Focusrite ISA-C8X audio interface

General

For many, a simple audio interface is more than enough. Two inputs, two outputs, headphone jack, it usually doesn't need much more than that. Butrrr: the bigger studios just need more, more inputs, more outputs, higher quality components, and for that group the huge Focusrite ISA-C8X is the audio interface to investigate. A cosy 26 inputs and 28 outputs are waiting for you. These numbers are calculated with two ADAT inputs and two ADAT outputs, but a little studio probably has such pre-amps lying around. The eight built-in pre-amps are excellent, two of which are ISA preamps with the famous Lundahl LL1538 transformers.

Target audience of the Focusrite ISA-C8X

All those inputs are not only nice for a fat studio, but also think of a session drummer recording his drum part at home for remote productions. Just think how many cymbals and kettles you can record close-miked! But a band can also do something with this in a studio. Combined with two ADAT interfaces, you can give all your band members their own input. And in combination with the Focusrite Control 2 app (iOS, Android) you can even control the eight mentioned pre-amps remotely. Even in a huge studio, containing a mixing console you could land a helicopter on, this app pays off. You simply place the C8X in your wall with outboard, while you use the app to set the pre-amps at the sweet-spot behind the console. As icing on the cake, it comes with a nice little package of software. And, it must be said, as far as a functional device should be considered 'beautiful', this C8X looks very nice, with its deep blue colour. It won't look out of place in your outboard rack!