Exactly what a perfect gear review should look and sound like. You replaced the “yo, hey dude, what’s up UA-cam” with detailed information, backed up with technical documentation. Well done. New subscriber here.
Completely agree. So many reviewers actually believe the review is all about them, rather than the equipment they are supposed to be reviewing. New subscriber here as well! Well done, Julian :)
You should list all the interfaces with their input performance listed in a spreadsheet like you do with the headphone outputs, it would help to directly compare everything you've tested at a glance
Finally a box that comes with a Fethead recommendation. Sort of. Do you know what would be cool? An annual overview. The measurements have already been taken. It is nice if you compare the devices. Love your German approach. Takes me back to the days I read the latest reviews in Auto, Motor und Sport.
I thought this was a great review. You covered everything about the interface in an easy to understand way. I had been wondering about purchasing the 2Pre's big brother either the 4Pre or 8Pre. I have decided to go with the 8Pre for additional inputs. Thanks again for doing such a well thought out and organized review.
I come from a scarlett interface and I recently upgaded to the clarett range. This is one of the most significant improvements I've had in my studio.....if you are serious about recording you should get at least that quality of preamps and converters. My first impression : I can record much louder without the low end mudding out and the high end hurting my ears. I seem to get more out of my other preamps , my mics and outboard gear because I have a better image AND I make better mixing decisions which ends up in an overall better result than ever before.
I’m so impressed with this video, I actually sent it, along with pictures of the graphs that you put here, to my sales technician at Sweetwater sound in America. I own this unit, the 2016 thunderbolt version, and I’m amazed at how good it sounds, especially as I’m working on my next album in my studio right now. But this makes me appreciate it even more! Thank you for an amazing and very well laid out video!
Hi Julian! You should do a video about the Clarett + they just released. They claim to have fixed the only issue reported in your review (and I believe they must’ve fixed it thanks to you!!! 😅😅) I’d be curious to know if it’s true 😄😄
What a precise review. All the info you need. If you put a drum machine over Julian's voice, it's like listening to Kraftwerk... 🎵"Fun, Fun, Fun mit der Focusrite" 🎵 Ausgezeichnete Bewertung!
who uses headphones below 150Ohm on a pro interface? lol...Never do that... Glad to hear it distorts n cheap headphones...tells me its made for pro gear! Locks out the beginners...hahaha...Just kidding! LOw impedance headphones, the hallmark of newbs..jk. again...Maybe not.
The video is great, between the Clarett 2 pre and the motu m2, which do you think would be more worthwhile? I record voes of rap, reggaeton, pop, salsa and sometimes acoustic guitars
@@jclbuxfan Yes, the Scarlett is on the same line as the SSL2 and the SSL2 may have better aspects. But this is the Clarett, which is almost double in price than the Scarlett for good reasons. The preamps in the Clarett units are of much higher quality than the Scarlett counterparts, with about 80% more dynamic range and with higher quality AD/DA converters. For models like the Clarett 8preX, some even say that the quality in preamps and converters are on par with the RED line of Focusrite, which is VERY expensive.
@@Zarabozo How good is its headphone output? I just returned to Amazon an Apollo Solo it was the worst interface I have ever tested. My next test will be the Clarett, but I am so tired of buying, testing, returning, waiting for the refund, etc. I have still a Scarlett 2i2 FIRST GEN and sounds way better than the Apollo Solo. Thanks.
@@lastcall9998 I don't think the Clarett will disappoint you. I haven't tested this Clarett specifically, but the 8preX has very good and powerful headphone outputs, and I'm guessing it is the same for all the Clarett models.
