Focusrite ISA C8X 26x28 USB-C 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 studio, plus switchable impedance, balanced inserts, and high-pass filtering. The first two channels feature ISA preamps with classic Lundahl LL1538 transformers and Console and 430 Air modes for new tonal options. All eight are fully controllable from the front panel and via Focusrite Control 2.

The ISA sound, evolved
The ISA story starts in 1985 with a request from Sir George Martin to Rupert Neve: build a no-compromise mic preamp. That circuit became the foundation of every ISA product made since. 40 years on, it lives in ISA C8X - Focusrite's first ISA audio interface, housed in anodized aluminum in Focusrite's original blue color, with heritage transformer sound in a 26-in, 28-out USB-C interface built for the modern studio.

Transformer-based DI inputs - Guitar, bass, and more
Two front-panel instrument inputs routed through the Lundahl transformers for true console feel. Selectable impedance preserves the natural tone of guitar, bass, and other instruments. Console and 430 Air add warmth and depth.

Two ISA transformer preamps - Lundahl LL1538, 79dB of gain
Lundahl LL1538 transformers deliver warm, rich character to any signal. Up to 79dB of gain, switchable impedance, balanced inserts, and high-pass filtering - all remotely controllable from the front panel and via Focusrite Control 2.

All-analogue tone - Console and 430 Air modes
ISA C8X features two analogue, relay-switchable tone circuits - Console mode adds warm saturation and low-end punch, while the 430 Air Mode adds high-end shimmer - lifted directly from the ISA 430 MkII. Both are controllable from the front panel or via Focusrite Control 2.

Multichannel Auto Gain - Eight preamps, set in seconds
Enable Auto Gain and ISA C8X sets optimal levels across all eight preamps simultaneously - ideal for any session where time matters. Activate Auto Gain from the front panel or via Focusrite Control 2.

Six ultra-low-noise preamps - 69dB of gain, per channel
Six Focusrite mic preamps for capturing every nuance. 69dB of detailed gain per channel, analogue Air mode for added presence, and variable Drive for harmonic saturation - all remotely controllable from the front panel or via Focusrite Control 2.

Two headphone outputs - Independent, high-headroom
Two class AB headphone outputs with independent level control, extra headroom, and 3 Ohm output impedance deliver up to 130mW of detailed playback with up to 116dB of dynamic range to keep performers comfortable and focused in any session.

Digital expansion - ADAT, S/PDIF, and Word Clock
Expand ISA C8X with 16 additional channels of I/O over ADAT. S/PDIF, MIDI and Word Clock connectivity make ISA C8X the MIDI and clock hub of any professional setup.

12 balanced line outputs - Mono to 7.1.4
12 balanced line outputs with three monitor groups. Work in mono, stereo, or up to 7.1.4, switching between setups from the front panel or via Focusrite Control 2. Outputs one and two available on both XLR and TRS.

Eight fixed-gain line inputs - Built for permanent installs
Designed for patchbay setups and permanent installations, the eight fixed-gain balanced line inputs let you connect outboard gear once and leave it. No re-patching between sessions. +24dBu maximum input level and 120dB of dynamic range.

Monitor outputs - XLR and TRS connectivity
Outputs one and two on the rear panel are available on both XLR and TRS, giving you the flexibility to connect to whatever monitoring setup is in your studio. A professional +24dBu maximum output level ensures consistent line-up levels throughout.

Balanced insert points - Connect your outboard gear
Two balanced insert points sit in the signal path of the two ISA preamps - the ideal place to route through outboard compressors, EQs, and other processors before your signal hits the DAW.

One interface for any session

Expand your setup
Add up to 16 channels with ADAT optical ports as your needs grow. ISA C8X also operates in standalone mode to pass audio signals even when not connected to a computer.

Permanent installations
Eight dedicated line and mic inputs make ISA C8X ideal for patchbay setups. Balanced insert sends and returns on both ISA preamps let you connect outboard gear once and never have to re-patch between sessions.

Create immersive mixes
Twelve balanced outputs and three monitor groups allow you to mix in stereo or all the way up to 7.1.4, with monitor switching from the front panel or Focusrite Control 2.

Heritage sound with total control
The two ISA preamps at the heart of ISA C8X feature the same Lundahl LL1538 transformers Rupert Neve chose in 1985. Warm, rich, and detailed on any source, with up to 79dB of gain, switchable impedance, and balanced inserts - and for the first time in ISA's storied history, remotely controllable via Focusrite Control 2.

All-analogue tone
ISA gives you two relay-switchable analogue circuits. Console mode introduces warm saturation and low-end punch via a variable soft-clip circuit. 430 Air, lifted directly from the ISA 430 MkII, adds high-end shimmer through an inductor-based high-shelf filter. Both are completely analogue with full-bodied sound.

Focusrite Control 2
With Focusrite Control 2 for desktop, adjust ISA C8X's settings from your mixing position even when the unit isn't within reach. Control preamps, Auto Gain, and analogue tone modes without leaving the sweet spot. Fine-tune settings from your phone or tablet with the iOS and Android app.

Remote-control recording

Control directly from your mobile device
Available on macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android. Adjust gain and headphone mix levels from anywhere in the studio. Focusrite Control 2 keeps every setting within reach.

Send signals anywhere
Route audio across 26 inputs and 28 outputs and use up to three monitor groups - ideal for studios running multiple sets of speakers.

Customized, low-latency mixes
Create headphone mixes for every performer. Monitor inputs directly in Focusrite Control 2 with low latency that gives artists the immediacy they need to deliver their best performance.