Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording, Songwriting, Streaming and Podcasting — High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record

Product Information

On most audio interfaces you’ll typically find both XLR and 1/4-inch inputs, often combined into combo connectors so that you can plug mics, guitars, synths and the like into the same input. Many interfaces also offer a phantom power option, which is required if you want to use certain microphones. This is the big brother to the standard SSL2, the main difference being that the 2+ adds two outputs to the 2-in, 2-out configuration of the 2, MIDI In/Out plus an additional independent headphone out (with both being able to monitor different mixes). There's also the 4k button which adds some extra presence and high-end zing (and, more importantly, makes you feel that little bit more 'pro'). While Audient’s EVO 4 and 8 are compact interfaces, 16 definitely ramps things up in terms of size and connectivity but still retains their best features and ease of use. EVO 16 is a 24 in/24 out up to 24-bit 96kHz design, with eight mic/line inputs and eight balanced TRS outputs. The remaining I/O uses two pairs of optical connectors offering 16 I/O channels. Rounding things off are two headphone outputs. PCIE ports are usually found in professional audio boxes because it offers additional processing power and fast data transfer. We're big fans of the Universal Audio Apollo Twin X here at MusicRadar, and this super interface has some incredibly powerful features that will offer a serious upgrade to anyone’s home recording experience. It comes in two formats, Duo and Quad which are named for the amount of DSP processing chips they possess.

There are two combi mic/line inputs with Hi-Z (impedance) options for switching between guitar and bass signals or those from synths or drum machines. A +48v option also allows the connection of both condenser and dynamic mics. With great monitoring and recording quality and a flexible I/O configuration, the SSL 2+ comes highly recommended by us. A compact interface with pro features and connectivity, the SSL2+ promises an affordable version of ‘the SSL sound’, bringing the feel of a gazillion recordings made in 7-figure recording studios within reach of everybody.Do you want to invest less and get the best? In that case, buy the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 2 nd gen. Monitor output connects to your speakers so you can be assisted with critical listening. Most producers use XLR cables for outputting sound to the monitors but some prefer TRS cables. There's a wide range of cables and connectors to choose from. An audio interface can also be an external sound card which is used for recording sound or music. When your computer already has a sound card then what's the need for another one? There are certain limitations of a built-in sound card. It can't support all types of recordings and this is why you may require an external sound card or an audio interface. Clarett+ has improved independent A-D and D-A converters, slightly better noise figures throughout, and improved dynamic range. The mic inputs are silky smooth and have plenty of headroom, and the outputs are crystal clear and suitably noise-free. If you want to add some life to your input, the Air option does just that. Also excellent are the two JFET instrument inputs, substantially better than a regular instrument input. Audio interfaces act as the nerve center of your studio, linking together the various tools you use to input and output sound.

Audio quality is where ID44 MkII really shines; everything else is icing on the cake, but that icing is layered deep and tastes exceptionally sweet. Microphones output a very weak signal; they need to be amplified by a preamp when connected to a mic input. Line-level signals are very strong and don’t need a boost. So a microphone needs a different type of input connector for pairing with line-level. The main purpose of an audio interface is to convert the analog signal to digital to transfer it to the computer. Interface connectors are used to connect the audio box to the computer.

What is the best audio interface?

There are many factors that you should consider when choosing an audio interface. Some key considerations include connectivity types, preamps, the number of inputs and outputs, size, and price. You should ask yourself the following questions when evaluating any option: First, it’s worth noting why having a great audio interface is important. All audio interfaces will consist of the essentials for inputting and outputting audio— see this article for a breakdown of the different pieces that make up an interface and how they work. Latency or delay is another factor that shatters your workflow. This audio interface completely revolutionizes the concept thanks to Scarlett’s unrivaled round-trip latency which is as low as 2.74ms.

The Scarlett 2i2 has a firewire interface so that speed is not compromised. A phantom power option is also included for microphones without an external power supply.On the front panel, there's a Neutrik combination input for connecting line and instrument level signals along with the microphones. This makes it the best for recording the digital stage piano along with the electric or acoustic guitar. It's also equipped with unique halo indicators which let you know about the signal strength. If it outputs red then it means your signal is experiencing interference and you should reduce the gain. When a healthy signal is achieved, it will turn to green. It also has a large monitor dial for providing tactile control for volume control. A high-quality amplifier provides clean yet loud sound to your headphones.