New pro audio for linux

[j_e_f_f_g]

The new firmware update for RME's Babyface USB audio interface can now boot into class-compliant mode. This represents probably the cheapest, modern, linux-supported interface with pro performance. Thanks to the iPad, it likely won't be the last. But at least Linux now has one pro choice that is very recent technology.

http://www.rme-audio.de/forum/viewtopic.php?id=16104

Read the first pdf at the above link. It explains the babyface CC mode, and even mentions running it under linux.

[autostatic]

Nice! As soon as I can get more productive I'll definitely consider switching from Focusrite to RME and then perhaps a Babyface. If I have to believe the other guitarist of my band the convertors of his new Fireface easily beat the ones from his former Focusrite set-up.

[j_e_f_f_g]

Just 1 problem. ALSA had a bug in its usb driver which prevented later class compliant devices from working. That appears to be fixed in the latest vers, but unless you're using a rolling release, you probably don't have it. Also it looks like alsa's mixer support may still have some bugs with modern CC support:

http://www.mail-archive.com/alsa-user@l ... 28901.html

[steevc]

Added to the wiki

http://wiki.linuxmusicians.com/doku.php?id=rme_babyface

I'm guessing Linux won't be getting control of the DSP to start with unless the software runs on Wine.

[j_e_f_f_g]

Linux won't be getting control of the DSP

Full class compliant support should have all the input/output volume faders, mute and routing switches, sample rate setting, etc, show up in alsa's gui mixer, just like in iOS. But it looks like alsa's mixer has bugs that need fixing. But note that these settings can be made on the babyface itself via its buttons and rotary knob. Plus it remembers its last setup. It can even be powered up in "standalone mode" for use/setup as a mixer (with digital/analog I/O ) without a computer. Indeed, most of the settings can be adjusted by sending MIDI messages to it on channel 1.

So setup shouldn't be a problem.

The only other DSP the babyface has is a 3 band parametric EQ (and low pass filter) for each channel. Alsa's generic mixer doesn't appear to support that (in the gui anyway).

[Thad E Ginathom]

The whole point of RME not releasing their current-generation USB technology is that it is supposed to be greatly superior and they don't want to give away their proprietary advantage. Whilst the commercial reasoning behind that can be understood, this class-compliance release feels a bit like crumbs from the table. It is a long way from active support (even closed-source) for Linux.

Maybe it is a step in the right direction.

[eikakot]

It is not only Babyface I guess http://www.rme-audio.de/en_support_tech ... fo_cc_mode