Focusrite ISA 828 MkII – 8-Channel Rack-Mount Mic Preamp

Product Overview

The Focusrite ISA 828 MkII is an eight-channel microphone preamp engineered for permanent rack installation in professional recording, broadcast, and post-production facilities. It pairs eight of Focusrite's classic ISA mic preamps with Lundahl LL1538 input transformers, delivering the warm, open character that defined the original Focusrite Studio Console. As a rack-mount microphone preamp with switchable input impedance and an optional Dante A-D card, it serves multi-channel tracking, live capture, and audio-over-IP deployment from a single 2U chassis. A total 80dB gain range handles everything from low-output ribbon microphones to line-level sources.

Product Description

The ISA 828 MkII incorporates eight of Focusrite's classic mic preamps, each fed by a Lundahl LL1538 transformer for the low-noise, high-headroom front end that engineers rely on for critical tracking. Every channel selects between mic and line inputs, and channels 1-4 add front-panel instrument inputs with switchable High (2.4 MΩ) and Low (470 kΩ) impedance for direct guitar and synth capture. Variable input impedance across four settings — including the original ISA 110 voicing — lets system designers tailor the tonal interaction between preamp and microphone. Up to 60dB of gain plus 20dB of continuously variable trim provides an 80dB range that suits ribbon, dynamic, and condenser sources alike.

A per-channel high-pass filter (75Hz, 18dB/octave) controls rumble and stand-borne noise, while six-segment LED meters give fast visual confirmation of level on every channel. Switchable rear-panel insert points allow outboard compressors or EQs to be patched into the signal path when the optional A-D card is fitted. Dedicated connectors for mic and line sources let an integrator wire every input simultaneously, which makes the unit well suited to permanent commercial-grade rack deployment. A redesigned switching power supply runs cooler and more efficiently than the previous generation, improving long-term reliability in always-on installations. Adding the optional Focusrite ISA ADN8 A-D card delivers eight channels of Dante, ADAT, and AES3 output at up to 24-bit/192kHz, turning the unit into an audio-over-IP front end. Teams scaling channel count or comparing options can also review the four-channel Focusrite ISA 428 MkII and the wider Focusrite range at Creation Networks.

Key Features

• Eight Classic ISA Preamps — Eight transformer-based channels with Lundahl LL1538 inputs deliver the warm, high-headroom Focusrite sound across an entire ensemble or input list.
• Switchable Input Impedance — Four impedance settings, including the original ISA 110 voicing, let engineers match each preamp to the connected microphone for precise tonal control.
• 80dB Gain Range — Up to 60dB of gain plus 20dB of continuous trim accommodates low-output ribbons through to hot line-level sources without an external booster.
• Front-Panel Instrument Inputs — Channels 1-4 include DI inputs with High (2.4 MΩ) and Low (470 kΩ) impedance for direct guitar, bass, and synth recording.
• Per-Channel High-Pass Filters — A switchable 75Hz, 18dB/octave filter on every channel removes rumble and low-frequency stage noise at the source.
• Six-Segment LED Metering — Calibratable per-channel peak meters provide immediate, reliable level monitoring across all eight inputs.
• Switchable Insert Points — Rear-panel inserts let outboard dynamics and EQ processors sit in the signal chain when the A-D card is installed.
• Optional Dante / ADAT / AES3 A-D — The optional ISA ADN8 card adds eight channels of digital conversion up to 24-bit/192kHz for audio-over-IP and networked workflows.
• Efficient Switching Power Supply — A redesigned PSU runs cooler and draws less power, improving reliability for permanently installed, always-on systems.

Typical Applications

• Broadcast studio — Eight transformer-coupled preamps with optional Dante output suit multi-mic broadcast and on-air production racks.
• Recording and post-production — Simultaneous tracking of drum kits, ensembles, and voice talent for music and film/TV post workflows.
• House of worship — Networked, rack-mounted multi-channel capture for choirs, instruments, and spoken-word feeds.
• Auditorium and performance venues — Permanent install front end for live capture and audio-over-IP distribution.
• Education and training rooms — Reliable multi-channel teaching and lecture-capture infrastructure for media and audio programs.

Technical Specifications

Specifications sourced from Focusrite (us.focusrite.com).

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the ISA 828 MkII support Dante for audio-over-IP integration?
Dante is available through the optional ISA ADN8 A-D card, which adds eight channels of Dante, ADAT, and AES3 output at up to 24-bit/192kHz. The base unit is analog; the card is required for networked digital output.

How is the unit installed in a rack?
It is a standard 19-inch rack-mount chassis intended for permanent installation. Dedicated mic and line connectors allow all sources to be wired simultaneously, simplifying fixed commercial-grade integration.

What microphones and sources is it compatible with?
The four switchable impedance settings and 80dB gain range support dynamic, condenser, and ribbon microphones, plus line-level gear and front-panel instrument sources on channels 1-4.

Can outboard processors be patched into the signal path?
Yes. Switchable rear-panel insert points let you patch outboard compressors or EQ into each channel when the optional A-D card is fitted.

How does it integrate with a larger AV or recording system?
Analog DB-25 (AES59) line and insert connectors handle wiring to consoles and patchbays, while the optional ADN8 card connects the unit to Dante networks and ADAT/AES3 digital systems. It also pairs with the ISA 428 MkII for expanded channel counts.

What warranty and support are included?
Focusrite Pro hardware carries a three-year manufacturer warranty against manufacturing faults. For procurement, integration questions, or volume pricing, contact the Creation Networks team.