DirectOut And RME Unveil USB.MADI SFP Soundcard

DirectOut has introduced the USB.MADI SFP module, a compact multichannel soundcard developed in collaboration with German audio specialist RME, expanding the companies' long-standing partnership and delivering new workflow possibilities for professional audio users.

Renowned for manufacturing audio devices used across broadcast studios, live venues and large-scale events, DirectOut has worked closely with RME to combine proven technologies from both companies. The result is the USB.MADI, a fully featured computer audio interface condensed into a Small Formfactor Pluggable (SFP) module, making it the world’s smallest multichannel soundcard.

Designed to be installed directly into any compatible DirectOut MADI SFP slot, the USB.MADI connects to Windows and Mac computers via USB-C. Built on RME's established USB core, the module delivers 64 channels of input and output at standard sample rates, supported by RME’s high-performance macOS and Windows drivers to ensure low-latency operation with professional DAW software.

The USB.MADI also supports driverless operation using Class Compliant firmware, enabling instant compatibility with portable devices such as the iPad. This flexibility allows seamless audio production in fixed installations, live venues or mobile environments.

By integrating technologies from both companies, the USB.MADI unlocks advanced features including DirectOut’s proprietary EARSTM (Enhanced Automatic Redundancy Switching), which ensures uninterrupted audio playback through automatic signal switching in the event of a failure. RME's TotalMixFX is also included, giving users comprehensive control over all computer I/O, including zero-latency sub-mixes.

The new module builds on the collaboration between DirectOut and RME that began several years ago with the USB.IO module, further strengthening interoperability across DirectOut’s modular platforms.

Luca Giaroli, Strategy Manager at DirectOut, said: "This new module is a testament of the mindset we have at DirectOut. Creating solutions that do not only enhance a particular product but improve workflows and interoperability throughout all our platforms making sure that all our customers can benefit. I'm looking forward to seeing what the USB.MADI will enable in all the vertical markets, and I am happy that we can again rely on the expertise of RME to provide high performance operation, resilience and undoubted audio quality."

Matthias Carstens, Head of Development at RME, added: "At RME we can look back at more than 30 years of experience in computer audio interfacing. Our passion is to provide reliable and unquestionable audio performance to our users. Combining our battle-tested USB stack with the modular platforms of DirectOut is a perfect match."

DirectOut will showcase the USB.MADI at several upcoming industry events, including NAMM 2026 from January 22 at booth #18306, ISE from February 3 at booth 7C710, and AES Nashville from February 24. Visitors will be able to learn more about the new soundcard and discover additional product updates planned for 2026.

directout.eu