Description
The Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre is a high-end, professional USB-C audio interface designed for established producers, engineers, and studios that require extensive connectivity and pristine sound quality. It stands above the popular Scarlett series by offering a superior level of performance and a more professional feature set.
Key Features and Highlights:
- 18-in / 20-out Connectivity: The Clarett+ 8Pre is a true studio centerpiece. Its extensive I/O makes it capable of handling large recording sessions and complex signal routing. The total count includes:
- 8 x Clarett+ Preamps (via combo XLR-1/4″ inputs)
- 10 x Balanced Line Outputs (two dedicated for monitors)
- 2 x Independent Headphone Outputs
- ADAT Optical I/O (8 channels each way)
- S/PDIF I/O (2 channels each way)
- MIDI I/O This allows you to record an entire drum kit, a full band, or integrate a significant amount of outboard gear.
- Clarett+ Preamps with “All-Analogue Air”: The eight Clarett+ preamps are a significant step up from the Scarlett series. They are designed to be ultra-low-noise with a huge amount of clean gain. The “Air” mode on these preamps is a high-end, all-analogue circuit that changes the input impedance and adds a high-frequency boost, emulating the sound of Focusrite’s legendary ISA transformer-based preamps. This adds a shimmering clarity and presence to vocals and acoustic instruments.
- Reference-Grade Converters: The Clarett+ series features independent A-D and D-A converters with an incredibly high dynamic range. The D-A converters offer a 124 dB dynamic range, which means you get to hear every detail of your mix with stunning clarity and no coloration. The A-D converters have also been improved for ultra-low distortion, ensuring a transparent and accurate capture of your source audio.
- Ultra-Low Latency: The Clarett+ 8Pre is engineered for near-zero latency, allowing artists to record and monitor their performance in real-time without any distracting delay, even with plugins engaged.
- JFET Instrument Inputs: The first two inputs on the front panel feature JFET instrument modes. This is a special circuit that preserves the true character and feel of your guitar or bass, making the signal sound and feel like it’s going through a vintage tube amp.
- Robust and Professional Design: The interface is built in a durable 1U rackmount chassis, making it perfect for installation in a studio rack. The front panel features comprehensive metering for all inputs and main outputs, as well as dedicated controls for headphone volumes, and monitor level with dim and mute buttons.
- Bundled Software: The Clarett+ 8Pre comes with a comprehensive software bundle, including Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools Intro, and the “Hitmaker Expansion,” which features professional plugins like Antares Auto-Tune Access, Brainworx bx_console Focusrite SC, and more.
