Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic Multi-Channel Microphone Preamplifier with Compression

zZounds Gear Experts Say...
Add 8 mic preamp channels to your studio via ADAT! Focusrite's Dynamic version of the Scarlett OctoPre adds easy-to-use one-knob compressors on each channel.

Expand your studio with eight mic/line inputs, eight line outputs, Focusrite precision conversion up to 192 kHz AD/DA and analogue compression on every channel. The Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic builds on the features of the Scarlett OctoPre, adding analogue compression to all input channels and eight channels of precision D-A conversion. With dual ADAT* optical I/O, it's ideal for expanding a Scarlett 18i8 or 18i20 -- or any interface with ADAT I/O.

Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic is the ideal way of adding eight extra mic/line inputs to your DAW. It also offers eight balanced line outputs, sourced directly from their respective mic preamps for use on stage in a live environment.

Featuring eight channels of Focusrite's 2nd generation Scarlett preamps and a soft-knee VCA compressor on every channel. Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic lets you control the dynamics of all your input signals with an easy-to-use single-knob analogue compressor on every channel. There's a transparent mode for subtle compression plus a "More" button that doubles the ratio for compression with effect.

In addition to the eight input channels, Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic includes eight line outputs, sourced either from the ADAT inputs for eight additional analogue outputs, or directly from the mic inputs for use in a live sound environment.

Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic is ideal for expanding any high quality, multi-channel recording system. With its high-headroom mic, line and dual instrument inputs and analogue compression, read more it's ideal for tracking drums as well guitars, keyboards, vocals and more. Meanwhile the eight outputs give you the option of expanding your analogue outputs over and above the Scarlett OctoPre.

Included Software

Once you've got started with Pro Tools Intro+ or Ableton Live Lite recording software (both included), the Hitmaker Expansion bundle has everything you need to bring big studio sound to your songs, with an unbeatable range of record-making studio tools from the biggest names in the business.

Features:

- Eight natural-sounding 2nd generation Scarlett mic preamps
- Flexible analogue compression on every channel
- Eight balanced line inputs
- Focusrite precision AD/DA conversion up to sample rates of 192 kHz
- Dual front-panel instrument inputs
- Optimized headroom for tracking loud sources such as drums
- Eight balanced line outputs - ideal for live use
- Accurate 5-segment LED input metering
- Simple ADAT connectivity via optical cables
- 48V Phantom power available on every channel for condenser mics
- State-of-the-art digital clocking with Word Clock I/O for synchronisation with external devices

What's In The Box?
- Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic
- Getting Started Guide
- Power Cable
WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm - www.p65Warnings.ca.gov.
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Dimensions and Weight in Packaging
Base Item
Shipping Weight: 10.5 lbs
Shipping Dimensions: 24 x 14 x 4 in
Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): Scarlett OctoPre Dyn

For support or warranty questions, please contact the manufacturer:
Phone: 310-322-5500
Web: https://support.focusrite.com/

Reviewers gave this product an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars. (1 ratings)
Submitted April 19, 2018 by Kyle M

"Double the Awesome!"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
Verified Purchaser zZounds has verified that this reviewer purchased this specific product from us.
I was unsure if this unit or the basic Octo was right for me. There's little to no info on the hardware compressors and since most of us use plugins it was tough to decide if it was worth the extra money. Now I know it is. It looks great alongside the 18i20, is superior for rack routing, a tad more flexible and for someone who records fully mic'd bands at jam sessions and live shows, a touch of compression can make the difference between a hot track and a hot mess of a track. To summarize, better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it. I mean, its Focusrite. You know its gonna be great!

Sound
Awesome Focusrite preamp what more can I say? If you have the 18i6 or 18i20, this will open a large door to bigger mixes. Full mic drum sets, 2 guitars, bass, keys, vocals and still have room. I've been very pleased with the 18i20 but restricted to 3 and 4 mics on the drums, so now it's really on! I'm not reviewing the sound of the unit so much as the sound you can make with it. That's the key feature.

Features
All of the necessary features are available on the front with tactile knobs and buttons. Knobs have weight to them and a soft coating. Buttons are momentary and toggle and feel like aluminum so I trust they'll survive for some time. Routing on the back is pretty much the same as the 18i20, straightforward ins and outs, but the cool part is it can take ADAT in to give you the extra 8ch of balanced 1/4 read more out, with the press of a button or send the 8 inputs out directly with the press of a button. No software trickery. I use a rackmount headphone amp that occupies all of the 18i20 outs and still have 8 available outs for routing to mixers, outboard gear, or a PA!

Ease of Use
Mount it in the rack, connect your ADAT, turn it on, set your clock mode, sample rate. Done.

Quality
Aluminum chassis, solid knobs and buttons, confident connections.

Value
I had a long debate over this unit and the standard version, and couldn't be happier. There's something to be said the effect of hardware compression in your mix and even more to the convenience of compressing hot inputs in life situations to keep things under control. Having 16 inputs is not a cheap venture, and Focusrite has made it easier to have quality and quantity for a reasonable price. They're popular for a reason and this unit is a prime example. The potential it offers and flexibility it gives is worth every penny and zZounds has a great price!

Manufacturer Support
Excellent, register your Focusrite products and you have a direct channel to them for any questions or concerns.

The Wow Factor
Recording a full band with a mic everywhere one should be has challenged me to create better static mixes and improve my recording techniques to achieve a better product! I couldn't be happier with Focusrite products and the quality, this unit is no exception. Quality and quantity, add simple hardware compression and you can have your cake and eat it too!

Musical Background:
Drummer aspiring producer/engineer

Musical Style:
Rock. Blues, metal, anything that's jamming!
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Scarlett OctoPre preamps include a plug-in bundle worth over $1,000!
  • Your Scarlett OctoPre comes with Focusrite's Hitmaker Expansion plug-in bundle, packed with tried-and-tested studio tools. Learn more »