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Focusrite Saffire Pro 40 Professional 20 In/20 Out Firewire Audio Interface with Eight Pre-Amps
Brand | Focusrite |
Compatible Devices | Speaker |
Supported Software | ADAT, S/PDIF |
Number of Channels | 20 |
Item Weight | 6.6 Pounds |
About this item
- Eight high quality, award-winning Focusrite pre-amps provide the best sounding interface in its class
- High-quality 24-bit/96kHz Firewire & Thunderbolt compatible interface provides pristine audio quality and guaranteed reliable synchronization
- Total I/O count of 20 inputs and 20 outputs, with a host of I/O options provided
- Includes Softube Time and Tone Bundle, Focusrite’s Red Plug-in Suite, and monthly Focusrite Plug-In Collective offers, all available via download upon registration
- Two separate headphone buses allow two artists to receive independent and fully-customized monitor mixes
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This Item Focusrite Saffire Pro 40 Professional 20 In/20 Out Firewire Audio Interface with Eight Pre-Amps | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
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Price | — | $499.99$499.99 | $189.00$189.00 | $179.00$179.00 | -10% $360.92$360.92 List: $399.00 | -17% $139.99$139.99 List: $169.00 |
Delivery | — | Get it as soon as Thursday, Mar 14 | Get it as soon as Monday, Mar 18 | Get it as soon as Monday, Mar 18 | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Mar 19 | Get it as soon as Monday, Mar 18 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Sound quality | — | 4.8 | 4.5 | 4.1 | 4.4 | 4.3 |
Quality of material | — | 4.8 | — | 4.8 | 4.4 | 4.5 |
Tech Support | — | 4.6 | 4.2 | 3.4 | — | 3.6 |
Value for money | — | — | 4.4 | 4.0 | — | 4.0 |
Easy to use | — | — | 4.0 | 3.3 | 4.1 | — |
Sold By | — | Kellards | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | North To South (WE REPORT RETURN FRAUD) |
number of channels | 20 | 12 | 2 | 4 | 16 | 2 |
hardware interface | firewire 400 | usb | usb2.0 | usb | usb2.0 | usb |
connectivity tech | — | USB | USB | USB | USB | USB |
model year | — | — | 2021 | 2021 | — | 2019 |
style | PRO 40 – 20 inputs (8 mic pres) / 20 outputs | Portable | 2-in/2-out | USB | US-16x08 | Interface only |
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Product information
Item Weight | 6.6 pounds |
---|---|
Product Dimensions | 1.8 x 13.8 x 9.3 inches |
ASIN | B001MZQEZ2 |
Item model number | AMS-SAFFIRE PRO 40 I/O |
Customer Reviews |
4.0 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #143,774 in Musical Instruments (See Top 100 in Musical Instruments) #1,155 in Computer Recording Audio Interfaces |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Date First Available | April 13, 2004 |
Color Name | Black |
Compatible Devices | Speaker |
Hardware Interface | FireWire 400 |
Supported Software | ADAT, S/PDIF |
Operating System | Windows |
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Product Description
The Focusrite Saffire Pro 40 represents the new generation of Focusrite multi-channel firewire audio interfaces. Focusrite's unparalleled pre-amp legacy forms the foundation of this new interface, with eight award-winning Focusrite pre-amps. Legendary sonic performance is combined with the very latest in firewire interfacing technology to deliver seamless integration, excellent routing flexibility, and future-proof, rock-solid driver stability. With Saffire PRO 40, sonic integrity reigns supreme. The eight Focusite pre-amps ensure low noise and distortion, whilst quality digital conversion and JetPLL jitter elimination technology ensure pristine audio quality as your audio flows between the analogue and digital domains. Alongside the eight Focusrite pre-amps are a host of i/o options; 10 analogue outputs, ADAT i/o, stereo SPDIF i/o and 2 virtual ‘loopback’ inputs for routing digital audio between software applications - ideal for capturing online audio. Every channel features phantom power, with the first two channels also featuring -9dB pads for additional headroom. Front panel 5-LED metering for each analogue input offers accurate viewing of levels. Saffire PRO 40 comes with a Suite of Focusrite plug-ins. All-new Focusrite Compression, Reverb, Gating and EQ VST/AU plug-ins provide a significant upgrade from standard sequencer effects, bringing a touch of class to your session. Focusrite’s established xcite+ bundle is also included. The bundle includes Ableton Live Lite, Novation’s Bass Station soft synth and over 1 gig of royalty-free samples. Saffire PRO 40 Control, the zero-latency 18 x 16 DSP Mixer/Router software provided with Saffire PRO 40, sets a new standard at this price point for audio interface control. It features unparalleled output routing and monitoring, as well as intuitive one-click set-up solutions, a clear and concise mixing layout and large on-screen metering for inputs, outputs and submixes. Two independent headphone buses are provided, each with their own level controls available on the front panel. A dedicated stereo monitor mix output features pads for improved sound quality when connected to active monitor speakers. An 'anti-thump' circuit protects your monitor speakers from spikes when booting up or shutting down. Front panel controls include a main monitor dial with dim and mute switches, all of which fully integrate with customisable software to cover every possible monitoring need, providing a set of controls for any set-up from basic stereo to full 7.1 surround.
