Focusrite unveils ISA C8X, its first ISA audio interface built on Rupert Neve’s preamp legacy

Focusrite has launched the ISA C8X, the first audio interface to carry its iconic ISA name.

Built around the Lundahl LL1538 transformer circuit originally selected by audio engineer Rupert Neve in 1985, the new 26-in, 28-out USB-C anodised aluminium rack unit blends classic analogue character with modern workflow tools, multichannel monitoring, and full remote control.

The interface features two ISA mic preamps with up to 79dB of gain, switchable impedance, balanced inserts, and high-pass filtering, making them suitable for a wide range of microphones including ribbons and low-output dynamics. The two ISA preamps also include two analogue processing modes: Console mode, which adds subtle saturation and low-end punch, and 430 Air mode, inspired by the ISA 430 MkII, which adds high-end shimmer through an inductor-based high-shelf filter.

Alongside these are six ultra-low-noise Focusrite mic preamps offering up to 69dB of gain, all of which can be controlled remotely through Focusrite’s Control 2 software (available as desktop or mobile app). Two front-panel instrument inputs also run through the Lundahl transformer circuitry for a console-like feel.

Conversion is handled by the same 24-bit/192kHz AD/DA converters used in Focusrite’s RedNet range, delivering up to 125dB of dynamic range. On the output side, 12 balanced line outputs support monitoring setups ranging from mono through to 7.1.4, with up to three monitor groups switchable from the front panel or via Focusrite Control 2. The unit also includes two independent class AB headphone outputs, plus ADAT, S/PDIF, MIDI, and word clock I/O for further digital expansion.

Focusrite says the ISA C8X is designed to bridge its heritage with modern workflow demands.

“ISA is what Focusrite was founded upon, and it’s been beloved by artists and engineers worldwide for over 40 years. The essence of the ISA sound remains the same, but we’ve taken big leaps forward in modernising the workflow,” says Jack Cole, Product Manager at Focusrite.

The interface ships with the Hitmaker Expansion bundle, which includes the Brainworx bx_console Focusrite SC and Oxford Reverb by Sonnox plugins, alongside additional production tools. Focusrite is also offering optional Sonnox ISA Essentials and ISA Elite bundles for deeper mixing and mastering workflows.

The ISA C8X is priced at $2299.99/£1899.99/€1848,73.

Learn more at Focusrite.