Focusrite has announced the Scarlett OctoPre and Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic. Scarlett OctoPre provides eight Scarlett mic pres with up to 192kHz conversion and ADAT connectivity; Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic adds analogue compression and 8-channel D-A conversion.
With eight channels of Focusrite's 2nd generation Scarlett preamps and built-in Focusrite precision 24-bit/192 kHz conversion, the Scarlett OctoPres present a way of adding eight extra mic/line inputs to a DAW or digital console. And there are eight analogue line outputs for standalone use in a live sound environment.
Two Scarlett OctoPres are being released: the Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic adds analogue compression and D/A conversion to the standard Scarlett OctoPre.
The preamps feed precision 24-bit Focusrite A-D converters that operate up to 192kHz sampling with 109dB dynamic range, aiming to make the OctoPre’s ideal for hi-res audio recording. Dual ADAT ports enable eight channels to be used at sample rates up to 96kHz, while four channels can be transferred at 176.4/192kHz sampling. The Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic model adds eight channels of 24/192kHz D-A conversion too, with 108dB dynamic range, fed from dual ADAT inputs. A button switches the eight line outputs to be sourced from the ADAT inputs, via the D-A.
The eight 2nd generation Scarlett preamps has newly designed high-headroom instrument inputs. Both OctoPre’s provide phantom power throughout and accurate five-segment LED metering. The OctoPre offers a pad on every channel and front panel, high headroom instrument inputs. The OctoPre Dynamic comes with optimized headroom, capable of handling the same input levels as the standard OctoPre, plus analogue, soft-knee compression on every channel for natural and transparent control of dynamics, right up to more aggressive compression effects.
Scarlett OctoPre and Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic can help expand high-quality, multi-channel recording systems. With their high-headroom mic, line and dual instrument inputs, they're good for tracking drums as well as guitars, keyboards, vocals and more.
Key Features—common to both products
• Record with Scarlett mic pres: Eight 2nd generation Scarlett mic pres with mic/line inputs—including two instrument inputs—delivering gain, low noise and low distortion for studio quality recordings
• Focusrite precision A-D conversion: 109dB dynamic range precision Focusrite A-D conversion
• High-resolution audio: Supports 24-bit A-D conversion at sample rates up to 192kHz.
• Plug straight in: Two of the mic pres feature high headroom instrument inputs, with plenty of headroom to handle pick-ups without clipping or unwanted distortion.
• For drums: Preamps are optimized to handle extreme levels from sound sources like kick drum and snare.
• Eight line outputs: For live work—feed the line outputs into a live console while you record the digital outputs.
• Accurate metering and level control: Five-segment metering on every channel plus new generation gain controls for more accurate level settings.
• Simple ADAT connectivity: Connect Scarlett OctoPre via optical cables to any audio interface with ADAT inputs. Dual ADAT ports support eight channels of mic, line or instrument sources at up to 96 kHz and four channels at 176.4/192 kHz.
• 48V Phantom power: for condenser mics—phantom power is available on every channel.
• Digital clocking: Word Clock I/O for full integration with digital systems. Industry-standard JetPLL™ jitter elimination for stable clocking performance.
Additional Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic Features
• Eight channels of D-A: 109 dB range Focusrite precision 24-bit D-A conversion
• Analogue compression on every channel: Keep your inputs under control with easy-to use, all-analogue, single-control “soft-knee” compression system for a tighter sound. Natural and transparent in operation, you can also press the "More" button to double the ratio and use it as "compression with effect."
For more information, visit website.