Top Brand: Focusrite
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Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the quality, performance, sound quality, ease of use, and value of the audio midi interface. They mention that it feels like a piece of quality gear, works well, and has enough functionality to grow into. Some appreciate the latency, routing, and pre-amps. Overall, customers recommend the product for its great value.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the quality of the audio midi interface. They say it feels like a piece of quality gear, is reliable, and has solid preamp emulators. Customers also appreciate the crisp digital sound, and the rock-solid stability.
"...interfaces you will be pleased with the sound reproduction, versatility of the software, ASIO drivers, profile saving functionality, channel routing..." Read more
"...For the rest of the details... it "feels" like a piece of quality gear, seems well made...." Read more
"...said, it does give me good sound, great routing flexibility, rock-solid stability thus far, and a large number of ins and outs for the $$...." Read more
"In all honestly you get what you paid for the mics themselves are honestly pretty good I managed to get a good sound out of them but I can't get it..." Read more
Customers like the performance of the audio midi interface. They say it works well, has never had a problem with it, and has enough functionality to grow into. Some customers also mention that it works famously in 64 bit Logic and Kernel.
"...this is a good unit for a beginner because there is enough functionality to grow into, and enough versatility to keep you interested in the unit for..." Read more
"...Everything just worked, first try, no fuss...." Read more
"...a few months now and I am nothing less than completely satisfied with its performance and features...." Read more
"...100% suck it is cool that you get it with the mics but they completely suck...." Read more
Customers like the sound quality of the audio midi interface. They mention that it gives them good sound, great routing flexibility, and they don't hear any additional noise. They also say that it works as described and that the pre amps sound fresh.
"...some experience with other audio interfaces you will be pleased with the sound reproduction, versatility of the software, ASIO drivers, profile..." Read more
"...002 rack unit... comparing side by side, the Digi has better sound quality, both in the pres, and also with DAC on the output... Not by much, but it..." Read more
"...All that said, it does give me good sound, great routing flexibility, rock-solid stability thus far, and a large number of ins and outs for the $$...." Read more
"...The interface beautifully constructed and the pre-amps sound amazing and ensure pristine quality in your recordings...." Read more
Customers find the audio midi interface easy to use. They mention that the interface is really straight forward to use, the mix control is pretty easy to operate, and it's easy to set up. Customers are also happy with the solid interface and the onboard preamps.
"...Everything just worked, first try, no fuss...." Read more
"Received it a day or two early: WONDERFUL! Great interface so far, working just like my old Pro24, but bigger and more beautiful...." Read more
"...High quality preamps and 3. Live use.Hooked it up very easily on a 2008 iMac and 2007 MacBook Pro...." Read more
"...But they fixed it and all is well now and the Mix Control is pretty easy to use after you get the hang of it...." Read more
Customers like the value of the audio midi interface. They mention that it's a great unit for the price, and a good interface for the money.
"...and produced a nice piece of recording equipment for home users at a fair price." Read more
"This is a good interface for the $$$...." Read more
"...based home studio and so far, this is one heck of a value for the quality and money...." Read more
"...- Probably too expensive...." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the audio midi interface's latency. They mention that it has virtually no latency, making it a great choice for live performance.
