ReviewFinder Audio Recording Interfaces

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2

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Input/output options
Latency
Preamp quality
DSP processing
Compatibility
Brand reputation
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17 Verified Hands-On Reviews

To combat fake reviews we only accept video reviews from verified channels. Each review must show the product and the face of the reviewer.

Expert reviews [17]

88
Total expert reviews: 17
  • with a score: 5
  • without a score: 12
Highest score by makebeats101.com
100
Average score based on 17 reviews
88
Lowest score by GuitarFella
80

Score distribution:

80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
0-20
92
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Review: The Best Selling USB Audio Interface
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a USB audio interface that allows for recording with two separate microphones, making it a great option for improving audio quality and recording locally with a co-host or conducting professional sounding interviews or podcasts on location. It is a simple and affordable piece of equipment that is easy to set up and use, and is highly recommended for those looking to upgrade from a USB mic setup to using XLR mics.
+ pros
  • Improves audio quality
  • Provides flexibility and options for recording setup
  • Affordable and easy to set up
  • Portable and suitable for on-location recording
- cons
  • May result in some hiss under recordings with dynamic mics due to gain being turned up high
  • Not suitable for recording with 3 or more co-hosts/interviewees locally.
Review: Focusrite's Scarlett 212 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface is a great choice for new and experienced recording enthusiasts alike
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a high-quality USB audio interface with upgraded preamp design, improved headroom, and a new Air mode that enhances high-end detail. It offers true high-end performance for an entry-level price and is a great choice for both new and experienced recording enthusiasts.
+ pros
  • The Scarlett 2i2 has upgraded components like preamps and filters that make for lifelike, dynamic recordings.
  • The Air mode enhances high-end detail, particularly effective for recording vocals.
  • The interface is easy to set up and comes bundled with impressive supporting software.
  • The Scarlett 2i2 offers true high-end performance for an entry-level price.
- cons
  • None mentioned in the article.
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ReviewFinder: authentic product reviews summarized by a powerful AI engine.

Expert consensus

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface is a versatile and reliable device with low latency levels, upgraded preamp design, and a new Air mode that enhances high-end detail, making it a great choice for solo artists and mobile recording.

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface is a versatile and reliable device that can meet the needs of a wide range of users. It features two hybrid XLR/1/4" TRS jack inputs on the front that can accept both line-level and instrument-level signals, with preamp gain and Air switches and 48V phantom power.

The device also has two balanced monitor outputs on the back, which are ¼-inch TRS left and right line outputs. The Scarlett 2i2 supports a sample rate of up to 192 kHz at a 24-bit resolution, making it suitable for high-quality recordings.

The Scarlett 2i2 has very low latency levels, making it an excellent choice for recording and monitoring audio in real-time. The preamps provide a clean sound with little coloration and very low levels of distortion and harmonic distortion. The 2i2 provides 48V phantom power for condenser microphones and features upgraded preamp design and a new Air mode that enhances high-end detail.

This feature can be especially useful for vocals when a little more clarity is desired.

The Scarlett 2i2 does not have built-in DSP processing capabilities, but it comes with a comprehensive software package that includes various plugins for DSP processing such as EQ, compression, reverb, and more. The interface is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems, with class-compliant plug and play functionality for Macs and the need to install drivers for Windows PCs.

It is also compatible with all major Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) and comes with a range of software and plug-ins.

The Scarlett 2i2 is recommended for solo artists and mobile recording, and it is known for its rugged metal unibody case for durability and aesthetic appeal. This makes it a great choice for those who need a portable recording interface that can withstand the rigors of travel and frequent use.

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is still a reliable and popular choice for those looking for a high-quality audio recording interface. Its reputation for great sound quality and affordability make it a go-to option for many musicians and producers, and its durability and portability make it a versatile tool for recording on-the-go.

Input/output options

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a versatile 2-in/2-out audio interface with hybrid XLR/1/4" TRS jack inputs, balanced monitor outputs, and support for high-quality recordings up to 192 kHz at 24-bit resolution, making it suitable for musicians, podcasters, voiceover artists, and home studio enthusiasts.

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface is a 2-in/2-out device with versatile input and output options. It features two hybrid XLR/1/4" TRS jack inputs on the front that can accept both line-level and instrument-level signals, with preamp gain and Air switches and 48V phantom power.

The device also has two balanced monitor outputs on the back, which are ¼-inch TRS left and right line outputs. The Scarlett 2i2 supports a sample rate of up to 192 kHz at a 24-bit resolution, making it suitable for high-quality recordings. It can be used for recording and playback simultaneously, with low latency for real-time monitoring.

This makes it a great choice for musicians who want to record and play back their performances at the same time, as well as for podcasters, voiceover artists, and home studio enthusiasts. Overall, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a reliable and versatile audio interface that can meet the needs of a wide range of users.

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Latency

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is an excellent choice for real-time recording and monitoring with its low latency levels, making it ideal for musicians and producers.

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 has very low latency levels, making it an excellent choice for recording and monitoring audio in real-time. The latency can be reduced to 7. 79 ms at 48kHz/64 setting for the 2nd gen 2i2 model, and even lower to 5. 17 ms at 48kHz/32 and around 3 ms at 96 kHz and up.

This low latency allows for a smooth recording and monitoring process, with no noticeable audible delay when recording a vocal and monitoring it through headphones. The Scarlett 2i2 is ideal for musicians and producers who require real-time monitoring and recording capabilities, such as recording vocals, guitar, or other instruments.

