Microphones

Equally comfortable in the studio or as part of a mobile rig, the Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre rackmount 18x20 USB Type-C audio/MIDI interface combines upgraded 24-bit / 192 kHz AD/DA conversion with low-latency monitoring and eight Air-enabled microphone preamps that can model the sound of the company's classic ISA preamps. With low noise (-129 dB EIN), massive dynamic range, and even less distortion than before, the high-performance mic preamps deliver a clean, open, and transparent sound, for accurate reproduction of the original performance.

In addition to the eight mic/line preamps (two with Hi-Z capability), the interface offers ADAT and S/PDIF I/O for digital input and output expansion, MIDI I/O for integration of MIDI equipment such as a keyboard or drum machine, and a BNC wordclock output for syncing other digital gear. Stereo monitor outputs, two headphone outs, and eight line outputs let you properly hook up monitors, headphones, and outboard processors. The Clarett+ 8Pre includes a software package featuring Focusrite Red plug-ins and a channel strip that accurately models the rare Focusrite Studio Console. Also provided is the Focusrite Control software that enables you to configure routing and monitor mixes from Mac and Windows computers, or iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch mobile devices.

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 ISA One from Focusrite is a single-channel, transformer-based microphone preamp, based on the original ISA 110 preamp that formed the cornerstone of each channel of the legendary Forte console. It features classic vintage topology and includes the Lundahl L1538 transformer and a custom Zobel network.

In addition to switchable input impedance settings for the microphone preamp, the unit includes a line input on XLR and 1/4" TRS phone jacks. An independent DI channel features a dedicated gain control, active or passive impedance switch, a 1/4" TRS output for routing to an amplifier, and an independent XLR output on the rear.

The ISA One features an insert point should the need arise to place extra signal processing between the preamp or DI, and the optional analog-to-digital converter. Phantom power, phase reverse and a 75 Hz, 18 dB/octave high-pass filter are also available from the angled front fascia.

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.