ReviewFinder Audio Recording Interfaces

Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen

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6 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 [6]

94
Total expert reviews: 6
  • with a score: 3
  • without a score: 3
Highest score by higherhz.com
96
Average score based on 6 reviews
94
Lowest score by GuitarPlayer
90

Score distribution:

80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
0-20
ReviewFinder: authentic product reviews summarized by a powerful AI engine.

Expert consensus

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is a versatile and reliable audio interface suitable for home recording, podcasting, and music production, with high-quality preamps, lag-free monitoring, and a bundle of software included.

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is a versatile and reliable audio interface suitable for home recording, podcasting, and music production. It offers a range of input and output options, including one XLR input for connecting a microphone and one Hi-Z TRS input for connecting an instrument like a guitar or bass.

The Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen has completely lag-free monitoring, making it ideal for recording and monitoring without any latency. The preamp quality is high, with a natural-sounding and low-noise design, and the device has a very low total harmonic figure, resulting in minimal distortion and noise during recording.

The Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen does not have built-in DSP processing, but it comes with a bundle of software that includes Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools First Creative Pack, Focusrite Red 2 & Red 3 Plug-In Suite, Softube Time and Tone Bundle, and a membership to Splice Sounds. The interface is highly compatible with various operating systems and all major DAWs on both Mac and PC platforms.

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen has a great reputation in the audio recording industry, with a strong brand reputation for producing high-quality interfaces and mic preamps. It is particularly well-suited for solo recording sessions, such as recording vocals or acoustic instruments, and is compatible with a wide range of recording software.

Overall, the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is a reliable and high-quality audio recording interface that is well worth the investment for anyone looking to improve their recording capabilities.

Input/output options

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen audio interface offers a range of input and output options, high-quality recording and playback, and features such as phantom power and Air mode, making it a versatile choice for home recording, podcasting, and music production.

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen audio interface offers a range of input and output options for recording and playback. It has one XLR input for connecting a microphone and one Hi-Z TRS input for connecting an instrument like a guitar or bass. The two balanced TRS outputs can be used for connecting studio monitors or headphones, and the RCA output is also available for headphones.

The Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen supports sample rates up to 24-bit/192kHz for high-quality recording and playback. It also has phantom power for condenser microphones and a switchable Air mode to add clarity and brightness to recordings. The direct monitor feature allows for low-latency monitoring, making it easy to monitor recordings in real-time.

Overall, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is a versatile audio interface suitable for home recording, podcasting, and music production.

What are the input and output options for the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen audio interface?

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen audio interface has one XLR input and one Hi-Z instrument input, as well as two balanced TRS outputs for speakers or headphones.
Based on 9 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

What types of inputs and outputs are available on the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen?

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen has two inputs, one XLR and one Hi-Z TRS, that allow you to plug in any microphone or electronic instrument. It also has two outputs, one 1/4 inch TRS and one RCA, for connecting studio monitors or headphones. In addition, it has a USB Type-C port for connecting to your computer.
Based on 7 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the specifications and capabilities of the inputs and outputs on the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen audio interface?

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen audio interface has one XLR input for connecting a microphone and one Hi-Z TRS input for connecting an instrument like a guitar or bass. It also has two balanced TRS outputs for connecting studio monitors or headphones. The inputs and outputs support sample rates up to 24-bit/192kHz for high-quality recording and playback. Additionally, the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen has phantom power for condenser microphones and a switchable Air mode to add clarity and brightness to recordings.
Based on 7 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Can the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen be used for recording and playback simultaneously?

Yes, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen can be used for recording and playback simultaneously. It has a direct monitor feature that allows you to hear what you are recording or playing without any latency, which means you can listen to your playback while recording. According to a review on gemtracks.com, this audio interface offers low-latency direct monitoring, making it easy to monitor your recordings in real-time.
Based on 3 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Latency

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is a reliable and high-quality audio interface that offers completely lag-free monitoring, making it ideal for recording and monitoring without any latency.

