Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre Review

The Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre is a high-quality USB audio interface aimed at professional and home studio users. With 8 microphone preamps, 18×20 audio conversion, and Focusrite’s signature mic pres, the Clarett+ 8Pre provides ample I/O and pristine audio quality for recording, mixing, and production workflows.

In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the features, sound quality, design, and overall usability of the Clarett+ 8Pre. We’ll examine how it stacks up for recording vocals, instruments, podcasts, and more. By the end, you’ll know if the Clarett+ 8Pre is the right audio interface for your studio needs.

Overview and Features

The Clarett+ 8Pre provides 8 channels of Focusrite’s Clear mic preamps, making it well-suited for multitrack recording. Each preamp offers up to 60dB of gain for dialing in signals, plus an impedance switch for optimal matching with different microphone types.

On the back, the Clarett+ 8Pre includes 8 line inputs and 8 line outputs on balanced TRS connections. There’s also ADAT optical I/O for expanding up to 8 channels in and out when used with an external mic pre or ADAT compatible device. A stereo S/PDIF input and output allow integration with digital mixers, instruments, and effects units.

For monitoring, the Clarett+ 8Pre features a stereo headphone output with independent volume control on the front panel. There’s also dual monitor outputs on TRS connections, which you can switch between speakers and headphones from the front panel monitor blend knob.

The Clarett+ 8Pre uses Focusrite’s JetPLLTM jitter elimination technology and high-quality AD/DA converters for immaculate 18×20 audio quality. It has a 117dB dynamic range and supports sample rates up to 192kHz.

On the software side, the Clarett+ 8Pre works with Focusrite Control, a powerful desktop app for routing, mixing, and controlling levels. It’s also compatible with all major DAWs and includes the Focusrite Red Plug-in Suite for studio effects like reverb, compression, EQ, and more.

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Key Features:

• 8x microphone/line/instrument inputs with Focusrite Clear mic pres
• 8x line outputs on balanced TRS
• ADAT optical I/O expands I/O up to 18×18
• Stereo S/PDIF I/O
• JetPLLTM jitter elimination
• 18×20 audio conversion at up to 192kHz
• Stereo headphones and monitor outs
• Supports all major DAWs
• Focusrite Red Plug-in Suite included

Setup and Connectivity

Getting up and running with the Clarett+ 8Pre is straightforward, thanks to the streamlined design and easy connectivity options.

To start, simply download and install the latest drivers from the Focusrite website. Connect the Clarett+ 8Pre via the supplied USB-C cable to your computer and power it on. The interface is USB bus-powered, so no external power supply is needed.

From there, you can connect mics, instruments, monitors, and headphones using the various inputs and outputs on the rear panel. The front panel Combi jacks allow guitars, basses, and mics to plug directly into channels 1 and 2 for convenience.

Within your DAW, set the Clarett+ 8Pre as your audio interface and you’re ready record, monitor, and playback audio. Using Focusrite Control software, you can customize signal routing, enable cue mixes, and dial in low latency monitoring.

Overall, the well-labeled inputs/outputs and straightforward signal flow of the Clarett+ 8Pre make setup a breeze. Just get your gear connected, install the drivers, and configure your DAW – the Clarett+ 8Pre handles the rest.

Sound Quality

With Focusrite’s prestigious mic preamp heritage and high-end converter technology, the Clarett+ 8Pre delivers superb recording quality for the price. Vocals, acoustic instruments, drums, and more all benefit from the impressive fidelity.

The processor design and components have been optimized to provide the cleanest signal path possible. You get pristine clarity free of unwanted noise and distortion that can muddy up mixes.

The AD/DA conversion keeps audio transparent between recording and playback. The 118dB dynamic range gives plenty of headroom for capturing vocals, drums, and loud amps without clipping.

Most notably, Focusrite’s Air effect imparts the Clarett+ 8Pre with a beautiful high-end sheen perfect for adding clarity and presence. It’s like having a vintage analog studio sound right on your desktop.

Overall, the Clarett+ 8Pre provides rich, clean audio whether you’re tracking, mixing, or mastering. With studio-grade sound and routing flexibility, it’s a serious step up from basic consumer interfaces.

Microphone Preamps

One of the Clarett+ 8Pre’s biggest assets is the eight channels of Focusrite’s renowned microphone preamps. They’re specially designed to bring out the best in any microphone – from dynamics to large diaphragm condensers.

The Class A mic pres feature wide gain control from 4 to 60dB, plenty of headroom, and an impressively low noise floor. Each channel has precisionMetering for setting optimal gain levels and a polarity reverse switch for quick phase correction.

Separate impedance switches let you optimize the input impedance for different types of mics. Engaging Air mode brings in lush analog warmth and presence perfect for vocals and acoustic instruments.

Overall, the mic pres allow you to capture clean, detailed recordings no matter the source. They provide ample gain for dynamics like snares and toms, yet the clarity to capture subtle details from ribbon mics and condensers. If pristine vocals and acoustic recordings are a priority, the Clarett+ 8Pre delivers in spades.

