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Focusrite ISA ONE - Microphone Preamp

  • Price: $499.99
  • Click to see current price
  • B&H # FOISAONE
  • Mfr# ISA ONE ANALOG

Product Highlights

  • Single Channel
  • Transformer Based
  • Insert Point
  • Headphone Output

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The ISA One from Focusrite is a single channel, transformer-based microphone preamp, based on the original ISA 110 preamp that formed the cornerstone of each channel of the legendary Forte console. It features classic vintage topology and includes the Lundahl L1538 transformer and a custom Zobel network.

In addition to switchable input impedance settings for the microphone preamp, the unit includes a line input on XLR and 1/4" TRS phone jacks. An independent DI channel features a dedicated gain control, active or passive impedance switch, a 1/4" TRS output for routing to an amplifier, and an independent XLR output on the rear.

The ISA One features an insert point should the need arise to place extra signal processing between the preamp or DI, and the optional analog-to-digital converter. Phantom power, phase reverse and a 75Hz, 18dB/octave high-pass filter are also available from the angled front fascia.

Independent input metering for both channels is provided by a moving coil VU meter with variable calibration to suit analog and digital recording media, alongside two six-LED peak meters. Inputs can be metered either pre- or post-insert. The meter calibrations utilize the same reference points as Digidesign's Pro Tools HD systems, allowing effortless integration with Pro Tools.

Classic single-channel Focusrite microphone preamp with Independent DI
Ideal for both engineers and demanding performers alike, featuring independent gain control, an output for routing to an amp, an independent XLR output on the rear and routing to the optional ADC
Four, carefully selected, switchable input-impedance levels (including the original ISA 110 setting), to match or enhance the performance of any microphone
Headphone output with volume control can feed either a sum of the two inputs to the headphones output, or an external stereo cue mix (such as a stereo mix feed from an interface) via two TRS Jack inputs on the rear of the unit
Optional stereo 192kHz analog-to-digital conversion card utilizes cutting-edge conversion technology and Focusrite analog circuitry to deliver the highest A/D performance with a dynamic range of 119dB
Dedicated insert point allows the user to place extra processing such as an EQ or compressor, between the preamplifier or DI and the optional converter
Number of Channels Single
Inputs 1 x XLR Microphone
1 x XLR Line
1 x 1/4" TRS phone Line
1 x 1/4" TRS phone Instrument
1 x 1/4" TRS phone External Input
1 x 1/4" TRS phone Cue Left
1 x 1/4" TRS phone Cue Right
1 x 1/4" TRS phone Return
Output 1 x XLR Line
1 x XLR DI
1 x 1/4" TS DI Thru
1 x 1/4" TRS phone Send
1 x 1/4" TRS phone Headphone
Phantom Power 48V
Multi Function No
Gain Range Mic: 0dB to 60dB in 10dB steps with 20dB of variable gain
Line: -20dB to +10dB in 10dB steps with 20dB of variable gain
Maximum Output Level Not specified by manufacturer
Frequency Response 16Hz to 118kHz, -3.0dB @ maximum gain
Noise Mic SNR: 106dB
Line SNR: 120dB
Dimensions (WxDxH) 8.7 x 10/11.4 x 4.1" (220 x 254/290 x 104 mm)
Weight 8.6 lbs (3.9 kg)

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
FocusriteISA ONE - Microphone Preamp
 
4.7

(based on 3 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (2)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (1)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (0)

100%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • Excellent sound (3)

Cons

    Best Uses

    • Professional recording (3)

    Reviewed by 3 customers

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    Displaying reviews 1-3

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    5.0

    Great Utility Preamp

    By Larsenjazz

    from Cottage Grove, OR

    About Me Professional Musician

    Verified Reviewer

    Pros

    • Excellent Sound
    • Low Distortion
    • Powerful
    • Versatile

    Cons

    • No Quarter Inch Outs

    Best Uses

    • Home Studio
    • Performances
    • Professional Recording

    Comments about Focusrite ISA ONE - Microphone Preamp:

    The ISA One is a great option for most situations that need a strong signal to help their recording pop. This pre has 80db of gain total and is much hotter than may other mixer/stand alone pres.

    The sound quality is bright and full. On guitars it gives a wonderful "pump" on the top and keeps the high frequencey detailed. If you are not used to a strong pre, this one will definately make you feel like your other pres are dark and colorless.

    The only complaint I have for this pre is that on very delicate sources like pianos or strings, it can add too much mid tones and make the strings sound very processsed rather than natural. This is not a negitave so much as it is a comment on its best uses.

    Again great for horns, guitars, bass, drums, and any other source that needs a little bit of pump to make the sound fuller.

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    4.0

    Great price for great pre amp.

    By Leon

    from Oklahoma City, Ok

    About Me Experienced

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Easy To Use
    • Excellent Sound
    • Low Distortion
    • Versatile

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • Broadcast VOs
      • Performances
      • Professional Recording

      Comments about Focusrite ISA ONE - Microphone Preamp:

      I already have the ISA 428 and a ISA 220 so I knew the ISA ONE (which uses the same circuits)would sound great. It has a very polished quality and I love the package. If I need to go somewhere and only need one channel or need an extra channel I will grab the ISA ONE and go. Love the headphone output and the big VU meter.

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      (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

       
      5.0

      Great value and performance

      By DOI Digital Audio

      from Tampa, FL

      About Me Experienced

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Easy To Use
      • Excellent Sound
      • Portable

      Cons

        Best Uses

        • Amateur Recording
        • Home Studio
        • Professional Recording

        Comments about Focusrite ISA ONE - Microphone Preamp:

        I bought this to supplement my Manley and Presonus preamps in my studio. The ISA One is VERY transparent, and sounds great on any mic I plug into it. Plus the headphone out option is very handy when tracking vocalists in the booth so I can hear them while I'm arming and disarming tracks without any cutout in my monitors. Great value and very portable.

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        Cables

        Pearstone -  3-Pin XLR Male to 3-Pin XLR Female Audio Cable (6')
          • Original: $15.99
          • Save: $1.60
        • Price: $14.39
         

        Expansion Cards

        Focusrite -  ISA 8-Channel ADC - Expansion Card for ISA 828
        • Price: $499.99
         

        This is a special order item and is non-cancelable and non-returnable. Est. arrival at B&H is 6-10 weeks (subject to availability). Your order will be charged at time of shipment.

        Headphones

        Sony -  MDR-V6 Closed Back Stereo Studio Headphones
        • Price: $84.99
         
        View all Accessories

        What's in the Box

        Focusrite ISA ONE - Microphone Preamp
        • AC Power Cable
        • One (1) Year Warranty
         
         
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