"...This is a real TIME SAVER! The delta 66 software had a similar feature, but never actually worked!!..." Read more
"...Playback is solid, handles latency well. One drawback, more or less, is the optical wire ports feel a bit weak...." Read more
"...The fireware connection makes things so fast and it has everything I could want and more...." Read more
"...No big deal. There is no latency and everything I have recorded with it so far has been excellent and everyone who has heard the results has been..." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the routing capabilities of the audio midi interface. They say that the channel routing is very versatile, the monitoring options and the routing possibilities are extremely powerful, and the sound is crystal clear. The routing options eliminate the need for DI boxes, and it is possible to route just about anything from anywhere. The preamps sound great and the mix control software provides great flexibility in signal routing. The 8 channels are just right for most situations and if you need to expand.
"...of the software, ASIO drivers, profile saving functionality, channel routing, multi-mix capability, MIDI features, and expansion abilities..." Read more
"...All that said, it does give me good sound, great routing flexibility, rock-solid stability thus far, and a large number of ins and outs for the $$...." Read more
"...get the hang of it it's extremely powerful, the routing options eliminate the need for DI boxes, and the sound is crystal clear, no background noise..." Read more
"...Tools 9, the preamps sound great and the mix control software provides great flexibility in signal routing...." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the pre-amps of the audio midi interface. They mention that the onboard pre-ams are not terrible, and the pre's on the focusrite unit are excellent. They also mention that they fired right up and that they mic'd a drum kit.
"...It is worth noting, that the Pre-amps on the focusrite unit are excellent...." Read more
"...No issues and fired right up!Mic'd a drum kit and set the levels (offline) so that they don't clip...." Read more
"...Love all of the aspects and the onboard preamps are not terrible for demoing or even some final release purposes. Great little home studio unit." Read more
"...Very good pre-amps and great quality." Read more
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Top reviews from the United States
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As of right now, I couldn't be happier with my decision to upgrade to the Focusrite. I am currently using WinXP SP3 on an older model Pentium 4 with 2 GB ram - firewire interface.
My Recording experience: I have been dabbling for about 10 years. In the past, I have primarily used audio interfaces with direct-ins for guitars, and ambient for drums. Basically, I record my bands for personal use. I have recently built a dedicated recording studio and intend to get more serious about sound reproduction, possibly expanding out to acoustic/ambient recording for guitars, horns, and other musical instruments.
Hardware:
Pros: My primary uses are the Mic-in/ Mic-out. They accept both XLR and 1/4 inch. There is a fantom power button for inputs 5-8, mute buttons, monitoring levels, etc. So far I have had no issues with the hardware that i've used. I have not used the ADAT, Optical, or MIDI functionality yet, but expect they will be as seamless as the other inputs.
It is worth noting, that the Pre-amps on the focusrite unit are excellent. (Previously, I used the Mackie CFX 20-mkII and connected the 4 sub-outs to the Delta 66 which produced a very good recording with very little to no noise and consistent levels). Everything i have input to the focusrite has been crystal clear (5 different guitar setups, 2 different vocal mics-shure/audiotechnica, audiotechnica base drum mic and overhead ambient mics).
Overall, the functionality of the hardware has been top-notch with crystal clear recording.
Software:
Pros: I am still getting used to the functionality with respect to channel routing and controlling the software/hardware. The only limitations I am finding is that I have not been able to spend enough time to fully understand how it all works together. From my limited experience, the channel routing is very versatile. It is possible to route just about anything from anywhere. For example, playback from your DAW can be routed to say output channel 5&6 (in my case, i send these out to a headphone amplifier) where the user can listen to the playback, while recording back into channels, say 1&2, to the DAW on a separate track. At the same time, either signal (input or output) can be monitored to, say output channel 3&4. This allows the soundman listen to either the full playback or just the isolated new track.
A nice feature, that actually works, with this software is that you can save profiles. This allows you to spend some time to get your gear up and running, working the way you want and SAVE the settings that you have. You can simply hit the "save as", give your setup a meaningful profile name, and easily recall it later. This is a real TIME SAVER! The delta 66 software had a similar feature, but never actually worked!!
Again, I haven't had a lot of experience with the focusrite pro40 yet but so far I'm very happy, and impressed with the versatility and features.
Hardware:
Cons: As a personal preference, I'm not crazy about channels 1&2 being on the front of the board. For me, it is clutter on the front of my rack system, and more potential for bumping into chords and possibly wrecking the chord or plug.
I would happily exchange a few of the other "inputs" for more analog ins/outs.