Design

The Clarett+ 8Pre sports a sleek metal chassis that looks great on any studio desktop. The front panel features large gain knobs for each preamp, plus monitor and headphone controls for simple access.

Many of the primary controls like phantom power, pad, polarity, and Air mode are located right above each preamp channel strip. This makes it easy to configure settings for every input while tracking. Color-coded metering provides visual feedback on levels, signal, and clipping.

Around back, all of the TRS inputs, outputs, and power connections are logically arranged and clearly labeled for quick hookup. The rugged build quality ensures the Clarett+ 8Pre will stand up to years of studio use. Despite the metal exterior, the unit stays cool thanks to the efficient interior design.

In all, the Clarett+ 8Pre achieves an ideal balance of form and function. It crams robust connectivity and controls into a compact, no-nonsense chassis built for studio performance. The Clarett+ 8Pre looks great without taking up excessive space on your desktop.

Compatibility

For flexible DAW integration, the Clarett+ 8Pre is compatible with all major music production platforms. It works great with Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Cubase, Reaper, PreSonus Studio One, and more.

You can use the 18×18 I/O to record on all 8 mic pre inputs simultaneously. The ADAT optical and S/PDIF connections allow you to expand inputs and outputs using additional interfaces and external mic pres.

Focusrite’s Control desktop software opens up routing possibilities like cue mixes, foldback feeds, and custom input monitoring. Control unlocks more flexibility compared to using the interface standalone in your DAW.

Moreover, the Clarett+ 8Pre comes with Focusrite’s excellent Red Plug-in Suite. These studio-grade effects like compressor, EQ, reverb, and more integrate seamlessly for tracking, mixing, and mastering.

Overall, the Clarett+ 8Pre offers extensive compatibility and expandability. It plays nicely with all major DAWs while providing I/O options to customize your studio workflow.

Typical Uses

With its generous connectivity and superb converters, the Clarett+ 8Pre is a versatile interface suitable for:

• Home studios – 8 pristine mic preamps provide ample inputs for fully-fledged recordings. Add ADAT expandability down the line.
• Podcasters – Record interviews, roundtables, and co-hosts with the 4combo jacks up front. Mix and route cues in Control.
• YouTubers – Capture voiceovers, instrument demos, and vocals for videos with studio-quality audio.
• Songwriters – Track layers of vocals, guitars, keys, and more all through the Clarett’s clear mic pres and signal path.
• Mobile recording – The USB bus-powering and compact form factor make the Clarett+ 8Pre easy to take on location.
• Post-production – Mix and master using the Clarett’s accurate monitoring and 118dB dynamic range converters.

In summary, the quality, connectivity, and flexibility of the Clarett+ 8Pre make it a versatile option for most home/project studio scenarios.

Pros and Cons

Here’s a quick rundown of the biggest pros and potential cons of the Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre:

Pros

• Eight channels of Focusrite’s revered mic preamps
• Air mode for analog character and sheen
• Excellent 118dB dynamic range AD/DA conversion
• Latency-free monitoring via Focusrite Control
• Works with all major DAWs and plugins
• Sturdy metal construction

Potential Cons

• No onboard DSP – requires computer connection
• Only stereo monitor outs (no 5.1 surround)
• Headphones output isn’t particularly loud/punchy
• No onboard controls for phantom power

Conclusion

The Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre earns a strong recommendation for home studios needing pristine mic preamps, ample I/O, and superb audio conversion. Eight channels of Focusrite’s variable impedance, Air-enabled mic pres provide tremendous versatility for recording vocals, guitars, drums, and more.

With ADAT expandability, S/PDIF, and 8 line outputs, you can continue scaling up the interface as your studio grows. Top-notch components like the JetPLLsync and 118dB converters deliver tremendous headroom and immaculate sound. Plus, the build quality is rock solid for years of use.

For the price, the Clarett+ 8Pre is one of the best values on the market in terms of connectivity, mic preamps, and audiophile-grade sound. If you’re looking to take your recordings to the next level, the Clarett+ 8Pre absolutely deserves an audition.

FAQs

How do the preamps compare to other Focusrite models?

The Clarett+ 8Pre’s mic pres leverage the same technology as the flagship Isa preamps in higher-end Focusrite interfaces. You get that same Class A sound and fidelity in a more affordable package.

What happens if I run out of mic pres when recording?

You can always expand by adding more Clarett interfaces via ADAT, or use external mic pres. The Clarett Control software allows flexible mixing and routing with multiple units.

Can I use the Clarett+ 8Pre for 5.1 surround recording?

Unfortunately no – the Clarett+ is limited to stereo input and output only. Focusrite’s higher-end Clarett interfaces do support surround formats.

Is there latency for overdubbing/software monitoring?

Using Focusrite Control, you can achieve near-zero latency by using the Clarett’s direct hardware monitoring path. This avoids delays when overdubbing additional layers.

How does the Clarett compare to similarly-priced interfaces?

The Clarett+ 8Pre punches above its weight class in terms of mic preamp quality and A/D D/A conversion. You’d have to spend significantly more to beat its sound.

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