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen has been reviewed by experts who have found that it has completely lag-free monitoring, making it ideal for recording and monitoring without any latency. The Direct Monitor feature allows for zero-latency monitoring, which is perfect for ensuring that your performance is on-point.

The low latency levels also mean that you can hear any effects or processing that you've applied to your audio signal in real-time, allowing for more accurate monitoring during the recording process. This makes the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen a great choice for musicians and podcasters who need to monitor their recordings in real-time without any delay.

Overall, the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is a reliable and high-quality audio interface that delivers excellent performance with minimal latency.

What is the latency of the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen when recording and monitoring?

According to a product review on gemtracks.com, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen has completely lag-free monitoring, meaning there is no latency when monitoring your recording.
Based on 2 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the latency levels of the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen and how do they affect the recording and monitoring process?

According to the product review on gemtracks.com, the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen has a Direct Monitor feature that allows for zero-latency monitoring. This means that you can hear what you're recording in real-time without any delay, which is ideal for making sure that your performance is on-point. The low latency levels also mean that you can hear any effects or processing that you've applied to your audio signal in real-time, allowing for more accurate monitoring during the recording process.
Based on 1 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

Preamp quality

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is a top-quality audio interface with a low-noise preamp, phantom power, and an exclusive Air mode for added clarity, making it an ideal choice for solo musicians, podcasters, and content creators.

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is a high-quality audio interface that features a single preamp with a natural-sounding and low-noise design. The preamp has a frequency response range of 20Hz to 20kHz ± 0. 1dB and provides phantom power for condenser microphones.

The device has a very low total harmonic figure, resulting in minimal distortion and noise during recording. The new Solo also includes an exclusive switchable Air mode that adds extra clarity to vocals. Overall, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is an excellent choice for solo musicians, podcasters, and content creators who require a high-quality preamp for their recordings.

What is the frequency response range of the preamps in the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen?

According to the product review on latestintech.com, the frequency response range of the instrument inputs on the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is from 20Hz to 20kHz ± 0.1dB.
Based on 1 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

How many preamps are included in the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen, and what are their gain and noise levels?

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen comes with one preamp. According to the product review on latestintech.com, the 3rd Generation mic preamps on the Scarlett Solo Studio are natural-sounding and mirror the original ISA preamps. However, specific information regarding the gain and noise levels of the preamp is not available.
Based on 3 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen provide phantom power for condenser microphones?

Yes, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen does provide phantom power for condenser microphones. According to the product reviews on both latestintech.com and gemtracks.com, the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is a 2-in-2 out plug-and-play interface that comes with phantom powering. This means that it can power your condenser microphone without the need for an external power source.
Based on 5 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the level of distortion and harmonic distortion in the preamps of the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen?

According to a product review on gemtracks.com, Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen has a very low total harmonic figure. This means that the level of distortion and noise that can be recorded in the device is minimal. The review did not provide specific numbers for the harmonic distortion of the preamps. However, it did mention that the new Solo has a dynamic range figure of around 110 dB across the new range for line, mic, and instrument inputs, which is an improvement from the previous generation.
Based on 1 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen have any additional features or technologies that affect the quality of the preamps, such as analog modeling or digital processing?

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen features Focusrite's upgraded 3rd-generation Scarlett mic preamp, which offers high-performance, low-noise, and natural-sounding preamps. Additionally, it includes an exclusive switchable Air mode that adds extra clarity to your vocals. There is no mention of analog modeling or digital processing affecting the quality of the preamps in the available sources.
Based on 9 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

DSP processing

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen does not have built-in DSP processing, but comes with a bundle of software that provides a range of options for recording, mixing, and mastering audio.

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen does not have built-in DSP processing, but it comes with a bundle of software that includes Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools First Creative Pack, Focusrite Red 2 & Red 3 Plug-In Suite, Softube Time and Tone Bundle, and a membership to Splice Sounds.

