LS56 - Liquid Saffire 56 Audio Interface

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

In addition to six of Focusrite's legendary mic pre's, two of Liquid Saffire 56’s preamps uses the third generation Focusrite’s Liquid Pre amp, 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, 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 two Liquid and six Saffire preamps are a host of I/O options; 10 analogue outputs, 16 channels of ADAT I/O, stereo S/PDIF, MIDI and two virtual ‘loopback’ inputs for routing digital audio between software applications — ideal for capturing audio playback within your computer. Mic, Line and Instrument inputs all use 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 I/O 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 sync system. 

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 five-step LED metering for all inputs, including ADAT and S/PDIF, 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 powerful output routing and monitoring. It also provides intuitive one-click set-up options, a clear and concise mixing layout, large on-screen metering for inputs, outputs and submixes, 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 when booting up or shutting down the unit.