With eight channels of Focusrite
microphone pre-amplification, eight VCA-based Red 3-derived compressors and built-in 24-
bit / 96
kHz digital inputs and outputs,
OctoPre MkII Dynamic is Focusrite's feature-rich expansion upgrade for any
digital audio workstation. It's equally an ideal expansion for any
analogue or
digital console, or hard disk recorder.
Digital inputs and outputs let you make the most of often-neglected
ADAT i/o; ideal for expanding the number of mic-pre inputs on your
interface or for providing
analogue monitoring from any
digital ADAT feed.
With this entire package fitting into a single
1U chassis complementing Focusrite's Saffire PRO range, and all controls adjustable from the front fascia,
OctoPre MkII Dynamic sets the standard for modern, compact, multi-
channel recording expansions.
Saffire Mic Pre
Focusrite has, over the past two decades, built a reputation as the market leader for high quality recording equipment, with its
mic pre technology as the cornerstone of that enviable reputation.
The original ISA
mic pre, as featured in the early Focusrite
Forte console, is still used by many of the industry's greatest producers and has contributed to the
sound of countless hit records. Today, Focusrite design equipment for a far greater audience, from professionals to amateur enthusiasts, all with varying budgets.
As with the Classic ISA
mic pre used in both the ISA and Red ranges, the Saffire
mic pre found in the
OctoPre MkII Dynamic is designed to the highest possible standards. It upholds the same wide
bandwidth philosophy featured in the original
Forte console, back in 1989. As with the Classic ISA
mic pre, the Saffire
mic pre design features custom components which have undergone an intense testing and qualification process.
With the facts and figures in, Focusrite designs then have to pass the essential listening
stage. Any design can measure well on the test bench but only a great design can be qualified in the studio. The FET-based Saffire
mic pre design is no exception. It delivers clarity without colouration and exhibits the signature transparency for which Focusrite have become famous.
With the high
channel count interfaces (
Saffire PRO 40 and
Liquid Saffire 56) and both the
OctoPre MkII and
OctoPre MkII Dynamic, the Saffire
pre-amp has been optimized for drums. The theoretical maximum
level of a
microphone was calculated, and the
mic pre was adjusted with this in mind so as not to clip with this
level present, set to minimum
gain. As a result, the
mic pre won't clip, even with a high output
level mic right up close to a snare drum (the
mic input will accept signal levels up to +16dBU from a
microphone).