Spirit Expands FX Series with Folio FX8
 May 20, 1998 Hot on the heels of the Folio FX16, Spirits new Folio FX8 is an eight-channel multipurpose mixer with a built-in Lexicon effects processor section.
Like the Folio FX16, the Folio FX8 is a flexible four-bus mixer capable of producing digital-quality sound for both live and recording applications. It features a specially-designed 16-program Lexicon effects section with dual-effect capability (including Chorus and Reverb, Chorus and Delay, and Reverb and Delay) as well as fully editable/storable programs and parameters. The console, itself, includes eight mic/line inputs and 16 total inputs to mix (including FX returns and tape return to mix). In addition to the mix outs, two sub-buses allow groups of instruments to be sent to multitrack recorders or additional speakers, or sub-grouped to mix. The FX8s eight direct outs are individually fader pre/post switchable, making them equally useful for recording in the studio or at a gig. In keeping with the multipurpose nature of FX8, both solo in place and PFL solo are available for studio mixdown and gain-setting applications, respectively.
All of the Folio FX8s eight mic/line inputs are equipped with Spirits UltraMic preamp. Providing a full 60dB of gain range and +22dBu of headroom, this preamp enables the input stage to handle virtually any mic or line device. In the EQ section, a true British three-band EQ with sweepable mid benefits from custom designed pots, providing greater control across carefully chosen frequencies.
There are four auxiliary sends, including a dedicated Lexicon effects send, one pre-fade send and two pre/post-fader selectable sends that are equally useful as extra foldback sends in monitor-heavy live applications, or as effects sends in studio mixdown situations. In addition, four stereo returns, a separate mono sum output and two subgroup outputs can also be found on the Folio FX8.
The mixer uses 100mm faders throughout, giving more accurate control during complex mixes than standard 60mm designs, and all pots have been custom-designed for even and consistent response around their entire sweep. The use of the latest PCB surface-mount technology means that the Folio FX8 fits all of these features into a rugged, compact frame that can be optionally rack-mounted into a 10U space.
Spirit Folio FX8 Feature List:
- 8 mono mic/line inputs
- Maximum 16 inputs to mix
- Integral Lexicon effects unit with editable and storable programs and parameters
- Solo in place or PFL solo with dual effects capability
- 8 pre/post fader-switchable direct outs as standard
- 4 auxiliaries with aux masters and AFL monitoring
- 3 band EQ with swept mid-frequency
- Steep 18dB/octave high pass filter
- 4 stereo returns with level control
- 4 bus structure with two subgroup outs
- 100mm tapered faders
- Global +48V phantom supply
- 2 x 10 segment metering (tri-color)
- Desktop as standard
- Optional rack-mount kit
- External Lexicon mute switch via jack
- External power supply with 4-pin XLR
- Headphone jack
The Spirit Folio FX8 is now shipping and carries a suggested U.S. retail price of $699.95.
Spirit is a British console and monitor line manufactured in the U.K. by Soundcraft and distributed in the U.S. by Spirit By Soundcraft, Inc., a subsidiary of Harman International. For more information, visit their web site at www.spiritbysoundcraft.com. | 
