I think I've narrowed down my choices for a new audio interface.  I'm looking into the
Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 which is USB 2.0 .... 18 in / 20 out.
or the
Focusrite Saffire Pro 40 which is 1394 Firewire .... 20 in/ 20 out.
 
I've read that the Firewire unit is slightly faster with the throughput...but probably not noticable.
 
Seems as though Firewire is kinda being phased out as a standard connection on motherboards, though they are still available on today's MBs...just not sure how the future holds for it.  I figure USB 2.0 will be around for a while.
 
Both units can be had for around $400 at the discount online places.  Just curious as to your opinions on which way you would go.  I would like to be able to jump up to the Roland Studio Capture....but at a grand, it's not feasible to me at this point when these units can be had for less than half that price.
 
I know that this probably should be asked in the Hardware section....but I will be using this with X2 so I'd rather ask here.

If it was me (tho I haven't used either unit) I go w/ USB.  Firewire will only get more difficult to accomodate (note, I use FW).
 
@

If it was me (tho I haven't used either unit) I go w/ USB.  Firewire will only get more difficult to accomodate (note, I use FW).
 
@

That is my thoughts too AT.  I'm pretty confident that USB will be around for a few more years.
 
I too still use some FW connectivity.  My Sony HVR Z7U video camera uses the CF recorder which uses FW to transfer the video files.
 
Both of the Focusrite units look good...both cosmetically and specs.  But my final choice is one I will need to live with for at least a couple of years to get my money's worth. (yeah...I'm kinda frugal) :) .

I use Firewire Saffire Pro 40 for a few years now. It has been completely transparent and high quality. Can't ask for any more. My Shuttle Intel box came with Firewire on the MOBO about 5-6 years ago, and is a bit dated, but still runs X1 just fine. At some point, I will have to upgrade but that will mean replacing the Saffire Pro. I imagine that I will look for another Focusrite as I can't imagine needing anything more than the Pro 40. If I did it today and was buying a new computer, I would go for the 8 Pre Scarlett. 
 
Anybody know why this is not USB 3.0?? with a modern machine this would be faster. 
 
 

I'm also surprised that these units are not USB 3.0.  I built my computer over two years ago and my MB has 3.0 .
 
I don't know that I've seen an audio interface that is 3.0 .  That doesn't mean there isn't one...but I haven't seen one yet.

I dunno, seems like audio interface makers are slow to adopt the new connectivity standards (I don't recall seeing a FW800 interface either and I've only seen one made for -optional- Thunderbolt connectivity). But I'm sure USB3.0 interfaces will be around eventually.
 
Re the interfaces, I hear good things about both and don't think you can go wrong with either. However, I would recommend USB for the same reason as the others here. I am considering selling my Ultralite MKIII and replace it with the Ultralite MKIII Hybrid. I'll probably have a fire wire interface on my DAW for years to come but I can't connect it to either of my laptops (windows PC and a MacBook Air).

I would say USB is more likely to be around for longer, however Focusrite state that all their firewire units are Thunderbolt compatible (with an adaptor, but with no loss/gain in performance).  I'm now using a MacBook which has two usb and 1 firewire port, so I'm going to get myself the Saffire PRO 24 DSP for mobile use, as it still leaves me a usb port each for a controller keyboard and Maschine.
Andy

The Saffire Pro 40 is definitely a nice unit. I would think you'll still be able to add FireWire with a PCIe card even if it doesn't come on the mobo.
 
Scott

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It all comes down to drivers, drivers, drivers!
Check the RME website for some info on USB vs FW. http://www.rme-audio.de/forum/viewforum.php?id=4
RME is convinced that USB is faster (on MOST systems), seems there is a "hidden" 32 sample delay using FW; I think that's right.
Remember MS "broke" the FW drivers in Win7, and changed it again in Win8.
I'm running the UFX via USB and my FW-1884 (control only) via FW; just a matter of time with the 1884; sad really...
Unless something has changed recently (or is about to), there are no USB3 audio interfaces.
HTH,
Tom