Focusrite ISA C8X

The Focusrite ISA C8X is a 2U rackmount USB-C audio interface with 26 inputs, 28 outputs and eight mic preamps. Its first two channels are ISA preamps built around Lundahl LL1538 input transformers, with switchable input impedance and two analogue tone modes: Console, for saturation and low-end weight, and 430 Air, for a smooth, open top end.

The other six preamps are clean Focusrite designs with their own Air and Drive settings, and Auto Gain can set levels on all eight channels at once. Two ADAT ports, S/PDIF and word clock make it easy to add more preamps or connect the unit to a larger system.

It suits multitrack band and drum sessions, podcasts with several guests, and location recording where you need many channels in one box. Standalone mode passes audio without a computer, and everything is controlled from Focusrite Control 2 on Mac, Windows, iOS or Android. Available for rental in Montréal.

Technical information

• Connection: USB-C (USB 2.0), 24-bit/192 kHz conversion
• Inputs/outputs: 26 in, 28 out (including loopback)
• Mic preamps: 2 ISA with Lundahl transformers (79 dB gain), 6 Focusrite (69 dB gain), phantom power per channel
• Instrument inputs: 2 (channels 1-2)
• Inserts: 2 send/return pairs (channels 1-2)
• Line inputs/outputs: 8 line inputs, 12 balanced line outputs
• Digital: 2 ADAT in/out, S/PDIF in/out, word clock in/out, MIDI in/out
• Headphones: 2 outputs with independent level
• Size and power: 2U rack, 5.6 kg (12.3 lb), external power with IEC cable