Microphone Preamp

Designed to provide an additional eight mic pres, eight line outputs, and 24-bit / 192 kHz AD/DA conversion, the Focusrite Clarett+ OctoPre connects with your existing interface via ADAT connections. Building upon the success of the original OctoPre, the Clarett+ OctoPre features improved high-dynamic-range A/D and D/A conversion with ultralow distortion that provides clearer mixes and stunning details at all levels. The mic pres are outfitted with Focusrite's proprietary Air feature, which allows you to switch impedances to emulate an analog ISA preamp. You can also instantiate a transformer-resonance effect to lend your signal clarity and a sense of air. These mic pres switch automatically between mic level and line level.

The front-panel inputs feature an extended amount of headroom to suit the high-output signal of sources such as electric guitars, while the rear panel offers XLR-1/4" combination jacks for the remaining six inputs. With a dynamic range of 118 dB, each input leads into a 24-bit analog-to-digital conversion stage capable of sample rates up to 192 kHz. Every input also sports its own insertion point—with hardwired relay bypass—for outboard compressors, EQs, or any processor you have.

The ISA428 MkII from Focusrite is a four-channel microphone preamp featuring Focusrite's transformer-based preamps. With selectable input impedance, direct instrument inputs and an optional eight channels of high-quality analog to digital conversion, the unit is a perfect front end for the audio professional, whether utilizing digital or analog recording.

The ISA microphone preamp holds a reputation for delivering transparency along with subtle warmth derived from transformer core saturation. The addition of a variable impedance circuit allows users to perfectly match the preamp with any microphone, or to use different settings creatively to shape the sound of the microphone.

The extremely broad frequency response of Focusrite preamps (close to 200 kHz at the top end) guarantees accurate phase response across the range of human hearing, with the roll-off point being moved entirely outside of the audible hearing range. Warmth, plus beautifully open, unrestricted high frequencies, is a classic hallmark of the mid 80's Focusrite designs to which this preamp owes its design.

The optional eight-channel analog converter utilizes high-quality Burr-Brown amplifiers and PCM4220 A-D converter chips seated within Focusrite's custom analog circuitry. Specifications include a dynamic range of 122dB and jitter performance below 250 picoseconds. The card can be retrofitted at any time and due to the convenient 25-pin D-type connector, it integrates seamlessly with most digital workstations, including Pro Tools.

A premium bonus is the Brainworx bx_console Focusrite SC channel-strip plug-in, a stellar digital emulation of the legendary and rare Focusrite Studio Console. Only 10 of the consoles were ever produced, but you can access its famed sound directly in your DAW.

The ISA Two from Focusrite is a dual mono microphone preamp featuring transformer based microphone inputs with variable input impedance. Based on the legendary designs found in the Focusrite Forte and Studio consoles, the preamps provides up to 80 dB of gain, while two front panel instrument inputs allow for immediate access to two transparent DIs.

The microphone inputs feature a pair of Lundahl LL1538 transformers with a 3-section winding that results in very low leakage inductance, along with an extended frequency response. To shield them from stray magnetism, each is encapsulated in mu-metal cans. Each channel has a fully-balanced insert point, activated using a front-panel button, making it easy to insert a choice of outboard EQ, a compressor, or limiter.

A premium bonus is the Brainworx bx_console Focusrite SC channel-strip plug-in, a stellar digital emulation of the legendary and rare Focusrite Studio Console. Only 10 of the consoles were ever produced, but you can access its famed sound directly in your DAW.