TotalMix FX comes with two types of effects: Insert effects, namely the EQ and Compressor, and Send effects like Reverb and Delay. While the Insert Effects are available on a per channel basis on all input and output channels, the Send Effects are on a separate effects bus.

Furthermore the reverb and Delay can quickly activated or deactivated with our Remote Control ARC USB.

All effects are DSP based which means that these effects are coming from the Interface’s internal DSP Chip and therefore won’t affect your CPU load. That is precisely the reason why some older RME Audio Interfaces and current Interfaces with no DSP chip do not have effects. If you are wondering which RME Audio Interfaces do feature effects you can download our PDF Comparison Chart in the description box below for further insights.

On the right hand side of the control panel you can see how much of the available DSP power is currently used. 

By default the effects are only on the monitoring signal path of TotalMix FX. If you like to record with the effects added, simply open the control Panel of your RME Audio Interface and select „EQ+D for Record“. 

Because we want to edit already recorded tracks from our DAW we make use of TotalMix FX brilliant „Loopback“ function, where we can send the signal of a physical output directly to their respective physical input without patching any cables. This allows us to record the software playbacks coming from Ableton Live with the added effects.

The DSP based EQ in TotalMix FX ist a straightforward 3 band parametric EQ with an additional Lowcut that has a variable slope from 6 to 24db cut per octave. The very transparent and clear sound of the EQ is great for tone shaping, removing unwanted frequencies and also giving punch and definition to instruments. In this demonstration we will play with the parameters to get a better grasp of the EQ.

Traditionally compression is used to control the dynamics of a certain audio signal or instrument. In modern music production however, compression is also a creative effect to add certain rhythmic effects to let’s say a drum track or completely change the dynamics of a sound. In the following example we will play with the parameters to show what the compressor is capable of. 

The Reverb in TotalMix FX is very flexible with different types of emulations for a wide range of applications. You can add subtle reverberation to vocals or add drastic effects with big room emulations. Lets hear the reverb in action!

Last but not least, the Delay is great for rhythmic and spacious sound effects.