Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen
Best versatile interface for home studio musicians and content creators.
The Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 is a versatile 4-in, 4-out desktop USB audio interface designed for musicians and producers. It features two of Focusrite's best-ever Scarlett mic preamps with switchable Air mode for brighter vocal recordings, and two high-headroom instrument inputs for guitars and basses. Four balanced line inputs accommodate synths and drum machines, while four balanced outputs provide clean monitoring. With high-performance 24-bit/192kHz converters, it ensures professional sound quality. The interface includes a pair of virtual loopback inputs for easy podcasting and streaming, and connects via USB Type-C. It comes bundled with a suite of software, including Ableton Live Lite and Avid Pro Tools Artist.
$199.99
More Scarlett Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
125
/ 439
#125 in Audio Cards & Adapters
Price vs Category Average
-82%
Below average
Connectivity
USB Type-C
/ USB Type-C
Who it's for
- Vocalists and acoustic musicians seeking a bright, professional studio tone
- Small studio producers needing flexible routing for multiple instruments
- Beginners and pros wanting a reliable, hassle-free recording experience
Who should skip it
- Audiophiles using high-impedance headphones for critical monitoring
- Growing studios requiring future expansion beyond four inputs
- Engineers seeking the distinct character of high-end boutique preamps
Performance breakdown
Preamp Clarity
Scarlett preamps deliver clean, professional gain with a signature Air mode boost.
Connectivity Versatility
Four inputs and outputs provide ample routing for small studio setups.
Streaming Utility
Integrated virtual loopback makes routing audio for podcasts and streaming effortless.
Build Portability
Bus-powered USB-C design ensures reliable performance without needing an external power supply.
Conversion Fidelity
High-performance 24-bit/192kHz converters capture every nuance of your recording sessions.
Software Integration
Comprehensive software bundle offers a solid foundation for immediate music production.
Key Specs
Connectivity
USB Type-C
Protocol
USB 2.0
Form Factor
Desktop
Simultaneous I/O
4 x 4
A/D Resolution
24-bit/192kHz
Number of Preamps
2
Phantom Power
YES
Number of Pads
2
Features
- Two high-quality Scarlett mic preamps with switchable Air mode for enhanced vocal recordings.
- Two high-headroom instrument inputs for distortion-free guitar and bass recording.
- Four balanced line inputs for connecting synthesizers and drum machines.
- Four balanced outputs for clear monitoring and external effects processing.
- High-performance 24-bit/192kHz converters for professional audio fidelity.
- Virtual loopback inputs simplify podcasting, live streaming, and sampling.
- Bus-powered via USB Type-C for convenient portability.
- Includes a comprehensive software bundle for immediate music production.
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen for its exceptional sound quality and remarkable ease of use. Many highlight the pristine preamps and clear audio capture, making it a favorite for home studios and content creators. Users find the setup straightforward, often noting its plug and play simplicity across various operating systems. Its reliable performance and sturdy build further solidify its reputation as a high quality, user friendly audio interface, offering significant value for its capabilities.
Know before you buy
Yes, the interface features virtual loopback inputs, which allow you to easily route audio from your computer applications—like web browsers or media players—back into your streaming or recording software.
No, the unit is bus-powered via its USB Type-C connection. It draws power directly from your computer, making it a convenient, portable solution for mobile recording setups.
Air mode is a switchable setting that emulates the classic sound of Focusrite’s original ISA mic preamps. It adds a subtle high-frequency boost, which is excellent for bringing extra clarity and presence to vocal recordings or acoustic instruments.
Yes, the 4i4 is well-equipped for hardware setups. It features four balanced line inputs, allowing you to connect multiple external instruments simultaneously, along with MIDI I/O for controlling your gear.
Absolutely. It includes two dedicated instrument inputs with high headroom to prevent distortion when recording electric guitars or basses, alongside two high-quality mic preamps for your microphones.
The Scarlett 4i4 includes a comprehensive software bundle to get you started, featuring industry-standard digital audio workstations like Ableton Live Lite and Avid Pro Tools Artist.
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$200