User Manual
17
HARDWARE FEATURES
Front Panel
4
2
11
975 6
4
5 6 11
3
810
The Front Panel includes the input connectors for Mic, Line and Instrument signals, as well as the
input gain and monitoring controls.
1. Inputs 1 & 2 – “Combo” type input sockets - connect microphones, instruments (e.g.,
guitar), or line level signals here. Combo sockets accept both XLR and ¼” (6.35 mm) jacks.
Microphones will normally be connected using XLR plugs: instruments and line level signals
should be connected via ¼” (6.35 mm) jack plugs of either TR or TRS type. The preamp gain is
appropriate for microphones when an XLR plug is inserted, and for higher level signals when
a jack plug is inserted. Do not connect anything other than a microphone - e.g., the output
of a sound module or FX unit - via an XLR plug, as the signal level will overload the preamp,
resulting in distortion; also, if phantom power is enabled, the equipment may be damaged.
2. GAIN 1 and GAIN 2 – adjust the preamp gain for signals at inputs 1 and 2 respectively. The
gain controls have concentric tri-colour LED ‘rings’ to confirm signal level: green indicates
an input level of at least -24 dBFS (i.e., ‘signal present’), the ring then turns amber at -6 dBFS
to indicate that the signal is close to clipping, and finally to red at 0 dBFS (digital clipping).
3. 48V – phantom power switch for mic inputs - enables 48 V phantom power at XLR contacts of
both Combo connectors.
4. INST – two red LEDs; illuminate when Instrument mode is selected for Inputs 1 or 2 from
Focusrite Control; gain is set to suit instrument signals. When INST is off, the ¼” jack input is
configured to accept a line level signal, e.g., from a keyboard, synth module or FX unit.
5. AIR – two yellow LEDs indicating selection of AIR mode for Inputs 1 and 2. AIR mode, selected
from Focusrite Control, modifies the frequency response of the input stage to model the
classic, transformer-based Focusrite ISA microphone preamps.
6. PAD – two green LEDs; illuminate when PAD is selected from Focusrite Control for Inputs 1
or 2. PAD decreases the signal level going to your DAW by 10 dB; use when the input source
has a particularly high level.