Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 2nd Gen USB Audio Interface Review (December 2024)

Description

In this review post, we’re going to be discussing the Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools | First, including an overview of its unique features.

Product Description

The Scarlett 2i4 is our most versatile USB-powered audio interface, excellent for anyone who needs a cue mix while performing or recording with a computer. It has two natural-sounding Scarlett mic preamps, super-low latency, MIDI I/O, four analog outputs, and the same class-leading sound quality and digital conversion as the other of the Scarlett series.

Take it anywhere, attach it to a computer with a single USB cable, plug in two microphones or instruments directly, and record studio-quality audio against a cue mix in seconds. Focus rite is the ideal companion for Pro Tools, and Scarlett 2i4 now includes an exclusive version of Pro Tools | First Focus rite Creative Pack as well as Ableton Live Lite to commemorate this. It also works with all of the major DAWs on both Mac and PC.  The roundtrip latency was measured to be extremely low at 2. 74ms @ 96kHz with a 32-sample buffer in Logic Pro X on a Mac Pro with OS 10. 11

Product Features

• MIDI I/O
• Weight : 0.861826 kg
• Dimension : 1.9 x 8.3 x 5.4 inches
• 4 analog inputs:
  • 2 natural-sounding Scarlett mic preamps with plenty of even gains;
  • 2 newly-designed instrument inputs
• 1 headphones output with gain control;
• Designed to handle seriously hot guitar pick-ups
• Class-leading conversion and sample rates up to 192kHz / 24 bit
• Focusrite’s Red Plug-in Suite, 2GB of Loopmasters samples
• 2 1/4-inch balanced jack outputs to connect professional studio monitors;
• Super-low latency for using your plug-ins in real-time without the need for DSP
• Includes:
  • Focusrite Control
  • Softube Time
  • Tone Bundle
  • Pro Tools | First Focusrite Creative Pack and Ableton Live Lite

FEATURES:

• USB bus-powered
• 4 unbalanced RCA outputs
• Headphone output with volume control
• Compact, roadworthy chassis goes where you go
• Class-leading converters, sample rates up to 24-bit/192kHz
• 2 balanced 1/4″ outputs accommodate pro studio monitors
• 2 great-sounding Scarlett mic preamps with generous even gain
• 2 re-engineered instrument inputs accommodate the hottest pickups
• Vanishingly low latency lets you monitor with plug-ins, no DSP is required
• MIDI I/O for sending/receiving MIDI notes to/from a keyboard controller

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High quality build
• Incredibly reputable
• Favorable consumer review ratings
• Value for money
• Terrific sound quality
• Best suited for studio recording and live performance

Cons

• Bulky in size
• Quite pricey

Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 2nd Gen USB Audio Interface Demo

Our Verdict

The Scarlett line’s second generation is jam-packed with improvements. The new super-low latency will boost your confidence by allowing you to record and watch with software effects in real-time. New metal gain controls and a slimmer red metal chassis convince you of its improved industrial style, built to go anyplace. The Scarlett series now supports sample rates of up to 192kHz, and the input channels have evolved as well.

The new Scarlett mic preamp has a more equal gain structure, allowing you to precisely control your levels, and the instrument input has been fully rebuilt to handle extremely hot pick-ups. Finally, Focusrite has included analog protection circuitry across both the inputs and outputs to safeguard your interface from unwelcome power spikes.

Where to Buy

The best place to buy this product has to be Amazon, due to their competitive pricing and fantastic customer service.

Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools | First

$249.99
$214.99

BUY NOW

Amazon.com

as of December 25, 2024 9:21 pm

Pricing History

Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools | First

Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools | First

$214.99

$249.99

as of December 25, 2024 9:21 pm

BUY NOW

Amazon.com

Last updated on December 25, 2024 9:21 pm

Buyers Guides This Product Is Featured In

Best 2 Channel Audio Interfaces (2022)

Best Value Audio Interfaces Available

Best Audio Interfaces Under $500