Focusrite ISA828 MkII 8-Channel Microphone Preamplifier
The Focusrite ISA828 MkII packs eight independent channels of legendary, transformer-based console preamplification into a single 2U rack chassis. Built around eight historic Lundahl LL1538 input transformers, this high-density front-end provides up to of clean, low-noise analog gain per channel. Ideal for tracking complete drum sets, full brass sections, or complex live ensembles, it delivers elite Rupert Neve-designed console heritage with maximum rack space efficiency.
Each channel features a four-position impedance selector switch allowing you to tailor how your microphone interacts with each Lundahl transformer.
To ensure cool, reliable operation in packed commercial machine rooms, the ISA828 MkII features an updated, highly efficient switching power supply that generates significantly less heat than its predecessor. For seamless, single-cable digital routing, it features an expansion slot for an optional high-performance A-D card (supporting Dante, AES3, and ADAT), allowing you to stream all eight premium channels directly to your DAW network.
Key Features
- Eight Lundahl LL1538 Input Transformers: The classic, industry-standard input transformers that give ISA preamps their signature warm low-end weight and open, airy highs.
- Up to 80dB of Linear Gain: Delivers abundant headroom and pristine, low-noise gain to easily power vintage dynamics, ribbon mics, and modern condensers alike.
- Front-Panel Instrument DIs: Channels 1–4 feature front-panel high-impedance () TS inputs for direct connection of guitars, basses, or synths.
- Variable High-Pass Filters: Fully adjustable from to with a steep /octave slope to target stage rumble and low-end buildup.
- DB-25 Hardware Inserts: Dedicated rear-panel DB-25 connections provide balanced insert send/return loops on every channel to easily patch in outboard dynamics and EQs.
- 6-Segment LED Input Meters: Fast-acting, clear LED meters on each channel ensure precise, sample-accurate level monitoring before your converters.
- Optional A-D Conversion Card: Supports an optional 8-channel A-D card to output high-resolution digital audio directly via ADAT optical, AES3, or Dante networks.
Specifications
- Preamplifier Type: Solid State with Eight Lundahl LL1538 Input Transformers
- Channel Count: 8 Channels
- Maximum Gain: Up to (Mic) / Up to (Instrument DI)
- Variable Impedance Settings: Low (), ISA 110 (), Medium (), High ()
- High-Pass Filter: Variable ( per octave slope)
- Analog Inputs (Rear): 8x XLR Microphone Inputs, 8x TRS Balanced Line Inputs (via 2x DB-25 connectors)
- Analog Inputs (Front): 4x TS Unbalanced Instrument DI Inputs (Channels 1–4 only)
- Analog Outputs: 8x XLR Balanced Line Outputs (via 1x DB-25 connector)
- Hardware Inserts: 8x Sends / 8x Returns (Balanced, via 2x DB-25 connectors; switchable per channel)
- Optional Digital Card: Focusrite ISA 8-Channel A-D Card (Dante, AES3, and ADAT)
- Chassis Format: 2U Standard 19" Rackmount
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FF-ISA-828-MK2
Focusrite ISA828 MkII 8-Channel Microphone Preamplifier
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