Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Rackmount 8-Channel Microphone Preamp with ADAT Outputs

Enhance your system’s recording capabilities with theFocusrite Scarlett OctoPre, a compact 1 RU rackmount unit equipped with eight Scarlett microphone preamps and integrated high-resolution AD converters. This device serves as an ideal complement to any home or project studio, live sound mixing console, or mobile recording setup that features available ADAT digital inputs or unutilized analog line inputs.

All eight XLR-1/4″ combo inputs are capable of accepting both microphone and line-level signals. The input jacks located on the front panel can also connect to the 1/4″ outputs of instruments, enabling direct connection of guitars or basses to the Scarlett OctoPre. Each channel is equipped with pads that facilitate the capture of high-level sound sources, such as drums and amplified guitar amplifiers. Additionally, 48V phantom power can be activated in two separate 4-channel banks to support condenser microphones and active DI boxes.

These attributes, along with the wordclock sync I/O and 5-segment LED metering, make the unit highly effective for studio applications. However, its functionality extends beyond the studio; the Scarlett OctoPre is also well-suited for live sound settings, offering eight extra preamps for stage use, each providing line outputs that can connect to various mixers, consoles, and PA systems. Furthermore, it is possible to route the line outputs to a console while simultaneously recording digitally through the ADAT outputs.

Eight Scarlett Mic Preamps

The Scarlett OctoPre features eight high-quality Scarlett microphone preamps, which are accessible via XLR-1/4″ TRS combo jacks. Each of the eight inputs is capable of receiving either mic-level or line-level signals; additionally, the first two inputs, positioned on the front panel, are equipped with Hi-Z switches to accommodate Hi-Z signals from instruments. The +48V phantom power can be selected for each 4-channel bank (covering channels 1-4 and 5-8), enabling the Scarlett OctoPre to support both dynamic and condenser microphones.

Onboard High-Resolution A/D Converters

The Scarlett OctoPro processes all inputs utilizing Focusrite’s high-precision 24-bit conversion, achieving a resolution of up to 192 kHz and a dynamic range of 109 dB. It features dual TOSLINK optical ADAT outputs, which can accommodate eight channels at a maximum of 96 kHz or four channels at 176.4/192 kHz.

Input Pads

The Scarlett OctoPre features high-headroom inputs and a -8 dB pad on each channel, making it particularly suitable for recording drums, as well as guitars, keyboards, vocals, and various other instruments.

Balanced Line Outputs

The Scarlett OctoPre features eight balanced line-level outputs that are directly derived from the inputs, enabling its use in live settings while simultaneously capturing recordings through the digital ADAT output.

Wordclock I/O

The rear panel offers BNC jacks for wordclock input and output, enabling proper synchronization with other digital equipment such as a mixing console or an audio interface.

Multi-Segment Input Metering

Clustered together for visual convenience, 5-segment meters show your input levels for all channels at a glance.