Audio interface RME Fireface UCX II — 20 in / 20 out, USB, ADAT, S/PDIF, Word Clock, 2 XLR combo, 2 Instrument, 6 TRS outputs

The RME Fireface UCX II is a compact 1U rack/desktop audio interface and converter offering 20 inputs and 20 outputs for professional recording, monitoring and multichannel routing. The unit provides USB connectivity, ADAT in/out, S/PDIF, Word Clock (BNC), MIDI I/O and DURec USB for direct recording. On the front panel there are two XLR/TRS combo preamps, two dedicated instrument (TS) inputs and a headphone output. The sturdy metal housing, low power consumption and small footprint make it suitable for studio, mobile and broadcast setups that require stable sync, low-latency conversion and flexible I/O options.

Advantages

The Fireface UCX II combines high channel count I/O with professional synchronization options such as Word Clock and ADAT, enabling reliable multitrack recording and playback. Two XLR combo inputs provide mic/line preamps with flexible connectivity while separate instrument inputs allow direct connection of guitars or keyboards. Multiple TRS line outputs plus S/PDIF and ADAT expand monitoring and routing possibilities. USB connectivity and DURec support straightforward integration with a DAW and direct USB recording. Compact 1U rack format and DC power operation make the unit adaptable for both fixed and mobile installations.

Suitable for

• Multitrack studio recording and monitoring
• Mobile and location recording setups
• Broadcast and live streaming installations
• Home studios requiring multiple line outputs and instrument inputs
• Systems needing Word Clock or ADAT synchronization

Key specifications

• Form factor: 9.5" / 1U rack or desktop unit
• Total I/O: 20 inputs and 20 outputs (combined analog and digital)
• Analog inputs: 2 XLR/TRS combo mic/line inputs, 4 TRS line inputs, 2 instrument TS inputs
• Analog outputs: 6 TRS line outputs and 1 headphone output (1/4")
• Digital I/O: ADAT in/out, S/PDIF in/out
• Synchronization: Word Clock input/output via BNC connector
• MIDI: MIDI in and MIDI out for external control and sequencing
• USB: Single USB port for computer connectivity and DURec USB recording
• Power: DC operation with 9–18 V input, typical consumption 13 W
• Dimensions: 215 x 130 x 44 mm; Weight: 910 g

How to use

Connect the Fireface UCX II to a computer using the included USB cable and install the RME drivers and control software as required by your operating system. Use the XLR/TRS combo inputs for microphones or line sources and the dedicated TS inputs for instruments. Route ADAT or S/PDIF signals for additional digital channels or for connecting external converters. Set the Word Clock connection when integrating the unit into larger systems to ensure stable sample-rate synchronization. Use the control panel software to configure routing, sample rates and buffer sizes to achieve the desired low-latency performance.

Usage recommendations

For reliable operation in studio and mobile environments, power the unit with a stable DC supply in the specified 9–18 V range and ensure proper cable routing for digital and analog signals to minimize interference. When recording multitrack sessions, enable Word Clock or ADAT synchronization with other devices to avoid sample-rate drift. Regularly update RME drivers and firmware to maintain compatibility and access performance improvements.