Focusrite ISA 428 Pre Pack

[gtrman_66]

Anyone using one? I am thinking about upgrading my mic preamps and it looked like what I need. I'd just like to see if anyone using it can give me the lowdown.

Peace

 

[bennychico11]

Neve designed preamps, man

I asked about the ISA220 awhile back 'cause I'm thinking about buying that. I've used it before and the 430. Both sounded really good...although I was using them more for dynamics and not as a preamp.

 

[gtrman_66]

Thanks for the reply, benny. The Neve designed preapms certainly caught my eye. I was mulling over the API 4 channel unit, 3124 I think they call it, but it's like $2500 or so and the Focusrite is what, around $1600? Pretty big price difference, I could get a couple more decent mics for the $900.

 

[Hard2Hear]

I used the 110 alot a while back, and I think the whole ISA series is similar. It was good, more transparent than I wanted it to be. But the one I really liked was the Red series. The Red1 is really good if you need 4 channels. Look for these things used, guys. Cause people just don't beat up good Focusrite pres. And the chassis on these are very well built, unlike some of the home racked Neve pres out there. IF you take your time you can find good deals on them, especially the Red series (cause I think they're the longest in production). It just takes a little time looking, and a little luck.

H2H

 

[gtrman_66]

Thanks H2H. I would like to have one of the 4 channel Red series, but haven't seen one at or near my price point yet. My goal is to add 4 channels of high quality preamps and a couple of KSM 32's to my setup before starting the next album project. I have to shop carefully to keep the peace at home

 

[Hard2Hear]

I have seen them for around the same price as the 428 pack new. If I see one out there in my usual places for a good buy, I'll let you know.

H2H

 

[gtrman_66]

Thanks. I am still working on raising the funds, but I hope to buy within the next 3-4 months.

 

[Stefan Elmblad]

The ISA428 also has wordclock out, and been reviewed being almost as good as many highend masterclocks. And, it has 4 line ins on the back, so it can act as 4-channel micpre + 4-channel extra A/D. All in all, it can have the function of more than a mic pre in the studio.

 

[jpfour23]

I have a 428... and must say, the sound is INCREDIBLE. I'm about to purchase an api 3124+ to add to the collection... but the 428 has been my best front end upgrade ever.

 

[xstatic]

For anyone reading this post, there was mention of the Focusrite stuff being "Neve designed". This is true, but keep in mind that the Focusrite stuff sounds absolutely NOTHING like the typical old Neve preamp and EQ's that most people refer too when talking about Neve. Just like Rupert Neve was involved with the Amek/TAC series of consoles. Good consoles in their own right, but certainly no real Neve console

 

[Neelix]

How big of a step up are these from the PreSonus DigiMax series? I know they're a step up, but I would love to hear some specific comparisons. Price looks great on them, especially on the used market...

 

[In Tune Audio]

I love my 428. It kicks major but on acoustic sources (overheads, acoustic guitar, violin etc.) Its not a sterile preamp, so not a first choice for classical sources.

I've heard of people using it for vocals, and rappers, but never tried that myself, (I've been meaning to though).

I haven't got the AD card for it, but I'm hoping to in the near future. But I would highly recommend the pre from my experience

 

[6gun]

the Focusrite is what, around $1600? Pretty big price difference, I could get a couple more decent mics for the $900.

Maybe because it's made in China, unlike the original ISA series. I had an ISA Prepack and one of the output meters failed in the first week. Good sounding pres, but had to send it back.