Saffire Pro 10 I/O

• Eight Focusrite Pre-amps
  Upholding Focusrite's high bandwidth (20Hz to 200kHz!) philosophy, ensuring low noise and distortion whilst delivering clarity without unwanted artifacts
• Unrivalled performance specification
  Saffire PRO 10 i/o boasts higher analogue performance and conversion performance specifications than any interface in its class.
• Saffire Plug-in Suite
  Focusrite's highly acclaimed Saffire plug-in suite comprises EQ, Compression, Amp Simulation and Reverb, in both VST and AU format.
• SaffireControl PRO
  Control everything without annoying dropdown menus. SaffireControl PRO provides comprehensive custom mix solutions direct from your DAW
• Two separate headphone buses
  Two independent headphones outputs with volume control, customisable within SaffireControl PRO.
• Two Instrument D.I.s
  Saffire PRO 10 i/o's first two channels feature high specification instrument inputs, instantly accessible on the front fascia.

• Front angled
• Rear
• GUI

Saffire PRO 10 i/o features the same microphone pre-amplifiers and monitoring control software as 26 i/o. Housed within a similar stunning 19" rack-mount case with detachable rack ears, Saffire Pro 10i/o combines eight channels of Focusrite pre-amplification with eight balanced line outputs and stereo SPDIF i/o.

The pre-amps featured in Saffire PRO 10 i/o are a derivative of the award-winning Green Series. This pre-amp design upholds the same high bandwidth philosophy whilst boasting class-leading specifications. In addition, the converters adhere to performance specifications far beyond other similarly priced interfaces. As with all Saffire solutions, the unit can be either bus-powered or powered via an external PSU. The unit has also been designed to take full advantage of the external PSU and to maximize performance when powered in this way.

SaffireControl PRO delivers a control application that avoids any annoying dropdown menus and provides comprehensive custom mix solutions. It also offers quick-select 'tracking' and 'playback' solutions, as well as both the float and shrink/expand facilities found in the original.

Saffire Pro 10 i/o also features MIDI I/O alongside a host of additional processing features. Two channels with DI are also provided, eliminating the need for a separate DI box. The front fascia also boasts two independent headphones outputs with volume control, again customizable within SaffireControl PRO.

In addition to the control software, Saffire Pro 10 i/o comes bundled with the same acclaimed Compression, Reverb, Amp Modeling and EQ VST/AU plug-ins for use in the mix.

Focusrite has, over the past decade, built a reputation as the market leader for high quality recording equipment, with is mic-pre technology as the cornerstone of that enviable reputation. The original mic-pre, as featured in the early Focusrite Forte console, used rotary switched gain controls and high quality audio transformers. This mic-pre is still used by many of the industries greatest producers and is the sound of countless hit records. Today, Focusrite design equipment for a far greater audience, from professionals to amateur enthusiasts, all with varying budgets.

As with the Red and ISA ranges, the Mic-pre technology found in the Platinum and Saffire ranges is designed to the highest possible standards. They uphold the same wide bandwidth philosophy featured in the original forté console, back in 1989. All Focusrite mic-pres feature custom components which have undergone an intense testing and qualification process. With the facts and figures in, Focusrite designs then have to pass the essential listening stage. Any design can measure well on the test bench but only a great design can be qualified in the studio. The FET-based design in the Saffire range is no exception and ensures the same low noise and distortion performance as earlier transformer-based designs. It delivers clarity without colouration and exhibits the signature transparency for which Focusrite have become famous.

All Saffire Range hardware units include the Saffire plugin suite, produced by the same team that who developed the LiquidControl and the Forte Suite. Compression, reverb, amp modeling and EQ Saffire plug-ins are included in both VST and AudioUnit plugin formats, for use in the mix.

Here follow some initial frequently asked questions and answers. For a growing number of up-to-date support articles relating to this product, we highly recommend you visit the Focusrite Answerbase.


Q: What is Saffire PRO 10 i/o?
A: Saffire PRO 10 i/o is the second high channel count Firewire interface from Focusrite and the fourth Saffire range product to be released. In addition to 8 classic Focusrite pre-amps, high performance 24-bit digital converters ensure that an exceptional standard is maintained throughout the record path. Furthermore, 2 channels of S/PDIF make the total count 10, hence Saffire PRO 10 I/O.

