High Wycombe, UK
8th September 2008

Press Release

Embargoed – 3rd October 2008

The new generation of Focusrite multi-channel firewire audio interfaces.

This year’s AES show in San Francisco sees the launch of Focusrite’s new multi-channel firewire audio interface, the Focusrite Saffire PRO 40. It is the best sounding interface in its class, attentively designed with today’s project studio in mind.

Focusrite's unparalleled pre-amp legacy forms the foundation of this new interface, with eight award-winning Focusrite pre-amps. These are combined with the very latest in firewire interfacing technology to deliver seamless integration, excellent routing flexibility and rock-solid driver stability.

With Saffire PRO 40, sonic integrity reigns supreme. The eight Focusite pre-amps ensure low noise and distortion, whilst quality digital conversion and JetPLL™ jitter elimination technology ensure pristine audio quality as your audio flows between the analogue and digital domains.

Alongside the eight Focusrite pre-amps are a host of i/o options; 10 analogue outputs, ADAT i/o, stereo SPDIF i/o and 2 virtual ‘loopback’ inputs for routing digital audio between software applications - ideal for capturing online audio. Every channel features phantom power, with the first two channels also featuring -9dB pads for additional headroom. Front panel 5-LED metering for each analogue input offers accurate viewing of levels.

Saffire PRO 40 comes with a Suite of Focusrite plug-ins. All-new Focusrite Compression, Reverb, Gating and EQ VST/AU plug-ins provide a significant upgrade from standard sequencer effects, bringing a touch of class to your session. Focusrite’s established xcite+ bundle is also included. The bundle includes Ableton Live Lite, Novation’s Bass Station soft synth and over 1 gig of royalty-free samples.

Saffire PRO 40 Control, the zero-latency 18 x 16 DSP Mixer/Router software provided with Saffire PRO 40, sets a new standard at this price point for audio interface control. It features unparalleled output routing and monitoring, as well as intuitive one-click set-up solutions, a clear and concise mixing layout and large on-screen metering for inputs, outputs and submixes.

Two independent headphone buses are provided, each with their own level controls available on the front panel. A dedicated stereo monitor mix output features pads for improved sound quality when connected to active monitor speakers. An 'anti-thump' circuit protects your monitor speakers from spikes when booting up or shutting down. Front panel controls include a main monitor dial with dim and mute switches, all of which fully integrate with customisable software to cover every possible monitoring need, providing a set of controls for any set-up from basic stereo to full 7.1 surround.

Saffire PRO 40 will be shipping worldwide, October 2008. For pricing details, please contact your local Focusrite distributor.

Further information and higher resolution images of Focusrite gear (see the VIP area) from www.focusrite.com/vip

Pictures supplied
Saffire PRO 40, front and rear + Saffire PRO 40 Control and Saffire PRO Plug-in Suite.

Focusrite® is the premier choice for audio professionals and enthusiasts with an ear

for detail. Focusrite was established back in 1985, with the introduction of the forte

console, renowned for upholding a level of sonic integrity beyond compare. Since

then, Focusrite’s REDÔ, ISAÔ and PlatinumÔ solutions can be found pride of place

in studios across the globe. Today, with LiquidÔ technology and the SaffireÔ range

of Firewire audio interfaces, Focusrite remain at the cutting edge of digital audio

workstation and signal processing solutions, with sonic integrity still forming the

foundation of every design. These same qualities are to be found in numerous

award-winning and industry-shaping products, designed by Focusrite for other

leading brands within the audio industry.

For further info contact:

Giles R Orford

Focusrite Audio Engineering Ltd.

Tel: 01494 836307

Email:

Web: www.focusrite.com