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Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Focusrite ISA428 MkII". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Dive into the realm of pristine audio with the Focusrite ISA428 MkII 4-channel Microphone Preamp, a cornerstone of studio quality that bridges the gap between vintage charm and modern fidelity. Drawing inspiration from the legendary ISA110 module, designed by Rupert Neve, this second-generation preamp honors its heritage with the iconic Lundahl LL1538 input transformer and introduces a touch of modernity with variable input impedance. Whether capturing the nuanced timbre of classical instruments or the raw energy of rock vocals, the ISA428 MkII offers unmatched versatility and sonic purity.
The ISA428 MkII not only provides four premium microphone preamps but also welcomes instruments directly through its front-panel inputs, eliminating the need for DI boxes and streamlining your recording setup. With switchable insert points on each channel, integrating external processors is a breeze, allowing for creative signal chain configurations. The inclusion of a vintage-style variable high-pass filter on each channel ensures precise control over the lower frequencies, ensuring your recordings are clear and balanced. For those looking to expand their digital horizons, an optional eight-channel A-D converter is available, boasting 122dB dynamic range and impeccable jitter performance, making the ISA428 MkII a formidable link between analog warmth and digital precision.
Key Features:
- Four renowned Focusrite ISA series microphone preamps for unparalleled audio quality
- Variable input impedance, including the classic ISA110 setting for mic matching versatility
- Direct instrument inputs on the front panel for easy accessibility
- Analog insert points on every channel for flexible signal processing
- High-pass filters on each channel for precise bass control
- Ultra-precise 6-LED metering for accurate level monitoring
- Optional 8-channel A-D converter for seamless digital integration
- Comes with the Brainworx bx_console Focusrite plug-in, offering an authentic emulation of the iconic ISA 110 and ISA 130 modules
Owner's manual
Focusrite ISA428 MkII User ManualProduct specs
| Preamp Type | Solid State |
| Number of Channels | 4 |
| Phantom Power | Yes |
| Analog Inputs | 4 x XLR (Mic), 4 x 1/4" (Line), 4 x 1/4" (Hi-Z), 4 x 1/4" (Returns), 4 x XLR (Aux) |
| Analog Outputs | 4 x XLR, 4 x 1/4" (Sends) |
| Digital Outputs | Optional A/D expansion card available (digital DB25, optical) |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-122kHz |
| Rack Spaces | 2U |
| Height | 3.5" |
| Depth | 11" |
| Width | 19" |
| Weight | 12.2 lbs. |
FAQs
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What type of preamp is the Focusrite ISA428 MkII?
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The Focusrite ISA428 MkII is a solid state preamp, known for its clean and transparent sound, making it ideal for capturing detailed recordings.
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How many channels does the Focusrite ISA428 MkII offer?
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The Focusrite ISA428 MkII provides 4 channels, allowing you to connect multiple microphones or instruments simultaneously for versatile recording setups.
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Does the Focusrite ISA428 MkII support phantom power?
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Yes, the Focusrite ISA428 MkII includes phantom power, which is necessary for powering condenser microphones.
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What are the analog input options on the Focusrite ISA428 MkII?
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The Focusrite ISA428 MkII features 4 XLR mic inputs, 4 1/4" line inputs, 4 1/4" Hi-Z inputs, 4 1/4" returns, and 4 XLR aux inputs for flexible connectivity.
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Can the Focusrite ISA428 MkII be expanded with digital outputs?
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Yes, the Focusrite ISA428 MkII can be expanded with an optional A/D card, providing digital DB25 and optical outputs for enhanced digital connectivity.
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What is the frequency response of the Focusrite ISA428 MkII?
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The Focusrite ISA428 MkII has a frequency response of 20Hz to 122kHz, ensuring a wide range of accurate sound reproduction.
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How much rack space does the Focusrite ISA428 MkII require?
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The Focusrite ISA428 MkII requires 2U of rack space, making it suitable for integration into standard studio rack setups.
Videos
Austin Burcham
Focusrite Preamps: LS56 vs. Octopre MKII Dyn vs. ISA 428 MKII
Focusrite Preamps: LS56 vs. Octopre MKII Dyn vs. ISA 428 MKII
Austin Burcham
Focusrite ISA 428 MkII - AES 2010
Sound On Sound magazine
Win An ISA 428 MkII Mic Preamp & ADN8 Card From Focusrite Pro and Vintage King!
Vintage King
Reviews
PROS
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Versatile input type selection enhances recording flexibility
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Switchable impedance settings accommodate a wide range of microphones
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Exceptional clarity and warmth in sound, suitable for various sources
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Includes useful features like a high-pass filter and phase flipping per channel
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Provides up to 80dB of gain, ideal for insensitive microphones
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Inserts on each channel allow for easy integration with other gear
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Stepped gain knobs for precise control
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Transformer-coupled design for superior sound quality
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Occupies only two rack spaces, efficient for studio setups
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Offers the possibility to add a digital card for extended functionality
CONS
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Optional digital converter card prone to connectivity issues due to cheap cables
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Compared to its predecessors, lacks the ability to drive the output stage into pleasing saturation
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Focusrite ISA428 MkII.
Features and functionality
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The ISA428 MkII preamp is transformer balanced, giving it a heftier, more holographic high-end compared to typical interface preamps.
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ADAT optical ports provide digital output, but users need interfaces with ADAT inputs to utilize this feature effectively.
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The ISA428 MkII includes a limiter, offering protection for ribbon mics as long as phantom power is avoided.
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The unit offers up to 80dB of gain when combining the mic gain pot with the trim pot, suitable for most mic applications.
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Comparisons
Value and pricing
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The ISA428 MkII can be found for approximately $250 per channel on the second-hand market, offering significant savings compared to new units.
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Use cases and applications
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Known for being particularly effective with dynamic microphones like the Shure SM57 or SM58, providing a big and silky sound.
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The Blumlein stereo technique with the AEA R88 offers a full 360° capture, noted for its effectiveness in choir recordings such as "Man In The Mirror".
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Ideal for overheads and room mics in drum recording when paired with other preamps like Warm Audio 412 for shells.
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User experience
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Some users find the gain staging to be cumbersome, indicating potential setup complexity for new users.
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Users note that ribbon mics like the AEA R88 may initially sound dark due to their nature, requiring adjustment to their unique characteristics.
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Owners note the ISA428 MkII was improved to address previous heat issues, making it more reliable in prolonged sessions.
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Setup and maintenance
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The ISA428 MkII's ADC card can output at 92K max via lightpipe or 192K via a 9pin D-sub with RCA cables, requiring modern interface compatibility.
Source
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
216
Amazing Solid State Mic Pre
I use this mic pre to intake all of my mic’ed audio in the studio. It’s very clean and adds no color. It also has 80dB of gain, so it is great for mic’ing sources at a distance to create great effects.
Preferred Settings + Usage:
Get the AD card. It allows you to add 4 more inputs so you have a total of 8 channels of AD conversion to ADAT (the 4 onboard mic press plus the 4 additional inputs).
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Focusrite ISA428 MkII, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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