Focusrite Clarett 8Pre X Overview – Focusrite Clarett 8PreX Thunderbolt Audio Interface
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Designed primarily for permanent studio installation, Focusrite's Clarett 8PreX Thunderbolt audio interface offers an impressive 26 inputs and 28 outputs, including eight analog inputs, 10 analog outputs, stereo S/PDIF I/O, and 16 channels of ADAT I/O for the connection of addition inputs and outputs such as a multichannel digital mic pre or an external D/A for additional line outputs. The 2U rack-mount unit combines eight Clarett mic preamps with class-leading dynamic range conversion and extraordinarily low round-trip latency – so low that plugins can be used, in real time while monitoring recordings through the DAW. The Clarett mic pre offers superbly low noise and distortion, plus the switchable Air effect that models the sound of Focusrite's ISA transformer-based preamps. It also features gain controls with a special law that makes changes smoother and more precise. The Clarett 8PreX includes class-leading precision Focusrite DAC with up to 118dB (A/D) / 119dB (D/A) real-world dynamic range. A central metering and monitoring panel provides ten 6-segment LED meters covering analog and digital inputs and monitor levels, with a large-diameter monitor level control knob plus mute and dim buttons. The two independently controlled headphone outputs on the front panel have enough level to drive even high impedance headphones providing suitable monitoring levels. The intuitive Focusrite Control software mixer is easily configured for monitoring and routing setups. Every Clarett also includes the Red 2 and Red 3 Plug-in Suite, which accurately models Focusrite's classic Red range equalizer and compressor hardware. Word Clock I/O is provided, allowing the Clarett 8PreX to either provide the master clock for the system or to be clocked from an external master digital device.
