Rme Babyface Pro Fs USB Audio Interface

A detailed description of the RME Babyface Pro FS, a high-end audio interface with several improvements over its predecessor. This device is designed for professional audio recording and playback, offering a range of features that enhance its performance and usability. Here’s a breakdown of the key features and improvements mentioned:

Design and Craftsmanship:

The Babyface Pro FS is crafted from a block of aluminum, emphasizing superior craftsmanship. This design choice ensures durability and precision in both the audio circuits and mechanics.

Output Level Control:

The addition of a +19 / +4 dBu switch on the bottom allows users to directly adjust the output level. This helps improve the Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) for sensitive active monitors, prevents distortion and overload, and maintains optimal TotalMix FX fader positions.

SteadyClock FS Circuit:

The interface incorporates the Full SteadyClock FS circuit, which minimizes jitter and enhances jitter immunity. This leads to more stable clock frequency and improved audio quality.

Headphone Outputs:

The 3.5mm TRS headphone output power has been increased from 70 mW to 90 mW. The Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) of both headphone outputs is improved by up to 10 dB. The output op-amps used are similar to those found in the ADI-2 Pro. Additionally, the output impedance of the 3.5mm TRS output is lowered from 2 Ohms to 0.1 Ohms.

Improved Mic and Line Inputs:

The microphone inputs’ Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) has been enhanced from 112.2 dB to 113.7 dB. The TRS Line inputs’ SNR has improved from 114 dB to 116.3 dB (120 dBA). Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) for Line inputs has also been reduced by 8 dB.

Reduced Latency:

The new ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter) design results in a reduction of 6 samples of latency on the Analog-to-Digital (AD) side. The AD latency is 5 samples, and the Digital-to-Analog (DA) latency is 7 samples.

Efficiency and Power:

The Babyface Pro FS remains efficient in terms of power consumption, achieving these improvements without increasing power requirements. The interface can operate reliably on USB 3 bus power and most USB 2 ports.

Headphone Power and Impedance Matching:

The interface features two headphone outputs with separate driver stages to match both low and high impedance headphones. The 3.5mm TRS headphone output power has been increased to 90 mW, and its output impedance lowered to 0.1 Ohms.

XLR and Preamps:

The main I/O includes an XLR socket integrated into the housing. The interface has two digitally controlled preamps with individually switchable 48V phantom power. The preamps offer a gain range of 76 dB in 1 dB steps, ensuring optimal performance for various microphones.

Optical TOSLINK I/O:

The interface provides an optical TOSLINK I/O, which can be used as an ADAT port with SMUX support or SPDIF for sessions up to 192 kHz. With an external ADAT converter, the Babyface Pro FS can support up to 12 analog inputs and 12 outputs.

Clocking with SteadyClock FS:

The SteadyClock FS circuit ensures stable clock frequency, which is crucial for maintaining audio quality. It provides low jitter and high jitter immunity, resulting in a more detailed and clear sonic image.

TotalMix FX and TotalMix Remote:

The Babyface Pro FS comes with TotalMix FX, a powerful digital real-time mixer that allows flexible routing and mixing of input and playback channels. TotalMix Remote enables remote control via iOS, PC, or Mac devices, enhancing flexibility and convenience in adjusting settings.

Overall, the RME Babyface Pro FS offers a range of enhancements and features that make it suitable for professional audio recording, mixing, and playback tasks. Its attention to detail in both design and technical performance makes it a compelling choice for those seeking high-quality audio interfaces.