These software packages provide a range of DSP processing options for recording, mixing, and mastering your audio. The quality of DSP processing is dependent on the user's computer processing power and the specific audio interface used. The DSP processing interface is user-friendly and easy to navigate, with customizable and adjustable options available through the software packages.

The Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is ideal for solo musicians, podcasters, and home studio recording enthusiasts who want a simple and affordable audio interface with a range of DSP processing options.

What types of DSP processing are available in the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen?

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen does not have built-in DSP processing. However, it does come with a bundle of software including Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools First Creative Pack, Focusrite Red 2 & Red 3 Plug-In Suite, Softube Time and Tone Bundle, and a membership to Splice Sounds. These software packages provide a range of DSP processing options for recording, mixing, and mastering your audio.

What is the quality of DSP processing in the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen?

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen does not have built-in DSP processing. Instead, it relies on your computer's processing power to handle any effects or plug-ins you may want to use. However, it does come with a bundle of software that includes some basic effects and processing tools to get you started.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen have any limitations or restrictions on DSP processing?

There is no information available about any limitations or restrictions on DSP processing for the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen. However, it is important to note that DSP processing capabilities can vary depending on the specific audio interface and its features.

How user-friendly is the DSP processing interface in the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen?

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen features a user-friendly DSP processing interface that allows for easy control and customization of your audio. According to a product review on gemtracks.com, the Scarlett Solo is very easy to use and learn since it has an intuitive interface and connection process. Additionally, the review states that the new Quick Start process is designed to help those who need the Solo system to get up and run quicker and easier than ever before. Overall, the DSP processing interface on the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is user-friendly and easy to navigate.
Based on 2 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen have customizable or adjustable DSP processing?

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen does not have any built-in DSP processing capabilities. However, it comes with a bundle of software, including Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools First Focusrite Creative Pack, Softube Time and Tone Bundle, Focusrite's Red Plug-in Suite, and more, which provide various effects and processing options. These software packages offer a range of EQ, compression, reverb, and other effects that you can use to customize and enhance your recordings.

Compatibility

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen audio interface is highly compatible with various operating systems and major DAWs, making it a versatile and easy-to-use option for musicians and producers.

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen audio interface is highly compatible with various operating systems, including Windows 10, macOS 10. 15 Catalina, macOS 11 Big Sur, and later versions. It is also compatible with all major DAWs on both Mac and PC platforms, making it a versatile option for music production.

The interface seamlessly works with a wide range of third-party plugins, including VST, AU, and AAX format plugins, and there are no known compatibility issues with any specific software or plugins. Setting up and configuring the Scarlett Solo with different software and operating systems is straightforward, thanks to its intuitive interface and connection process.

Overall, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is a reliable and compatible audio interface for musicians and producers looking for a versatile and easy-to-use option.

What operating systems are compatible with the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen audio interface?

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen audio interface is compatible with Windows 10, macOS 10.15 Catalina, macOS 11 Big Sur, and later versions of these operating systems.
Based on 3 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

What Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) are compatible with the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen?

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is compatible with all major DAWs on both Mac and PC platforms including Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Logic Pro X, Cubase, and many more. According to Focusrite, the interface is designed to work seamlessly with any DAW and is equipped with plug-and-play functionality.
Based on 7 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

What third-party plugins are compatible with the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen interface?

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen interface is compatible with a wide range of third-party plugins, including VST, AU, and AAX format plugins. As long as the plugin is compatible with your digital audio workstation (DAW), it should work seamlessly with the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen. Some popular plugins that work well with the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen include Waves plugins, iZotope plugins, and Native Instruments plugins, among many others. However, it's important to note that the performance of third-party plugins may vary depending on your computer's processing power and other factors.

Are there any known compatibility issues with Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen when used with certain software or plugins?

