Focusrite ISA 828 MkII 8-Channel Mic Preamp

$3,499.99

5.0 (1)

$3,499.99

$3,182.68 9 available New

$3,343.63 1 available Used

$3,499.99

$3,499.99

$3,499.99

5.0 (2)

$3,299.00 $2,899.00 $400.00 · All time low

5.0 (1)

$3,499.99

Average Price: $3,393

High-end/Boutique

$599

$2000+

Price Tier

In the Preamps category, Focusrite ISA 828 MkII 8-Channel Mic Preamp is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Focusrite ISA 828 MkII 8-Channel Mic Preamp". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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For those seeking to capture every nuance of their sound, the Focusrite ISA 828 MkII 8-Channel Mic Preamp delivers eight channels of legendary Focusrite preamplification in a versatile 2U chassis. Known for its pristine audio quality, this preamp is an essential addition to any studio or live rig. The ISA 828 MkII stands out with its Lundahl LL1538 input transformers on each channel, ensuring the revered Focusrite sound is a constant in your setup.

Whether you're working with microphones, line-level signals, or direct inputs from instruments, the ISA 828 MkII offers a comprehensive range of connectivity options. Channels 1-4 feature front-panel instrument inputs, while every channel provides variable impedance settings, including the classic ISA 110 setting, to tailor the sound to your specific needs. This flexibility is complemented by high-pass filters, phase reverse, and a six-segment LED meter on each channel.

The preamp’s design also includes a slot for the optional ISA ADN8 A-D card, offering high-quality digital conversion to Dante, ADAT, and AES3 formats, supporting up to 24-bit/192kHz sampling rates. This adaptability makes it a perfect fit for both traditional studios and modern setups utilizing digital networking.

To sweeten the deal, the ISA 828 MkII includes the Brainworx bx_console Focusrite plug-in, a faithful recreation of the original Focusrite Studio Console modules, allowing you to infuse your mixes with the classic Focusrite character right in your DAW.

Key Features:

Eight mic/line preamps with Lundahl LL1538 input transformers
Front-panel instrument inputs on channels 1-4
Variable input impedance with classic ISA 110 setting
High-pass filter, phase reverse, and six-segment LED meter per channel
Slot for optional ISA ADN8 A-D card for digital conversion
Includes Brainworx bx_console Focusrite plug-in for authentic Focusrite sound in your DAW

Product specs

Preamp Type	Solid State
Number of Channels	8
Phantom Power	Yes
EQ	Highpass Filter (75Hz, 18dB/Octave, Switchable per Channel)
Sample Rate	Up to 192kHz
Bit Depth	Up to 24-bit
Analog Inputs	8 x XLR, 12 x 1/4" (8 Line, 4 Instrument), 1 X 8-Channel DB-25 (8 channels)
Analog Outputs	1 x DB-25 (8 channels)
Frequency Response	20Hz-20kHz (±0.1dB)
Software	RedNet Control
Rack Spaces	2U
Power Source	Standard IEC AC cable
Height	3.46"
Depth	12.80"
Width	18.98"
Weight	15.55 lbs.

FAQs

What type of preamp is the Focusrite ISA 828 MkII?: The Focusrite ISA 828 MkII is a solid-state preamp featuring eight channels, making it suitable for a variety of recording applications.
Does the Focusrite ISA 828 MkII provide phantom power for condenser microphones?: Yes, the Focusrite ISA 828 MkII offers phantom power, which is essential for powering condenser microphones.
Can I use the Focusrite ISA 828 MkII with instruments as well as microphones?: Yes, the Focusrite ISA 828 MkII includes front-panel instrument inputs on the first four channels, allowing you to connect both microphones and instruments.
What is the significance of the Lundahl LL1538 input transformer in the Focusrite ISA 828 MkII?: The Lundahl LL1538 input transformer is part of the classic ISA mic preamp design, known for delivering high-quality, transparent sound with a touch of analog warmth.
How does the Focusrite ISA 828 MkII handle different input impedance requirements?: The Focusrite ISA 828 MkII features switchable input impedance settings, including the classic ISA 110 setting, to accommodate various microphones and optimize performance.
What are the output options available on the Focusrite ISA 828 MkII?: The Focusrite ISA 828 MkII provides an 8-channel DB-25 analog output, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of recording setups.
Is the Focusrite ISA 828 MkII suitable for high-resolution recording?: Yes, with an optional A-D card, the Focusrite ISA 828 MkII supports up to 192kHz, 24-bit sampling, making it ideal for high-resolution recording applications.

