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Description
The Focusrite ISA 110 is a professional-grade preamp and channel strip designed for serious studio recording enthusiasts and professionals alike. Originally developed by the legendary Rupert Neve, this classic preamp module draws from the iconic Focusrite Forte console, combining rich analog sound with modern versatility. Known for its clarity and warmth, the ISA 110 is a staple in studios around the world, offering a transformer-based microphone preamp that captures every nuance of your audio with precision.
What sets the ISA 110 apart is its flexible EQ section, inspired by the original design, providing comprehensive tonal shaping capabilities. With a four-band equalizer, including a parametric mid-band, you have complete control over your sound, allowing for both subtle adjustments and dramatic tonal shifts. The unit also features a high-pass filter to help manage low-end rumble, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of recording applications, from vocals and acoustic instruments to drums and electric guitars.
Built to withstand the demands of professional use, the ISA 110 features a rugged chassis and high-quality components, ensuring reliable performance session after session. Whether you're capturing the subtleties of a singer-songwriter or the powerful dynamics of a full band, this preamp and channel strip promises to deliver pristine sound with its distinctive analog warmth and character.
Key Features:
- Transformer-based microphone preamp for authentic analog sound
- Four-band equalizer with parametric mid-band for precise tonal control
- High-pass filter to manage low-end frequencies
- Originally designed by Rupert Neve for the Focusrite Forte console
- Rugged construction for durability in professional studio environments
Product specs
| Brand | Focusrite |
| Model | ISA 110 Limited Edition Mono Mic Pre and Equalizer |
| Finish | Blue and Gray |
| Year | 1990s |
| Categories | Equalizers, Microphone Preamps |
FAQs
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What are the key features of the Focusrite ISA 110 preamp?
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The Focusrite ISA 110 features a classic preamp and equalizer design from the 1990s, known for its transparent sound and high headroom. It includes a mic preamp and a four-band equalizer, making it ideal for capturing a wide range of audio sources with clarity and precision.
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Is the Focusrite ISA 110 suitable for professional studio use?
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Yes, the Focusrite ISA 110 is designed for professional studio environments, offering high-quality audio processing with its renowned preamp and EQ sections. Its robust build and sonic clarity make it a favorite among engineers for recording vocals and instruments.
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How does the Focusrite ISA 110 compare to modern preamps?
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The Focusrite ISA 110 is revered for its classic analog sound and build quality, providing a characterful yet transparent tone. While modern preamps may offer more digital features, the ISA 110 is sought after for its vintage sound signature and reliable performance.
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Can the Focusrite ISA 110 be used with digital audio interfaces?
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Yes, the Focusrite ISA 110 can be connected to digital audio interfaces using its analog outputs. It provides a high-quality signal path that can enhance the input stage of any digital recording setup.
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What kind of equalization options does the Focusrite ISA 110 offer?
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The Focusrite ISA 110 includes a four-band equalizer with high and low shelving, as well as two parametric mid-bands. This versatile EQ section allows for precise tonal shaping, making it suitable for a variety of recording applications.
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Focusrite ISA 110.
Comparisons
Features and functionality
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Known for a "hifi holographic" high end, ISA preamps are clean yet warm and round, making them ideal for vocal recordings.
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The ISA 110 offers multiple impedance settings: low (600 ohms), ISA 110 (1400 ohms), medium (2400 ohms), and high (6800 ohms), affecting tonal characteristics with dynamic mics.
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Value and pricing
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The ISA 428 can be found for approximately $250 per channel, offering a cost-effective option for high-quality preamps.
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User experience
Use cases and applications
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Artist usage
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Besides being listed on the Syro gear list, there are a couple of details one must keep in mind. Richard owns 8 of the limited version of the ISA110. The differences between this version and the original one are: "The Focusrite ISA 110 Original Mono Mic-Pre & Equalizer is a limited-edition version of the famed single-channel ISA 110 EQ module. The new ISA 110 differs from the original in that it is packaged in a horizontal one-rackspace unit with an internal power supply. However, the electronic circuit design, the componentry and the performance specifications are all exactly the same as the original ISA 110." (source: http://www.barryrudolph.com/mix/focusrite.html).
In this photo, we can see Waters with Focusrite ISA 110 preamp and equalizer. Many thanks to jimmarchi1 for identifying the model!
Whitney Houston used the Focusrite ISA 110 module during the recording of her vocals for "I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)." This was confirmed by her mixing engineer, who stated, "Houston’s vocals were cut with the AKG C24—one side only, we didn’t do it in stereo—into a Focusrite 110 module from a Focusrite desk, that stand alone for the preamp and EQ," according to an article by Robyn Flans on Mixonline.
Album Usage
The Focusrite ISA 110 has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Focusrite ISA 110, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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