I just found your reviews and they are definitely the best reviews I have ever found, precise, detailed and really helpful. Congratulations with your channel, new sub here 😄👏👏
The Focusrite Scarlet 2i2 3rd gen was the first audio interface I had that would send spikes to my monitors when my turning my computer on/off. Never had that problem with other interfaces, including some cheaper ones. Their support said this is how it's designed and their more expensive interfaces don't have that problem. Maybe this Clarett is one of those more expensive interfaces, but the company lost my business for not having a simple protection for the equipment that plugs into their products. So, this may be a great interface but beware, and check to make sure it doesn't have that same issue while you can still return it. Especially if you have good monitors
Great review! I have Clarett 2Pre Thunderbolt which is mostly identical but even better in terms of latency (3-4 times better). In regard to headphones output, which I don't use that often, I noticed one anomaly where output would be very muddy (sonic-wise). After a factory reset it would get back to normal quality. Have you tried to Focusrite Control > File > Restore Factory Defaults and then test it?
I am always glad to watch your honest scientific reviews. It is clear you have been putting lots of efforts into them, thanx for that! I think this is the best audio interface I can indulge in. Two questions: Based upon your vid this certain audio interface works better with high impedance headphones. What impedance headphones should I buy for best performances? / Though the device has Mic/Line combo inputs, I have been advised to use mic level with a DI before the input it for better sounds when I play with either an acoustic electric or an electric guitar. I really am interested in your opinion! Please, thanx very much!
Can anyone tell me what the latency difference is between the Clarett 2pre usb 3rd and a Clarett thunderbolt?? I know that thunderbolt is capable of being much faster then usb but are they equal as far as latency goes?? Im trying to decide if I would be ok just using Clarett usb 2.0/3.1 because I dont have thunderbolt on my PC. I would like to have no more then 2 milliseconds of latency which is similar to what you would get from like a Apollo thunderbolt interface. Or will I have to have thunderbolt to get latency that low?
Hey there Julian! That was an excellent review of the Focusrite, audio gizmos. With that super special Air button. That since you showed the frequency response plot of. Now I know. I don't think I shall be getting myself a Focusrite. Because that looks like bullshit to me. And I certainly didn't appreciate the way it sounded. Was that supposed to sound better? Really? Not for me. So at least you helped me to eliminate,, something, that which, I was considering. It was also interesting to note. It follows the, 2 stage, Neve microphone preamp concept. As no pad switch is available to engage. Since you really can't overload an, only, 20 DB gain preamp. From the following additional gain boost section. Which isn't offering up that much more. Then an additional 20-40 DB. And therefore that all important first stage preamp. Never changes its, character, texture. By changing the negative feedback loop. As one does. In a classic, single stage, microphone preamp design. That will then require a pad switch. And I like those much better! Because you get a change of the texture as you change the gain. It's magical. When you understand what it's doing and how. Sometimes it almost sounds like you have, inserted. An equalizer and a limiter. And you have inserted, nothing. Other than a smile. So what you really want. It is a computer audio interface device. That can accommodate line level inputs of up to, +24 dbM up through +32 dbM. Before they start clipping at the inputs! And you're just not going to find any. They all clip out at +20 or so. Though there are those that won't. When you can patch right into the, analog to digital encoder chip. And bypass all of their other bullshit input electronics. Then you can plug something good into it like a real Neve or API couple of gizmos. And not be clipping everything out. Which is all I keep hearing today. You don't know it's clipping out. Because it's clipping at the inputs. And the clips are all rolled off at the outputs. So they don't look like clips. But I know what I'm listening to. Hey so I got this Metric Halo gizmo for a gift. A very nice gift. But I don't do Macintosh. But in a call to Metric Halo. They told me to do just that if I was going to be plugging in my Neve console. Yes a whole one. A big one. A better one than, Sound City. Because Rupert Neve told me so. Years ago when I got mine in 1996. And clipping at the inputs of all of these digital converters, seems to me to be, de rigueur. Without most of you dummies realizing it. Because you got the good stuff! And you're not looking any red lights. Right. You're not. They don't show you the clips. At the inputs. It's tragically laughable. I've not only serviced this stuff for over 50 years. I've designed and built this stuff. For some of the most legendary manufacturers. And my own designs and builds. It's up there with the very best. Because it had to be. You can't deliver anything less than your best. And you know who you have to best. And so the only way to get good with this. Is to just do it. You just do it. You learn by doing. You need to make your own mistakes. You need to learn from your mistakes. You can be a monkey and just watch UA-cam videos. Or you can just teach yourself. The very best like me. We taught ourselves. And I am the very best. RemyRAD
Very good review as usual. May be I missed it, but you don't mention on which system you tried the driver : Windows, Apple or Linux ? I wish there were Linux drivers available from Focusrite...
