1. Focusrite Get Started Register

• Get a Live Lite serial. Live Lite is bundled with a variety of hardware devices as one starting option to DAW workflows. If you did not receive a Live Lite serial with your new hardware device, you can complete this form to request a replacement. If you bought a hardware product secondhand that should have come with a Lite serial, you can use the same form above.
• Essentially, this is the registration process on steroids, so you input your serial number and you get taken through a series of steps to allow you to download either the Lite version of Ableton Live or Pro Tools First that comes with the interface, with a handy instructional video about the installation.

Price£99 to £449
ContactFocusrite

When it comes to releasing interfaces, Focusrite doesn’t tend to hang around. Whereas some companies will release one or two models every couple of years or so, Focusrite has core ranges which it updates, so you get half a dozen models and a couple of bundled packages all released at once with something, as they say, for everyone. The Scarlett range is, the company says, the best-selling range of interfaces the world has seen, but I do have to admit some confusion over the company’s other ‘rose’ flavoured ranges and where each one slots in with one another, so here is my attempt at a (hopefully) brief explanation.

Focusrite Scarlett Journey. Focusrite has made you an online setup guide to get started with your Scarlett interface. It walks you through the registration process and even has videos for setting up and getting started with the bundled DAW software.

The Scarlett range is the main USB entry point to Focusrite interfacing, boasting models for everyone from the beginner onwards. The iTrack range is the lightning-cable-equipped range of interfaces specifically tailored for mobile iOS recording, featuring such models as the iTrack Dock and fabulous cuboid iTrack One Pre. Clarett is Focusrite’s range of interfaces for Thunderbolt.

It would seem, then, that the differences between Scarlett and Clarett would simply be down to Scarlett’s USB v the faster Clarett Thunderbolt interfacing standard. I say ‘would’, because Focusrite now has the Clarett USB range for super-low USB latency. You might then be asking what the differences are between Scarlett USB and Clarett USB and this comes down to better mic pres and other audio specs on the Clarett range – more on these later. Finally, there are the Reds, a pro-end range of interfaces with masses of digital and analogue I/O with Dante, DigiLink connectivity and even better preamps. Sorted?

The new 3rd-Gen range

With that cleared up, let’s get onto the new range. There are six interfaces in the third generation of Scarletts, some direct replacements to models in the second generation, others replacements but with additional features like extra line-ins. The smallest is the Solo, one of the direct second-generation upgrades. As you might expect, the range then steps up with more ins and outs, so you get the Scarlett 2i2 (two in, two out); the 4i4 (four in, four out and which replaces the old 2i4, adding two fixed-line inputs); the 8i6 (one of the units on test here, which replaces the old 6i6 but adds two line inputs); the 18i8 (18 ins, including eight ADAT ins and eight analogue outs) and 18i20 (18 ins and 20 outs, including ADAT I/O).

That’s a lot of new interfaces, but in this review we’ll be focusing on three models to cover the range: the entry-level Solo, the mid-range 8i6 and high-end 18i20. We’ll also be looking at the entry-level Solo as part of a new studio bundle, which comes with headphones and a microphone in a future mini review.

All the models in this new generation boast the Focusrite Air feature that I last saw in the Clarett USB range last year. This emulates the famous AIR Studios lift in the high mids, which is a famous characteristic of the original Focusrite ISAs first used in that studio, and which were commissioned by late uber-producer George Martin for his mixer there. The top four models also boast Loopback functionality enabling you to capture any stereo feed from any hardware or software combo: useful for podcasters and those into flexible sampling.

The technical specs have been improved, too. The Dynamic Range figure – that is the difference between the output-level capability and the noise floor, so the bigger the better – is around 110dB across the new range for line, mic and instrument inputs. That compares to anything between 106-109dB for the 2nd-Gens. Conversely, the Total Harmonic Distortion figures (a measurement of distortion and noise, so the lower the better) is around half that of the previous generation, albeit from a pretty low starting point. The overall Gain Range has also been improved, from 50dB to 56dB, so it’s a promising set of specs.

I should also mention there’s a free software bundle with Live Lite and Pro Tools First, a Splice subscription, plus a good range of plug-ins from Softube, XLN Audio and Focusrite.

Ready to go

One of the other big new features of the new Scarlett range is the incorporation of Focusrite’s new Quick Start process. This is your first introduction to the interface, and interactive process ‘designed to help those who need it to get up and running quicker and easier than ever before’, although more seasoned users can skip it and jump straight to the software downloads, should they wish. Essentially, this is the registration process on steroids, so you input your serial number and you get taken through a series of steps to allow you to download either the Lite version of Ableton Live or Pro Tools First that comes with the interface, with a handy instructional video about the installation. You even get a ‘time to install’ indication (some five minutes for Ableton, 25 for Pro Tools), rather like the time it takes to get to your gate at an airport. Very nice.

