The RME Advanced Remote Control USB is a remarkable programmable controller tailored for Fireface UFX+ and UFX II audio interfaces. This wired remote offers direct access to the most frequently used actions and commands in TotalMix FX, making it an essential tool for daily studio applications. With its highly flexible configuration via TotalMix FX, it simplifies your workflow and significantly enhances the usability of RME interfaces in real - world scenarios.
The ARC USB is a USB 1.1 (UAC1) MIDI remote control, natively compatible with Windows and Mac OS X. TotalMix FX detects and communicates with it as soon as it's in the operating system, without interfering with other remote controls. There's no need to switch it on or off within TotalMix FX; it just works. Moreover, since it communicates with TotalMix FX via USB, it's compatible with all RME audio interfaces supported by TotalMix FX, dating back to those released in 2001.
Once connected to a computer, any button press or wheel turn on the ARC USB triggers the corresponding action in TotalMix FX and the RME audio interface. With the UFX+ and UFX II, you can connect the ARC USB directly to these devices, as they're the only RME interfaces with an internal USB 1.1 host and a matching connector. This direct connection is very convenient in stand - alone mode.
The ARC USB is bus - powered and draws little current. It uses USB 1.1 as the bus standard, which isn't a problem today due to its lower frequency and speed requirements. USB 2 cables up to 10 meters long and cheap USB 2 cable extensions that often cause issues with bus - powered interfaces work perfectly for the ARC USB. For longer lengths, RME suggests using active USB 2 cables, which are affordable and can work over 20 meters.
The ARC USB can control multiple interfaces at once. In TotalMix FX, the Key Commands dialog is specific to the currently selected audio interface. Just assign the desired functions to each interface. After that, the ARC USB keys and encoder wheel control the respective interfaces without the need for further switching or selection in normal use.
Supported Interfaces: Fireface UFX+ (directly), Fireface UFX II (directly), All devices with TotalMix FX (via computer).





Using the RME Advanced Remote Control USB is a breeze. First, connect it to your computer if you're using it with most RME audio interfaces. If you have a Fireface UFX+ or UFX II, you can also connect it directly to these devices. Once connected, TotalMix FX will automatically detect it. You don't need to turn it on or off within the software.
To configure it, open the Key Commands dialog in TotalMix FX. Here, you can assign different functions to the buttons and the encoder wheel for each audio interface you want to control. After setting it up, just press the buttons or turn the wheel, and the corresponding actions will be performed.
When it comes to cables, regular USB 2 cables up to 10 meters long work well. If you need a longer cable, go for an active USB 2 cable. They're not expensive and can handle lengths of over 20 meters.
As for maintenance, keep the ARC USB clean and dry. Since it draws little power, there's no need to worry about high - energy consumption. Also, make sure your operating system and TotalMix FX are up - to - date to ensure smooth communication between the ARC USB and your audio interfaces.