Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 USB Audio Interface, 3rd Gen

Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 USB Audio Interface, 3rd Gen Overview

Focusrite’s Scarlett 8i6 USB audio interface resides in the upper tier of the best-selling range, boasting an impressive I/O configuration for a unit of its size.

Ample Connectivity

The Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 is an audio interface for serious engineers, producers and artists who demand a lot of flexibility. The 8i6 is equipped with an additional pair of instrument inputs compared to its predecessor the 6i6, which is ideal if you want to record multiple instruments and/or voices at once. It’s also handy if you frequently switch between instruments whilst recording or creating, as you can leave them all set up and ready to record.

Multi-track Recording

With a total of six inputs (two combo mic/line/high-headroom ins with Air mode and four-line ins), you’re able to multi-track record, get the most out of your stereo signals (such as synthesisers and pedalboards) and spend less time plugging in all your different instruments!

Podcast Ready

The Focusrite 8i6 also features four balanced outputs for your monitoring and effects sends and, as of the 3rd-generation of Scarletts, Loopback functionality. This is a brilliant capability that’s particularly handy for streamers and podcasters as it allows you to route a stereo source from any combination of digital and analogue inputs into your DAW of choice.

Focusrite has managed to pack a tonne of versatility and power into this box - the 8i6 can be both the centrepiece of your home studio setup as well as a dependable companion when you’re recording in the wild.

Wireless Control

The Scarlett 4i4 is compatible with the free Focusrite Control software. This user-friendly software allows you to configure routing, monitor mixes, playback levels, metering, preamp features and more from your PC, Mac or wirelessly from your iPad, iPhone or iPod touch. To download Focusrite Control, simply register your interface and the software will be added to your account.

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 8i6, you’ll receive free and deeply discounted plugins every few months through Focusrite’s Plug-in Collective.

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.