Further tutorial content checks you through the supplied virtual instruments and plug-ins and sample-content installation, before explaining how to set up the Scarlett interface depending on how you are going to use them. Here, you get asked whether you are more of an in-the-box producer or one who will be recording externally, and are then given all the connectivity information, depending on the scenario you choose. It’s a refreshing change to get this kind of interactive experience with any piece of gear, as most of the time you’re relying on manuals that you don’t really want to read (as you’re too excited or think you know it all) and this does help you get up and recording faster.

More control

You’ll need to download the latest version of Focusrite’s Control software to use with the entire Scarlett range. This allows you to set up main global device parameters – clocking and line/instrument inputs – and also mixing and routing options. Simply head over to the downloads section of the Focusrite website, and select your device if you didn’t get it through the Quick Start procedure (or missed that out).

Within this software, you get Input Settings and Output Routing tabs. The main I/O routings, plus your internal DAW routings are set up in the latter tab, with outputs – line, headphones Loopback and S/PDIF – running top to bottom and inputs left to right, plus your software and DAW connectivity options shown at the bottom.

Generally, the software’s set up as you might expect, with your main outputs from your DAW going to outputs 1 and 2 of the Scarlett, but you can easily change all routing by producing a Custom Mix, and then utilising the drop-down menus on each output block to change settings. Changes to input routings are just as easy, as you get an overview of all available inputs on the far right of the UI and you can, for example, easily configure inputs as stereo pairs.

Within the Control software, you can also bring the Air option in the Input Settings tab and also switch between input line and instrument levels and the Pad option (to prevent clipping with hotter signals). See the first picture in the Control boxout for more. Overall, the Control software is very easy to use and configure – setting up Custom Mixes really is a breeze – and an essential part of the Scarlett experience.

The hardware

I’ll start with the Solo. Now this is a dinky unit: light, compact, well built, small enough to pocket and buss-powered, too, so a good mobile-recording option. It features a mic input around the front, with a preamp common to the entire third generation of Scarletts that Focusrite confirms are the best-performing Scarlett preamps. There’s also a high-impedance instrument input (for guitar or bass) which can also take line-level signals from drum machines and synths, etc, with the flick of the switch to its right. The unit features useful ‘gain halos’ around the front gain dials that light green when levels are good, orange for just okay or red when they clip.

Finally, on the front panel there is a Direct Monitor button so you can hear what you are playing and recording latency free. These front-panel controls are very similar in layout to the last-gen Solo – as all the third-generation controls are – so if you are familiar with, or upgrading from that range, you’ll be right at home here. One last Solo upgrade includes two balanced TRS speaker outs around the back – previously, these were RCA connections.

Next up is the 8i6. It features two combi instrument and mic inputs around the front with two mic preamps. There are a couple of headphone outs plus level control, again with gain halos. Around the back you get S/PDIF I/Os, MIDI Input and Output, plus a further four inputs for line-level instruments (synths, drum machines etc), so with decent MIDI- and line-input specs, Focusrite is certainly acknowledging the growing hardware-synth scene with this one.

The unit is light compared to some similarly priced Audients and Steinberg interfaces that I’ve reviewed, but feels sturdy and ‘in place’ on your desktop thanks to a full-metal case and rubber feet.

Finally, the higher end Scarlett 18i20 boasts 18 inputs via two switchable combi mic/instrument/line XLR inputs and six more via line inputs and S/PDIF I/Os. There are eight more ADAT optical ins and outs (for the connection of external ADAT I/O expanders) plus 10 physical balanced monitor outputs and two headphones. The big difference here between the 18i20 and the rest of the range is the more well-spec’d front panel which is more compact in terms of height but one set of LEDs indicates all level inputs and there are indicators for Air per channel and Instrument for inputs 1 and 2. It also has optional rack ears for rack-mounting.

Scarlett sound

For the bulk of the listening tests, I’m using the mid-range 8i6 and the top-end 18i20, as these have the wider flexibility, but the same preamps that the Solo uses. The first thing that strikes me is the noise, or lack of it, on setting up inputs. I try my admittedly quite noisy electric piano first and the recordings I make are clean, deep and rich and completely noiseless. Microphone recording is just as concise and noise-free – these really are clean interfaces.

I particularly like the gain halos on the input; the traffic-light green, orange and red indicator exactly matching Logic’s own levels and warning meters in this case, and they’re an excellent secondary indicator.

