I have a first generation FocusrRite Scarlett with 2 mic preams and my son has the same model but 3rd generation. Both have the same problem when recording using SM57 - low signal and if you increase the gain to get usable signal you get a lot of noise. This is actually a regular complaint from Focusrite users.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NtcDjiaNroY

Just a 57 and basic interface.

But, even with his cheap gear I find it odd he can't get an OK clean signal.

Makes me wonder if the problem is not the mic or the interface but something else: bad lead, picking up too much EMI, etc.

Seems you know the basics, why not test his equipment yourself - maybe he did not turn the gain up enough on the pre and then compensated in the DAW?

'Why is the Babyface 4+ times more expensive than the SSL 2 MkII?'

Some people (pros, prosumers, etc) will pay a disproportional amount for sonically incrementally better with best in class performance reliablity (drivers, long term driver support, etc)

IMHO, if the goal is to upgrade recording vocals and acoustic guitar, the best bang for the buck that will put smiles on a Xmas face is is one of the SSL 2 channel interfaces and a new mic + mic stand.

e.g.

https://www.long-mcquade.com/402810/Pro … erface.htm

https://www.long-mcquade.com/351776/Pro … dition.htm

Thanks,

I keep seeing good reviews about SSL audio interfaces. My son insists on using SM57 for both vocals and acoustic guitar, even though I have decent quality condenser mics.

Would the SSL interface you posted be a big improvement over the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen my son uses?
How is the quality of the SSL interface you posted compared to the Babyface Pro FS?
Why is the Babyface 4+ times more expensive than the SSL 2 MkII?

e.g.

https://www.long-mcquade.com/402810/Pro … erface.htm

https://www.long-mcquade.com/351776/Pro … dition.htm

As I said, you might find a bit better price, but it may take time. There is not much reasons to sell it, so probably more potential buyers than sellers.

If you want to save a bit you might buy older version Babyface Pro. It might be 100-200 CAN$ cheaper. And maybe more sellers.

Young talents need support. Best wishes for the family !

With the Babyface Pro FS there should be no hiss and no noise at all.
But also no guarantee, if something is not satisfying you can sell the RME for a good price.
They keep value.

The price is a bit high for me, here a new one cost 1160 CanDollar (727CHF)
Is it in new condition ? Comes with bill and under warranty ?
Used item out of warranty price half of new, 600, ask for these details.

Thanks,

The new price here is $1,375 CAD + 13% tax it comes to around $1,550 CAD.
The $1,000 price I mentioned is asking price, and I'll probably can take it down to $800-$900 CAD.
Would that make more sense financially?

The price is a bit high for me, here a new one cost 1160 CanDollar (727CHF)
Is it in new condition ? Comes with bill and under warranty ?
Used item out of warranty price half of new, 600, ask for these details.

Would there be a noticeable improvement in lowering noise/his and overall sound quality if we upgrade from Focusrite to RME?

I have BF Pro FS and I am satisfied, build quality is just great. Concerning quality, they will be better than FF 400/UC/UCX. If two MIC in, two line in, two line out and phones will do. And ADAT in/out.

I found a second-hand RME Babyface Pro-FS Audio Interface for $1,000 Canadian dollars, while new ones cost $1,550 including tax. Would that unit work for quality home recording on a Windows laptop? Is the $1,000 price tag too high in your opinion?