Q: How does the Saffire PRO 10 i/o differ from the 26 i/o?
A: The differences are as follows:

- Number of inputs and outputs; analogue and S/PDIF i/o count is the same for both (8 inputs, 8 outputs analogue, + stereo S/PDIF,) but 26 i/o has 2 x ADAT ports, so 16 more inputs and 16 more outputs in total compared to the Saffire PRO 10 i/o.

- Wordclock: Saffire PRO 26 i/o: separate BNC input and output. Saffire PRO 10 i/o: has only S/PDIF and Firewire external wordclock slaving.

- High Pass Filters: (26 i/o: present on all 8 channels. 10 i/o: none.)

- Impedance switching: (26 i/o: present on channels 1,2. 10 i/o: none.)

- Phase switching: (26 i/o: present on channel 1. 10 i/o: none.)

- Maximum sample rate: (26 i/o: 192kHz. 10 i/o: 96kHz.)

- 48v: Hardware switches on the 10 i/o, software only on the 26 i/o.

- Inserts: Two configurable on the 26 i/o. None on the 10 i/o, (disabled (greyed out) in Saffire PRO 10 i/o software.)

Q: What comes in the box?
A: The Saffire hardware comes with a CD containing software (SaffireControl PRO application and AU/VST EQ, Compression, Amp Sim and Reverb plug-ins) and drivers. A Firewire cable and power supply are also supplied. The hardware bus-powers off a standard 6-pin Firewire port; the external power supply is only necessary when connected to the smaller 4-pin ports on some laptops (that cannot supply power). If using multiple Saffire PRO?s, however, it may be necessary to power the hardware using the external power supply, to reduce the demand on the Firewire bus (see the FAQ about multiple Saffire PRO usage below). The Saffire PRO User Guide pdf file is included on the accompanying Resources CD.

Q: What is the SaffireControl PRO software for?
A: The SaffireControl PRO software is designed to allow the hardware setting controls not present on the hardware itself to be accessed, as well as providing a host of different monitoring options. There is an Input Mix section where all 10 Input levels can be set, to create an Input Mix that can be blended with backing tracks from the sequencer on the four pairs of analogue outputs and the S/PDIF output. There are also controls for setting the sample rate, synchronizing the hardware to an external source and extensive level controls for all outputs. The software can be shrunk down to reduced formats and made to float over the top of the sequencer so the settings can always be viewed/edited.

Q: Is Saffire PRO 10 i/o cross-platform?
A: Yes. Windows XP and Mac OSX (Intel compatible).

Q: Is Saffire PRO 10 i/o a USB device?
A: No, Saffire PRO is a dual port Firewire 400 device. USB can occasionally be quite unstable; Firewire 400 offers better stability. There are two Firewire ports on the Saffire PRO so that you can chain/connect additional Firewire devices (such as hard drives) to your computer, even though your computer may only have one Firewire port. You can also chain multiple Saffire PROs together using the additional Firewire port.NOTE: Some third party devices may require an independent firewire port. Depending on the number of channels being used, Saffire PRO 10 i/o may also benefit from its own dedicated firewire port.

Q: What is the difference between Firewire 400 and 800 specifications?
A: The main difference is bandwidth. Firewire 400 is really all you need for audio applications unless you're running 48 tracks at 192 kHz. Of course, there is a higher price associated with Firewire 800 and fewer computers support it.

Q: What are Saffire PRO?s system requirements?
A: Mac: OS X Panther (10.3.3 or later), G4/800MHz, 256MB RAM
PC: XP, Pentium Celeron, or Pentium compatible processor of 900MHz, 256MB RAM

Q: Does Saffire PRO 10 i/o have built in DSP? If not, why not?
A: No. The only member of the Saffire family with built in DSP is the original Saffire. This was designed to be an all-in-one recording solution, providing the facilities of a channel strip (input processing), small mixing console (foldback reverb and monitor mixing) and high quality audio interface all rolled into one. Saffire PRO, on the other hand, is a means for tracking the highest quality of multi-channel audio into the DAW, without the considerable extra cost of onboard DSP to provide potentially unnecessary processing.

