Focusrite ISA C8X

• 2U USB-C audio interface
• 26 inputs and 28 outputs
• 8 remote controllable microphone preamps
• 2 ISA microphone preamps with Lundahl LL1538 transformers
• 6 remote-controllable Focusrite microphone preamps
• up to 79 dB gain on the ISA channels
• 69 dB gain on channels 3 to 8
• Console mode on the ISA channels
• 430 air mode on the ISA channels
• analog air mode on channels 3 to 8
• Variable drive DSP on channels 3 to 8
• Switchable impedance on microphone and instrument inputs 1 to 2
• 2 transformer-coupled instrument inputs on the front panel
• 2 balanced inserts
• 8 balanced line inputs with fixed gain
• 12 balanced line outputs
• 2 Class AB headphone outputs
• Auto gain for all eight preamps
• 24 bit / 192 kHz AD/DA conversion
• 125 dB dynamic range at the line outputs
• ADAT with up to 16 additional channels
• S/PDIF, MIDI and word clock
• Talkback, Loopback
• Focusrite Control 2 for desktop and mobile devices
• Monitoring configurations up to 7.1.4
• Three-year warranty
• Sonnox Oxford Reverb included in delivery

Classic ISA character, modern control

The two ISA microphone preamps are based on Lundahl LL1538 input transformers and deliver exactly the sound for which the ISA series has been appreciated for years: subtle warmth, more fullness and a pleasantly superior image. They are not limited to vintage nostalgia, but can be fully controlled via the front panel or Focusrite Control 2.

With up to 79 dB gain, switchable impedance, high-pass filter, balanced inserts and fine gain control, the two ISA channels are designed for serious recording work. Especially for vocals, acoustic guitars, ribbon microphones or high-quality DI signals, this is a very strong basis.

New sound options with Console and 430 Air

The two ISA preamps also offer console mode and 430 air mode. In console mode, an analog soft-clip circuit provides more saturation, weight and dense lows. 430 Air adds a silky sheen in the treble range and is based on the sound of the ISA 430 MkII.

This allows the basic character of a signal to be very deliberately shaped at the input. The ISA C8X is therefore not only neutral and precise, but can also shape the sound if desired.

New functions for workflow and everyday studio work

Auto Gain for fast level setups

With Auto Gain, theISA C8X automatically adjusts the gain of all eight preamps in just a few seconds. This saves time during setup, speeds up session changes and is particularly helpful with changing artists or setups. The function can be activated directly on the unit or via Focusrite Control 2.

Focusrite Control 2 for remote control and recall

If the interface is not directly within reach, Focusrite Control 2 takes over, allowing gain, routing, monitoring, mixing and recall to be conveniently managed remotely via the desktop and mobile app. Several compatible Focusrite devices can also be controlled together, making the ISA C8X particularly interesting for larger or expandable setups.

Line inputs for hard-wired outboard setups

The eight balanced line inputs with fixed gain are clearly designed for patchbay workflows and permanent studio cabling. Outboard can be cleanly integrated once and remains immediately available without constant reconnection. This is often more valuable in everyday use than it initially appears on the data sheet.

Converter, monitoring and studio center

The ISA C8X works with 24 bit / 192 kHz AD/DA conversion at the level of the Focusrite RedNet series. With 125 dB dynamic range and 0.00022 % THD, the technical side is clearly professional. In addition, there are 12 balanced line outputs that enable setups from mono to 7.1.4, including three monitor groups and convenient switching.

There are also two dedicated Class AB headphone outputs with their own level, additional headroom and optimized impedance. This ensures detailed and powerful headphone signals, whether for tracking, editing or control listening.