RME Fireface UFX III Audio Interface User Manual

1. Introduction

The RME Fireface UFX III is a high-end USB 3.0 audio interface designed for professional audio recording and production. It offers extensive connectivity, including 188 channels (94 input / 94 output) at 192 kHz, MADI, ADAT, AES/EBU, and MIDI. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your device to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

2. Safety Information

Please read and follow all safety instructions to prevent damage to the device or injury to yourself. Keep this manual for future reference.

• Power Supply: Use only the provided power cable and ensure it is connected to a grounded outlet with the correct voltage (100V - 240V AC, 50-60 Hz).
• Ventilation: Ensure adequate airflow around the unit. Do not block ventilation openings.
• Moisture: Keep the device away from water or excessive humidity.
• Cleaning: Disconnect power before cleaning. Use a dry, soft cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners.
• Servicing: Do not attempt to service the unit yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the box:

• RME Fireface UFX III Audio Interface
• User's Guide (multilingual)
• DigiCheck NG information leaflet
• Product registration and support card
• Power Cable (country-specific)
• USB 3.0 Type-A to Type-B Cable
• USB 3.0 Type-A to Type-C Cable
• Optical Cable
• Self-adhesive rubber feet (for desktop use)

4. Product Overview

4.1. Front Panel

This image displays the front panel of the RME Fireface UFX III, featuring four mic/line combo inputs, two headphone outputs, MIDI I/O, a USB memory port, a main volume knob, and a display for monitoring and control.

• Mic/Line Inputs (1-4): Four XLR/TRS combo jacks with switchable 48V phantom power for microphones and line-level signals.
• Phones (1-2): Two 6.35mm (1/4-inch) stereo headphone outputs.
• MIDI In/Out (1-2): Standard 5-pin DIN MIDI connectors.
• Memory: USB port for direct recording to a USB flash drive or solid-state drive (DuRec feature).
• Volume: Main rotary encoder for output level control.
• Display: High-resolution screen for status, metering, and menu navigation.
• Control Buttons: Buttons for navigation, preset recall, and specific functions like Mic Gain, Replay, Channel Mix, and Setup/Rev.
• Power Switch: On/Off control for the unit.

4.2. Rear Panel

This image shows the rear panel of the RME Fireface UFX III, highlighting its extensive connectivity including power input, MIDI I/O, ADAT I/O, USB 3, Remote port, Word Clock, AES/EBU, and multiple balanced line level inputs and outputs.

• Power Input: Standard IEC power connector (100V - 240V AC).
• MIDI In/Out (1): Additional MIDI I/O.
• ADAT 1 & 2 In/Out: Optical ADAT ports for expanding digital I/O.
• USB: USB 3.0 port for computer connection.
• Remote: Port for connecting an optional RME Advanced Remote Control.
• Word Clock In/Out: BNC connectors for synchronization with external devices.
• AES/EBU In/Out: XLR connectors for professional digital audio.
• Balanced Line Level Outputs (1-8): Eight 6.35mm (1/4-inch) TRS balanced outputs.
• Balanced Line Level Inputs (5-8): Four 6.35mm (1/4-inch) TRS balanced inputs.

5. Setup

Follow these steps to set up your RME Fireface UFX III:

1. Unpack: Carefully remove the Fireface UFX III and all accessories from its packaging.
2. Placement: Place the unit on a stable surface or install it in a 19-inch rack. If placing on a desktop, attach the provided rubber feet to the bottom of the unit.
3. Power Connection: Connect the power cable to the unit and a suitable AC outlet.
4. USB Connection: Connect the Fireface UFX III to your computer using one of the provided USB 3.0 cables (Type-A to Type-B or Type-A to Type-C).
5. Driver Installation: Download and install the latest drivers and TotalMix FX software from the official RME website (www.rme-audio.com/downloads.html).
6. Audio Connections: Connect your microphones, instruments, monitors, and other audio equipment to the appropriate inputs and outputs on the Fireface UFX III.
7. Power On: Turn on the Fireface UFX III using the front panel power switch.

6. Operating Instructions

The RME Fireface UFX III offers flexible operation through its front panel controls and the TotalMix FX software.

6.1. Front Panel Control

• Use the Volume knob to adjust the main output level.
• Navigate menus and settings using the Display and associated Control Buttons.
• Adjust individual mic gain levels directly from the front panel.

6.2. TotalMix FX Software

TotalMix FX is RME's powerful digital mixer and routing software. It allows for:

• Zero-latency monitoring and routing of all inputs and outputs.
• Creating independent sub-mixes for performers.
• Applying DSP effects (EQ, Dynamics, Reverb/Echo) to inputs and outputs.
• Saving and recalling presets for various setups.

6.3. DuRec (Direct USB Recording)

The DuRec feature allows direct recording of all inputs to a USB flash drive or solid-state drive connected to the front panel 'Memory' port, without the need for a computer. This is ideal for standalone recording or as a backup solution.

7. Connectivity

The Fireface UFX III offers a wide range of connectivity options:

• Analog I/O: 4 x Mic/Line (XLR/TRS combo) inputs with preamps and 48V phantom power, 8 x Balanced Line Level (TRS) inputs, and 8 x Balanced Line Level (TRS) outputs.
• Digital I/O:
  • 2 x ADAT Optical I/O (16 channels at 48 kHz, 8 channels at 96 kHz, 4 channels at 192 kHz).
  • 1 x AES/EBU I/O (XLR) for 2 channels.
  • 2 x MADI I/O (Optical and Coaxial) for 128 channels.
• MIDI I/O: 2 x MIDI In/Out (5-pin DIN) ports.
• USB: USB 3.0 for high-speed connection to computer.
• Word Clock: BNC In/Out for external clock synchronization.
• Remote: Dedicated port for optional RME Advanced Remote Control.

8. Software Features

The Fireface UFX III is complemented by powerful software tools:

• TotalMix FX: A comprehensive digital mixer and router with integrated effects, offering flexible routing, sub-mixing, and DSP processing.
• DigiCheck NG: A free download for all RME users, providing metering, testing, measuring, and analyzing digital audio streams with high resolution.

9. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Fireface UFX III, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Regularly wipe the unit with a dry, soft cloth to remove dust. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Ventilation: Keep the ventilation grilles clear of obstructions to prevent overheating.
• Cable Management: Ensure cables are neatly organized and not under strain to prevent damage to connectors.
• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the RME website for firmware updates to ensure your device has the latest features and bug fixes.

10. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Fireface UFX III, consider the following:

• No Power: Check the power cable connection and the power outlet. Ensure the power switch is in the 'On' position.
• No Audio/Intermittent Audio:
  • Verify all audio cables are securely connected.
  • Check your computer's audio settings and ensure the Fireface UFX III is selected as the input/output device.
  • Confirm that the correct drivers are installed and up to date.
  • Check routing in TotalMix FX.
• Synchronization Issues: Ensure all digital devices are properly clocked. Check Word Clock connections and settings.
• Software Not Responding: Restart your computer and the Fireface UFX III. Reinstall drivers if necessary.

For further assistance, refer to the detailed user manual or contact RME support.

11. Specifications

12. Warranty and Support

The RME Fireface UFX III comes with a 5-year warranty upon product registration. To register your product and access support resources, please visit the official RME website:

• Product Registration & Support: www.rme-audio.com/support.html
• Driver Downloads: www.rme-audio.com/downloads.html

For technical inquiries or service requests, please contact RME's authorized distributors or support channels as listed on their website.