Q: Does Saffire PRO include any plug-ins? If so, what are they?
A: Yes. The massively popular Saffire plug-in suite, consisting of EQ, compression, guitar amp simulation and reverb. These plug-ins come in VST and AU format.

Q: Does any free recording software come with Saffire PRO?
A: No. We didn't feel that providing any additional sequencing software was worthwhile for the pro customer, whereas plug-ins are always highly appreciated!

Q: What sequencer/audio software packages have been 'qualified and tested' to perform with Saffire?
A: Saffire will work with all ASIO and Core Audio compatible software, in other words all software apart from Pro Tools. It?s been tested thoroughly with Cubase, Logic, Sonar, Ableton Live, Digital Performer and Reason to name but a few. For more information on specific software apps, check with technical support at Focusrite HQ. (The list of tested software is v long!)

Q: Can I run the SPDIF inputs & outputs with the analog inputs & outputs simultaneously?
A: Yes. All inputs and outputs can be used at the same time at 44.1/48kHz.

Q: What is the difference between the input mix and the S/W tracks (represented by either side of the output crossfaders in SaffireControl PRO)?
A: Each pair of outputs (1/2 & 9/10) can have a unique blend of a generic mix of the inputs and audio from the recording platform/sequencer in use (e.g. Logic, Cubase etc.). The input mix is created using the eight faders at the top of SaffireControl PRO's GUI (the function of which can be switched between different groups of inputs: analogue/SPDIF). If you just want to hear this input mix and nothing else on one of the pairs of outputs, you can set the crossfader for the output pair in the extreme left position.

Pre-recorded audio coming from the sequencer is called the PLAYBACK MIX or S/W (software) tracks. S/W tracks 1-10 in SaffireControl PRO relate to the audio routed to Saffire PRO Outputs 1-10 within the sequencer. So, S/W 1/2 normally represents the master mix as this is often routed to outputs 1/2 in the sequencer, unless more complex routing has been set up. There are switches in SaffireControl PRO to activate S/W 1/2 across all pairs of analogue outputs, so that this master mix can be heard on the headphones if doing a recording session. Alternatively, S/W tracks 1-10 can be activated across Saffire PRO outputs 1-10 if wanting to route specific tracks from the sequencer to specific outputs on Saffire PRO, when mixing or during multi-channel playback for example. (There are preset switches labeled TRACK and S/CARD in SaffireControl PRO to alternate the function of Saffire PRO between these two states: recording/tracking and mixing/soundcard mode.) If you just want to hear the S/W tracks and no inputs, you can set the crossfader for the output pair in the extreme right position.

To blend between amounts of the INPUT MIX and the S/W tracks on a stereo output pair to create a latency free mix for recording, simply set the crossfader in each output section to a central position. The further to the left/right the crossfader is set, the more inputs/SW tracks are heard.

Q: How do you select which audio tracks return to each Saffire PRO bus (meaning the S/W tracks within SaffireControl PRO) from your software (e.g. Ableton Live)?
A: When you have chosen Saffire PRO as the audio interface within the audio recording platform (Ableton), the input and output audio options that are available will relate to those within SaffireControl PRO. For example, the user can route a stereo audio track in the sequencer to S/W tracks 5/6 in SaffireControl PRO by selecting Saffire PRO Outputs 5/6 as the output choice for that track. This will then route directly to Saffire PRO analogue outputs 5/6, unless S/W 1/2 is active across that output pair in SaffireControl PRO or the crossfader is in the extreme left position where only the Input Mix is heard (see the previous question for more details).

Q: If there are only 8 analogue outputs, how come there are 5 output pairs available in the lower half of SaffireControl PRO?
A: As you can see from the symbol at the bottom of each output pair section, the last pair (9/10) is the S/PDIF Output. Also, outputs 5/6 and 7/8 are the same signals as Headphones 1 and Headphones 2 on the front panel respectively.

