Focusrite ISA C8X 26x28 USB-C Audio Interface
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Product highlights
In the box
In the box
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Free standard shipping
*Orders placed before 1 PM EST Mon - Thur will ship the same day. Orders placed beyond these hours will be shipped the next business day. Exclusions apply. See shipping policy
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Free Local Pickup
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Focusrite ISA C8X 26x28 USB-C Audio Interface
A high channel-count USB-C audio interface designed for advanced recording and mixing setups that require flexible routing, transformer-based preamps, and integration with external gear and patchbay systems.
Transformer-Based ISA Preamps
The unit includes two ISA mic preamps equipped with Lundahl LL1538 transformers that provide clean signal capture with optional tonal shaping when driven. This allows recordings to retain detail while adding subtle harmonic character when needed.
Remote-Controlled Mic Preamps
It features six additional Focusrite mic preamps that can be controlled remotely through software, offering up to 69 dB of gain for multi-mic recording setups. This makes it easier to manage large sessions with consistent gain control.
Console Mode Analog Saturation
Console Mode introduces an analog saturation circuit that increases harmonics as the input level is driven higher. This gives users the option to add controlled warmth and density directly at the input stage without external processing.
430 Air High-Frequency Enhancement
The 430 Air mode adds a high-frequency lift inspired by classic ISA circuitry to increase clarity and presence. This helps improve vocal intelligibility and instrument definition in recordings.
Instrument Inputs with Impedance Control
The front-panel instrument inputs feature selectable impedance and pass through the same transformer-based circuitry as the mic inputs. This preserves the natural tone of guitars and bass while allowing tonal variation through impedance selection.
Expanded Input and Output Routing
The interface provides multiple line inputs and outputs designed for patchbay integration and multichannel monitoring setups. This allows users to connect external processors and monitor systems without constant re-patching.
High-Resolution AD/DA Conversion
It uses 24-bit / 192 kHz converters with high dynamic range and low distortion to maintain audio accuracy during recording and playback. This ensures consistent sound quality throughout the production chain.
Dual Independent Headphone Outputs
Two separate headphone outputs are included, each with independent level control for flexible monitoring. This supports multiple users during recording sessions with individual mix control.
USB-C and Remote Control Workflow
The interface is managed through USB-C connectivity and Focusrite Control software, allowing full access to routing, gain, and monitoring functions. This enables efficient session management even in complex studio setups.
- 8x XLR 3-Pin Balanced Mic Input
- 8x 1/4 in TRS Balanced Line Input
- 2x 1/4 in TS Unbalanced Hi-Z Input
- 2x XLR 3-Pin Balanced Line/Main Output
- 12x 1/4 in TRS Balanced Line Output
- 2x 1/4 in TRS Headphone Output
- 2x 1/4 in TRS Insert Send
- 2x 1/4 in TRS Insert Return
- 2x TOSLINK Optical ADAT Input
- 1x 1/8 in / 3.5 mm Coaxial S/PDIF Input
- 2x TOSLINK Optical ADAT Output
- 1x 1/8 in / 3.5 mm Coaxial S/PDIF Output
- 1x BNC Word Clock Input
- 1x BNC Word Clock Output
- 1x DIN 5-Pin Input
- 1x DIN 5-Pin Output
- Mic/Insert Inputs: +16 dBu
- Line Inputs: +24 dBu
- Hi-Z: +14 dBu
- Line Outputs: +24 dBu
- Headphone Outputs: +11 dBu (at 600 Ohms)
- 130 mW per Channel into 33 Ohms
- 14 mW per Channel into 600 Ohms
- Mic Inputs: 800 to 7000 Ohms
- Hi-Z Inputs: 400 Kilohms, 1.2 Megohms
- Headphone Outputs: 3 Ohms
- Hi-Z Inputs: 117 dBA
- Line Inputs: 120 dBA
- Mic Inputs: 117 dBA (ISA Mic Inputs)
- 116 dBA (Normal Mic Inputs)
- Headphone Outputs: 114 dB (at 33 Ohms)
- 116 dB (at 600 Ohms)
- Line Outputs: 125 dBA
- Mic Inputs: -93 dB / 0.0023% (ISA Mic Pres)
- -100 dB / 0.001%
- Line Inputs: < -105 dB / 0.00056%
- Hi-Z Inputs: -89 dB / 0.0036%
- Line Outputs: -113 dB / 0.00023%
- Headphone Outputs: -102 dB (at 33 Ohms)
- -110 dB (at 600 Ohms)
- -128 dB A-Weighted (ISA Mic Pres)
- -127 dB A-Weighted
General
| Display | 3x Color Multi-Segment LED Meter |
| Built-In DSP | No |
