Focusrite ISA C8X 26-In/28-Out USB-C Audio Interface

Overview

The Focusrite ISA C8X is a professional 26-in/28-out USB-C audio interface that combines the renowned ISA preamp sound with extensive analogue and digital connectivity, remote control, and flexible studio routing. Designed for demanding recording, mixing, permanent installations, and immersive production, it features eight remote-controlled preamps, including two transformer-based ISA channels with Lundahl LL1538 transformers.

With 24-bit/192kHz conversion, up to 125dB dynamic range, 12 balanced line outputs, dual headphone outputs, ADAT expansion, S/PDIF, MIDI, Word Clock, balanced inserts, and comprehensive monitor control, ISA C8X provides a powerful centrepiece for modern professional studios.

Key Features

• 26-in/28-out USB-C audio interface in a 2U rackmount format
• Eight remote-controlled microphone preamps with up to 79dB of gain
• Two ISA preamps with Lundahl LL1538 input transformers
• Six additional Focusrite microphone preamps with up to 69dB of gain
• Analogue Console and 430 Air modes on the two ISA channels
• Two transformer-based front-panel instrument inputs
• Eight fixed-gain balanced line inputs for patchbay and permanent installations
• Two balanced insert sends and returns for external processors
• 12 balanced line outputs with three independent monitor groups
• 24-bit/192kHz AD/DA conversion with up to 125dB dynamic range
• Two independent high-headroom headphone outputs
• Up to 16 channels of ADAT input and output at 44.1/48kHz
• S/PDIF, MIDI and Word Clock connectivity
• Talkback and loopback functionality
• Remote control, routing, monitoring, and recall through Focusrite Control 2

ISA Transformer Microphone Preamps

Channels 1 and 2 feature Focusrite's ISA microphone preamp design with Lundahl LL1538 transformers, delivering the detailed, rich character associated with the ISA range. With up to 79dB of gain, switchable input impedance, a 75Hz high-pass filter, and balanced inserts, these channels provide flexible control for microphones and other sources.

Console and 430 Air Modes

ISA C8X adds two analogue tonal circuits inspired by Focusrite's ISA heritage. Console mode introduces variable saturation and low-end punch, while 430 Air mode adds high-frequency lift and shimmer. Both modes can be controlled directly from the hardware or remotely through Focusrite Control 2.

Six Additional Focusrite Preamps

Channels 3–8 provide six ultra-low-noise Focusrite microphone preamps with up to 69dB of gain. They include analogue Air processing and variable Drive for adding presence and harmonic character, making ISA C8X suitable for multi-microphone recording sessions ranging from vocals and acoustic instruments to drums and ensembles.

Transformer-Based Instrument Inputs

Two front-panel instrument inputs are routed through the Lundahl transformers for a distinctive recording path suited to guitar, bass, keyboards, and other direct sources. Switchable impedance settings help preserve the natural response of connected instruments.

Flexible Analogue I/O and Inserts

Eight fixed-gain balanced line inputs make ISA C8X particularly practical for studios using patchbays or permanently connected outboard equipment. The two ISA channels also feature balanced insert sends and returns, allowing compressors, EQs, and other processors to be placed directly into the analogue signal path before recording.

Professional Monitoring and Outputs

Twelve balanced line outputs provide extensive monitoring and routing flexibility, with three monitor groups and support for mono, stereo, and immersive configurations up to 7.1.4. Outputs 1 and 2 are available on both XLR and TRS connections, while two independent headphone outputs provide separate level control for performers and engineers.

Digital Expansion

ISA C8X can expand your recording system through dual ADAT optical connections, providing up to 16 additional channels of digital I/O at 44.1 or 48kHz. S/PDIF, MIDI, and Word Clock connections further integrate the interface with external converters, instruments, digital processors, and studio clocking systems.

Focusrite Control 2

Focusrite Control 2 provides convenient remote access to preamp settings, gain, routing, monitoring, headphone mixes, Auto Gain, and analogue tone controls. Settings can be saved and recalled for repeat sessions, while the desktop software and mobile app allow control from macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android devices.

Multichannel Auto Gain

Auto Gain can automatically set appropriate recording levels across all eight preamps simultaneously. This is especially useful for multi-microphone sessions such as drum recording, live ensembles, and fast-paced studio setups where efficient level preparation is essential.

High-Resolution Conversion

ISA C8X uses 24-bit/192kHz AD/DA conversion based on technology shared with Focusrite's RedNet range. With up to 125dB of dynamic range, it provides the resolution required for detailed recording, monitoring, mixing, and immersive production.

Typical Uses

• Professional music recording and production
• Multi-microphone drum and ensemble sessions
• Vocal and instrument tracking
• Commercial and project studios
• Patchbay-based studio installations
• Outboard processing and hybrid mixing
• Immersive and surround mixing up to 7.1.4
• Studio monitoring with multiple speaker groups
• Expansion of existing digital recording systems through ADAT
• Professional studio routing, recall, and remote control

Specifications

• Type: USB-C audio interface
• Simultaneous I/O: 26-in/28-out via USB
• Form Factor: 2U rackmount
• Microphone Preamps: 8
• ISA Preamps: Channels 1–2 with Lundahl LL1538 transformers
• ISA Preamp Gain Range: Up to 79dB
• Additional Mic Preamp Gain: Up to 69dB
• Instrument Inputs: 2
• Fixed-Level Line Inputs: 8
• Balanced Insert Sends/Returns: 2
• Line Outputs: 12
• Headphone Outputs: 2
• ADAT: 2 inputs and 2 outputs, up to 16 channels at 44.1/48kHz
• S/PDIF: 2-channel input and output
• MIDI: 1 input and 1 output
• Word Clock: 1 input and 1 output
• Loopback: Yes
• Talkback: Yes
• Sample Rates: 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4 and 192kHz
• Resolution: 24-bit
• Maximum Line Output Level: +24dBu
• Line Output Dynamic Range: 125dB A-weighted
• ISA Input Dynamic Range: 117dB A-weighted
• Additional Mic Input Dynamic Range: 116dB A-weighted
• Line Input Dynamic Range: 120dB A-weighted
• Dimensions: 482mm × 325mm × 88mm
• Weight: Approximately 5.6kg
• Power: External 40W

What's Included

• Focusrite ISA C8X Audio Interface
• USB-C to USB-C Cable
• USB-A Male to USB-C Female Adapter
• AC Mains Cable with IEC Connector
• Four Push-In Silicone Feet

Included Software

ISA C8X includes Focusrite's Hitmaker Expansion and Oxford Reverb as standard, providing a collection of recording and mixing tools for getting started with a professional software workflow.

Why Choose the Focusrite ISA C8X?

The Focusrite ISA C8X brings classic ISA transformer character together with modern USB connectivity, extensive analogue and digital I/O, flexible monitoring, remote control, and high-resolution conversion. Its combination of eight preamps, flexible routing, ADAT expansion, immersive monitoring support, and professional studio connectivity makes it a versatile centrepiece for demanding recording and mixing environments.