Focusrite ISA One

The Focusrite ISA One provides access to the classic sound and design of the legendary Forte console in a compact and portable format. This microphone preamp is based on the original ISA 110 topology, including the Lundahl L1538 transformer and Zobel network. In doing so, the ISA One delivers the same recognizable sound and performance that has been associated with high-quality analog recordings for decades.

The ISA One features inputs for microphone, line and instrument levels, making it widely usable during recording sessions. Thanks to the variable impedance switch, the preamp can be optimally matched to different microphones. You can choose from four impedance values to influence the microphone's response, or deliberately deviate to create a characterful sound. The microphone and instrument inputs operate in parallel, allowing you to combine direct and miked signals.

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What does "parallel" mean?
With the ISA One, the microphone input and the instrument input are open at the same time. Thus, they are not mutually exclusive. Both signals are preamplified separately and then internally merged into one output signal.

Concrete example (guitar + microphone):
- you connect a microphone for a guitar amplifier or acoustic instrument
- you simultaneously connect the guitar directly to the instrument input (DI)
- both signals run simultaneously through the ISA One
- you determine the ratio between direct signal and microphone signal with the level control
- at the output you get one combined signal

What does this give you?
- the direct signal gives clarity, definition and attack
- the mic signal adds space, character and "air"
- together you get a fuller and more controllable sound, without later latency or phase problems in the DAW

The rugged metal desktop design makes the ISA One suitable for mobile use. You no longer have to dismantle a rack when you want to record at another location. The built-in headphone output and cue mix jacks make it easy to monitor directly while recording while the signal is being captured.

The classic VU meter combined with LED level meters provide clear visual feedback. For those desiring digital integration, an optional A/D converter is available with resolution up to 24-bit / 192 kHz. In addition, the ISA One comes with a certificate of origin, signed by Phil Dudderidge, and access to the Brainworx bx_console software emulation of the ISA 110 and ISA 130 modules.

Focusrite ISA One features:

• microphone and instrument preamplifier based on the Forte console
• portable metal desktop design
• beautiful, distinctive British studio sound
• selectable impedance for optimal microphone tuning
• microphone, line and instrument inputs
• parallel microphone and instrument input
• classic VU meter and LED level meters
• stereo cue mix inputs|
• headphone output
• optional 24-bit / 192 kHz A/D converter
• certificate of origin included
• includes Brainworx bx_console ISA 110 and ISA 130 software

Focusrite ISA One specifications:

• preamp type: solid state
• 1 channel pre-amp
• analog inputs 1x XLR microphone, 1x XLR line, 1x 6.35 mm line, 1x 6.35 mm DI, 1x 6.35 mm amp
• analog outputs 1x XLR main, 1x XLR DI, 2x 6,35 mm cue mic R/L, 1x 6,35 mm headphones
• frequency range 10 Hz - 125 kHz
• dimensions: height: 10.4 cm, width 22.0 cm, depth 29.0 cm
• weight: 3.9 kg
• manufacturer item number AMS-ISA-ONE