Although I have looked real deep into this, I believe that it is stated that there is an ability to daisy chain two or more of these together. Based on what I have read, you can't really do this yet. Hopefully, Focusrite will iron this out by the time I decide to expand.
There is no Effects loop. There is a simple work around for this, but it would be nice to have that functionality in the unit. I introduced a separate mixer (with sub-standard behringer preamps). By doing this, I can plug (in my case) vocal mics, run my effects loop, then run the main outs back to the Focusrite. Unfortunately, this is bad for at least two reasons: 1. introducing another piece of equipment before the focusrite degrades the recorded sound, especially if the preamps are junk. 2. It adds another piece of equipment that you either have to have laying around, or go purchase.
Software:
Cons: So far, I'm pretty happy with the software. Since I have such a low amount of experience with the software, I have nothing really bad to say about it. What I can say is that it is leaps and bounds above the Delta 66 software that I was using.
Additional Thoughts:
Although you could probably use this unit in a professional setting, in my opinion this unit is mainly for home users. If your in a professional studio, your likely using something else anyway.
Beginners: If you are a beginner that has never used an audio interface, there will be a moderate learning curve with the Focusrite system. I have a lot of experience with M-Audio, and "brushes" of experience with TASCAM and Pre-Sonus. Based on what I have seen, the beginner is going to have a better overall experience and be more productive with this Focusrite unit. I believe this is a good unit for a beginner because there is enough functionality to grow into, and enough versatility to keep you interested in the unit for years to come.
Moderate Users:
If you have some experience with other audio interfaces you will be pleased with the sound reproduction, versatility of the software, ASIO drivers, profile saving functionality, channel routing, multi-mix capability, MIDI features, and expansion abilities (if/when they straighten everything out).
Overall, I couldn't be happier with this unit. Focusrite listened to their end-users and produced a nice piece of recording equipment for home users at a fair price.
Sound quality actually does exceed what I DID expect a unit at this price point. So this is not to say there's anything bad about the sound quality. It's absolutely adequate for a hobbyist, home studio, small studio, or traveling rig. And the money you're saving on a unit like this you can put towards other gear... like better outboard pres, or specific ones if you have a specific application in mind, or even a different DAC is an option if you're concerned (don't really be), but all that connects up with the digital or optical ins/outs and life goes on.
Where I instantly fell in love with the unit is the flexibility. Again my best comparison is the Digi 002 I used for years... the Saffire blows it away tenfold in that category. It's got basically all the same ins and outs, but like mentioned twice as many mic pres, and dual headphone outputs which is super super useful to me. The mix software included basically lets you route from anything to anything through anything in between, keep multiple configurations on hand to flip between, save presets, and so on.
So if you're wondering "Can I do... with this?" the answer is yeah! And the even better, is you can configure it how you want, unplug it from a computer and walk away, and it holds those settings... so the possibilities are pretty endless with how you can use this, it's not just an interface for a software DAW. It can be the brains for any sort of rig you have in mind, from a traveling recording rig, to live performance or a smaller portable FOH rig... you can even over-ride the hardware controls with the on-screen mix software - pair that with something like screen sharing on an iPad and its like having a remote control for all that crazy flexibility you can tweak from across the building.
For the rest of the details... it "feels" like a piece of quality gear, seems well made. Zero issues with software drivers or anything on OS X 10.9 and any app I've tried. Everything just worked, first try, no fuss. (Which, was also the bane of my existence with the aging Digi... horrendous drivers for anything remotely modern, since it's not so much supported any more.)
I'm 110% happy with it. If you're on the fence, get on off that fence and put it in your cart now!
Top reviews from other countries
Taking it out of the box we were not disappointed. It comes in a sturdy rack mountable unit with clear instructions for use. Connecting to the PC via firewire proved to be a bit awkward as the cable provided in the box was for the older Mac type connection (I expect this would be because this is much harder to find now so Focusrite provide this cable but not the more common version). A quick trip to Maplin provided us with the correct firewire cable however and connecting it was a doddle. The unit once connected links well with the PC and provides the inputs and outputs needed for clear and quick recording. So far it has worked well, has a sturdy feel to the knobs and switches and it has all the connections I need to run my PC based software package. I like the fact it has 2 headphone sockets as you can monitor 2 people whilst recording, There are much more expensive units you can buy for this type of use but for home recording with a good sound quality this unit does a great job.