Overall, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a reliable and high-quality audio interface with low latency levels, making it a great choice for any recording or monitoring needs.

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Preamp quality

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a high-quality audio interface with two clean preamps, 48V phantom power, and an Air mode that enhances high-end detail, making it a great choice for home recording, podcasting, and other similar applications.

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 has two preamps that provide a clean sound with little coloration and very low levels of distortion and harmonic distortion. The preamps have enough gain to get solid quality levels, but may not provide enough gain for more gain-hungry dynamic microphones.

The 2i2 provides 48V phantom power for condenser microphones and features upgraded preamp design and a new Air mode that enhances high-end detail. This feature can be especially useful for vocals when a little more clarity is desired. Overall, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a great choice for home recording, podcasting, and other similar applications where a clean and crisp sound is desired.

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DSP processing

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 does not have built-in DSP processing, but comes with a software package that includes various plugins for DSP processing and users can use third-party plugins and software to process their audio signals.

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 does not have built-in DSP processing capabilities, but it comes with a comprehensive software package that includes various plugins for DSP processing such as EQ, compression, reverb, and more. The quality of DSP processing is not specified, but users can use third-party plugins and software to process their audio signals.

The Scarlett 2i2 does not have any limitations or restrictions on DSP processing, and the software plugins can be customized and adjusted within a DAW to achieve the desired sound. Overall, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a suitable choice for those who require high-quality mic preamps and excellent digital performance, and who also need access to a range of DSP processing tools to enhance their audio recordings.

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Compatibility

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems, all major DAWs, and a wide range of third-party plugins, providing clear and crisp sound quality for new and experienced recording enthusiasts.

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems, with class-compliant plug and play functionality for Macs and the need to install drivers for Windows PCs. It is also compatible with all major Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) and comes with a range of software and plug-ins, including the Focusrite Control software, Scarlett Plug-in Suite, Red 2 & Red 3 Plug-in Suite, and Softube Time and Tone Bundle.

The interface is also compatible with a wide range of third-party plugins, including those from Waves, FabFilter, and iZotope. There are no known compatibility issues with the Scarlett 2i2 and any specific software or plugins, but it is important to download the latest drivers from the Focusrite website.

Setting up the Scarlett 2i2 with different software and operating systems is easy, thanks to the quick start tool provided by Focusrite. Overall, the Scarlett 2i2 is a great choice for new and experienced recording enthusiasts alike, providing clear and crisp sound quality.

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Brand reputation

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a highly regarded and affordable audio recording interface, known for its quality of sound and durability, but some customers have reported slow customer service.

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 has an excellent reputation in the audio recording industry, being highly regarded by experts and musicians alike. It is considered one of the best-selling pieces of studio gear of all-time due to its affordable price, great value, and quality of sound.

The Scarlett 2i2 is recommended for solo artists and mobile recording, and it is known for its rugged metal unibody case for durability and aesthetic appeal. However, some customers have reported slow and unresponsive customer service from Focusrite when experiencing problems with the product.

Overall, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a reliable and popular choice for those looking for a high-quality audio recording interface.

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Position in ranking

We maintain a monthly ranking that sums up expert recommendations for all audio recording interfaces.

Rank Change Price Audio Interface
hollyland.com
bandpioneer.com
Wirecutter
Musician on a Mission
Sweetwater
Your Guitar Brain
EDM Sauce
Music Radar
soundref.com
producelikeapro.com
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- $200
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface is a versatile and reliable device with low latency levels, upgraded preamp design, and a new Air mode that enhances high-end detail, making it a great choice for solo artists and mobile recording.
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- $180
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen
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PreSonus AudioBox USB 96
The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is a versatile and reliable audio interface with low latency, high-quality mic preamps, and compatibility with almost all recording software, making it an excellent choice for musicians, podcasters, and other audio professionals.
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UA Volt 2
The UA Volt 2 audio interface is a versatile and high-quality device with low latency, two preamps based on the classic Universal Audio 610 tube preamp, and essential audio software, making it a reliable option for recording musicians, podcasters, and streamers.
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Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 ranks #1 out of 15 in this month's ranking:
Best for musicians
5 Feb 2024 (10 months ago)
Read article
Recommended for Solo Artists and Mobile Recording
22 Jan 2020 (4 years ago)
Read article

Highest recommended audio recording interfaces this month

ReviewFinder ranks based on a combination of customer reviews, expert reviews / mentions and popularity. Expert recommendations carry the highest weight in the ranking. We do not rank based on price, our commission or brand. audio recording interfaces below are at the top of our ranking this December.

Scroll to see all options. Click on the audio interface for more details.
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (this item) Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 UA Volt 2
Reviews
In comparison:
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 rank #1 out of 129. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
9.1
Great
Reviews
We don't yet have enough review information for Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen
Reviews
In comparison:
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 rank #3 out of 129. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
8.3
Great
Reviews
In comparison:
UA Volt 2 rank #4 out of 129. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
9.6
Amazing
Price
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface is a versatile and reliable device with low latency levels, upgraded preamp design, and a new Air mode that enhances high-end detail, making it a great choice for solo artists and mobile recording.
Expert consensus not yet generated.
The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is a versatile and reliable audio interface with low latency, high-quality mic preamps, and compatibility with almost all recording software, making it an excellent choice for musicians, podcasters, and other audio professionals. The UA Volt 2 audio interface is a versatile and high-quality device with low latency, two preamps based on the classic Universal Audio 610 tube preamp, and essential audio software, making it a reliable option for recording musicians, podcasters, and streamers.
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