Q: What does FLOAT actually do?
A: The float feature allows the SaffireControl PRO window to sit permanently above all applications rather than disappearing each time the mouse clicks in another application's window. This allows the SaffireControl PRO window to be shrunk down to its reduced window format and then positioned in one corner of the screen, where the main hardware settings controls can be accessed instantly, without having to cycle through different applications or maximize windows.

Q: What is the soundcard (S/CARD) preset all about?
A: SaffireControl PRO has two preset buttons to step through the two main modes of operation; the first is the standard tracking mode (TRACK) for recording (the default mode when SaffireControl opens) and the second is for mixdown or playback (Soundcard mode: S/CARD) when you want analogue outputs 1-8 on the rear of Saffire PRO to match outputs 1-8 within the sequencer. The comprehensive monitoring capabilities of SaffireControl PRO mean that, without preset buttons, numerous settings would need adjusting in SaffireControl PRO to simply route 8 tracks from the sequencer to the corresponding Saffire PRO outputs 1-8 (Soundcard mode); all the output crossfaders and S/W switches may need adjusting. The preset switches mean that these two states can be alternated with one click of the mouse.

Q: How do you select different sample rates?
A: Simply click on the desired sample rate in the S/RATE section of SaffireControl PRO.

Q: Is there a word clock input?
A: No. This option is a feature of 26 i/o only. The SYNC option appears on the software as both 10 i/o and 26 i/o feature the same software. However, with 10 i/o, this software option is not operational

Q: What are Saffire PRO?s latency figures?
A: With Saffire PRO, latency really isn't an issue, because SaffireControl PRO (the software application that comes free with the Saffire hardware), has its own advanced latency-free monitoring facility (like TwinTrak PRO, VoiceMaster PRO, TrakMaster PRO). This removes all latency problems caused by routing audio into the recording software then back out again before monitoring. In SaffireControl PRO, the user can blend any of the 26 latency-free inputs in varying amounts with any tracks from the sequencer (S/W tracks) to create 2 headphone mixes for multiple artists BEFORE SIGNALS ARE SENT TO THE DAW.

The actual latency figures of Saffire PRO vary depending on the DAW buffer size set by the user, which depends on the power of the system. (The DAW buffer size needs to match the plug-in usage and CPU speed, e.g. setting a tiny buffer when your computer is old and slow and you're maxing out on plug-ins is going to cause problems.) For the record, the numbers are as follows:

Buffer size of 64 samples creates: 9ms @ 48k and 7ms @ 96k

Buffer size of 256 samples creates: 16.5ms @ 48k and 11ms @ 96k

Buffer size of 1024 samples creates: 47ms @ 48k and 27ms @ 96k

Q: Can I use Pro Tools with Saffire PRO?
A: No. Only Digidesign hardware is compatible with Pro Tools. However, Saffire PRO will work with all other ASIO or Core Audio compatible platforms.

Q: How can Saffire PRO hook up with other FF or Novation gear?
A: One possible option is to connect Focusrite hardware equipped with a digital output to one of Saffire PRO's digital inputs, allowing additional classic Focusrite pre-amplification to stream directly to the DAW. The S/PDIF In could be used to receive audio from the TwinTrack PRO, for example. In addition, the stereo SPDIF output from the X-Station could be sent to the SPDIF In of the Saffire PRO 10 i/o, leaving the other 8 analogue inputs free for Guitars, vocals, drums etc.

Q: What if I only have 4-pin firewire?
A: The only difference between the two FW ports is that the 6-pin can supply power and the 4-pin can't. If you only have 4-pin then simply connect up the Mains adapter that?s provided to power the Saffire PRO.

Q: What is the Dim Switch all about? And what's the difference between this and the Active Monitor pad?
A: The DIM switch is a way of temporarily reducing the level if the volume needs to be cut quickly, (e.g. if a phone rings.) The switch attenuates the digital level by 18dB when active. Using this switch means that the level can be restored to an identical volume after the interruption, without having to manually adjust any gain dials or remember values.

The Active Monitor Pad switch is the one to use in order to calibrate your speakers? volume control(s). For example, if the level is consistently too high, regardless of the volume knob position, then activating the Active Monitor Pad will cut the analogue level (after the DAC) by 18dB so that the speakers? volume control has a more suitable output level range.

