Sound Pure's Take

The Focusrite ISA430 Producer Pack (MkI) is an absolute Swiss Army knife of high-end analog processing. Bringing together Rupert Neve’s iconic ISA 110 preamp and EQ architecture alongside comprehensive dynamics into a single 2U unit, it provides that classic Focusrite "Forté console" sound—pristine, expansive, and incredibly punchy with just the right touch of Lundahl transformer warmth.

What makes the original ISA430 such a standout piece in a modern studio is its sheer modular versatility. Far from just a hardwired tracking chain, it gives you dedicated physical patch points for almost every section. You can use it as a unified, world-class vocal channel strip or break it apart to run the mic pre, 4-band EQ, dual-mode dynamics, and opto de-esser as individual processors across completely different tracks during a mix.

The A/D Converter card is not included on this unit. The card for the MKII version is not campatible with the MKI.

From Focusrite

The Focusrite ISA430 Producer Pack (MkI) is a flagship single-channel analog channel strip designed to bring the legendary sound of the Focusrite ISA (Input Signal Amplifier) architecture into a comprehensive studio processing hub. Featuring Rupert Neve's classic transformer-based microphone preamplifier design alongside versatile dynamic processing and equalization, the ISA430 delivers pristine clarity, massive headroom, and warmth for vocalists, instruments, and tracking applications.

The ISA430 combines iconic Focusrite heritage with comprehensive processing modules, including a full-featured ISA 110-based equalizer, a dual-mode compressor featuring both transparent VCA and smooth Optical circuits, a versatile expander/gate, and a de-esser. With flexible internal signal routing, switchable module ordering, and independent rear-panel patch points for every section, the ISA430 functions as a single integrated channel strip or as four separate, high-end outboard processors operating simultaneously.

Key Features

  • Classic ISA Transformer Mic Preamp: Features the original Lundahl LL1538 input transformer for legendary warmth, low noise, and wide-bandwidth transparency.

  • ISA 110-Based Equalizer: Includes 4-band EQ with variable high-pass and low-pass filters, parametric mid-bands, and shelving controls derived from the classic Focusrite Studio Console.

  • Dual-Topology Compressor: Features switchable VCA and Optical compression modes to deliver transparent dynamic control or vintage-style opto leveling.

  • Integrated Dynamic Gate & De-Esser: Includes a fully featured expander/gate for noise rejection alongside an optical de-esser for transparent high-frequency control.

  • Flexible Internal Routing: Master "Listen" and routing switches allow processors to be re-ordered in the signal path or accessed individually via dedicated rear-panel inputs and outputs.

  • Optional 24-bit/192kHz A/D Converter: Expandable with an audiophile-grade stereo digital output card for direct integration with DAWs and digital systems.

Form Factor
2U Rackmount
Preamp Gain Range
Mic: +10dB to +60dB (in 10dB steps, plus 0dB to +10dB trim); Line: -10dB to +10dB
Frequency Response
10 Hz – 200 kHz (±0.5 dB at unity gain)
Equivalent Input Noise (EIN)
-128 dBu (150Ω source impedance at 60dB gain)
Maximum Input Level
Mic: +7 dBu; Line: +26 dBu; Instrument: +14 dBu
THD+N
< 0.001% @ 1kHz (+20 dBu output)
Analog Inputs
1 × XLR Mic Input, 1 × XLR Line Input, 1 × 1/4" TS Instrument Input (Front Panel), Dedicated Module Sidechain/Inserts
Analog Outputs
1 × XLR Main Output, Dedicated Line Outputs for Preamp, EQ, Dynamics, and Gate
Dimensions (W × H × D)
19" × 3.5" × 11.4" (483 mm × 88 mm × 290 mm)
Weight
16.3 lbs (7.4 kg)

Warranty

This item is sold without the Sound Pure 3-year warranty (used / B-stock / dealer-exempt). Coverage terms for items in this category live in Terms & Conditions, Section 27.

Returns

Try Before You Buy: take it home, commit only when it's right. Program details →

Sound Pure Studios Control Room A — Durham, NC

Sound Pure Studios · Durham, NC

Come hear it in our control rooms.

Sound Pure is a working studio in Durham, NC — a 1,000 sq ft live room and two pro control rooms. Book a session to audition gear in a world-class acoustic space before you buy.