#20 in Microphone accessories
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Reddit mentions of Focusrite ISA One Classic Single-channel Mic Pre-Amplifier with Independent D.I.
Sentiment score: 2
Reddit mentions: 2
We found 2 Reddit mentions of Focusrite ISA One Classic Single-channel Mic Pre-Amplifier with Independent D.I.. Here are the top ones.
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- Focusrite’s classic transformer-based ISA Pre amp design based on the original ISA 110 in a highly cost-effective and flexible package. Perfect for recording vocals, bass, Guitar, Broadcast, podcast, and vo
- Flexible, independent DI channel, independent gain control, Output for routing to an amp, independent XLR output on the rear and routing to the optional A-D converter
- Optional stereo 192kHz A-D converter: upgrade with an optional digital card that delivers the best A-D performance in its class, with a dynamic range of 118dB
- Switchable Impedance: four input impedances that help shape your sound, including that of the original ISA 110
- Dedicated insert point: allows you to place Extra processing between the Preamplifier or DI and the optional converter, such as an EQ or compressor. Focusrite now offers a 3-Year Warranty on this and all other Focusrite products.
Features:
Specs:
| Color | Blue |
| Height | 8.8 Inches |
| Length | 11.6 Inches |
| Number of items | 1 |
| Release date | October 2008 |
| Weight | 8.61 Pounds |
| Width | 4.7 Inches |
I'm kind of on a bender where I think the mic pre is everything, moreso than the mic. I read a review of the 1-channel ISA @ $500. new where a broadcast guy said that was the centerpiece of "his sound." I do not own any ISA or really have an agenda for one, but for a broadcast 1-mic rig, it seems like a useful item.
Your view of the interface is based in the rock-solid utility (I agree), but as far as determinants of what makes the sound, I think an ala carte mic pre can sort of fatten things up and make a "pro edge" if the OP wants to take it that far. Maybe do a RME for starters, but for a Step 2, consider an ala carte mic pre add-on. Of course the RME mic pre will be quite good, but to "fatten up" the sound?
disclaimer: I've never used an ISA, only read about them. But I think if you take a couple of differing mics and run them through different pre's, the sound of the pre is what becomes dominant moreso than the mic, at least when comparing pre's.
The 286s can drive the RE-20, but I had to push the gain up a lot higher than I'd like, not giving me the sort of wiggle room I'd prefer to have. Since the CL-1 does come out super clean, I've been really happy with the results.
I've been toying with the idea of switching to a Focusrite ISA One (super clean, very neutral, drives the RE-20 just fine), but that would set off an upgrade chain I'm just not ready to think about yet. Besides, I do like the color the 286s adds at the moment, so I'm in no rush.