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ISA C8X overview

Updated

Welcome to the user guide for your ISA C8X.

Introduction to the ISA C8X

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ISA C8X combines trademark ISA detail and clarity with comprehensive remote control and all the studio-quality analogue and digital I/O, routing, and recallability you need to run your entire setup. Two Lundahl transformer-based ISA preamps are paired with a new all-analogue Console mode for variable saturation and low-end punch, 430 Air mode provides high-end lift, switchable impedance, balanced inserts, and high-pass filtering — all controllable from the front panel and via the Focusrite Control 2 software.

  • 2U rack-mounted, 26×28 USB audio interface 

    Capture, route, and mix sessions of any size with 26 inputs and 28 outputs of pristine 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 preamp. 

    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 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 

    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 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 for up to 24 channels of recording with compatible ADAT-enabled gear, 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.

Note

To download this user guide in PDF format, go to: downloads.focusrite.com.

This is Version 2.0 of the ISA C8X user guide.

What's in the box?

  • Focusrite ISA C8X

  • USB-C to C cable

  • USB-A (male) to C (female) adaptor

  • AC mains cable with IEC connector

  • Four push-in silicone feet

System Requirements

The easiest way to check your computer’s operating system (OS) is compatible with your device is to use our Help Centre’s compatibility articles:

Focusrite Help Centre: Compatibility

As new OS versions become available, you can check for further compatibility information by searching our Help Centre at support.focusrite.com.

Software System Requirements

To check we support Focusrite Control 2 on your operating system (OS) please use our Help Centre’s compatibility articles:

Focusrite Help Centre: Compatibility 

As new Focusrite Control 2 or OS versions become available, you can check compatibility information by searching our Help Centre at:

support.focusrite.com 

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