Focusrite ISA C8X: 26-In / 28-Out USB-C Audio Interface

The Focusrite ISA C8X seamlessly marries the legendary analog soul of Rupert Neve’s original ISA 110 channel strip with the immense power and routing flexibility of a modern digital hub. As the first-ever audio interface to feature authentic transformer-based ISA microphone preamps, the 26-in/28-out C8X is designed to serve as the uncompromised centerpiece of any professional recording facility or immersive mixing suite.

Legendary Transformer Tone

The unmistakable sound that built the Focusrite legacy is now available directly at the input stage:

• Authentic ISA Preamps: The first two channels feature the legendary Lundahl LL1538 input transformers, delivering the thick, iron-rich warmth and commanding low-end weight that defined thousands of classic records.
• All-Analog Tone Shaping: Engage Console mode to introduce rich analog saturation and low-end punch via a soft-clip circuit, or activate 430 Air mode (lifted from the ISA 430 MkII) for an inductor-based high-shelf shimmer.
• Transformer-Based DI: Two front-panel instrument inputs pass directly through the Lundahl transformers, allowing you to easily inject true console character and analog saturation into your bass and electric guitar tracks.

Massive Studio Connectivity

Engineered to handle dense outboard rigs and modern immersive mixing workflows:

• Six Additional Preamps: Alongside the ISA channels are six remote-controllable, ultra-low-noise Focusrite mic preamps. Each delivers 69 dB of detailed gain and features variable Drive DSP and analog Air modes.
• Immersive Ready: Twelve balanced line outputs provide the perfect analog routing for complex multi-speaker setups, easily accommodating everything from stereo monitoring to full 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos configurations.
• RedNet-Class Conversion: Features the exact same 24-bit/192 kHz AD/DA converters found in Focusrite's flagship RedNet range, boasting a staggering 125 dB of dynamic range for critical tracking and mastering.

Advanced Digital Control

Classic analog sound combined with the convenience of a modern, fast-paced workflow:

• Focusrite Control 2: Manage all routing, custom monitor mixes, and preamp gain levels remotely directly from your desktop or mobile device.
• Multichannel Auto Gain: Instantly set optimal recording levels across all eight microphone preamps simultaneously with a single button press—an absolute necessity for tracking live bands and drum kits.
• Comprehensive Expansion: Easily expand your studio I/O with 16 additional channels of ADAT, plus S/PDIF, MIDI, and Word Clock connectivity for perfect synchronization with external digital hardware.

Technical Specifications

• Computer Connection: USB-C (24-bit / 192 kHz)
• Simultaneous I/O: 26 Inputs / 28 Outputs
• Preamps: 8 Total (2 x ISA Transformer-Based, 6 x Focusrite Ultra-Low Noise)
• Analog Outputs: 12 x Balanced Line Outs (Supports up to 7.1.4)
• Digital I/O: 2 x Optical ADAT, S/PDIF, Word Clock, MIDI In/Out
• Format: 2U Rack-mountable