Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre 8-Channel Mic Preamp with ADAT Outputs
The Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre is a 1U eight-channel mic preamp that adds eight inputs to an interface with an ADAT input, over a single optical cable. It does one job and keeps it simple: turning eight mics into digital audio, while giving you an analog line output per channel for the stage or a console.
What sets it apart
- Eight 2nd-generation Scarlett preamps with 50 dB of gain
- 8 dB pad on every channel for loud sources
- Two instrument inputs on the front
- Two ADAT output ports, up to 192 kHz
- Eight balanced jack line outputs, always active
A one-way expander, by design
The Scarlett OctoPre has two ADAT optical outputs but no ADAT input: it sends eight channels to the interface and receives none. So it adds inputs, not outputs. Its eight line outputs always mirror the eight preamps; they cannot act as extra outputs for the computer.
If you also need eight more analog outputs, the Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic and the Clarett+ OctoPre have ADAT inputs and a conversion mode that feeds their line outputs.
A pad on every channel for drums
Each channel has an 8 dB pad. It raises the maximum mic input level from +8 dBu to +16 dBu, which keeps a kick drum or a hard-hit snare from clipping. A five-segment meter on each channel shows the level going to the converter.
Phantom power is switched in groups of four inputs. It only reaches the XLR contacts: a line source plugged in by jack in the same group gets none.
Stand-alone stage preamp
The eight balanced 1/4-inch line outputs are always active. Plugged into a console's line inputs, they turn the OctoPre into an eight-channel analog preamp. The ADAT outputs stay active at the same time: you can run live sound and record the same performance.
Maximum output level is +16 dBu balanced. Two BNC word clock jacks, in and out, sync the OctoPre with the rest of the studio.
Sample rates and cabling
At 44.1 or 48 kHz, one optical cable carries all eight channels. At 88.2 or 96 kHz, each port carries four and you need two cables; at 176.4 or 192 kHz, the unit is limited to four channels in total. The sample rate is chosen on the front panel and stays in memory.
The 1U chassis weighs 3.22 kg, has its rack ears and a built-in universal power supply; four adhesive feet are included for tabletop use.
Specifications
| Mic preamps | 8 Scarlett 2nd generation |
|---|---|
| Instrument inputs | 2 on the front |
| Gain | 50 dB |
| Equivalent input noise (EIN) | -127 dBu |
| Pad | 8 dB per channel |
| Maximum mic input | +8 dBu, +16 dBu with pad |
| Dynamic range | 109 dB (A-weighted) |
| ADAT | 2 optical outputs, no input |
| Line outputs | 8 balanced, 1/4-inch jack |
| Word clock | BNC in and out |
| Meters | 5 segments per channel |
| Format | 19-inch 1U rack |
| Weight | 3.22 kg |
What it's for
- Adding eight mic inputs to a Scarlett 18i20 or any ADAT interface
- Recording drums with a pad on every channel
- Eight-channel analog preamp in front of a live console
- Running live sound and recording at once through the line and ADAT outputs
Compared with other manufacturers
Eight-channel ADAT expanders are made by several manufacturers. This table shows what each unit does with its optical link.
| Model | Preamps | ADAT | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre | 8 Scarlett 2nd generation | Output only | 1U rack |
| Behringer ADA8200 | 8 Midas | Input and output | 1U rack |
| PreSonus DigiMax DP88 | 8 | Input and output | 1U rack |
| Audient ASP800 | 8 | Output | 1U rack |
Frequently asked questions
- Does the Scarlett OctoPre add outputs to my interface?
- No. It has no ADAT input: it sends eight channels to the interface without receiving any. Its line outputs mirror the preamps. For eight more outputs, you need a model with ADAT inputs, such as the Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic.
- Can I connect the Scarlett OctoPre directly to my computer?
- No. It has no USB port: it connects by optical cable to an interface with an ADAT input, and the interface talks to the computer.
- Scarlett OctoPre or Clarett+ OctoPre?
- The Scarlett adds eight inputs with 2nd-generation Scarlett preamps and a pad per channel. The Clarett+ OctoPre steps up: Clarett+ preamps with Air mode, inserts, ADAT inputs and a DB25 output.
- How many channels at 96 kHz?
- Eight, as long as you use both optical ports and an interface that accepts two ADAT inputs. At 176.4 or 192 kHz, only four channels remain.
Avis clients
Did the Scarlett OctoPre expand your studio? Tell us what you record on its eight inputs.
Aucun avis pour le moment. Soyez le premier à partager votre expérience après votre achat.