Clarett vs. Clarett + is confusing. Also, you didn’t say anything about the Controller software. I cannot tell how you would use that with a DAW like Studio One. Big barrier to the purchase decision.
Hi Julian. Could you tell me what woud be the best USB interface as far as final recording into wave file is concerned. Im using Steinberg UR22 mk2 right now. Thank you!!
Julian I like your reviews but you have never mention something very important, specially for Windows user and Focusrite owners. Their software is horrible and not stable at all. Its like they dont care for Windows users but only for Mac. I know that there is not issues to all windows users and this says it all.
Hi great, great video!! I'm about to purchase the Clarett+ 4Pre. My current headphones are Yamaha HPH-MT5s with a listed impedance of 51 ohms. Are these considered high impedance? What ohm rating starts being considered high impedance? Thank you so much sir 👍 ***Edit - i just watched your video on the Clarett+ and it seems the headphone impedance issue has been corrected. Thank you...
Hello Julian, great Job (phumbs up!) But could you add the category Software Quality. In some recessions i read that the clarett is buggy and sometimes the machine have to reboot often. Did you have experiences about the software ?
great review! how do you measure latency? I have a Scarlett (gen 2) and Cubase says that with 128 buffer size and 48 khz the latency is 8 ms, much lower than your 12 ms, I guess something is not right.
JK which audio interface with usb C and midi inputs do you recommend for SM7B? Which fetHead do you recommend or none needed? Also which type of XLR cables are better for the sound that don't pick up so much of low end noises? Thank you very much for your help have a great day!
Interesting. I have the 8 input version of this. So overall it looks pretty solid. I'm considering some headphones with a 32ohm and others with 14ohm impedance. Looks like I'll have to invest in an external headphone amp for these.
If youre in the market for one of these claretts, i made the jump to an 8pre usb from a 2nd gen 18i20, so much more stable between my octopre and ox top box, the bundled software is a must as well. Id recommend it for sure! Running windows 10 & Reaper for context
Anyone experienced bad software behavior with it? Because atm it seems to be an issue with the clarett and scarlett series? My 1st gen Scarlett died after 12 years, so I have to suffer through a lot of research pain to find working "gain" ;D
So clearly there is an issue with the Focusrite mic input levels. Having struggled with the Scarlett, I’m a little disappointed to find that the same issue exists on the Clarett.
If we sent you a Zoom LiveTrak L-12 for a week, would you make a video like this about it, measuring audio performance? It has 8 mic preamps and multiple headphone outputs
Great review! it's a bummer I don't currently have the money to buy a Clarett. I'd love a review of the Audient id14 mkII and IK Multimedia AXE I/O at some point in the near future. I need a new interface mainly for recording guitar and bass. I was already considering the AXE I/O and the Motu M2 when the id14 mkII came out and it's expandability is very enticing. From what I've read so far the id14 seems to be an exceptionally capable interface in general and it is made by a well respected brand, so I feel like alot of people would benefit from a review. Thanks :D
I am currently deciding between the clarett 2 pre and the Audient id14 mk2 and I think a review by Julian would help a lot in deciding between the two. Atm the clarett seems to be a little more convenient with the option to power it even without a usbc capable computer and it also having a dedicated power switch. If the aufient outshines it performance wise I’d go for the id14 though
@@TheHypeCom that's a difficult one. Tbh I was also thinking about upgrading to the id14 mk2 when it came out, because it seems to be superior to most other interfaces by a long shot (especially if adat is of any importance to you. The Clarett does have adat too, but it's quite a bit more expensive where I live). I do have usb C, making it even more appealing. Another important point for you might be availability. At least where I live the mk2 was sold out in little under a day and will likely be unavailable for another 1-2 months. good luck finding the right interface :D
Nice thorough video. It's interesting that these latest versions are moving to a USB-C connector, and I would like to see a test of ones like this that state they can run off USB power, to confirm that the specs are the same, especially if you test something with 4 mic pres that should all work with a 15W USB-C (3.1) host. (I note that Focusrite's manual is completely silent on which version of USB the device operates at, so we can assume it's USB 2.0. It seems a little disingenuous to omit that part of the spec, while touting the ability to run from USB-C 15W hosts on the webpage.)
