Hey everyone,

I’m looking to upgrade my interface (currently using a Clarett+ 4Pre) for tracking drums professionally. I typically record 12 channels, so I need something that integrates well with my setup.

Right now, I’m deciding between the RME Babyface Pro FS and RME UCX II. I also considered the SSL 18, but it seems like RME might give me better results.

For context, I already have an SSL Puredrive Octo Pre connected via ADAT and plan to add another preamp soon to maintain 12-channel tracking.

Which interface would you choose and why? Any insights would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance!

You would definitely be wise to go with RME. The Babyface is a great unit, the only real downside is that it would max you out at those 12 channels in terms of I/O. If you ever think you might need more in the future, get the UCX. But if your studio is going to max out at 12 inputs because of things like physical space, then the Babyface is probably ideal. It's less expensive but absolutely top quality. Mine is a gawdamn champion, five years so far without anything remotely resembling an issue, just hums along in the background doing exactly what it's supposed to do without complaint.

I've been checking out those SSL PureDrive units too, they seem great! I don't record drums or full ensembles so I never need all that many inputs, but I'm considering adding the four-channel model to my rig at some point.

I will try to make the case for going to 16 channels. If you are recording for clients, I think there is an aspect of "added value" in giving your clients a lot of options. I mix a lot of projects that use online drummers and many of them will deliver "overkill" amounts of mics.

In addition to the typical inside and outside kick type of options, some guys will send both a dynamic and a condenser on snare top, they will send stereo overheads and a ribbon mono overhead, they will send near and far room mics. a knee mic. etc. It's a way of giving the clients options without having to redo their setup 'custom' for every job. There is the initial cost of setting it up, but once the mics are purchased and levels are set, it costs no more to give those options to every client.

When mixing, I might use either the stereo or the mono overhead - but I appreciate the thoughtfulness of the drummer that gave me both.

Out of curiosity, why would you not just get a mixer, route everything to a mixer, and then route the output on the mixer to the clarett?

I, personally, wouldn't want to be forced to sum all of my tracks to stereo... I'd have to be mixing them to perfection during tracking. Sure, there's something to be said for that, but I doubt it would be worth the unnecessary hobbling of options during mixing.

I have an RME Fireface UFX II, well made, solid drivers, nice preamps, transparent, lots of headroom, incredible customer service. It's a workhorse.

The UCX will offer you everything you need and with ADAT and wordclock you'll be able to expand the inputs and outputs.

Another option is a 2nd hand RME FireFace 802 which seem to be a good bargain at the moment on the used market.

Either way I recommend RME.

If I was in the market for a new interface I’d get the Audient id48 and not think twice. I’ve never owned their interfaces but I have an Audient asp800 and love it. The interface has 8 channels of Audient mic pres (which are great), and even better, insert points for each channel for the ability to add outboard gear. You can use outboard gear for mixing without having to repatch. And it provides up to 16 channel adat expansion. For $1000!