Review: Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Audio Interface

Andrew Southworth
Jul 20, 2018
3 min read

For over 5 years now i've been using the Scarlett 2i2 Audio Interface by Focusrite. First, let me tell you about some of the features:

2 Input channels (either for Line or Mic inputs)
Up to 192kHz sample rate with 24 bit depth
Gain controls for each of the 2 main channels (LED lights indicate signal and clipping)
Switch to go between line and instrument level signals on each channel
Super low latency and the ability to direct monitor while recording
+48V phantom power
Left and Right Line Outputs + Headphone output (both have controls on the front panel)
USB power and data
Comes bundled with several light versions of software (Pro Tools, Ableton Live, Softube)
Access to the Focusrite Plug-in Collective which gives you free licenses of plug-ins every month! I didn't realize this until years after buying this thing, make sure to register it

Who is this the Scarlett 2i2 for?

I would say for 90% of musicians who record at home, this audio interface will meet your needs. The two 'hot' markets for the Scarlett Interface are guitarists and vocalists. Typically guitarists don't need more than one input channel, but eventually you'll find yourself in a situation where you need a second channel to record a dry track or record in stereo. The direct monitoring will come in handy if you don't have the best software monitoring setup. Since the Scarlett has line/instrument switches and both Line and Microphone inputs, you know you're covered for every guitar recording scenario that could come up.

I think the other big market this is perfect for is vocalists. As a vocalist you almost always only need one microphone. While +48V (Phantom Power) is a standard in most interfaces, its still important to note that its included in this audio interface - so both dynamic and condenser microphones can be used. The interface has a built in headphone output and control knob in addition to the output knob. This will help you dial in the perfect volume for your headphones. The LED lights around the gain knobs are great for making sure you don't clip during a vocal performance - if it flashes red you know you clipped and you can stop right away to re-record.

Who is the Scarlett 2i2 NOT for?

Drummers. Typically when you record drums you want 4 microphone inputs at the very least, and usually you want 8-16 microphone inputs with preamps. If you like the aesthetic of the Scarlett 2i2 and the benefits of buying from Focusrite, they do offer an 18i20 model of the Scarlett. I can't speak from experience about it but if its anything like the Scarlett 2i2 i'm sure its great.

People who need MIDI ins/outs. This interface has no MIDI inputs or outputs so if you only want to record MIDI data then you'll need another solution. For me this isn't a problem because my keyboard controller plugs in via USB so it already has its own MIDI inputs and outputs. However depending on your gear you may require a MIDI interface (specifically for older gear).

Focusrite Plug-In Collective

If you register your Scarlett 2i2 (and I presume any of their products) you are given access to the Focusrite Plug-in Collective. Every month Focusrite picks a plug-in or several plug-ins to give away for free! In addition to this theirs usually a discount code for other products on that vendors website. The plug-ins offered aren't always from well known manufacturers but they're always great, and you can't go wrong with free! Recently they had a great discount for the Bias amp modeling plug-in for guitarists, which is known to be one of the best plug-ins available for guitar amp simulation.

Free XLN Addictive Keys VST

At least at the time of this writing you can pick one free XLN Addictive Keys virtual instrument for download after registering your Scarlett 2i2. I picked up the Electric Grand VST because it had some great 80's vibes. Its actually the main keyboard in my song 'Edge' which you can find on every major online music distributer.

Summary

I would recommend this audio interface to all guitarists, all vocalists, and anyone who only has the need to record 1 instrument at a time. If you don't need to track drums, and you don't require a MIDI interface I think you should buy this audio interface. Its lasted me more than 5 years without any problems (again, knock on wood), it has everything I need for guitar, bass and vocals, it has all the knobs and switches I need without anything extra to clutter the panel, and it looks great on my desk (that red anodized aluminum is great).

Check here or the image below for current pricing.

Here are some pictures of the front and back: