Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic Review (July 2024)

Description

In this review post, we’re going to be discussing the Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic 8-Channel Mic Pre Expansion with Analog Compression, including an overview of its unique features.

Product Description

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. Octopre dynamic features eight channels of Focusrite 2nd generation Scarlett preamps and a soft-knee VCA compressor on every channel. It lets you control the dynamics of all your input signals with an easy-to-use single-knob analog compressor on every channel. There’s a transparent mode for subtle compression plus a “more” button that doubles the ratio for compression with effect.

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 analog compression, it’s ideal for tracking drums as well guitars, keyboards, vocals, and more. Meanwhile, the eight outputs give you the option of expanding your analog outputs over and above the Scarlett OctoPre. Your Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic comes with the Hitmaker Expansion, an unbeatable range of tried-and-tested studio tools from some of the biggest names in the business.

The Hitmaker Expansion includes: Antares Auto-Tune Access, Relab LX480 Essentials, Softube Marshall Silver Jubilee 2555, XLN Audio Addictive Keys, XLN Audio Addictive Drums 2, Brainworx bx_oberhausen, Three Month Splice Sounds Subscription, Brainworx bx_console Focusrite SC, Focusrite Red Plug-In Suite, Brainworx bx_masterdesk, Ableton Live Lite, Three Month Avid® Pro Tools® subscription: get a taste of the industry-standard recording experience with this legendary DAW, and Access to Focusrite’s Plug-In Collective; all upon purchase, registration, and download. Interested in what headphones are compatible with Scarlett? Search ‘Headphones’ on the Focusrite help center for more information.

Product Features

• LED display
• Type: 19 “, 1 U
• Up to 192 kHz
• Weight: 3.38 kg
• + 48V phantom power
• From the Scarlett series
• Integrated power supply
• 2x ADAT input and output
• BNC word clock input and output
• 8x line output 6.3 mm jack balanced
• With integrated AD / DA converter 24-bit
• “More” switch to double the ratio
• Input 1 + 2 can be used as instrument inputs
• Adjustable analog soft-knee compression per channel
• 8x microphone / line combo input XLR / 6.3 mm jack

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Strong build quality
• Extremely reliable
• Favorable customer testimonials
• Worth the price
• Fantastic sound output

Cons

• Quite Expensive
• Knobs losing functionality
• Some parts are prone to breaking

Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic Demo

Our Verdict

Aside from my little quibble with the instrument inputs, I have no reservations in recommending the Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic. Sure, additional money can get you better preamps (not least from Focusrite’s own Clarett and ISA lines), but you’d have to spend a lot more to get a noticeable increase. In summary, if you’re having trouble making good-sounding recordings with the OctoPre range, the fault isn’t with the gear!

If you’re thinking about getting something like this, the only question is what you need from your ADAT expander. The Scarlett OctoPre checks all the boxes when it comes to mic preamps. The OctoPre Dynamic includes two-way ADAT conversion and onboard analog compressors. If you want the two-way conversion but not the compressors, you may set up a Scarlett 18i20 as a stand-alone converter. There’s a fair probability that Focusrite has something that matches your budget and meets your requirements somewhere in their three product lines!

Where to Buy

The best place to buy this product has to be Amazon, due to their competitive pricing and fantastic customer service.

Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic 8-Channel Mic Pre Expansion with Analog Compression, 8 In/8 Out, Red

$640.38

BUY NOW

Amazon.com

as of July 12, 2024 5:40 pm

Pricing History

Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic 8-Channel Mic Pre Expansion with Analog Compression, 8 In/8...

Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic 8-Channel Mic Pre Expansion with Analog Compression, 8 In/8...

$640.38

as of July 12, 2024 5:40 pm

BUY NOW

Amazon.com

Last updated on July 12, 2024 5:40 pm

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