Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen: A Comprehensive Look at the New Range

Focusrite’s Scarlett series has long been a staple in home and project studios, celebrated for its professional-grade sound and user-friendly design. The 4th Generation of these audio interfaces builds upon this legacy, introducing a suite of new features and an updated range of models designed to meet the needs of modern musicians, podcasters, and producers.

The Scarlett 4th Gen Family

The 4th Generation Scarlett range initially launched with a focus on smaller, desktop models before expanding to include larger interfaces. The core models are:

• Scarlett Solo: The most streamlined model, perfect for singer-songwriters, streamers, or anyone needing to record a single microphone and an instrument. It features one mic preamp and one Hi-Z instrument input. It’s an excellent entry point into the Scarlett ecosystem.
• Scarlett 2i2: A step up from the Solo, the 2i2 is ideal for artists who need to record two signals simultaneously, such as a vocal and a guitar, or a stereo mic setup. It has two mic preamps and two Hi-Z instrument inputs. The 2i2 and Solo are also available in “Studio” bundles, which include a condenser microphone, headphones, and an XLR cable, providing a complete recording solution out of the box.
• Scarlett 4i4: This model offers increased connectivity with four inputs and four outputs. It features two mic/line/instrument combo inputs on the front and two additional line inputs on the back, making it suitable for more complex setups involving synths, drum machines, or other line-level gear. It also includes MIDI I/O.
• Scarlett 16i16, 18i16, and 18i20: These larger, more advanced models were announced after the initial launch, catering to project studios with multitrack recording needs. The rack-mountable 18i20, for example, is the flagship, offering extensive I/O with eight mic preamps and a built-in talkback mic.

Key New Features Across the Range

The 4th Generation interfaces are more than just a cosmetic update. They incorporate significant advancements that improve audio quality and workflow:

• Enhanced Audio Quality: All 4th Gen interfaces feature professional-grade converters taken from Focusrite’s flagship RedNet interfaces. This results in an impressive dynamic range of up to 120dB (for line outputs), ensuring clean and detailed recordings.
• Upgraded Preamps with More Gain: The new, remote-controlled Scarlett preamps offer a generous 69dB of gain, allowing them to handle even low-output microphones with ease.
• Re-engineered Air Mode: This signature feature has been improved with two selectable modes. The classic “Presence” mode boosts the high-end for a bright and open sound, while the new “Harmonic Drive” mode adds warmth and richness, emulating the character of vintage analog gear.
• Workflow-Enhancing Features:
  • Auto Gain: This feature, available on the 2i2, 4i4, and larger models, automatically sets the perfect recording level by listening to your signal for a few seconds, freeing you to focus on your performance.
  • Clip Safe: This intelligent system constantly monitors your input levels, and if it detects you are in danger of clipping, it automatically adjusts the gain to prevent distortion. This is a game-changer for avoiding ruined takes.
• Custom-Designed Headphone Amp: The headphone outputs have been completely redesigned to drive high-impedance headphones louder and clearer than ever before, with independent volume controls for the headphone and monitor outputs.
• Loopback Functionality: All 4th Gen interfaces now include a loopback function, which allows you to easily record audio from other applications running on your computer—an invaluable tool for podcasters and live streamers.
• Focusrite Control 2: The new desktop and mobile app provides seamless wireless control over your interface’s settings, including preamp gain and monitoring mixes. This is especially useful for solo artists or drummers who are away from their computer while recording.
• USB-C Connectivity: All models are bus-powered via USB-C, simplifying setup and ensuring fast, low-latency data transfer.

A Modernized and User-Friendly Design

Focusrite has also refined the physical design of the new Scarlett interfaces. The signature red chassis is now made from recycled aluminum, reflecting a commitment to sustainable manufacturing. Key features like the gain knobs now have a more tactile feel, and the Dynamic Gain Halos offer instant visual feedback on your levels. The overall design is robust and durable, built for both studio and mobile use.

With the 4th Generation, Focusrite has successfully combined a familiar, user-friendly approach with significant technological upgrades, making professional-quality audio more accessible than ever before.