As a home studio enthusiast, I'm always on the lookout for affordable and high-quality audio interfaces. One of the most popular and best-selling USB interfaces of all time is the Focusrite Scarlett series, which has recently been updated to its fourth generation. In this review, I'll be taking a closer look at the Scarlett 2i2, the most basic model in the range, and see how it compares to its predecessors and competitors.

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen Overview

The Scarlett 2i2 is a compact USB-C audio interface that offers two mic/line/instrument inputs, two balanced line outputs, and a headphone output. It connects to your computer via a USB-C cable and can be bus-powered by any USB 2.0 source. 

You can get the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 for $200 on Sweetwater. It comes with a generous bundle of software, including Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools Artist, and a collection of plug-ins. The Scarlett 2i2 recording bundle is available for $240 on Sweetwater and also includes a microphone and a headphone. 

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Advantages

The Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen continues the tradition of its predecessors with its signature brushed metal body and iconic red finish. However, this iteration introduces significant updates, both in design and functionality.

A. Better Audio and More Features

The main feature that sets the fourth-generation Scarletts apart from the previous ones is the new preamp design, which offers digital control and a very wide gain range. The gain knobs are now rotary encoders that can be adjusted by pressing the Select button, and the Air, phantom power, and input type buttons apply to the selected input. 

The preamp specs are also noticeably improved. The inputs can handle high levels of signal from a microphone or a line-level source, so you can record anything from quiet speech to loud drums without any problem.

B. Auto Gain and Clip Safe

Another feature that the fourth-generation Scarletts introduce is the Auto Gain and Clip Safe functions, which automatically set the optimal input level to prevent clipping distortion. You can activate Auto Gain by pressing the Auto button and playing or singing for a few seconds, and the algorithm will adjust the gain so that the signal peaks 12dB below full scale.

You can also engage Clip Safe, which monitors the input signal and lowers the gain if clipping is detected. These features are very useful for beginners and anyone who wants to avoid the hassle of manual gain settings. Note that these two features are not available on the Focusrite Scarlett Solo.

C. Recording Modes

The Air button on the Scarlett interfaces is a feature designed to enhance the high-frequency response of recordings. When activated, the Air mode applies a boost to the upper frequencies and imparts a sense of openness and clarity to the audio signal.

The Air button now has three modes: off, Air Presence, and Air Presence & Drive. Air Presence is the same as the previous generation, adding a high-shelving boost to the input signal. Air Presence & Drive adds some harmonic saturation using DSP, giving the signal more character and bite. 

These modes are not subtle and can make a big difference to the sound of your recordings, especially vocals and acoustic instruments. Whether their addition is something you’ll find useful or not, is for you to decide once you hear them.

D. Enhanced Dynamic Range

The fourth-generation Scarletts also benefit from improved A-D and D-A converters, which enhance the dynamic range of the line and headphone outputs. This means that the interface noise, headroom, and distortion are practically irrelevant, and you can enjoy a clean and clear sound quality.

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Disadvantages

A. Headphone Volume Output

While the Scarlett 2i2 offers a headphone output for monitoring, some users may find its volume output lacking, particularly when recording vocals. Although the headphone output works fine, the output you get from the same headphones will likely be louder with other audio interfaces. 

B. No Direct Monitor Balance Knob

Unlike some competing interfaces, the Scarlett 2i2 lacks a direct monitor balance knob. This omission makes it challenging for users to adjust the balance between the microphone signal and playback audio in real time. 

C. Gain Meters and Indicators

While the Scarlett 2i2 does feature LED indicators on the input and output knobs, these indicators may not provide sufficient detail or precision if you want to gauge input gain levels effectively. 

Some competitors in the same price range often offer more advanced visualizers for gain levels, providing you with clearer and more informative feedback during recording and monitoring sessions. 

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Alternatives

If you're looking for alternatives to the Scarlett 2i2, there are plenty of budget-friendly audio interfaces to consider. The Motu M2, for example, offers comparable performance with additional features like MIDI ins and outs and excellent visual meters, making it a compelling choice for some users.

Another is the Solid State Logic ‎SSL2, which costs less but offers better meters and a more radical desktop design with controls on the top panel. 

A third is the Arturia Minifuse 2, which is available for $150 and also offers MIDI in and out.

Final Thoughts on Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen

In conclusion, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a great audio interface for anyone who wants a simple, reliable, and high-quality solution for recording and playback. It has a new preamp design that offers a very wide gain range and excellent performance, as well as features like Auto Gain, Clip Safe, and Air that make it easy and fun to use.

It also has improved converters that deliver superb sound quality. It may not have some of the bells and whistles that other interfaces have, but it does what it does very well, and offers great value for money. I highly recommend it to anyone who needs a versatile and affordable interface for their home studio.