Focusrite ISA C8X Audio Interface

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 Lundahl transformer–based ISA preamps feature all-analogue Console and Air 430 modes for new tonal options plus switchable impedance, balanced inserts, and high-pass filtering — all controllable from the front panel and via the Focusrite Control 2 software.

Classic Preamps, Digital Control 

C8X’s two ISA preamps each feature 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 — all digitally controlled via the Focusrite Control 2 app.

All-Analogue Tone

Console mode introduces warm analogue saturation and low-end punch, based on a soft-clip circuit with fully variable digital control. 430 Air, lifted directly from the ISA 430 MkII, adds high-end shimmer via an inductor-based high-shelf filter.

DI Guitars, Basses, and Other Instruments

Inspired by the ISA One’s well-regarded DI channel, the front-panel instrument inputs feature a selectable impedance for preserving the natural tone of guitar, bass, and other instruments. These also run through the ISA transformer circuitry, allowing you to apply both Console and 430 Air modes.

Six Additional Mic Preamps

ISA C8X’s six microphone preamps capture every nuance with 69dB of clear, detailed gain. These too are remotely controllable, designed for reliable performance across a wide range of sources, and each feature Air mode for high-end clarity and Drive DSP, for analogue-style harmonic warmth.

Flagship AD/DA Conversion

Whichever inputs you choose, you’ll be recording and mixing with the same 24-bit/192kHz AD/DA converters used in Focusrite’s RedNet range, offering 125dB of dynamic range and ultra-low distortion at 0.00022% THD. And C8X’s two headphone outputs each offer independent level control, extra headroom, and optimised impedance for powerful, detailed playback.

Run Your Entire Studio

Designed for patch-bay setups and permanent installations, ISA C8X provides fixed line inputs that let you connect your outboard gear once and avoid awkward re-patching. For immersive formats, the 12 balanced line outputs enable everything from mono up to 7.1.4, with support for up to three monitor groups and switching via both the front panel and Focusrite Control 2. And the entire system is expandable, thanks to 16 additional channels over ADAT and 2 via S/PDIF for digital gear, plus MIDI and Word Clock I/O.

Remote-Control Recording

Focusrite Control 2 is designed for both desktop and mobile devices, making it easy to manage gain levels, route audio, save and recall preset mixes, and monitor with low latency — wherever you install ISA C8X in your studio. It also supports control of multiple connected interfaces simultaneously, so when expanding your setup via ADAT with other Focusrite Control 2-ready devices, you can switch between them and control each one directly from the app.

Backed by Focusrite

ISA C8X is future-proof and designed for reliability. It’s also backed by Focusrite’s three-year warranty and award-winning 24/7/365 technical support for added peace of mind

Key Features:

• 26-in, 28-out USB-C audio interface melding Focusrite’s flagship digital performance with its legendary console heritage
• 2 remote-controlled ISA preamps with Lundahl transformers deliver the warmth, depth, and authority of a classic Focusrite console
• ISA pres include balanced inserts, stepped Gain controls, switchable impedance, HPFs, Console/430 Air modes, and 79dB of gain
• 6 additional remote-controlled Focusrite mic pres with an analog Air mode, variable Drive DSP, and 69dB of gain
• 2 front-panel, transformer-based ISA Instrument inputs with selectable impedance, plus Console/430 Air modes
• 8 fixed‑gain balanced Line Inputs are ideal for patchbay setups and permanent installations
• 12 balanced Line Outputs support mono, stereo, and immersive formats up to 7.1.4 with 3 monitor groups
• Front‑panel or remote monitor switching with a professional +24dBu maximum output level
• Outputs 1 and 2 feature both XLR and TRS connectors for maximum flexibility
• 2 Class AB Headphones outputs with independent level control, optimized impedance, and extra headroom
• ADAT, S/PDIF, MIDI, and Word Clock provide ample digital connectivity
• Flagship-caliber 24‑bit/192kHz AD/DA converters derived from Focusrite’s top-of-the-line RedNet range
• Auto Gain automatically sets optimal levels across all 8 preamps
• Focusrite Control 2 software enables remote management, low‑latency monitoring, and complete recall of mixes and routing
• Backed by Focusrite’s 3‑year manufacturer’s warranty and award‑winning technical support
• Includes the Sonnox Oxford Reverb plugin and Hitmaker Expansion plugin bundle