Focusrite Clarett 8Pre USB Audio Interface User Manual

Introducció

The Focusrite Clarett 8Pre USB is a high-performance 18-in/20-out audio interface designed for professional recording environments. It features specially engineered low-noise mic preamps, high-quality 24-bit/192kHz A-D and D-A conversion, and versatile connectivity options for both Mac and PC systems. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Clarett 8Pre USB interface.

Característiques clau

• Eight Air-enabled Mic Preamps: Features specially designed, ultra-low noise mic preamps with an 'Air' mode that emulates the sound of Focusrite's classic ISA transformer-based preamps.
• High-Quality Conversion: Precision 24-bit/192kHz A-D and D-A conversion ensures a superior signal path with 118dB dynamic range.
• Entrades versàtils: Includes eight mic/line inputs, with two also functioning as high-impedance instrument inputs for direct recording of guitars and basses without unwanted distortion.
• Extensive Outputs: Ten 1/4-inch balanced jack outputs, including a dedicated stereo pair, and two independent headphone outputs with individual volume controls.
• Connectivitat digital: MIDI I/O, S/PDIF I/O, and ADAT I/O for expanding your setup with up to eight additional inputs and outputs.
• Latència baixa: Achieves super-low round-trip latency for real-time monitoring and recording through amp simulators and effects plug-ins.
• Compatibilitat entre plataformes: Connects to Mac or PC using included standard USB and USB Type-C cables.
• Focusrite Control Software: User-friendly software for configuring routing and monitor mixes from Mac, PC, iPad, iPhone, or iPod Touch.
• Included Software Bundle: Comes with Ableton Live Lite, Brainworx bx_console Focusrite, Softube Time and Tone Bundle, Focusrite’s Red Plug-in Suite, a choice of one free XLN Addictive Keys virtual instrument, and Loopmasters content.

Guia de configuració

Desembalatge i inspecció inicial

Upon opening the package, verify that all components are present and undamaged. The box should contain the Clarett 8Pre USB interface, a power supply, a standard USB cable, and a USB Type-C cable. Refer to the image below for typical box contents.

Figure 1: Clarett 8Pre USB Box Contents. This image displays the Clarett 8Pre USB interface, its power cable, and both standard USB and USB Type-C cables, along with the included documentation.

Connexió al vostre ordinador

1. Connexió d'alimentació: Connect the included power supply to the Clarett 8Pre USB and plug it into a suitable power outlet.
2. Connexió USB: Use either the standard USB cable or the USB Type-C cable to connect the Clarett 8Pre USB to an available USB port on your Mac or PC.
3. Instal·lació de programari: Visit the Focusrite website to download and install the latest drivers and the Focusrite Control software for your operating system. This software is crucial for managing the interface's settings, routing, and monitoring mixes.

Figura 2: Panell frontalview. This image shows the front panel of the Clarett 8Pre USB, highlighting the input jacks, gain knobs, and metering display.

Figure 3: Rear Panel Connectivity. This image provides a detailed view of the rear panel, illustrating the various analog and digital input/output ports, including MIDI, S/PDIF, and ADAT connections.

Instruccions de funcionament

Connexions d'entrada

The Clarett 8Pre USB offers a variety of input options:

• Mic/Line Inputs (1-8): Connect microphones via XLR or line-level instruments/devices via 1/4-inch TRS cables.
• Instrument Inputs (1-2): Inputs 1 and 2 can also be used for high-impedance instruments like guitars and basses. Ensure the 'INST' button is engaged for these inputs.
• Alimentació phantom de 48V: For condenser microphones, activate 48V phantom power using the dedicated buttons. Phantom power can be applied to inputs 1-4 and/or 5-8.
• 'Air' Mode: Engage the 'Air' button for inputs to activate an analog model of Focusrite's transformer-based ISA mic preamps, adding clarity and presence to your recordings.

Connexions de sortida

The interface provides flexible output routing:

• Line Outputs (1-10): Connect to studio monitors, external effects processors, or other line-level devices. Outputs 1-2 are typically used for main monitor outputs and feature anti-thump technology.
• Headphone Outputs (1-2): Two independent headphone outputs with dedicated volume controls allow for separate monitoring mixes for performers and engineers.
• Sortides digitals: S/PDIF and ADAT outputs allow for digital signal transfer to compatible devices, expanding your input/output capabilities.
• Sortida de Word Clock: Ensures precise synchronization with other digital audio equipment in your studio.

Using Focusrite Control Software

Focusrite Control is the companion software for your Clarett 8Pre USB, providing comprehensive control over routing, monitoring, and hardware settings. It allows you to:

• Create custom monitor mixes for artists and engineers.
• Adjust input gain and phantom power settings.
• Configure digital I/O settings (S/PDIF, ADAT).
• Manage latency settings for optimal performance.

For detailed instructions on using Focusrite Control, refer to the software's built-in help documentation or the Focusrite support weblloc.

Producte acabatview Vídeo

Mireu aquest vídeo oficial del producte per obtenir una visió completaview of the Focusrite Clarett 8Pre USB's features and connectivity options.

Manteniment

• Neteja: Feu servir un drap suau i sec per netejar l'exterior de la unitat. Eviteu productes de neteja o dissolvents abrasius.
• Ventilació: Assegureu-vos que hi hagi una ventilació adequada al voltant de la unitat per evitar el sobreescalfament. No bloquegeu les obertures de ventilació.
• Actualitzacions de firmware: Regularly check the Focusrite weblloc web per a actualitzacions de firmware per garantir un rendiment i una compatibilitat òptims.
• Gestió de cables: Organize cables to prevent strain on connectors and accidental disconnections.

Resolució de problemes

Problemes comuns i solucions

• Sense energia:
  • Ensure the power cable is securely connected to both the interface and a working power outlet.
  • Comproveu que l'interruptor d'alimentació del panell frontal estigui en la posició 'ON'.
• No Sound/Input Signal:
  • Verify that the USB cable is securely connected to both the interface and your computer.
  • Check input gain knobs are turned up sufficiently.
  • Ensure correct input selection (Mic/Line/Inst) in Focusrite Control.
  • Confirm phantom power (48V) is enabled for condenser microphones.
  • Check your DAW's input/output settings to ensure the Clarett 8Pre USB is selected as the audio device.
• Crackling/Distortion:
  • Reduce input gain to prevent clipping (indicated by red lights on the meters).
  • Increase buffer size in your DAW's audio settings to reduce CPU strain.
  • Ensure your computer meets the minimum system requirements for the interface and your DAW.
• Problemes de latència:
  • Decrease buffer size in your DAW's audio settings.
  • Utilize the direct monitoring features within Focusrite Control to monitor inputs with zero-latency.

For further assistance, visit the Focusrite Help Centre or contact Focusrite Support.

Especificacions tècniques

Garantia i Suport

The Focusrite Clarett 8Pre USB is protected by a Garantia de dos anysAquesta garantia cobreix els defectes de fabricació i garanteix que el producte funcioni tal com s'espera.

For technical assistance, product registration, or to access the latest drivers and software, please visit the official Focusrite support weblloc:

Suport de Focusrite Weblloc

Focusrite also offers best-in-class technical support to assist you with any queries or issues you may encounter.