With its new updates and features, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a severe digital audio interface that delivers impressive professional-quality sound and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for both new and experienced recording enthusiasts.
The latest generation Scarlett 2i2 features two of Focusrite’s newly-designed 3rd Gen mic preamps: with low noise (-128dB EIN) and a more even gain structure, these preamps offer maximum headroom, minimal distortion, and a richer overall sound. The new Scarlett also features upgraded converters that operate at 24-bit/192kHz, offering higher fidelity and lower latency than ever.
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
As one of the most popular audio interface on the market, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 has been used by everyone from bedroom producers to Grammy-winning engineers. It’s easy to see why it’s so popular: with its solid build quality, great sound quality, and low latency, the 2i2 is perfect for both home and professional studios.
With its updated version 2, the Focusrite 2i2 now features a new interface chip that gives more sound quality and flexibility than its predecessor, the Scarlett 2i2. It also has three new models that use the same USB Type-A 3.5mm jack. Focusrite’s SoundGrid technology supports all models, and the Scarlett 2i2 will work with up to 192 kHz resolution and 96-bit audio processing.
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) is a simple recording solution that connects to your computer via USB-C and offers quarter-inch stereo inputs that double as XLR inputs for microphones. It provides low latency monitoring and relatively transparent recording paths without adding unnecessary complexity to your setup. Our biggest complaint is that the left and proper gain controls aren’t easily adjusted in unison.
The exterior of the third generation Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 has undergone an elegant makeover. Under the hood, however, it has been tweaked and updated to offer better sonority, lower latency, and better usability. With sample rates up to 192kHz, you’ll have studio-quality sound that you can take anywhere. Focusrite has added their acclaimed Air circuit to their fantastic Scarlett mic preamps. The instrument’s inputs have also been redesigned to handle the hottest active pickups. Finally, Focusrite has analog protection circuits connected to the Scarlett 2i2’s inputs and outputs, protecting the interface from harmful power surges.
Pros
- Transparent stereo recordings for XLR microphones and quarter-inch inputs
- Low latency monitoring
- Easy to set up and use
Cons
- No way to accurately match gain levels for two inputs
- A lightweight body can be easily pulled through cables
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd Gen)
Offering everything you need to turn your computer into a digital recording solution, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd Generation) enhances its original design to deliver maximum audio quality and performance. The interface features a 2-in/2-out configuration with two combo inputs that allow the connection of a microphone and an instrument. Redesigned instrument inputs will enable you to record any instrument input, even the most demanding guitar pickups. The two balanced 6.35 mm jack outputs allow you to connect your interface to studio monitors for mixing and mastering. There’s also a 48V phantom power switch, allowing you to connect and power condenser microphones, perfect for recording studio-quality vocals.
Improved design and functionality
The Scarlett 2i2 has been improved tenfold with new features and functions that enhance performance and sound quality. One of the most important updates is the recent ultra-low latency performance. Ultra-low return latency improves performance and efficiency by minimizing the delay between the original signal and the signal processed on the computer; This is of utmost importance when recording vocals or instruments, as it gives you the ability to record signals in as much real-time as possible.
The Scarlett 2i2 now operates at a sample rate of up to 192kHZ for maximum audio quality, perfect for capturing high-quality recordings from microphones and instruments. The Scarlett Mic Preamp has also been improved, with a smoother gain structure, allowing you to fine-tune your levels and streamline your workflow. Additionally, Focusrite has incorporated analog protection circuitry for the input and output to combat unwanted current spikes.
New Software Bundle
The Scarlett 2i2 additionally functions as a modern software program package, imparting you with the entirety you want to record, edit and blend your recordings. The new software program includes: Red 2 & three Plugin Suite, Softube Time and Tone Pack, Ableton Live Lite track-making software program, Novation Bass Station VST with AU Plugin-Synthesiser, 2GB of Loopmasters sounds and samples, plus Pro equipment First (First Focusrite Creative Pack). This software program package gives you everything you want to get out of the box. The addition of the Pro Tools First (First Focusrite Creative Pack) provides its functionality, imparting you with the Pro Tools First software program and 12 loose plugins.
Compact, Robust Design
One of the maximum unnoticed capabilities of this audio interface is its compact length and lightweight chassis, making the interface noticeably transportable. The interface itself is constituted of a pink anodized aluminum unibody chassis for optimum sturdiness in addition to searching noticeably stylish.
Monitoring and degree manipulation are treated with the aid of the front panel controls offering a big reveal/headphone degree dial plus character controls for each microphone and device input. The rear of the interface capabilities 2 reveal.
Pros
- Ultra-low latency performance for recording in real-time
- Improved sound quality with sample rates up to 192kHz
- Smooth gain structure for easy level adjustment
- rugged and travel-friendly design
- Comprehensive software bundle included
Cons
- If you’re walking this interface on Windows, you’ll have an awful time. (home windows drivers are frequently conflicting with this product and might purpose many issues like “Buzzing, crackling, and robot distortion to your voice and audio)”
- The placement of the two microphone plugins withinside the front tends to get withinside the manner and are smooth to bump and probably harm your cable or the preamp housing itself.
- This product additionally tends to accumulate a massive quantity of static and desires to be electricity cycled frequently, or you may get crackling audio.
Most Frequently Asked Questions
Is Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 the best?
No, but it is an excellent option if you’re looking for an interface with low latency and great sound quality.
What does a Scarlett 2i2 do?
The Scarlett 2i2 is a USB audio interface that allows you to record and play back digital audio. You can record audio in several formats, including WAV and AIFF, when connected to your computer, using the Line or Hi-Z (Analog) input options. You can also record audio to one of two external audio drives. Once you are done recording, you can listen to your audio with headphones or earphones while monitoring playback with the built-in speaker.
What software do I need for Focusrite Scarlett 2i2?
The Scarlett 2i2 is compatible with various recording and playback software, including Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase, and Ableton Live. You will need to install the included Focusrite Control software to use the interface. This software provides a control panel for adjusting input and output levels, applying effects, and monitoring audio playback.
Conclusion
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is an excellent accessories option for those looking for an interface with low latency and excellent sound quality. It is also a good choice for those who need a portable interface that can transport easily. The included software bundle makes it an excellent value for the money, and the rugged design makes it a good choice for traveling musicians. The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a good choice for those needing a portable, high-quality audio interface.
