ISA C8X combines the trademark ISA sound with comprehensive remote control and all the analogue and digital I/O, routing, and recallability you need to run your entire setup. The two ISA preamps are based on classic Lundahl transformers and feature all-analogue Console and 430 Air modes for new tonal options plus switchable impedance, balanced inserts, and high-pass filtering. All eight of ISA C8X’s preamps are fully controllable from the front panel and via the Focusrite Control 2 software.
2U rack-mounted, 26x28 USB audio interface
Capture, route, and mix sessions of any size with 26 inputs and 28 outputs of analogue and digital audio.
Two remote-controllable ISA preamps
Featuring Lundahl LL1538 input transformers that add subtle warmth and body to any signal, plus balanced inserts, stepped and fine gain control, switchable impedance, high-pass filter, and up to 79dB of gain.
Analogue tone at the touch of a button
The two ISA preamps include relay-switchable circuitry, enabling variable saturation via Console mode and high-end lift with 430 Air mode.
Six remote-controllable, ultra-low-noise mic preamps
Alongside the two ISA preamps are six remote-controllable, ultra-low-noise Focusrite mic preamps designed to reliably capture every nuance with 69dB of clear, detailed gain plus analogue Air mode and variable Drive DSP.
Two front-panel, transformer-based instrument inputs
Both are routed through the Lundahl transformers for console-like feel and feature selectable impedance to enhance the natural tone of guitar, bass, and other instruments. Console and 430 Air modes are also available here for added analogue character.
Eight dedicated fixed-gain balanced line inputs
Designed for patch-bay setups and permanent installations, ISA C8X provides fixed line inputs that let you connect your outboard gear and avoid re-patching.
Automatically set your levels
Enable Auto Gain and let ISA C8X set gain automatically across all eight preamps in seconds, directly from the front panel or via Focusrite Control 2 desktop and mobile apps.
Flagship AD/DA conversion
Record and mix with the same 24-bit/192kHz AD/DA converters used in Focusrite’s RedNet range, offering 125dB of dynamic range with 0.00022% THD.
12 balanced line outputs
Work in mono, stereo, or up to 7.1.4, with three monitor groups and front-panel or remote switching. A professional +24dBu maximum output level matches the line inputs for consistent line-up levels, with 125dB of A-weighted dynamic range; outputs 1 and 2 are available on both XLR and TRS.
Two dedicated class AB headphone outputs
Each with independent level control, extra headroom, and optimised impedance for powerful, detailed playback.
ADAT, S/PDIF, MIDI, and Word Clock
Expand your setup with 16 additional channels over ADAT and two channels via SPDIF for up to 26 channels of recording, plus S/PDIF, MIDI, and Word Clock connectivity.
Focusrite Control 2 software and mobile app
When front-panel control isn’t practical, Focusrite Control 2 makes it easy to remotely manage, save, and recall your mixes and routing, as well as monitor with low-latency across multiple connected interfaces.