There are no known compatibility issues with the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen and any specific software or plugins. However, it's always recommended to check with the software or plugin manufacturer to ensure compatibility. Additionally, the Scarlett Solo comes with a bundle of software including Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools First Focusrite Creative Pack, and more, which are all compatible with the device.

How easy is it to set up and configure the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen with different software and operating systems?

According to a product review on Gemtracks.com, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen has an intuitive interface and connection process, making it very easy to use and learn. Additionally, you do not need any external drivers, and you can easily navigate the software that is to be used alongside the Scarlett Solo with the use of text indicators within. Therefore, setting up and configuring the Scarlett Solo with different software and operating systems should be straightforward. However, it is always recommended to check the manufacturer's website for specific compatibility requirements.
Based on 6 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

Brand reputation

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is a highly regarded audio recording interface with a strong brand reputation, positive reviews, and a three-year warranty, making it a great choice for both beginners and professionals.

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen has a great reputation in the audio recording industry, with a strong brand reputation for producing high-quality interfaces and mic preamps. It has received positive reviews from multiple sources and ranks highly in the Audio Recording Interfaces category.

While there is no specific information on customer support, the product's three-year warranty suggests that Focusrite is confident in their product and support. The Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is a great choice for both beginners and professionals looking for a high-quality audio recording interface.

It is particularly well-suited for solo recording sessions, such as recording vocals or acoustic instruments, and is compatible with a wide range of recording software.

What is the reputation of Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen in the audio recording industry?

Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen has a great reputation in the audio recording industry. It is a part of the Scarlett range that is well-loved by both beginners and professionals. Focusrite is a company known for producing high-quality interfaces and mic preamps, and the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is no exception. The product has received positive reviews from multiple sources, and it ranks #18 out of 122 in the Audio Recording Interfaces category according to ReviewFinder's expert opinions and customer reviews.
Based on 16 quotes from 5 sources [show quotes and sources]

How do customers perceive the customer support provided by Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen?

I'm sorry, we don't have any specific information on how customers perceive the customer support provided by Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen. However, according to the product's website, Focusrite offers a three-year warranty for their hardware, which suggests that they are confident in the quality of their product and the support they can provide if any issues arise.

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3 best audio recording interfaces in the same price range as Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen

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PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 M-Audio AIR 192|4 Behringer UMC22
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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 M-Audio AIR 192|4 audio interface is a versatile and reliable option for recording and playback needs, with a range of input and output options, low latency, high-quality preamps, and compatibility with various operating systems and recording software. The Behringer UMC22 audio interface is a versatile and affordable device suitable for home recording, podcasting, and other similar applications, offering a range of input and output options, low latency playback, and Midas-designed preamps.
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Audio Recording Interfaces above are offered because they are in the same price range as Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen. To browse more budget and premium audio recording interfaces go to our audio interface ranking .

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
ElectronicsHub
Musician on a Mission
Sweetwater
Consordini
Your Guitar Brain
EDM Sauce
Wirecutter
Music Radar
1
- $199
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
1
-
-
2
-
2
1
-
1
-
2
- $100
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96
3
3
-
1
15
-
-
4
-
-
3
- Check price
Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII
2
-
-
8
-
1
-
-
-
-
4
- $62
Behringer UMC22
-
-
2
-
-
-
-
-
-
2
Show all rows
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen did not receive any endorsements this month.

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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 April.

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Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII Behringer UMC22
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Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 rank #1 out of 125. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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9.1
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PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 rank #2 out of 125. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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8.3
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Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII rank #3 out of 125. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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8.7
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8.7
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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. 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 Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII is a versatile and high-quality audio interface suitable for professional recording studios, home studios, and musicians who demand the best in preamp quality, offering a range of input and output options for recording and playback, extremely low latency levels, and powerful DSP processing capabilities. The Behringer UMC22 audio interface is a versatile and affordable device suitable for home recording, podcasting, and other similar applications, offering a range of input and output options, low latency playback, and Midas-designed preamps.
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