Focusrite
Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen)
Best audio interface for home studio musicians and podcast creators.
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) is a highly acclaimed 2-in, 2-out USB audio interface, celebrated for its professional sound quality and robust build. It features two premium 3rd Gen mic preamps with an 'Air mode' for enhanced vocal and instrument recordings. High-impedance instrument inputs allow direct guitar or bass recording without clipping, and intuitive Gain Halos simplify level setting. Delivering pristine studio sound through 24-bit/192kHz converters, this USB-C powered interface offers low-latency monitoring and broad compatibility with Mac, PC, and iPadOS, making it ideal for creators on the go.
$115.00
More Scarlett Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
25
/ 77
#25 in Studio Recording Bundles
Price vs Category Average
-79%
Below average
A/D Resolution
24192
/ -bit/ kHz
Who it's for
- Vocalists seeking professional clarity and high-end sonic character
- Mobile producers needing a reliable, portable recording setup
- Aspiring musicians building a home studio from scratch
Who should skip it
- Bands or drummers requiring simultaneous multi-track recording
- Streamers and podcasters needing integrated computer audio routing
- Engineers using demanding, high-impedance professional studio headphones
Performance breakdown
Preamp Clarity
Third-generation preamps deliver professional, noise-free recordings for any studio setup.
Ease of Use
Intuitive Gain Halos make setting perfect input levels incredibly simple.
Build Quality
Robust metal chassis withstands the rigors of frequent travel and sessions.
Latency Performance
Near-zero monitoring latency ensures seamless tracking for vocalists and musicians.
Software Integration
Hitmaker Expansion bundle provides a comprehensive suite for immediate creative output.
Connectivity Versatility
USB-C bus power offers reliable, portable performance across multiple operating systems.
Key Specs
A/D Resolution
24-bit/192 kHz
Simultaneous I/O
2 x 2
Number of Preamps
2
Interface
USB-C
Power Source
USB Bus powered
Instrument Inputs
2
Phantom Power
Yes
Form Factor
Desktop
Features
- Two 3rd Gen mic pres with Air Mode
- Studio-quality 24-bit/192 kHz converters
- Latency-free monitoring
- Easy input level setting with Gain Halos
- High-headroom instrument inputs
- USB-C connectivity
- Includes Ableton Live Lite and Hitmaker Expansion
- Two balanced outputs for clear playback
What customers say
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) is highly praised for its exceptional ease of use and outstanding sound quality, making it a top choice for home studios. Users consistently highlight the straightforward plug and play setup, which is perfect for beginners. The preamps deliver clean, transparent audio, and the 'Air' mode is a valued feature for adding vocal presence. Furthermore, the interface boasts a robust metal build, suggesting strong durability for regular use. While minor aspects like headphone volume are sometimes noted, the core strengths—superb sound, user-friendliness, and excellent overall value—solidify its reputation as a professional quality, accessible entry-level interface.
Know before you buy
Air mode emulates the classic sound of Focusrite's original ISA mic preamps. It adds a subtle high-frequency boost, which helps bring out clarity and presence in vocals and acoustic instruments.
Yes, the interface features high-headroom instrument inputs specifically designed for guitars and basses. You can plug them in directly without needing an external DI box, and the interface is built to handle the signal without clipping.
No, the Scarlett 2i2 is USB bus-powered. It draws all the power it needs directly from your computer or iPad via the USB-C connection, making it a great choice for portable setups.
The interface features intuitive Gain Halos around the gain knobs. These light up green when your signal is at a healthy level and turn red if the signal is too loud and clipping, making it easy to set your levels visually.
Yes, the Scarlett 2i2 is compatible with iPadOS. You will need a USB-C cable to connect it, and depending on your specific iPad model, you may need an adapter or a powered USB hub.
Yes, the Scarlett 2i2 provides 48V phantom power, which can be toggled on or off for both inputs. This allows you to use professional-grade condenser microphones that require external power.
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$115