Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre Review: Build quality & Sound

Alistair Vance
Written by Alistair Vance

February 16, 2026

Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre

Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre Review: Build quality & Sound

Technical profile of the Focusrite

  • 24-bit / 192 kHz
  • 18 inputs and 20 outputs
  • Eight Clarett microphone preamps with Air Mode model the classic ISA110 Mic-Preamp sound
  • +48 V phantom power switchable
  • Dim and Mute function
  • Eight mic-/line-inputs: XLR/6.3 mm jack combo (two can be used as instrument inputs)
  • Ten line outputs: 6.3 mm jack (two of which are monitor outputs)
  • MIDI in / out
  • ADAT input and output
  • S/PDIF input and output coaxial
  • Two stereo headphone outputs: 6.3 mm jack
  • Word clock output
  • USB
  • Built-in power supply
  • 19″ housing, 1U
  • Dimensions (W x H x D): 482.5 x 43.9 x 291 mm
  • Weight: 4.08 kg
  • Includes USB-C cable and Hitmaker Expansion Software Bundle (Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools Intro+ and Avid Complete Plugin Bundle)
  • LANDR – AI-based mastering tool (two-month subscription)
  • Softube Flow Guitar Essentials
  • XLN Audio Addictive Keys Studio Grand Piano – Virtual Keyboard Instruments
  • XLN Audio Addictive Drums 2: Studio Rock – Virtual Drum Library
  • Celemony Melodyne Essential
  • Brainworx Bx_console Focusrite SC – Channelstrip
  • Focusrite Red 2 & 3 Plug-in Suite – EQ and Compressor
  • Relab’s LX480 Essentials – Reverb
  • Native Instruments MASSIVE, FAST Balancer

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Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre Review: Build quality & Sound

Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre Review: Build quality & Sound

Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre Review: Build quality & Sound

Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre Review: Build quality & Sound

Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre Review: Build quality & Sound

Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre Review: Build quality & Sound

Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre Review: Build quality & Sound

Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre Review: Build quality & Sound

Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre Review: Build quality & Sound

Additional Information

Customer Review Summary

Review of the Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre

As an enthusiast using the Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre in my home studio, I can confidently say it meets all my needs for high-quality recordings. The clarity and warmth of the sound, particularly with the preamps, are outstanding, offering a significant upgrade from previous interfaces like the Scarlett. The ability to record an entire band across multiple tracks with professional quality is a game changer.

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One of the standout features is the dual headphone outputs, which allow for collaborative work on smaller projects. The multiple inputs and outputs provide great flexibility for various recording setups, and the integration with my DAW is seamless, offering ultra-low latency for real-time monitoring.

Although the Focusrite Control software can be a bit cumbersome and lacks some stability, it is generally user-friendly and allows for straightforward setup and routing. However, I would prefer a more intuitive control, especially for features like the AIR function, which should ideally have a physical button rather than being software-controlled.

In terms of build quality, the Clarett+ 8Pre is robust and compact, fitting well into any studio setup without compromising durability. The sound quality is simply superb, making it a worthy investment for anyone serious about music production. Despite some minor software hiccups, I highly recommend this interface for its impressive performance and capabilities.

Overall, the Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre is an exceptional product that delivers professional-grade sound and flexibility, making it an invaluable tool for both home and professional studios.



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Alistair Vance

Based in Bristol, Al has spent over a decade mixing local bands before specialising in hybrid studio consulting. He’s obsessed with the price-to-performance ratio, helping musicians achieve a "Radio Ready" sound without the need for a £50,000 Neve console. No fluff, just honest gear reviews to get your tracks sounding professional on a real-world budget.

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