The History Of The Focusrite Studio Console

We all know Focusrite for building great computer interfaces, mic preamps and channel strips, but not everyone is aware of the company’s history building state-of-the-art consoles. Founded by none other than Rupert Neve after he left his namesake company, Focusrite didn’t build many consoles, but the ones that were built are highly prized and most are still in use.

Originally Rupert was asked by Sir George Martin to build some modules to retrofit his Neves at Air Studios, and these became the basis for ISA 100 series. Their appearance started the ball rolling as the company soon received orders for full-blown consoles.

Only 10 Focusrite consoles were ever made, but only 4 were originally planned. The first 2 were for one-offs for Electric Lady Studios in NYC and Master Rock in London, but the consoles cost so much to build that the company found itself running out of money.

Enter Phil Dudridge, the original owner of Soundcraft, who had just sold that company to Harman and had some money in the bank. He rescued Focusrite and set about endeavoring to build the best consoles money could buy using the ISA modules as building blocks.

Below is a video about the history of the Focusrite consoles and you’ll hear from some great engineers and see all the installations. They’re still impressive and what many consider to be the finest recording consoles ever built.

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