this is legit one of the best product review videos ive ever seen. the amount of depth you went into and the clarity with which you explained everything was extremely impressive. definitely earned a new subscriber! :)
This is *almost* what I am looking for! Which is: xlr mic input near 60 db gain, enough to eventually upgrade to sm7b without a cloudlifter. A high powered headphone amp, that'll let me push high and low impedance stuff like he400i which needs 64mW to reach 110dB at 35 ohms or the t60rp which need like 3000mW balanced at 50 ohms. The focusrite clarett is getting close with its 12v wall adapter pulling power, but only on high impedance headphones. Another close one is the ADI-2 Pro FS R, a bit too expensive for me though. Should I just stick with the motu m4 and give up on the all in one idea and get a thx789 or a90 to go with it?
I doubt there are any (low priced) this kind of a multipurpose device with a headphone amp that can deliver 3W to 50 Ohm. Most stand alone headphone amps are not capable of that. 💡Many of my friends who need 2W or more for their headphones use their existing high end amps (for speakers) with impedance adapter (to present lower and more stable load as well as possibly drop the level).
Awsome vid.., I have this model and I love its performance. Still, cause of the low gain, I was thinking to get another one, soooo I will ask you a favor, when you can, review the Arturia AudiFuse, it is not that much of difference in pricepoint to the Clarett 2pre.., I just want to make sure that it will be worth it to buy or if I will get more or less the same. Keep up the good work.
Great review as always. Have to say this is the best I've heard the SM7b - it usually sounds a bit flat and dull. Here, even with the 'Air Mode' off it sounds clearer than I have heard it before.
Would be really interested to see a column added to your Headphone table for an equal power THD+N comparison, for instance, what is the THD+N of all of these devices when delivering 15mW into a 32ohm load.
Definitely the best audio equipment reviews around, the careful detail in the headphone output is VERY welcome! I'm so tired of people asking if an interface can drive higher impedance headphones and the reply is "sure", when we know it's not always the case. Thank you. :)
4pre user for a couple of years here. Based on practical experience I can completely verify the result of your video. This unit is face melting, except for the headphone amps. I had no idea that high impedance headphones produce no issues with it so thanks for the hint mate. Your channel and in general your mission in this channel is absolutely golden!
no need. The new Clarett ++, especially, matches many external HP amps. Power is pretty insane. Of course, not on hobby HP below 80Ohms, but who uses that in pro audio.
@@massivebeatzz 2 caveats here- you're talking about a different device (this is not about brand loyalty) and under the assumption that people will be using headphones or IEMs that are unaffected by its high output impedance. Also, simple numerical power specifications is one thing but its consistency with regards to frequency and impedance and also distortion etcetera have to be considered
@@massivebeatzz Plus, what's with the ignorant double assumption that this device is only going to be used for pro audio purposes, and that if this were the case, audio pros will not be using lower impedance drivers?
I'm so glad i found this channel before I bought my first audio interface (NI Komplete Audio) last year! Can't stress it enough how good the content is!
Great video, thanks for the info! Based on recording samples I have heard Clarett has really good transient performance and clean highs (great for drums etc.).
A few questions if anyone has answers and some info. Are the knobs aluminum like older models from Focusrite? I really liked my old 8i6 1ist gen and it lasted for over a decade before a hardware failure finally occurred. But I also now have 250ohm headphones and only the Clarett models or RED Thunderbolt from Focusrite are capable of powering greater than 200ohm headphones(to full power). I had to crank headphone volume to max on my 8i6 which only does up to 200ohm technically. 2i2 solos and all the 'i' serious are the same. The reviewer says only the back is plastic, but it looks like only the front is aluminum and the rest is all plastic. In other words, the top, sides, and back are plastic, yes? Does anyone know how to make use of the USB-C so I don't have to use a power supply? I understand USB-C would need 15watts in order to not need power supply. Can I buy a expansion card for older motherboard? I have Gigabyte GA-Z77-D3H rev 1.1, if that is helpful info. Overall great review!
