Fireface UFX II share a similar design ethos, the advancements in the UFX III offer enhanced functionality, appealing to those looking for the latest technology in audio interfaces.