Focusrite Introduces 4th-Generation Scarlett Solo, 2i2, and 4i4 USB-C Audio Interfaces

August 31 2023, 00:35
Building on the remarkable success of the Scarlett range resulting from a combination of affordability, global distribution, great marketing, and persistence in updating the same exact products and design, Focusrite now launched its Scarlett 4th Generation range of audio interfaces. The new Scarlett family features the Solo, 2i2, 4i4, Solo Studio, and 2i2 Studio, all with USB-C already, offering greater audio specifications, enhanced creative capabilities, and the same recognized ease of use.
Focusrite says that the new Scarlett improves on the general specifications of the previous generation of these popular audio interfaces. Key features include Auto Gain, Clip Safe and a re-engineered Air mode, updating these models according to the latest market trends. All while ensuring that these Scarlett 4th Gen interfaces deliver the same professional studio quality.

Powerful new updated features include a huge 120dB of dynamic range, using converters from the company's flagship RedNet range - found in high-profile studios around the world. Inside the Scarletts are also all-new, remote-controlled preamps with 69dB of gain in the Scarlett 2i2 and 4i4 models, for great sound from any microphone. The British company also re-engineered its Air mode with Presence, and all-new Harmonic Drive, while Auto Gain now automatically sets the perfect recording level, and Clip Safe monitors recording levels and automatically adjusts the gain to prevent clipping - all these new features exclusively of the new Scarlett 2i2 and 4i4 models.
 

Updating even more the benefits of these budget audio interfaces, Focusrite introduced brand-new custom-designed headphone amplifiers for the best playback ever heard from any of the Scarlett models. In the popular studio packs, Focusrite is also including redesigned headphones with flatter frequency response and greater comfort. There's also a redesigned Dynamic Gain Halos with output metering, and a refreshed Easy Start tool, making it easier than ever for less experienced users to get set up and recording in minutes.
The Scarlett Solo is ideal for singer-songwriters, with one microphone preamplifier, one Hi-Z instrument/line input and the mentioned brand-new custom-designed headphone amp. The new Focusrite Solo provides stunning audio quality in a compact design perfect for home studios and on-the-go recording, featuring the re-engineered Air mode with Presence, and all-new Harmonic Drive, to breathe life into vocals and acoustic instruments.

For the aspiring artist, the Scarlett 2i2 offers two remote-controlled mic preamps and two Hi-Z instrument/line inputs for guitars, keys and groove boxes. The iconic 2-in/2-out interface delivers professional studio quality in a portable package, with powerful new features like Clip Safe, Auto Gain and Air mode.
For the multi-instrumentalist, the Scarlett 4i4 provides two remote-controlled mic preamps, switchable line or Hi-Z instrument inputs, two fixed line inputs, and four balanced outputs for the flexibility to record mics, guitars, synths and more. MIDI I/O makes it easy to bring in synths and grooveboxes to sync with recording sessions. The 4i4 brings professional studio quality within reach for home musicians who want to connect more of their gear at once. 4i4 also includes new features like Clip Safe, Auto Gain and the re-engineered Air mode.

The Scarlett Solo Studio and Scarlett 2i2 Studio packs provide an all-in-one solution for high quality recording. Including either a Solo or 2i2 interface, CM25 MkIII studio condenser microphone, and the new closed-back SH-450 headphones, these bundles have everything needed to start recording.

The highlights of the update are that Focusrite has completely re-engineered the audio circuitry and introduced professional-grade converters, and all models now have independent controls for headphones and monitors. The new designs include premium Neutrik connectors, spacious knob placement, and endless gain knobs on the 2i2 and 4i4 models. Complemented by Scarlett's iconic red, the front panel showcases a sleek black finish and soft touch knobs.

Auto Gain makes operation much simpler for unexperienced users, while Clip Safe monitors levels up to 96,000 times per second and automatically adjusts the gain to prevent clipping, allowing users to fully immerse in performing and not have to worry about their levels. The re-engineered Air mode takes a sound's unique character and brings it to the front of the mix, for standout vocal or instrument tracks. Air mode includes the original all-analogue Presence mode, plus a new DSP-based Harmonic Drive mode for console-like richness.
 

The Dynamic Gain Halos make it easy to set and monitor levels. This update to the iconic Scarlett Gain Halos enables users to set the perfect level and get great results every time. Loopback routes computer audio to DAWs with ease via Scarlett’s virtual inputs, and can also mix Scarlett inputs and computer audio for sampling from other software, streaming and recording flexibility.

Focusrite’s Easy Start tool quickly guides users through setup, so they're ready to record with the included Ableton Live Lite software. The software bundle also includes three months of Pro Tools Artist recording software, and the Hitmaker Expansion software bundle of studio plugins from Softube, Native Instruments, Antares, and many more. Also included are five free masters from cloud service Landr that can be used at any time, plus a two-month subscription to Landr Studio, offering and unlimited music distribution on streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music and TikTok.

Focusrite Control 2 is also provided and enables remote control setup and mixing from a PC or Mac.

Prices USD ex. tax: 
Solo - $139.99
2i2 - $199.99
4i4 - $279.99
Solo Studio - $249.99
2i2 Studio - $299.99

Prices Euros ex. tax:
Solo - €130.24
2i2 - €184.87
4i4 - €260.50
Solo Studio - €235.29
2i2 Studio - €285.71

All models are available now.
www.focusrite.com
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