Motu M2 ;) Einziger Nachteil: es hat keinen Regler mit dem du den Input und DAW Mix einstellen kannst. Das NI KA1 kann sowas, das wäre auch noch eine gute Option.
Guten tag, Julian. Very informative videos. Theoretically (haha), would you think the AIR mode (higher mic impedance) would be "better" to use with a Royer 121? Royer reecomends 1.5k or higher for the 121. Thanks. I value your opinion. (I record trumpets, mainly, so levels aren't a problem but I still use Royer DB boosters on my two 121s.) Tchuss.
![[Eng Sub] FOCUSRITE Clarett+ 4Pre audio interface](/img/n.gif)
Exactly what a perfect gear review should look and sound like. You replaced the “yo, hey dude, what’s up UA-cam” with detailed information, backed up with technical documentation. Well done. New subscriber here.
Exactly, Nothing is worst when seeking important information than to have a clown calling you "YO! or UA-cam".
Completely agree. So many reviewers actually believe the review is all about them, rather than the equipment they are supposed to be reviewing. New subscriber here as well! Well done, Julian :)
Was just thinking that. Terrific job
Yo hey dudes these are the types of comments I want to read around here!
This dude could out-stare a Cat.
A cat has no chance against me!
omg lol too funny
@Vinheteiro
Dunno man, my friend's cat keeps blinking at me
@@JulianKrause very funny
Your videos are seriously amazing, thank you so much!
You should list all the interfaces with their input performance listed in a spreadsheet like you do with the headphone outputs, it would help to directly compare everything you've tested at a glance
Can you do a review of the latest Clarett+ 2pre and compare with this previous model?
Yes. Would love to see the Clarett+ 2Pre.
Even better. Headphone amp is something else. SO good. On pro headphones of course.
Finally a box that comes with a Fethead recommendation. Sort of. Do you know what would be cool? An annual overview. The measurements have already been taken. It is nice if you compare the devices.
Love your German approach. Takes me back to the days I read the latest reviews in Auto, Motor und Sport.
I thought this was a great review. You covered everything about the interface in an easy to understand way. I had been wondering about purchasing the 2Pre's big brother either the 4Pre or 8Pre. I have decided to go with the 8Pre for additional inputs. Thanks again for doing such a well thought out and organized review.
I come from a scarlett interface and I recently upgaded to the clarett range. This is one of the most significant improvements I've had in my studio.....if you are serious about recording you should get at least that quality of preamps and converters. My first impression : I can record much louder without the low end mudding out and the high end hurting my ears. I seem to get more out of my other preamps , my mics and outboard gear because I have a better image AND I make better mixing decisions which ends up in an overall better result than ever before.
How you liking this Clarett so far ?
@@EM-km8em I've got 16 ins and outs now (interface + adat device). It's flawless.....They have become more expensive now.
@@cozmovox how would it compare to the scarlet solo 3rd gen?
@@ctrlaltcreate3827 As I already stated : BETTER SOUND QUALITY. But also MORE EXPENSIVE :-)
@@cozmovox thanks for the answer man! I’m gonna milk this Solo gen 3 until the wheels fall off and save for something professional down the line 👍🏾
I literally understood nothing...but thats one great review! :)
😂
I’m so impressed with this video, I actually sent it, along with pictures of the graphs that you put here, to my sales technician at Sweetwater sound in America. I own this unit, the 2016 thunderbolt version, and I’m amazed at how good it sounds, especially as I’m working on my next album in my studio right now. But this makes me appreciate it even more! Thank you for an amazing and very well laid out video!
Thank you for the nice comment!
@@JulianKrause Thank you for the nice video!
