Audient ASP800 8-Channel Microphone Preamp with 2 Retro Channels and ADAT Output

The Audient ASP800 is an 8-channel microphone preamplifier and analogue-to-digital converter designed for professional and project studio use. It serves as a channel expansion unit for audio interfaces with ADAT optical inputs, providing eight high-quality microphone preamps in a single 1U rack space. The unit combines clean, transparent amplification with optional harmonic colouration options, making it suitable for a wide range of recording applications from full drum kits to vocal sessions. The ASP800 features eight of Audient's renowned console-style microphone preamps, developed over 18 years of refinement. These are complemented by two discrete JFET instrument inputs designed to emulate the response of vintage valve amplifier input stages. The unit's standout feature is its two 'Retro' channels, which offer independent HMX and IRON harmonic saturation controls. HMX emulates the warm, asymmetrical distortion characteristic of 1960s tube preamplifiers, while IRON recreates the magnetic transformer saturation and sparkle associated with 1970s British recording consoles. Conversion is handled by Burr-Brown 24-bit/96kHz ADCs with a 118dB dynamic range, preserving signal integrity from source to digital output. This preamp is ideal for musicians, producers, and engineers needing to expand their interface's input count without compromising on sound quality. Its combination of clean and coloured tones makes it versatile for tracking everything from acoustic instruments needing transparency to electric guitars and drums benefiting from harmonic enhancement. The all-metal enclosure ensures durability for both studio and mobile recording setups, while the straightforward control layout allows for quick adjustments during sessions. The ADAT optical output provides seamless integration with most modern audio interfaces, making channel expansion straightforward.