Q: Are there any limitations in using multiple Saffire PRO 10 i/o's as a larger system?
A: The maximum number you can use is three. Using three will also require a lot of CPU and be very demanding on the Firewire bandwidth (156 channels in total with all digital i/o enabled!). There is a User Guide addendum available that gives detailed information of how to connect and use multiple Saffire PROs with your computer. It is highly recommended that external power supplies are employed when using multiple Saffire PROs

Q: Can I use a mixture of Saffire PRO 10s and 26s together.
A: Yes, a mixture of any three Saffire PROs can be used together, controlled from SaffireControl PRO software. More info can be found in the manual addendum available for download here.

Q: What are the set-up presets for?
A: To help provide a quick setup of a particular session arrangement, a series of presets have been created for SaffireControl PRO. This means that, rather than having to manually configure the sample rate, digital input activation and sync options, a table can be consulted and the matching preset loaded for instant setup. All 52 session presets are included in a folder called Sessions on the Saffire PRO Install disc. A guide to these presets is available in the Saffire PRO User Guide addendum (available online from the beginning of December 06).

Q: How did you get the ice blue front panel to look so good?
A: Saffire PRO 26 and 10 i/o are the first products to feature the same stylish anodizing as the Red range. It gives an extremely high quality finish that is instantly recognizable from professional recording studios the world over.

Q: Can Saffire PRO be used in standalone mode (away from a computer)?
A: Yes, Saffire PRO can be used to record or mix without a computer. The desired mode can be chosen whilst connected to SaffireControl PRO and then, when disconnected, the hardware can be powered with an external supply.

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS, PERFORMANCE AND SPECIFICATION

WINDOWS

Operating System
• Windows® XP Service Pack 2 (Home, Professional, 64bit XP or Media Centre Edition) or Windows Vista (32bit and 64bit - all versions)

Computer
• Windows® XP compatible PC
• 400Mb/s IEEE1394/FireWire port (OHCI compliant recommended)

CPU/Clock
• 1.4 GHz Intel or compatible
• 2.0 GHz Pentium© 4 or Xeon recommended for 192kHz operation

Memory (RAM)
• 256MB or more
• 512MB or higher recommended


APPLE MAC

Operating System
• Mac OS X Tiger (10.4.8 or later) - OS Version subject change

Computer
• Apple Mac Power PC G4, G5 or Intel Mac (any)

CPU/Clock
• G4/800 MHz (minimum)
• G4/1.5GHZ or higher recommended for 192kHz operation

Memory (RAM)
• 256MB or more
• 512MB or higher recommended


ADDITIONAL INFO

• Firewire chipsets from TI (Texas Instruments), VIA, and NEC are recommended
• It is highly recommended that Saffire be run on its own Firewire bus/card
• In order to use Saffire with a 4-pin IEEE1394 port you will need a 4-pin to 6-pin cable (not included) and must use the PSU (included)

Mic
• Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz +/- 0.1 dB
• THD+N: 0.001% (measured at 1kHz with a 20Hz/22kHz bandpass filter)
• Noise: EIN > 120dB (measured at 60dB of gain with 150 Ohm termination (20Hz/22kHz bandpass filter)

Line
• Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz +/- 0.1dB
• THD+N: 0.001% (measured with 0dBFS input and 22Hz/22kHz bandpass filter)
• Noise: -90dBu (22Hz/22kHz bandpass filter)

Instrument
• Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz +/- 0.1dB
• THD+N: 0.004% (measured with 0dBu input and 20Hz/22kHz bandpass filter)
• Noise: -87dBu (20Hz/22kHz bandpass filter)

Weight and Dimensions
• 3kg - 35cm x 4.5cm x 23.5cm

Weight
• 3kg
• 6.6Ibs

Dimensions
• 350mm (W) x 45mm (H) x 235mm (D)
• 13.8" (W) x 1.8" (H) x 9.3" (D)

Analogue Inputs
• Mic: 8 x XLR on rear panel
• Mic Gain: +13dB to + 60dB
• Line 1-8: 2 x 1/4 TRS Jack (front panel)
• Line 1-8 Gain: -10dB to +36dB
• Instrument: As above, switched to Instrument (inputs 1 & 2 only)
• Instrument Gain: +13dB to +60dB

