Dual device support is implemented from Saffire Mix Control 1.7 onwards, and allows a user to control 2 interfaces simultaneously with the computer (with the exception of 2 Liquid Saffire 56s, or an LS 56 and a PRO 40).

However, as the latency-free monitoring in the Saffire PRO range is achieved using internal routing, it is not possible to create a single latency-free monitoring mix for both units using the FireWire connection alone. The way to achieve this is to make audio connections to/from both units, and configure the Mix Control software for each unit. This article outlines how to achieve this using the S/PDIF inputs and outputs, using the example of 2 Saffire PRO 40s connected to a single computer.


Firstly, you will need to configure your hardware as outlined in the diagram below:



When you have connected your hardware up, you then need to configure your software.

If wanting to monitor all of your inputs from the outputs of both units (as pictured above, you will need to configure 2 output mixes on both units:

• a MONITOR output mix (going to speakers/headphones/etc)
• a S/PDIF output mix (going to the other unit)


Monitor Output Mix (Unit 1)

This mix will need to be a combination of the audio that you are recording (unit 1 inputs), and the S/PDIF output mix from unit 2 (on the S/PDIF inputs of unit 1), as shown below:



S/PDIF Output Mix (Unit 1)

The S/PDIF output Mix will just be a mix of the audio inputs on the unit. The S/PDIF input will be muted to avoid feedback, and the mix will be sent out of the S/PDIF output to the other unit. The configuration is as follows:



Unit 2 Setup

To configure unit 2, click on the unit select button in Saffire Mix Control and select your other unit:



Monitor Output Mix (Unit 2)

This mix will be a combination of Unit 2 inputs and the S/PDIF mix from Unit 1, as shown below:



S/PDIF Output Mix (Unit 2)

The S/PDIF output Mix will just be a mix of the audio inputs on the unit. The S/PDIF input will be muted to avoid feedback, and the mix will be sent out of the S/PDIF output to the other unit (as with Unit 1):



Alternative Options

By selecting ADAT or analogue inputs/outputs rather than S/PDIF inputs/outputs, it is possible to achieve latency-free monitoring via either ADAT or the analogue inputs/outputs if desired.

It is also possible to send individual audio channels between the units, rather than a stereo mix of inputs. This can be done by selecting individual inputs in the routing panel in the bottom left-hand corner of Mix Control, rather than the Mixes created above.


If you experience any problems with these alternative options, or with anything else in the article, please contact Focusrite Technical Support.