Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 USB Audio Interface, 3rd Gen

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 USB Audio Interface, 3rd Gen Overview

The 3rd-generation of Focusrite’s best-selling audio interface features iPad Pro compatibility, direct stereo monitoring and the superb analogue Air mode.

Bestselling Interface

Focusrite’s classic Scarlett 2i2 USB Audio interface boasts a brilliant blend of I/O options and price, making it one of the world’s top-selling interfaces. From the third-gen, the 2i2 features direct stereo monitoring. The 2i2 allows you to simultaneously record and playback up to two channels, with independent headphones and monitor outputs. Whether you’re a singer-songwriter, producer, composer, guitarist or simply want to record studio-quality sound anywhere - the iconic Scarlett 2i2 is bound to become a mainstay of your music-making setup.

More Connections

The 2i2 is suited for singer-songwriters, travelling musicians, keyboard players and vocalists, and home recording. You can upgrade to the 4i4 and 8i6 for more I/O connections, or for more professional applications, there’s also the 18i8 and 18i20.

Free Software

In addition to one of the best compact audio interfaces around, Focusrite also includes all the software you need to spark new ideas and capture them. You receive access to two industry-standard digital audio workstations (also known as DAWs), Ableton Live Lite and a three-month subscription to Avid Pro Tools so you can start recording your music straight away. You also receive a three-month Splice Sounds subscription that offers a host of free loops, one-shots, presets and more.

When it’s time to process and polish your tracks, you can use the included Focusrite Red Plug-In Suite and the incredible Hitmaker Expansion. The Hitmaker Expansion gives you all the tools to make a chart-ready song, from the authentic sound of Addictive Keys to the powerful vocal processing of Antares Auto-Tune Access.

Once you’ve registered your new Scarlett 2i2, you’ll receive free and deeply discounted plugins every few months through Focusrite’s Plug-in Collective.

Studio Pack

The 2i2 can either come with just the interface or as part of the “Studio Pack”, which is perfect for budding producers that are looking for a package that provides you with the tools you need to kick start your studio setup. It includes a pair of HP60 MkIII closed-back headphones, a CM25 MkIII large-diaphragm condenser, a mic stand attachment and a three-meter XLR cable. Compared to most dynamic microphones, the CM25 condenser microphone is better at picking up the nuance and detail of your audio sources.

Step It Up

The Clarett 2Pre USB is effectively the premium 2i2 and is worth considering if you’re looking at upgrading or have a bit more in your budget. Whilst the Clarett 2Pre USB has a similar look and form factor to the 2i2, it’s a step up in virtually every way - with a more versatile I/O configuration that includes ADAT and MIDI, stereo Loopback functionality, superior latency performance, two additional outputs and the specially-designed Clarett Preamps. These are the finest preamps that Focusrite have built into a USB interface, delivering a wider dynamic range that emphasises quieter signals and tames louder ones.

In the unlikely event your interface lets you down, all brand-new Scarletts come with a three-year warranty from Focusrite and their support team is friendly and knowledgeable.