I make some simple acoustic piano recordings via mic inputs, with a one-mic setup and again, it’s the clean operation and wide dynamic range that stands out, something I recall from testing both the Clarett Thunderbolt and USB ranges. I also test the Air feature. Focusrite suggests that it’s a growing effect that rises towards higher frequencies, kicking in at 100Hz and building to 20kHz. As such, I didn’t even notice it on certain sounds, but vocals – and to a certain extent upper ranges of the acoustic piano – there is a lift. It’s not dramatic, but certainly present.

As a playback interface, Scarlett is also top notch. I compare the 8i6 it to my reference interface that comes in at a couple of hundred pounds more and the two are almost indistinguishable on input recording through Logic – although I find I almost immediately miss that input-LED metering on the Focusrite as soon as I swap. As straight playback devices, again the sound is comparable – remember that my reference interface is more expensive.

Onto round-trip latency – the time it takes for a signal to get through your interface, be processed by your computer, and come back to you via the interface. The figure is dependent on many factors, including your computing power, what you have running, plus your buffer size and sample rate. My tests aren’t exactly scientific (and you will get different figures), but as a comparison, with a 48kHz sample rate and a buffer size of 32 samples, my Thunderbolt Clarett tests delivered a round-trip latency of 3ms, the USB Clarett 6ms and the Scarlett was 6.8ms. Again, not definitive, but interesting that the Scarlett measures up.

For good measure, I check all the results – latency, recording and playback – with the 18i20 just to check that the sound quality and performance are as you would expect and all my tests reveal identical results: a great dynamic, low noise – even with lots of different instruments plumbed in – and low latency, so fantastic results.

For good measure, I check all the results – latency, recording and playback – with the 18i20 just to check that the sound quality and performance are as you would expect and all my tests reveal identical results: a great dynamic, low noise – even with lots of different instruments plumbed in – and low latency, so fantastic results.

Conclusion

This third generation of Scarlett interfaces might not seem a radical step up from the previous range, but Focusrite has scattered some well-needed upgrades among the set, from boosting the tech specs, to adding inputs and improving the whole user experience – especially for newcomers to music-making.

At that entry level, the Solo maintains its predecessor’s easy portability and compact and mobile form and will easily suit singer-songwriters wanting good-quality recording and playback on the move. The 8i6 will also suit newcomers and those branching out into more hardware realms, perhaps those with a smaller synth setup or a small- to medium-sized hybrid hardware/software studio. It’s a great option for small-scale instrument recording too. The top-end 18i20 is my favourite, though. It crams more I/O into a compact unit and has all the connectivity that my synth-heavy studio requires.

As the quality of the Scarlett range has now clearly taken a step up – in terms of the preamps, the dynamic range and lower latency – it now appears to sit closer to the more expensive Clarett range with similar specs but using USB. The 18i20, for example, now looks more than a match for the Clarett 8Pre, but costs a lot less.

However, the Clarett range still has better latency figures and other audio specs, and better external ADAT connectivity to justify their higher price tag.

Back to Scarlett: the next generation, then, and it certainly succeeds where it should. Better quality, improved specs and not much of a shift in price. It’s difficult to see Focusrite losing that ‘best selling interface’ label any time soon.

Key features

• Audio interface range
• On test: the Solo (2 in, 2 out), the 8i6 (8 in 6 out) and 18i20 (18 in, 20 out) models
• ‘‘Super stable’ low-latency drivers
• Input Dynamic Range: 111dB
• Total Harmonic Dist. + Noise: >0.0012-0.0015 (mic/line)
• Gain range: 56dB
• Output Dyn. Range: 108dB
• Includes Focusrite Control software
• Software: Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools First, Focusrite Creative Pack, 3-month Splice Sounds sub, XLN Audio Addictive Keys, Focusrite Red Suite, Softube Time And Tone Bundle, Focusrite Plug-in Collective

Alternatives

Jbt ssangyong diagnostic tool scanner. Presonus
Studio range From £152

Pretty much the only range of interfaces out there with as much girth as the Scarletts is the Studio range from PreSonus. They have all sorts of configurations across 12 units, all USB compatible and with a good software bundle.

Audient
ID range From £99

Another interface line I have a lot of experience with includes the ID range from Audient. Featuring the same preamp quality as the company’s high-end consoles, these are
well built and have plenty of I/O options.

THIRD GENERATION! The guide below applies specifically to the third generation of Scarlett interfaces, but the installation and setup sections are similar for second generation devices.

Getting started

In this guide, you will learn how to set up a Focusrite Scarlett audio interface. We will show you how to connect it to your computer and get audio in and out of the device. Follow each of the sections below to get started.