Videos

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RecordingMag

RECORDING Video Review: Focusrite ISA 828MKII Classic ISA Preamp

RecordingMag

Focusrite ISA 828 MK ii - NAMM 2020

Sound On Sound magazine

ISA 828 MkII // Product Features // Focusrite Pro

Focusrite Pro

Focusrite ISA 828 MkII | Winter NAMM 2020 | Vintage King Audio

Vintage King

ISA ADN8 + ISA 828 MkII // Features Guide // Focusrite Pro

Focusrite Pro

Mic Preamp Shoot Out! Download multitrack files and judge for yourself!

mutech.media.australia

Reviews

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PROS

Extremely low noise floor for clean recordings
Versatile with multiple input/output options and DI circuit
Transparent sound, ideal for those who prefer minimal coloration
High headroom and low distortion for dynamic recordings
Notched Gain and Linear Trim for precise control
Solid build quality with portable design features
Suitable for both home and professional studio environments
Integrated VU meter and send/return features
Handles a variety of instruments well, especially vocals and bass
Compatible with Dante networks, enhancing workflow integration

CONS

Bulky design can be cumbersome in smaller studio setups
Lacks TRS outputs; only XLR output available
Not rack-mountable, which might be inconvenient for some setups

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Focusrite ISA 828 MkII 8-Channel Mic Preamp.

Comparisons

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The ISA preamp is transformer balanced, offering more heft and a pleasing high-end compared to Scarlett and Red4Pre interfaces.
Source
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The ISA 828 MkII is compared favorably to the API 3124 for its affordable price, offering similar professional-grade preamps and DIs.
Source
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Users note that Focusrite's lower-end preamps don't match the quality of the ISA range, emphasizing the 828 MkII's superior performance.
Source

Features and functionality

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Users describe the ISA preamp as having a "hifi holographic" high-end, being clean yet warm and round.
Source
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Praised for its clean gain capabilities, making it suitable for low-output mics like the Royer R-121 and AKG D112 MkII.
Source

Use cases and applications

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Highly rated for use with Shure SM57 and SM58 microphones, delivering a big and silky sound.
Source
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Considered exceptional for vocal recordings, with a reputation dating back to the 1990s.
Source
0 0

The Focusrite ISA 828 MkII is recommended for use with ribbon mics like the Royer R-121, providing necessary clean gain and headroom.
Source
0 0

Ideal for setups requiring multiple simultaneous mic inputs, as it accommodates users needing at least four channels for diverse mic arrays.
Source

Value and pricing

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The ISA 428 model is noted for offering value at approximately $250 per channel when bought used.
Source

Critic Reviews

Review: Focusrite ISA 828 MkII Classic ISA Preamp

recordingmag.com

The Focusrite ISA 828 MkII is a powerhouse for audio engineers seeking classic ISA 110 tone with modern connectivity. Its eight channels of Rupert Neve-designed preamps deliver a balanced, smooth sound, perfect for any musical style. The unit shines with its impressive gain, handling any microphone or instrument with ease. The addition of digital expansion cards enhances its versatility, making it a robust ADAT and Dante expansion box. While it lacks digital to analog conversion, the ISA 828 MkII remains future-proof and adaptable. If you're in the market for rich preamp character and cutting-edge network capabilities, this is a top contender.

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Artist usage

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Jacob Bugden

Guitarist, Music Producer

Verified via Photo

In this Instagram story posted on the 13th of January 2026, we can see Jacob's studio setup which includes the Focusrite ISA 828 MkII 8-Channel Mic Preamp

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Rock

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