Scarlett’s fourth generation introduced several major advances that build on Focusrite’s legacy in professional audio: best-in-class audio specifications, enhanced creative capability, powerful workflow tools, and more. The three new interfaces add more analogue inputs and outputs, front-panel monitor switching and mute control, S/PDIF and ADAT connectivity, additional headphone outputs, and a builtin talkback mic on Scarlett 18i20.
HOW IT STARTED
A giant leap for the world’s most popular audio interface range, Scarlett’s fourth generation debuted in 2023 with the Solo, 2i2, 4i4, Solo Studio, and 2i2 Studio. All Scarlett 4th Gen interfaces feature re-engineered audio circuitry and professional-grade converters (taken directly from Focusrite's flagship RedNet interfaces) which deliver up to 122dB dynamic range. With up to 69dB of mic preamp gain on tap, they are designed to get the very best sound from any microphone. Custom-designed headphone amps with independent volume controls drive highimpedance headphones louder and with more clarity than any previous Scarlett.
Scarlett’s 4th Gen mic preamps feature a re-engineered Air mode, based on the sound of legendary Focusrite consoles. Each one now includes a selectable all-analogue Presence mode, and a new DSPbased Harmonic Drive mode for added richness. The range also introduced two new features designed to ensure artists and producers never miss a perfect take: Auto Gain analyses ten seconds of incoming audio before setting the perfect level, while Clip Safe automatically readjusts it to prevent clipping. Tools that help artists to record themselves easily, as well as experienced engineers quickly setting multiple gains in high-pressure environments. The included Focusrite Control 2 software takes care of setting up routing, levels, monitoring mixes, independent outputs, and routing options. In addition to the desktop application, the iOS and Android Focusrite Control 2 apps enable engineers and performers to adjust monitor mixes and mic preamp gains while away from the computer.
To help users get up and running with Scarlett in record time, Focusrite has developed an Easy Start tool that quickly guides from initial connection to their first recordings. All Scarletts come with Ableton Live Lite, three months of Pro Tools Artist recording software, and six months of FL Studio Producer Edition. Also included is a curated selection of essential production software from Focusrite, Softube, Native Instruments, Antares, and many more. In addition, there are five free masters from Landr that can be used at any time, plus a two-month subscription to Landr Studio, offering unlimited music distribution on streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music and TikTok.
WHERE'S IT GOING
Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen 16i16, 18i16, and 18i20 now feature:
- Huge 122dB dynamic range, using the flagship RedNet range converters – found in the world’s best studios.
- All-new, remote-controlled preamps with 69dB of gain for studio sound from any mic.
- Pair Focusrite Control 2 for desktop with our new mobile app; enjoy full wireless control over inputs and monitoring mixes, allowing you to adjust settings without being tethered by cables.
- Re-engineered Air mode with Presence, and all-new Harmonic Drive, adding rich harmonics to recordings by emulating the characteristics of vintage preamps.
- New Auto Gain and Clip Safe modes can handle up to eight microphones at a time, making session setup simple, and ensuring every take is a keeper.
- Brand-new Custom-designed headphone amps for the best playback ever heard from Scarlett.
- Redesigned Dynamic Gain Halos now with output as well as input metering.
- Professional studio features included: A/B speaker switching, built-in talkback mic on 18i20 and more.
- MIDI in/out plus S/PDIF, and ADAT in/out.
- Refreshed Easy Start tool, making it easier than ever to get set up and recording in minutes.
- Includes Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools Artist 3 months, and FL Studio Producer Edition 6 months.
- Huge bundle of plug-in instruments and effects; including Antares Auto Tune, Marshall Amp
- Modelling, synths, keys, drums, EQ, compression, reverb, and more...