Hi Julian! You should do a video about the Clarett + they just released. They claim to have fixed the only issue reported in your review (and I believe they must’ve fixed it thanks to you!!! 😅😅) I’d be curious to know if it’s true 😄😄
What a precise review. All the info you need.
If you put a drum machine over Julian's voice, it's like listening to Kraftwerk... 🎵"Fun, Fun, Fun mit der Focusrite" 🎵 Ausgezeichnete Bewertung!
who uses headphones below 150Ohm on a pro interface? lol...Never do that... Glad to hear it distorts n cheap headphones...tells me its made for pro gear! Locks out the beginners...hahaha...Just kidding! LOw impedance headphones, the hallmark of newbs..jk. again...Maybe not.
Great review! You do the most complete reviews of anyone on the web.Thanks...
The video is great, between the Clarett 2 pre and the motu m2, which do you think would be more worthwhile? I record voes of rap, reggaeton, pop, salsa and sometimes acoustic guitars
Please do a review of the Black Lion Revolution 2x2 when you can get your hands on one!
Ahh he hated on it....I love the interface but julian trashed it....don't understand
Anyone ever compare this to SSL2 by solid state logic ?
He has a review of the SSL2+, so you can compare the results yourself. Spoiler: the Clarett wins.
@@Zarabozo I have the scarlet solo . And isn’t as good as the SSL . Granted it’s over $100 less
@@jclbuxfan Yes, the Scarlett is on the same line as the SSL2 and the SSL2 may have better aspects. But this is the Clarett, which is almost double in price than the Scarlett for good reasons. The preamps in the Clarett units are of much higher quality than the Scarlett counterparts, with about 80% more dynamic range and with higher quality AD/DA converters. For models like the Clarett 8preX, some even say that the quality in preamps and converters are on par with the RED line of Focusrite, which is VERY expensive.
@@Zarabozo How good is its headphone output? I just returned to Amazon an Apollo Solo it was the worst interface I have ever tested. My next test will be the Clarett, but I am so tired of buying, testing, returning, waiting for the refund, etc.
I have still a Scarlett 2i2 FIRST GEN and sounds way better than the Apollo Solo. Thanks.
@@lastcall9998 I don't think the Clarett will disappoint you. I haven't tested this Clarett specifically, but the 8preX has very good and powerful headphone outputs, and I'm guessing it is the same for all the Clarett models.
Please make video about apollo solo from Universal audio
Holy shit. This was an incredibly detailed review. I'm genuinely in awe. Thanks so much!
I just found your reviews and they are definitely the best reviews I have ever found, precise, detailed and really helpful. Congratulations with your channel, new sub here 😄👏👏
Great analysis. I'd be very interested to see what you think of the Arturia AudioFuse line, especially the AudioFuse Studio.
Please test the Yamaha AG03.
Happened upon your channel in the usual way... Searching for a review. I enjoy the direct, fact driven reviews.
The Focusrite Scarlet 2i2 3rd gen was the first audio interface I had that would send spikes to my monitors when my turning my computer on/off. Never had that problem with other interfaces, including some cheaper ones. Their support said this is how it's designed and their more expensive interfaces don't have that problem. Maybe this Clarett is one of those more expensive interfaces, but the company lost my business for not having a simple protection for the equipment that plugs into their products.
So, this may be a great interface but beware, and check to make sure it doesn't have that same issue while you can still return it. Especially if you have good monitors
Great review! I have Clarett 2Pre Thunderbolt which is mostly identical but even better in terms of latency (3-4 times better).
In regard to headphones output, which I don't use that often, I noticed one anomaly where output would be very muddy (sonic-wise).
After a factory reset it would get back to normal quality. Have you tried to Focusrite Control > File > Restore Factory Defaults and then test it?
Hi Julian, really loved your detailed review!!! Are you planning to do a review for the newly released Audient iD14 MK2?
I am always glad to watch your honest scientific reviews. It is clear you have been putting lots of efforts into them, thanx for that! I think this is the best audio interface I can indulge in. Two questions: Based upon your vid this certain audio interface works better with high impedance headphones. What impedance headphones should I buy for best performances? / Though the device has Mic/Line combo inputs, I have been advised to use mic level with a DI before the input it for better sounds when I play with either an acoustic electric or an electric guitar. I really am interested in your opinion! Please, thanx very much!
It would be interesting to see what the test results are for the upgraded Clarett+ model
Can you review the "Antelope zen go synergy core" audio interface?
Do you have any plans on reviewing the Zoom UAC-2? I'm interested to see its output impedance compared to other models you've reviewed.
Thank you for your job!!! Waiting for test RODE-AI- 1.Very inreresting to know little bit more details about it.
I am curious about that one as well, it comes in a bundle with their nt1 microphone doesn't it?
@@MrNickdino Yes. But you can buy it as single device.
Can anyone tell me what the latency difference is between the Clarett 2pre usb 3rd and a Clarett thunderbolt?? I know that thunderbolt is capable of being much faster then usb but are they equal as far as latency goes?? Im trying to decide if I would be ok just using Clarett usb 2.0/3.1 because I dont have thunderbolt on my PC. I would like to have no more then 2 milliseconds of latency which is similar to what you would get from like a Apollo thunderbolt interface. Or will I have to have thunderbolt to get latency that low?
Hey there Julian!
That was an excellent review of the Focusrite, audio gizmos. With that super special Air button. That since you showed the frequency response plot of. Now I know. I don't think I shall be getting myself a Focusrite. Because that looks like bullshit to me. And I certainly didn't appreciate the way it sounded. Was that supposed to sound better? Really? Not for me.
So at least you helped me to eliminate,, something, that which, I was considering.
It was also interesting to note. It follows the, 2 stage, Neve microphone preamp concept. As no pad switch is available to engage. Since you really can't overload an, only, 20 DB gain preamp. From the following additional gain boost section. Which isn't offering up that much more. Then an additional 20-40 DB.
And therefore that all important first stage preamp. Never changes its, character, texture. By changing the negative feedback loop. As one does. In a classic, single stage, microphone preamp design. That will then require a pad switch. And I like those much better! Because you get a change of the texture as you change the gain. It's magical. When you understand what it's doing and how. Sometimes it almost sounds like you have, inserted. An equalizer and a limiter. And you have inserted, nothing. Other than a smile.
So what you really want. It is a computer audio interface device. That can accommodate line level inputs of up to, +24 dbM up through +32 dbM. Before they start clipping at the inputs! And you're just not going to find any. They all clip out at +20 or so. Though there are those that won't. When you can patch right into the, analog to digital encoder chip. And bypass all of their other bullshit input electronics.
Then you can plug something good into it like a real Neve or API couple of gizmos. And not be clipping everything out. Which is all I keep hearing today. You don't know it's clipping out. Because it's clipping at the inputs. And the clips are all rolled off at the outputs. So they don't look like clips. But I know what I'm listening to.
Hey so I got this Metric Halo gizmo for a gift. A very nice gift. But I don't do Macintosh. But in a call to Metric Halo. They told me to do just that if I was going to be plugging in my Neve console. Yes a whole one. A big one. A better one than, Sound City. Because Rupert Neve told me so. Years ago when I got mine in 1996. And clipping at the inputs of all of these digital converters, seems to me to be, de rigueur. Without most of you dummies realizing it. Because you got the good stuff! And you're not looking any red lights. Right. You're not. They don't show you the clips. At the inputs. It's tragically laughable.
I've not only serviced this stuff for over 50 years. I've designed and built this stuff. For some of the most legendary manufacturers. And my own designs and builds. It's up there with the very best. Because it had to be. You can't deliver anything less than your best. And you know who you have to best.
And so the only way to get good with this. Is to just do it. You just do it. You learn by doing. You need to make your own mistakes. You need to learn from your mistakes. You can be a monkey and just watch UA-cam videos. Or you can just teach yourself.
The very best like me. We taught ourselves. And I am the very best.
RemyRAD
Great video, What interface do you actually use for your own use?
Hi! Can the Clarett take 250ohms Beyerdynamics DT770 headphones? Or do you think its better to go with 80ohms? Thanks!
