The Focusrite ISA 430 MkII is the pinnacle of Focusrite’s analogue channel strip technology, combining all their classic designs into a single, powerful production tool. Enhanced with new features and tonal options, along with unparalleled internal routing and connectivity, the Focusrite ISA 430 MkII offers recording professionals the opportunity to experience the unique sonic qualities of these heritage designs in a versatile processor. It reinforces Focusrite’s position as an industry leader in channel strip technology.
The Focusrite ISA 430 MkII’s input section includes a large, professional-grade VU meter with adjustable calibration, allowing you to monitor different points in the signal chain. Additional LED bar graph meters display input, output, or ADC levels. The classic transformer-based mic preamp offers variable impedance (600 to 6800Ω), giving greater control over the mic-preamp interaction and allowing users to tailor the response. Activating the ‘Air’ switch introduces an inductor circuit in the transformer’s secondary, adding clarity and spaciousness to the signal without requiring EQ adjustments.
The Focusrite ISA 430 MkII offers exceptional flexibility with its split configurable inserts and adjustable signal path order, making it a versatile ‘do-all’ processor for demanding engineers. Both Inserts can separate different sections of the channel strip, allowing the unit to operate as four discrete processors simultaneously when the post-mic output and ADC inputs are in use. Insert 2 can also be positioned after the dynamics section if needed, and the dynamics can be shifted to a pre-EQ or post-sum position for further adaptability, enhancing its capability as a comprehensive processing tool.
The Focusrite ISA 430 MkII introduces a major enhancement in its Compressor section with the addition of a vintage opto circuit, alongside the original Class A VCA design. The opto Compressor or Limiter provides a more coloured sound compared to the transparent VCA circuit. It also features an ‘Auto Release’ function that adjusts release time based on transients to suit the waveform’s characteristics. If a track sounds over-processed, the Compressor ‘Blend’ feature allows mixing of pre- and post-dynamics signals, restoring natural dynamics while preserving the desired compression effect.
The classic Focusrite EQ from the ISA 110 has been upgraded with two additional frequency values for both high and low shelving and can now be inserted into the Compressor and Gate sidechains for precise frequency-conscious processing. This makes the Focusrite ISA 430 MkII one of the most versatile and powerful dynamics processors available. The Gate section uses a Focusrite Class A VCA to eliminate unwanted interference and high levels of system noise.
Switching to expand mode converts the Gate into an Expander, which reduces signals below the threshold proportionately rather than cutting them off completely. This offers a more natural noise reduction, especially for vocals and other non-percussive sources. The ‘Hysteresis’ function increases the level difference between the gate opening and closing to prevent chattering on signals with long decay times, such as a grand piano. The Focusrite ISA 430 MkII’s De-esser uses a low-distortion optical design with phase cancellation for transparent sibilance removal, making it smoother than traditional compression-based de-essers.
All four dynamics processors (compressor, gate, expander, and de-esser) feature Focusrite’s ‘Listen’ mode, allowing you to isolate affected frequencies for precise adjustments. The soft Limiter, which can act on both analogue output and ADC input, provides a gentle limiting effect, gradually increasing the ratio up to 0dBFS to prevent overloads without harshly clamping the signal.
Focusrite ISA 430 MkII Features
- Classic Focusrite transformer-based Mic-pre with variable impedance and ‘Air’ feature
- Multi format Compressor; switch between Focusrite’s transparent VCA circuit and a vintage optical circuit
- Unmatched flexibility with an incredible variety of insert points and variable signal path arrangements
- Ability to function as 4 separate modular processors: mic pre, EQ, Dynamics and stereo ADC
- Precision VU metering of input level, Insert 1 or 2 Return level, Compressor gain reduction or Sidechain listen level (switched)
- Classic Focusrite EQ design; an expanded version of the original ISA 110
- Post mic pre output for the shortest possible signal path
- Proprietary Focusrite discrete Class A VCA Gate and Expander designs
- ‘Listen’ feature for precise control over compression, gating, expansion and de-essing
- De-esser design based on optical technology for lower distortion and transparency
- Soft Limiter to avoid critical digital overload
- Optional Stereo A/D – 24-bit 192 kHz Delta Sigma converter
