Focusrite ISA C8X – Premium USB-C audio interface with ISA preamps and advanced control
The Focusrite ISA C8X marks a major milestone in the brand’s history as the first audio interface to directly integrate ISA technology. It combines the legendary sound of the ISA preamps with a fully modern architecture designed for demanding professional studios.
At the heart of the ISA C8X are 8 high-performance microphone preamps, including two genuine ISA preamps equipped with the renowned Lundahl LL1538 transformers. Originally designed by Rupert Neve for Sir George Martin in 1985, these circuits deliver a rich, warm and highly detailed analog sound signature.
These two ISA channels also offer switchable analog modes: Console, providing punch and musical harmonic saturation, and 430 Air, inspired by the ISA 430 MkII, adding clarity and presence to the high frequencies. Both modes are fully analog, ensuring exceptional musicality.
With its 26 inputs and 28 outputs, flexible routing and extensive connectivity (ADAT, S/PDIF, MIDI, word clock), the ISA C8X integrates seamlessly into modern hybrid studios. The system can also be expanded via ADAT (up to +16 additional inputs) depending on your setup’s future needs.
Designed for professional workflows, it features balanced analog inserts on the two ISA channels, allowing seamless integration of outboard gear (compressors, EQs, etc.) without repatching. It can also operate in standalone mode, passing audio even without a computer.
The ISA C8X offers full remote control through Focusrite Control 2, letting you manage gain, analog modes, monitoring and routing from a computer, smartphone, or tablet. This flexibility makes it a central tool in complex studio environments.
In terms of monitoring, its 12 line outputs and 3 monitor groups support stereo setups as well as immersive formats up to 7.1.4. Combined with 24-bit / 192 kHz conversion offering up to 125 dB of dynamic range, the ISA C8X ensures outstanding sonic precision.
Housed in a rugged, iconic anodised-blue aluminium chassis, the Focusrite ISA C8X is a high-end solution designed for recording engineers, professional studios, and demanding production environments seeking the perfect balance of analog character, flexibility and top-tier performance.
Features & Specifications:
- Architecture & Audio:
- USB-C audio interface with 26 inputs / 28 outputs
- 24-bit / 192 kHz conversion
- Dynamic range up to 125 dB
- Standalone mode
- Preamps:
- 8 high-performance microphone preamps
- 2 ISA preamps with Lundahl LL1538 transformers
- Up to 79 dB of gain
- Switchable impedance (ISA)
- Independent phantom power
- Analog modes: Console & 430 Air
- Inputs & Outputs:
- 8 mic/line inputs
- 2 instrument inputs
- 12 line outputs
- 2 headphone outputs
- Balanced inserts (channels 1–2)
- Digital Connectivity:
- ADAT: 2 inputs / 2 outputs (up to 16 channels)
- S/PDIF: 1 input / 1 output
- MIDI: In / Out
- Word Clock: In / Out
- Monitoring & Routing:
- 3 monitor groups
- Support for stereo to 7.1.4 configurations
- Advanced, flexible routing
- Built-in loopback
- Control & Workflow:
- Control via Focusrite Control 2
- Remote operation (computer, iOS, Android)
- Full parameter recall
- Construction:
- Anodised aluminium chassis (Focusrite blue)
- 2U rackmount format
- Dimensions: 482.6 × 292.8 × 89 mm
- Weight: 5.56 kg
- External power supply (40 W)
- Compatibility:
- Mac (Intel & Apple Silicon)
- Windows (Intel, AMD, ARM)
- Included:
- ISA C8X interface
- USB-C cable
- IEC power cable
- Rubber feet
Key Points:
- Authentic ISA preamps with legendary Lundahl transformers.
- 8 remotely controllable preamps with up to 79 dB of gain.
- Console & 430 Air analog modes for tone shaping.
- 24-bit / 192 kHz conversion with up to 125 dB of dynamic range.
- 26×28 I/O with advanced routing and full connectivity.
- Immersive monitoring up to 7.1.4 with 3 monitor groups.
- Full remote control via Focusrite Control 2.
- Balanced analog inserts for hardware integration.
- ADAT expansion up to 16 additional channels.
- Robust 2U rack format for professional studios.
