Focusrite announced the ISA C8X, the first audio interface in the company’s ISA range and the next evolution of a mic preamp circuit used in professional recording since 1985. The 26-in, 28-out USB-Caudio interface comes in a 2U anodised aluminium rackmount unit in Focusrite’s original house colour.
The device combines the character of ISA preamps with new all-analogue Console and 430 Air modes. It includes comprehensive analogue and digital I/Oand full remote control via Focusrite Control 2.
Two of the eight preamps use the Lundahl LL1538 transformer circuit originally selected by Rupert Neve in 1985. These ISA preamps support up to 79dB of gain, switchable impedance, balanced inserts, and high-pass filtering. They feature relay-switchable, all-analogue circuits. Console mode introduces warm saturation and low-end punch via a variable soft-clip circuit. 430 Air mode adds high-end shimmer through an inductor-based high-shelf filter.
Six additional ultra-low-noise Focusrite mic preamps offer 69dB of gain. Two front-panel instrument inputs run through the Lundahl transformer circuitry. All eight preamps are remote-controllable via Focusrite Control 2 software.
ISA C8X uses 24-bit/192kHz AD/DA converters delivering up to 125dB of dynamic range. Twelve balanced line outputs support monitoring from mono to 7.1.4, with up to three monitor groups switchable from the front panel or via software. Two class AB headphone outputs feature independent level control and 3Ω output impedance. Digital expansion is available via ADAT and S/PDIF, with MIDI I/Oand Word Clock on board.
The unit ships with Hitmaker Expansion, including the Brainworx bx_console Focusrite SC plugin and Oxford Reverb by Sonnox. Bespoke bundle options are available in partnership with Sonnox. The Sonnox ISA Essentials Bundle includes four Oxford-series plugins. The Sonnox ISA Elite Bundle delivers a toolkit for mixing and mastering. Both bundles are available exclusively at focusrite.com and select retailers.
ISA is what Focusrite was founded upon, and it’s been beloved by artists and engineers worldwide for over 40 years, said Jack Cole, product manager, professional solutions and drivers at Focusrite. The essence of the ISA sound remains the same, but we’ve taken some big leaps forward with ISA C8X in modernising the workflow.
Pricing is $2,299.99 in the U.S., £1,899.99 in the UK, and 1,848.73 euros. It is available to order at focusrite.com and authorised retailers. The product is backed by Focusrite’s three-year warranty and 24/7/365 technical support.
For media inquiries, contact Ella McClary, Focusrite brand marketing manager, at press@focusrite.com.
For more information, visit focusrite.com.
