Focusrite Octopre LE Microphone Preamp The Focusrite OctoPre LE, the "lite edition" of the company's established OctoPre, brings Focusrite pre-amplification and A/D-D/A conversion to a new level of affordability for DAW and digital console users. OctoPre LE provides eight channels of pristine Focusrite preamps, including two "Super Channels" that offer mic impedance matching and instrument DI inputs plus other features. With the optional A/D-D/A board installed, OctoPre LE brings more to the DAW via ADAT* lightpipe than ever before, allowing users to make the most of often neglected ADAT* inputs and outputs for tracking and monitoring. In addition, the A/D-D/A option provides wordclock in and out as well as being the only converter in its class to feature 256x clock - a must-have for Pro Tools engineers.
Extremely easy to use, OctoPre LE helps to save session time and engineer heartache. Auto switching front and rear panel inputs and total control of the digital I/O from the front fascia allow the unit to remain racked and patched, with every I/O solution available at the flick of a switch. In typical Focusrite fashion, the OctoPre LE upholds professional standards throughout, boasting class-leading specifications.
Housed in a sturdy 1U chassis with the familiar Platinum fascia, OctoPre LE is the first of the Platinums to feature a porthole-style peak-reading meter, similar to Focusrite's industry standard Red range of products. The meter can be switched to display the input level of any one of the eight channels. The two Super Channels feature DI for guitars or similar instruments, as well as a low impedance switch for making the most of ribbon mics and allowing deliberate mic mis-matching for enhanced creativity. Other features include phantom power, independent clip metering and low cut filters on every channel.
Focusrite OctoPre LE Details
CLASS A PREAMP
This preamp demonstrates the same wide bandwidth philosophy featured in the original vintage Focusrite units. This preamp ensures low noise and distortion, delivering clarity and warmth without unwanted artifacts, displaying the signature sound for which Focusrite has become famous. Also found in this section are Phantom Power, a Line level switch and a high pass filter.
REVOLUTIONARY DYNAMICS CONTROL
OctoPre features eight independent compressor/limiters, with a revolutionary circuit design, which allows dynamics to be handled via a single control on every channel. Starting with a brick-wall limiter (to avoid critical overs), the rotary control then allows you to add increasing amounts of compression. The dynamics control also introduces an additional make-up gain, balancing the level change caused by compression. Only one dial, but all the control, providing the quickest route to a warm, controlled, yet entirely musical signal. Total control without compromise.
SUPER CHANNELS
OctoPre’s first two channels also feature high quality instrument inputs and phase reverse, both available direct from the front panel, If you’re looking to expand your current interface, you owe it to yourself to check out the OctoPre LE™. With the optional 8- channel A-D/D-A ADAT converter installed, the OctoPre LE provides an almighty I/O expansion, finally making full use of your previously redundant ADAT** ports.
And what an expansion!
Eight Focusrite world-class preamps, eight channels of 24-bit A/D and D/A conversion (with performance well beyond anything in their class), 2 ‘Super Channels’ with quality DI and switchable impedance for a full sonic palette, as well as switchable dBFS peak level input metering for every channel. With everything controllable from the front fascia, you’ll be recording and monitoring multiple channels in minutes.
EIGHT SOLID STATE PREAMPS
OctoPre LE boasts eight preamps inspired by the award-winning Green range, exhibiting transparency and quality never before seen at this price point. All channels have Phantom Power and High Pass filters for controlling rumble, proximity effect and pop reduction, enabling OctoPre LE to handle any audio source with style and grace.
IMPEDANCE SWITCHING
The first two channels provide the option of a low impedance setting, changing the value from 2.5 kOhms to
150 Ohms. The Lo Z switch brings yet further sound options to your recording, allowing you to get more from your micro-phone and make the most of ribbon mics, which often require a low impedance preamp.
FRONT PANEL INPUTS
Also included on the front panel are eight 1/4” Jack Inputs, allowing quick and easy connection of line level sources. Channels one and two also provide phase reverse and accept instrument level signals, eliminating the need for a DI box and making quality instrument recordings effortless.
OUTPUT LEVEL
The final section includes comprehensive metering via a unique ‘port hole’ style peak level meter, providing clear visual indication of any of the eight input levels. As a further indication of output, every channel features its own red “over” LED.
OPTIONAL A-D/D-A ADAT CONVERTER
With both ADAT Output and Input, the optional digital converter is a must buy for those wishing to interface directly with their DAW while ensuring maximum signal quality. The A-D/D-A converter option allows recording and monitoring of all eight channels simultaneously.