Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen)
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Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen)

★★★★★
5/5 — Audio Interface
~£159
Approx. UK RRP

The world's most popular audio interface — two pristine preamps, Auto Gain, Clip Safe, and everything a bedroom producer needs in one iconic red box.

Specifications

Inputs2x XLR/TRS combo
Outputs2x balanced 1/4" TRS, 1x headphone
Sample RateUp to 192kHz/24-bit
Dynamic Range112dB
Bus PoweredYes (USB-C)
Warranty3 years

Overview

If you're setting up a home studio, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen is what everyone recommends. Two combination XLR/TRS inputs, two balanced line outputs, and a headphone output in a compact bus-powered package that works with every major DAW.

New 4th Gen Features

Auto Gain: sing or play for 10 seconds and optimal gain is set automatically. Clip Safe records a secondary copy at lower gain if clipping occurs. Green halo LEDs provide clear signal metering at a glance. Meaningful improvements over the 3rd generation.

Sound Quality

The 4th Gen preamp delivers 56dB of gain with 112dB dynamic range. Vocals sit naturally in a mix. Whether recording vocals over guitar or layering synths, the 2i2 captures everything cleanly and competes with interfaces costing twice as much.

Software Bundle

Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools Artist (3 months), and Focusrite's Hitmaker Expansion including Softube and XLN Audio instruments. A legitimate starter toolkit that saves hundreds of pounds.

Pros & Cons

✓ Pros

  • Two Class A preamps, 112dB dynamic range
  • Auto Gain and Clip Safe on both channels
  • Independent headphone and monitor mix
  • Industry-leading driver stability
  • Excellent software bundle

✕ Cons

  • No MIDI I/O
  • USB-C to A adapter not included
  • Two inputs may feel limiting for band recordings

Verdict

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen remains the definitive beginner-to-intermediate audio interface. The preamp improvements are real and audible, Auto Gain and Clip Safe are genuinely useful. At £159, not just good for the money — genuinely good, full stop.

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