Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB-C Audio Interface

The Scarlett 2i2 has long been one of the most popular audio interfaces on the market, and the 4th Gen brings meaningful upgrades to the preamps, monitoring, and level management. It suits singers, guitarists, and producers who need to record two sources simultaneously, or who want the flexibility of two independent inputs for more varied recording sessions.

Two Ultra-Low-Noise Preamps

The 2i2 carries two redesigned mic preamps, Focusrite's clearest and most detailed in the Scarlett range to date. With a gain range of 69dB, an EIN of -127dBu, and a dynamic range of 116dB, they handle everything from quiet condenser microphones to high-output dynamic mics without running out of headroom. Both preamps are remote-controllable via Focusrite Control 2, so gain can be adjusted from the app without touching the hardware.

Auto Gain and Clip Safe

Auto Gain analyses an input signal and sets an appropriate gain level automatically, removing the guesswork from level-setting before a take. Clip Safe works during recording, monitoring the signal continuously and adjusting gain automatically if the level is at risk of clipping. Between the two, the 2i2 handles level management with minimal manual intervention, which is particularly useful when recording alone.

Two Hi-Z Instrument Inputs

Both inputs on the 2i2 accept instrument-level signals directly, with a 1MΩ impedance that interacts naturally with guitar and bass pickups. Electric and electro-acoustic guitars come through with detail and character, and the inputs are equally suited to synths, keyboards, and other line-level sources.

Air Modes

Two re-engineered Air modes give the 2i2 access to a classic large-format console character. Presence mode adds a high-end lift that brings vocals and acoustic instruments forward in a mix. Harmonic Drive mode adds mid-range harmonic content that thickens guitars, vocals, and anything else that needs more character and punch.

Headphone Output and Monitoring

The custom-designed headphone amplifier drives high-impedance headphones with a dynamic range of up to 115dB at 300Ω, giving clear and detailed playback from any headphones. The 2i2 also features two balanced line outputs for connecting studio monitors.

Audio Quality

The Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen uses converters drawn from Focusrite's flagship RedNet range, delivering 24-bit/192kHz recording with a 120dB dynamic range on the line outputs and a 130dB dynamic range on the DAC. THD+N on the line outputs sits at -109dB.

Focusrite Control 2

Focusrite Control 2 manages the 2i2 on Windows and macOS, and pairs with an iOS and Android app for remote control of the interface from anywhere in the recording space.

Software Bundle

The Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen ships with Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools Intro+, and Cubase LE, alongside the Hitmaker Expansion bundle which adds a range of instruments and effects plugins from third-party developers.

KEY FEATURES: Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen

• Two ultra-low-noise mic preamps, 69dB gain range, -127dBu EIN
• Two Hi-Z instrument inputs with 1MΩ impedance
• Auto Gain and Clip Safe for hands-off level management
• Two Air modes: Presence and Harmonic Drive
• 24-bit/192kHz, 120dB dynamic range
• Custom headphone amp, up to 115dB dynamic range at 300Ω
• Loopback for in-DAW software audio capture
• USB-C connectivity, bus powered
• Includes Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools Intro+, Cubase LE, and Hitmaker Expansion
  

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 User Manual