Focusrite Scarlett Journey

Focusrite has made you an online setup guide to get started with your Scarlett interface. It walks you through the registration process and even has videos for setting up and getting started with the bundled DAW software. Click the image below to get started and enjoy using your new Scarlett! Return to this page at any time for more information and step by step instructions.

1. Connect your Scarlett interface.
2. Double-click the Scarlett device icon and open the link to get started.

Registration and bundled software

Generation 3 Scarlett interfaces are bundled with two DAW’s (Ableton Live Lite and Pro Tools First Focusrite Creative Pack) and three plug-in packages (Softube’s Time and Tone Bundle, Focusrite Red Plug-In Suite, and access to the Focusrite Plug-in Collective). In order to get them, you’ll need to create an account and register your Scarlett. Their online registration guide is fast, but manual registration works, too.

1. Create a Focusrite account or log in to your current account.
2. Once logged in, go to the product registration page.
3. Use the drop-down list to select your Scarlett interface.
4. Complete the form by entering your Scarlett’s Serial Number and click Submit.
5. Go to the My Software page in your account to access the bundled software.

Install Focusrite Control driver

Focusrite Control is the driver software required by most Scarlett interfaces. In order to connect the Scarlett interface to your computer, its driver software must first be installed. Once installed, launch the Focusrite Control app to configure the Scarlett’s settings and create custom monitor or headphone mixes.

Do I need Focusrite Control?

2i2 and Solo interfaces are class compliant on Mac computers. That means they will work with the default Mac drivers and only need Focusrite Control for remote control or adjusting settings.

1. Go to the Focusrite Downloads page.
2. Select your Brand (Focusrite), Product Range (Scarlett), and Product Type (model).
3. Find and click the latest software version compatible with your operating system to download it.
4. Open your computer’s Downloads folder.
5. Complete the software installation:
   • PC: Double-click the .exe file and follow the on-screen instructions.
   • Mac: Double-click the .dmg file, and in the new window that appears, double-click the .pkg file and follow the on-screen instructions.
6. Restart your computer.

Setup and connections

After registration and installation, it’s time to connect the Scarlett. Scarlett interfaces have a USB-C port for connecting directly to your computer and operate on the USB 2.0 protocol for maximum compatibility. Solo and 2i2 are bus powered, which means they receive power over the USB connection instead of a power adapter. Other Scarlett devices like require a power adapter/cable and additional driver software to work correctly.

Scarlett not showing up?

Reconnect the interface by unplugging and plugging it back in. If you have not done so yet, try reconfiguring the USB connections so that Scarlett is connected directly to your computer. Sometimes USB hubs are unable to provide enough power for bus-powered devices like 2i2 or Solo, and this is especially true for hubs that do not have their own power supply (aka passive hubs). If the problem persists, try a different USB port or cable. Visit our Windows and Mac guides for more tips on resolving audio device connectivity.

MIDI ports

Focusrite Get Started Register

Scarletts with 5-pin MIDI ports can connect with MIDI devices. While some MIDI devices require their USB connections for full functionality, the Scarlett’s MIDI ports are useful if your device has MIDI ports, plus you’ll save a USB port. For example, you can connect a MIDI keyboard to play virtual instruments, or even connect an external synthesizer and play/trigger it with a MIDI track inside your DAW. Learn more about setting up MIDI keyboards and DAW controllers.

Connecting with ADAT or S/PDIF

Scarlett 8i6, 18i8 & 18i20 interfaces also have ADAT & S/PDIF connections (8i6 S/PDIF only). These digital connections are used to connect and route audio with other devices. S/PDIF connections are digital (not analog RCA) and pass stereo audio, while ADAT is often used to connect additional preamps or D/A converters, like the Scarlett Octopre. Visit our Scarlett connection instructions for ADAT and S/PDIF to learn more.

Update computer audio settings

When your computer plays audio, the sound is output through a selected audio device. To select your Scarlett as a Mac or PC’s audio device, you’ll need to update the Sound settings. These settings will apply to most apps and features, but most audio software has its own audio settings, too. That just means your DAW or other related audio software needs to know what the audio device is and which input and output streams are which. To test audio playback with your new Scarlett, update the computer’s Sound settings and then play sound from a web browser, like a video from our YouTube channel.

PC/Windows sound

1. From your Windows taskbar, right-click the sound icon and select Playback devices.
2. Select your audio interface and then click Set Default.
3. Click OK to close the menu.

Mac/macOS sound

1. From the Menu Bar, click the Apple icon and select System Preferences.
2. Click Sound.
3. Under the Output tab, select your audio device.

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