Focusrite ISA 828MKII

More Mic Inputs For Less

You can enjoy the benefits of Focusrite’s classic heritage sound in many ways, but one of the most cost-effective is with the ISA 828, which includes eight Focusrite transformer-based mic preamps in a compact 2U package, along with front panel instrument ins and rear panel line inputs.

The Focusrite ISA mic preamp is based closely on the original design created by Rupert Neve in 1985 for Sir George Martin’s AIR Studios. Virtually unchanged over the years, the ISA mic preamp delivers the warm, full sound that could be just what you’re looking for – and if you use a significant number of microphones at once, the ISA828 is for you.

Additional Mic Versatility

We just made one significant change to the design, and that was to add three additional input impedances to the original vintage ISA110 setting. Ranging from low to high impedance, the four settings enable you to get the very best sound from a vintage mic – it’s after all what the ISA was originally designed for – but also get a clean, transparent sound from the microphones of today. Or you can enhance a particular feature of your favourite microphones. Indeed, ISA makes the perfect match for any mic. There’s also a vintage design 75Hz / 18dB per octave high pass filter on each channel for detailed control of the bass end.

The Ins and the Outs

Four front-panel direct instrument inputs are also provided, with high and low impedance settings for extra versatility, and the input side is rounded out by eight TRS rear-panel line inputs. With convenient 25-pin D-type output connectors, ISA 828 is easy to interface with Avid Pro Tools | HD™ and other popular recording systems and consoles. There’s also an optional 8-channel A/D converter available with 122dB dynamic range and sampling up to 192kHz. An insert is available on each channel between the preamp and the A-D. 6-LED meters let you know exactly what is going on, and use the same reference points as Pro Tools | HD.