Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen)
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Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen)

★★★★★
5/5 — Audio Interface
~£119
Approx. UK RRP

The world's best-selling interface entry point — the 4th Gen Solo adds Auto Gain and Clip Safe to an already excellent package.

Specifications

Inputs1x XLR mic, 1x instrument
Outputs2x 1/4" TRS, 1x headphone
Sample RateUp to 192kHz/24-bit
Dynamic Range111dB
Bus PoweredYes (USB-C)
Warranty3 years

Overview

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen is the perfect starting interface for solo artists, podcasters, and bedroom producers. The 4th generation brings a revamped Class A preamp with 111dB dynamic range, Auto Gain for one-touch level setting, and Clip Safe technology that records a safety take if your signal clips. At £119 it's genuinely excellent value.

Auto Gain & Clip Safe

Auto Gain analyses your signal for 10 seconds and sets optimal gain automatically. Clip Safe monitors the input and records a backup copy at lower gain if distortion is detected. These two features make the Solo the most forgiving interface for beginners.

Sound Quality

The 4th Gen preamp delivers 57dB of clean gain with a noise floor that rivals interfaces twice the price. Vocals sound open and detailed. The headphone output has been improved and sounds noticeably cleaner than the previous generation.

Who Is It For?

Solo vocalists, singer-songwriters, guitarists, and podcasters who only ever record one source at a time. The moment you need two microphones simultaneously, step up to the 2i2. For single-source recording, the Solo is unbeatable.

Pros & Cons

✓ Pros

  • Excellent Class A preamp
  • Auto Gain and Clip Safe
  • Bus-powered, ultra-portable
  • 3-year warranty
  • Lowest latency in class

✕ Cons

  • Only one mic input
  • No MIDI I/O
  • Plastic build

Verdict

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen is the easiest interface recommendation in music production. At £119, you get a genuinely excellent preamp, rock-solid drivers, Auto Gain, Clip Safe, and a 3-year warranty. The perfect starting point.

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