Focusrite ISA430 MKII Producer Pack Channel Strip  From Focusrite

The ISA430 MkII brings together a set of classic Focusrite heritage elements:

• Classic Focusrite ISA transformer-based mic pre with variable input impedance
• Versatile equalisation including two dual-range parametrics, HPF and LPF
• Dual-mode compressor with both VCA and optical circuitry
• VCA-based expander/gate with "hysteresis" setting to avoid chattering
• Phase-cancellation de-esser for more natural processing
• Optional 192kHz/24-bit A-D conversion with soft limiter

Together, they form a comprehensive channel strip with impeccable specifications. But the ISA430 MkII is much more than that. The four main elements – mic pre, EQ, Dynamics and A-D converter – can be accessed individually and each used as a separate processor. Elements can be chained and patched together via multiple inserts and in different orders to form a variety of signal paths to meet every processing requirement. Used as either a comprehensive channel strip or as separate processors, the ISA430 MkII offers you the pinnacle of classic Focusrite analogue processor design and performance. There’s simply nothing quite like it.

Classic Focusrite ISA Mic Pre

The mic pre features a transformer-based design, with variable input impedance from 600 to 6800 ohms – so it will get the best out of any microphone, from modern condensers to the most finicky ribbon types. Depending on your choice of setting, you can maximise flatness and transparency or deliberately bring out the special features of your chosen mic, such as a presence boost or high/low-end rolloffs. And there’s a special “air” button that brings in an inductor to enhance the effect without needing additional EQ.

Versatile Dual Mode Compressor

The compressor section features both a transparent VCA circuit, which can be used to apply significant amounts of compression without audible artefacts, and a vintage optical design that brings with it the characteristic feel of a traditional compressor. Optional auto release and “blend” control add to the section’s flexibility, the latter by allowing mixing of the original signal with the compressor output, maintaining as much as possible of the natural dynamics without losing the benefits of compression.

The Gate/Expander section is based on a transparent VCA design and includes a “hysteresis” setting that stops the gate chattering on difficult signals, while the de-esser is based on phase cancellation at the chosen frequency, rather than being compressor-based, leading to improved naturalness of sound.

Focusrite ISA 110 Derived EQ

The EQ section is exceptional, with HPF and LPF, two separate bands of parametric EQ (each with normal and x3 ranges for maximum versatility), and HF and LF shelving sections. In addition, individual parts of the equaliser can be switched into the side chain of the dynamics sections, allowing frequency-conscious compression, gate keying and other effects, while a “Listen” button allows you to audition the side-chain so you can tweak the EQ to get exactly the dynamics effect you’re looking for.

Class-Leading A-D Conversion

And finally, there is an optional A-D converter card which adds two channels of flawless 24-bit A-D conversion at sample rates up to 192kHz and with 120dB of dynamic range, preceded by a soft limiter to prevent clipping. Like the other parts of the ISA430 MkII, it can be used as part of the channel strip or as a completely independent unit.

The Most Versatile Channel Strip

Bring these elements together and you have the most versatile analogue channel strip available, with uniquely flexible patching and routing in addition to four powerful processors that can be used completely independently. And all with that unique Focusrite heritage sound. The ISA430 MkII. Nothing sounds like it – in so many ways.

The ISA 430 MkII features Focusrite’s ultimate heritage sonic signature including transformer-based mic pre, versatile EQ with two dual-range parametrics, compressor with both transparent VCA and vintage optical circuitry, expander/gate, phase-cancellation de-esser and optional 192kHz/24-bit 2-channel A-D conversion.

Transformer-based Mic Pre with Variable Impedance

The mic pre suits almost all mics including vintage and ‘difficult’ models such as ribbons. Variable impedance can be set for transparency or to highlight special features of the mic, such as presence bumps and rolloffs. Switchable additional inductance adds “air” without EQ.

Four Units in One, Independently Accessible

Use the mic pre, EQ, Dynamics and A-D converter independently, or route them to build powerful simultaneous processors. Re-order different sections to create multiple alternative signal paths.

Powerful Processing Options

Insert HPF, LPF and EQ into the Dynamics sections for frequency-sensitive processing – Listen function lets you audition the side-chain to fine-tune the effect.

Control Over Dynamics

Expander/gate features “hysteresis” setting to avoid chattering on difficult signals. De-esser is based on phase cancellation at the chosen frequency, for more natural sound.