Focusrite Liquid Saffire 56?

[aokd00d]

Just took a plunge and ordered one, looking to expand my little home studio setup with a bunch of new gear to maybe get some bands in here to record. Anyone use this? I read a lot of reviews, and as always, they're either saying it's the best piece of equipment ever or the biggest piece of trash ever. Figured I'd run it by here, maybe I could get a little more out of someone's experience with it than, "It's the best!" or, "It's the worst!"

[Ddjembe Mutombo]

I only have experience with the Red 8. That is one solid pre-amp.

[nick727]

I've heard good things. I'm going to rent one soon to record an album.

[blacklight_uk]

I have a Saffire Pro 40. Beside the liquid pres it's essentially the same unit so maybe my opinions will help.

First thing I noticed when I set it up is how much better the D/A conversion in this is than in my old Mbox 2. It's not exactly a Prism but it sounds noticeably clearer and less constricted in the high frequencies. I have an RME ADI-2 and the difference doesn't really justify me owning it anymore. The pres are great - very neutral, quiet and plenty of gain. The mute and dim buttons on the monitor section are a nice feature, though the knob feels a little flimsy. Might be worth finding a metal knob to replace it with if you plan on using it as your monitor controller.

I borrowed a Liquid Saffire once before for a location recording. I remember having a quick play around with it but it was hardly thorough due to time constraints. From what I remember the presets sounded decent enough and definitely reminded me of the units they were emulating. I do have it on very good word that the liquid pres are junk, but the guy in question is a die-hard gear whore and runs an extremely well stocked studio, so take that with a pinch of salt...