Focusrite Liquid Saffire 56

A FireWire interface with authentic preamp emulations, seamless software integration, and excellent routing flexibility.

Liquid Saffire 56 is Focusrite’s flagship 2U multichannel FireWire audio interface. Liquid technology combines with Saffire PRO FireWire interfacing to deliver a host of authentic preamp flavors, seamless software integration, excellent routing flexibility and future-proof, rock-solid driver stability.

In addition to six of Focusrite’s legendary mic pres, two of Liquid Saffire 56’s preamps use the third generation of Focusrite’s Liquid Preamp, providing the choice of ten different preamp emulations. These include emulations based on the Neve 1073, the Pultec MB-1, Telefunken V72 and seven more. A harmonics dial on each Liquid preamp lets you account for variance in vintage originals of the same model, or use levels of 2nd, 3rd and 5th Harmonic distortion creatively to shape your sound.

Liquid Saffire 56 doesn’t just offer preamp variety; sonic integrity is also guaranteed throughout. Both the Liquid and Saffire preamps ensure low noise and distortion; while quality digital conversion and JetPLL jitter elimination technology ensure pristine audio quality as your audio flows between the analog and digital domains.

Alongside the two Liquid- and six Saffire preamps, are a host of options; 10 analog outputs, 16 channels of ADAT, stereo SPDIF, MIDI, and 2 virtual loopback inputs for routing digital audio between software applications – ideal for capturing audio playback within your computer. Mic, Line and Instrument inputs all utilize independent connectors, with the input type for each channel selectable via custom control software. Consequently, all the inputs can remain permanently connected, ready for whatever your recording session demands. In addition, word clock is provided on BNC connectors, allowing Liquid Saffire 56 to act as either a master clock for your studio, or as a slave to an existing clock. Every channel features an independent phantom power and a high pass filter, switchable from the front panel, with the two instrument channels also featuring -9dB pads for additional headroom. Front panel 5-LED metering for all inputs, including ADAT and SPDIF, offers accurate viewing of all levels.

Saffire Mix Control, the zero-latency 18 x 16 DSP Mixer/Router software provided with Liquid Saffire 56 features unparalleled output routing and monitoring. It also provides intuitive one-click set-up solutions, a clear and concise mixing layout, large on-screen metering for inputs, outputs and sub mixes and control over the choice of liquid emulation.

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 during boot-up or shut down.

Main Features

Two Liquid Pre-amps
The marriage of a hugely flexible analog front end with cutting-edge dynamic convolution DSP, each Liquid Preamp lets you choose from ten different classic preamp emulations, with an eleventh ‘flat’ option.

Six High Quality Award-winning Focusrite Pre-amps

Six award-winning Saffire preamps complement two Liquid pre-amps. All eight preamps demonstrate the same wide bandwidth philosophy behind the early vintage Focusrite units.

High Quality 24-bit/192kHz FireWire Interface
Professional digital conversion and JetPLL jitter elimination technology; pristine audio quality and reliable synchronization are guaranteed.

Total count of 28 Inputs and 28 outputs
A host of options are provided*, including a unique loop back facility for routing audio between software applications via Saffire Mix Control.

Suite of Focusrite VST/AU plug-ins
Upgrade your standard sequencer effects and bring a touch of class to your session with Focusrite Compression, Reverb, Gating and EQ VST/AU plug-ins.

Two separate headphone buses
Two artists can receive independent and fully customized monitor mixes. Each output has an independent level control available on the front panel.

Saffire Mix Control Zero-latency DSP Mixer/Router
Routing flexibility and intuitive one-click setup solutions; Saffire Mix Control provides an 18 x 16 DSP mixer with excellent output routing and monitoring capabilities.

Front panel 5-LED metering
LED metering for each of the analogue, ADAT1, ADAT2 or S/PDIF inputs offers accurate viewing of levels direct from the front fascia.

The Focusrite Preamp

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 range is designed to the highest possible standards. They uphold the same wide bandwidth philosophy featured in the original Forte 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 coloration and exhibits the signature transparency for which Focusrite have become famous.

Liquid Pre Technology

The Liquid Saffire 56 draws on the breakthrough technology deployed in the revered Liquid Channel and Liquid 4PRE. It uses a 3rd Generation Liquid preamp as the motor for pres 1 and 2, which as well as a flat setting include the emulations listed below.

Rather than creating a similar sound to vintage units, as with modeling devices, Liquid Technology samples their sonic behavior. This is achieved through Dynamic Convolution; the application of a unique, level-dependant set of responses to an audio signal. These measured responses, sampled at numerous levels and with every possible setting combination, are applied to the input stream on a sample-by-sample basis for accurate emulation.

**All of Focusrite’s FireWire interfaces are fully compatible with Thunderbolt using a simple FireWire to Thunderbolt adapter. Focusrite fully supports the use of Thunderbolt with our FireWire interfaces.