At AES RME present their new ExpressCard solution for modern PCIe Notebooks. The HDSPe ExpressCard is specified as an ExpressCard/34 and provides the same features as the successful PCMCIA version. The card comes with drivers for Windows XP (multi-client operation of MME, GSIF and ASIO 2.0) and brand new drivers for Windows Vista and Vista 64. Apple users are perfectly served with Power PC and MAC Universal (Intel) drivers providing Core Audio and Core MIDI support.
The new HDSPe ExpressCard features RME´s own high-speed serial audio data bus, as used in the Multiface, Multiface II, Digiface and RPM DJ Interfaces. These systems are owned and used by ten thousands of audio professionals around the planet. For users looking for a no-compromise high-speed audio recording solution combined with ultimate compatibility, these devices are state of the art. With the HDSPe ExpressCard the further use of the existing range of RME´s I/O boxes with next generation mobile computers and in Windows VISTA environments is secured.
The HDSPe ExpressCard will be available in December 2007 for an expected rrp. of USD 349,-.
Other news from RME was the new OctaMic II Preamp, a completely new electronic design with increased features based on the highly acclaimed OctaMic and OctaMic D devices. The new OctaMic II features 8-channel 192 kHz/24 bit hi-class microphone and line pre-amplification and includes some significant enhancements compared to his predecessors.
These new features are:
The balanced TRS inputs of the Neutrik Combo XLR jacks are phantom power-free and can be operated as real line inputs too. The improved design of the input circuits allows for a maximum input level of +21 dBu with a convenient gain range from 0 dB up to 50 dB.
– Improved signal to noise ratio (SNR) ADC 107.5 dB
– Improved THD, especially at high gains
– Optimised heat dissipation by a new and larger housing with improved convection
– Choice of sync sources: internal Clock, AES/SPDIF (via 25 pin D-sub) or Word Clock
– Internal wide range power supply with line filter, insensitive to voltage fluctuations
– Super-stable, short circuit proof 48 V phantom power
The OctaMic II is the straight forward MicPre “made by RME”. 8 channels of pristine microphone/line pre-amplification made of the finest components available assembled with RME-quality technology with best audio performance in mind. OctaMic II is the perfect solution for building multi-track recording and/or mixing systems with the need for a bigger number of input channels. The OctaMic II also provides the perfect microphone/line input expansion for RME´s successful Fireface and HammerfallDSP series.
OctaMic II is shipping in September 2007 for a Europe net price of Euro 1.099.- and in the Unitad States for a MSRP of USD 1.799.-.