Overview on current driver and firmware state macOS USB 3 interfaces

RME now offers three driver options for macOS with Apple Silicon and USB 3 interfaces, including the Fireface UFX III, MADIface XT II, Digiface Dante, Digiface Ravenna and USB.IO:

• DriverKit architecture – Apple’s modern and recommended approach
• Kernel Extension driver – A legacy option that currently is still functional
• Class Compliant (CC) mode – Apple’s built-in audio driver, now controlled by RME's Settings dialog and TotalMix FX

These latest developments make CC mode a practical fallback option for systems experiencing audio issues, while retaining the familiar RME interface functionality. TotalMix FX became fully operational in CC mode, providing users with the flexibility and control they expect from RME interfaces. However, CC mode remains limited in features, like fixed safety offsets and no playback data visualization in DigiCheck NG, and higher latency than RME’s own drivers.

With Digiface Dante and Digiface AVB we changed the way the convenience feature 'internal network port' was realized. Those interfaces now use a Class Compliant network port, so run on Apple's own, native system network driver (available since 10.11, on both Intel and Apple Silicon machines). Additional software (we used netifc) is no longer required. That keeps the system clean and clear, reducing possible culprits and making installation more easy.

Switching to CC mode for Digiface Dante and Digiface Ravenna is quick and easy, performed through the Mac Firmware Update Tool by simply selecting or deselecting the newly added CC mode option.

When the firmware is on the latest state already, changing CC mode does not flash the whole firmware, but only changes the CC state. Note that CC is not part of the Windows FUT, and if flashed to CC mode the Digiface Dante and Ravenna is no longer recognized by the Windows driver. So to use them under Windows the CC mode needs to be disabled via the Mac Firmware Update Tool first.

The latest firmware updates address key USB 3 issues and enhance stability during intensive audio, MIDI, and network usage. Improved driver deinstallation further ensures a clean system environment, preventing conflicts between legacy and modern drivers.

For more information and updates please visit:

RME Forum