| Maximum Sampling Rate | 192 kHz / 24-Bit |
| Number of Microphone Inputs | 8 |
| Built-In Microphone | No |
| Input Level Adjustment | 6x Knob Automatic |
Signal Processing
| Pad | No |
| Gain/Trim Range | Mic Inputs: Up to 79 dB |
| Mic/Line Inputs | Up to 69 dB |
| High-Pass Filter | 75 Hz, 18 dB/Octave |
| Solo/Mute | No |
Connectivity
| Analog Audio I/O | |
| Phantom Power | 48 V, Selectable On/Off (Selectable on Individual Inputs) |
| Digital Audio I/O | |
| Host Connection / USB | 1x USB-C |
| Host Connection Protocol | USB 2.0 |
| USB (Non-Host) | No |
| Sync I/O | |
| Network I/O | No |
| MIDI I/O | |
| Expansion Slots | No |
| Wireless | No |
Performance
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz to 20 kHz |
| Maximum Input Level | |
| Maximum Output Level | |
| Headphone Output Power | |
| Impedance | |
| Dynamic Range | |
| THD+N | |
| EIN | Mic Inputs: |
Digital Audio
| Sample Rates | Up to 192 kHz |
| Sample Rate Conversion | No |
| Bit Depths | 24-Bit |
| Sync Sources | MIDI Time Code (MTC), Word Clock |
| Clocking | Internal |
Audio Storage & Playback
| Media/Memory Card Slot | No |
Compatibility
| OS Compatibility | macOS / Windows |
| Mobile Device Compatibility | No |
| Required Hardware | USB-C Port |
Power
| Power Requirements | AC Input |
| AC Input Power | Universal: 100 to 240 VAC, 50 / 60 Hz |
| Power Consumption | 40 W (Maximum) |
Physical
| Rackmount Size | 2 U |
| Dimensions | 19 in / 48.3 cm |
Packaging Info
| Package Weight | 20.045 lb |
| Box Dimensions (LxWxH) | 25.2 x 17.4 x 5.9 in |
Shipping & Returns
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I return an item?
How do I return an item?
Returns are incredibly simple. Please log into your account, find your item you wish to return and follow the prompts to make a return. If you do not have an account, click here to find your order and make a return.
Will I receive a full refund when I return an item?
Will I receive a full refund when I return an item?
You will receive a full refund when you return an item in its original manufacturer’s packaging, undamaged and unmarked. If the item you are returning is priced at less than $35, you will be charged a 15% restocking fee. Please note you will not be refunded any shipping charges.
How many days do I have to make a return?
How many days do I have to make a return?
You have 30 days to make a return. During the holiday season, from November 1 to December 31, we extend the return window to 60 days.
My item was damaged in transit. How do I place a return?
My item was damaged in transit. How do I place a return?
If your order has been noticeably damaged in transit, we strongly recommend that you refuse delivery and notify us immediately. Claims for missing items or items damaged in transit must be made within 48 hours of delivery. If there is carrier damage, please contact support@focuscamera.com with your order number and a description of the damage.
There’s an issue with my order, what should I do?
There’s an issue with my order, what should I do?
Oh no! Please contact our customer service team so we can resolve the issue immediately. You can call us on 1.800.221.0828, email us at support@focuscamera.com, or send us a message here.
Can I exchange an item?
Can I exchange an item?
We do not currently offer exchanges. Please return the item you purchased within 30 days and order what you’d like instead.
If I ordered a kit, do I have to return all the items?
If I ordered a kit, do I have to return all the items?
If you ordered a kit, you must return all components and accessories to receive a full refund.
I ordered a product that included a free item. I’d like to return it, do I need to return the free item as well?
I ordered a product that included a free item. I’d like to return it, do I need to return the free item as well?
If you ordered a product that included a free item, you must include the free item with your return. If not, your return will not be accepted and you will not receive a full refund.
Do you offer repairs?
Do you offer repairs?
We currently only offer camera repairs at our Brooklyn store. The item must be dropped off and collected in person as we do not accept shipped items for repair. For more information, please call our Brooklyn store on 1.718.431.7900.
What is your return policy?
What is your return policy?
Most items can be returned within 30 days for a full refund. Click here to read our full return policy.
