TIL that for very flexible minimal-latency Input/Output routing of #audio signals, buying a (analog or digital) #mixer with multiple buses seems like the obvious choice, but there are also (USB) audio interfaces which support internal routing! For example #Arturia’s #AudioFuse line, or the #RME #Fireface UCX. Once configured, they can even run without a computer. Some even have internal EQ & FX.

Now, is there one with internal #sidechain compression? I’d _love_ that. Any suggestions?

The Fireface UCX II comes pretty close, but its compressor can’t do sidechaining. However, I love some of the small details on that device, like labeling the DC input with an actual accepted voltage _range_. That’s so useful when deciding whether to connect it directly to my campervan’s 12 V supply (which is actually somewhere between 14.5 and 11.5 V).

They also support re-binding the front buttons to shortcuts. And it’s MIDI and OSC¹ controllable.

¹ via proprietary software only tho lol

I have a Behringer XR18, which needs 230 VAC to work (boo), is pretty chunky and eats a lot of power.

Also, while it _does_ have an internal sidechain compressor, it can’t use a submix as the trigger signal, only a single individual channel. Which sucks if you’re trying to trigger on several instruments or mics 🙄