Analogue Outputs
• Line level 8 x 1/4" TRS Jack
• Nominal output level 0dBFS = 16dBu, balanced, +22dBu globally switched with external PSU connected across all outputs
• Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz +/- 0.2dB
• THD+N < 0.0010% (-100dB) (measured with 0dBFS input 22Hz/22kHz bandpass filter, un-weighted)
• Software switched hardware DIM ?12dB in output pairs 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8
• Software Digital Volume control for all outputs
• All outputs are useable as monitoring outputs

Digital I/O
• 1 x SPDIF In / Out (RCA phono) on rear panel (24-bit, 44.1kHz-96kHz) Output transformer isolated
• Clock Sources: Internal clock and sync to S/PDIF
• A/D Dynamic Range 110dB 'A-weighted' (all inputs)
• D/A Dynamic Range 110dB 'A-weighted' (all outputs)
• Clock Jitter < 250 pico seconds
• Sample rate 44.1 to 96kHz

MIDI I/O
• 1 in / 1 out on rear panel

Firewire S400
• 2 ports

Power
• Either via Firewire (1394a) or external PSU (included)

Headphone Monitoring
• 2 x 1/4" TRS Jack on front panel (mirrors outputs 5-6 and 7-8)
• High power headphone drivers

"I just wanted to get in touch and let you know how highly I rate the Saffire Pro. What an amazing solution for getting rid of your external desk and routing your outboard directly to Logic Pro. It has transformed my studio and given me an unrivaled level of flexibility, previously unheard of for the price. The Mic Pre's are superb, the stability is rock solid and the overall sound in fantastic. Well done on creating something that stands out in its class! I now want another one to piggy back and create an even bigger digital experience!"
Neil Bentley - Presenter Heart 106.2 (formally Capital Radio/Galaxy Network) - Remixer/Producer

"After months of anticipation and salivation over the limited pictures on the web of the Saffire Pro, I bought mine on Saturday. All I can say is: It's fantastic! The Green series preamps are the best I have ever owned, and they are making previously dodgy mics sound pretty decent. It's best in class by a mile, with more connectivity and functionality than any competitor (and I did some THOROUGH research as this the first studio I have ever built from scratch as I update from a Yamaha AW16G.) I am sure it will be the core of my mobile mission for many years to come, and Focusrite has my endorsement (limited use I know!) to all my friends. I think it will hearten you to know too that everyone I speak to about the Pro all think it is the 'final solution' for this price. They are right!

All in all a superb machine though. Passed my expectations, and they were high!

Keep up the good work. I think my next Focusrite purchase will be the Octopre to expand the Saffire maybe?.. Sure looks good."
Ben Dyer - Edinburgh

"I'm really exited with this new interface, the quality of the preamps are amazing . The interface has amazing converters, low noise and love that i can change the sample rate on the fly. Thanks for making this beautiful and powerful machine ;o) "
Patricio Menis C. - Santiago, Chile

Music Tech Magazine review quotes
June 2007
Mike Hillier

The Focusrite Saffire PRO 10 i/o is an exceptional audio interface that packs eight incredible-value preamps with high-quality A/D-D/A conversion and a FireWire interface into a unit that costs less than £400. If you are looking to expand your studio’s existing I/O, upgrade an ageing system or are simply looking to set up your first project studio, the Saffire PRO 10 i/o should definitely be on your list of considerations. The audio quality of the preamps alone is reason enough to buy this unit, not to mention its fantastic looks...

Reverb Magazine review quotes
March/April 2007
Vol 02 issue 02

All in all, I was very impressed with the Saffire PRO 10 i/o. Initially my concern was that, in order to keep the price down, Focusrite would have skimped on the mic-pre design to the detriment of the audio quality. However, remaining true to the company’s overriding philosophy, the sound is quite astonishing for an interface of this price, delivering successful results that nay audio professional would be proud of. It’s a welcome addition to the Saffire range, and coming in at just under £380, it brings professional multichannel recording solution within reach of just about anyone serious about the quality of their recordings.