Very good review as usual. May be I missed it, but you don't mention on which system you tried the driver : Windows, Apple or Linux ? I wish there were Linux drivers available from Focusrite...
Hey, I used the Clarett with my Win10 machine.
@@JulianKrause Thanks for your reply. It seems many owners report drivers problems. Did you experience any ?
Clarett vs. Clarett + is confusing. Also, you didn’t say anything about the Controller software. I cannot tell how you would use that with a DAW like Studio One. Big barrier to the purchase decision.
Hi Julian. Could you tell me what woud be the best USB interface as far as final recording into wave file is concerned. Im using Steinberg UR22 mk2 right now. Thank you!!
There is a minor voiceover error at 3:15. The A2D converter model number is AK4413EQ (not AK5513EQ). Just a heads-up.
Julian I like your reviews but you have never mention something very important, specially for Windows user and Focusrite owners.
Their software is horrible and not stable at all. Its like they dont care for Windows users but only for Mac.
I know that there is not issues to all windows users and this says it all.
Hi great, great video!! I'm about to purchase the Clarett+ 4Pre. My current headphones are Yamaha HPH-MT5s with a listed impedance of 51 ohms. Are these considered high impedance? What ohm rating starts being considered high impedance? Thank you so much sir 👍
***Edit - i just watched your video on the Clarett+ and it seems the headphone impedance issue has been corrected. Thank you...
This guy is Arnold Schwarzenegger’s son
Get to ze chopper!!
Hello Julian, great Job (phumbs up!) But could you add the category Software Quality. In some recessions i read that the clarett is buggy and sometimes the machine have to reboot often. Did you have experiences about the software ?
great review! how do you measure latency? I have a Scarlett (gen 2) and Cubase says that with 128 buffer size and 48 khz the latency is 8 ms, much lower than your 12 ms, I guess something is not right.
JK which audio interface with usb C and midi inputs do you recommend for SM7B? Which fetHead do you recommend or none needed? Also which type of XLR cables are better for the sound that don't pick up so much of low end noises? Thank you very much for your help have a great day!
Interesting. I have the 8 input version of this. So overall it looks pretty solid. I'm considering some headphones with a 32ohm and others with 14ohm impedance. Looks like I'll have to invest in an external headphone amp for these.
I’d love to see a test like this one with the powered Scarlett versions like the 18i20 2nd gen and 3rd gen.
If youre in the market for one of these claretts, i made the jump to an 8pre usb from a 2nd gen 18i20, so much more stable between my octopre and ox top box, the bundled software is a must as well. Id recommend it for sure!
Running windows 10 & Reaper for context
Anyone experienced bad software behavior with it? Because atm it seems to be an issue with the clarett and scarlett series? My 1st gen Scarlett died after 12 years, so I have to suffer through a lot of research pain to find working "gain" ;D
Great reviews!!! I'd love to see a review of the UAD Twin Duo.
Julian thank you for your detailed reviews! could you please do some about apogee and or UAD apolo, Audient's evo series?
So clearly there is an issue with the Focusrite mic input levels. Having struggled with the Scarlett, I’m a little disappointed to find that the same issue exists on the Clarett.
If we sent you a Zoom LiveTrak L-12 for a week, would you make a video like this about it, measuring audio performance? It has 8 mic preamps and multiple headphone outputs
Great review! it's a bummer I don't currently have the money to buy a Clarett. I'd love a review of the Audient id14 mkII and IK Multimedia AXE I/O at some point in the near future.
I need a new interface mainly for recording guitar and bass. I was already considering the AXE I/O and the Motu M2 when the id14 mkII came out and it's expandability is very enticing.
From what I've read so far the id14 seems to be an exceptionally capable interface in general and it is made by a well respected brand, so I feel like alot of people would benefit from a review.
Thanks :D
I am currently deciding between the clarett 2 pre and the Audient id14 mk2 and I think a review by Julian would help a lot in deciding between the two.
Atm the clarett seems to be a little more convenient with the option to power it even without a usbc capable computer and it also having a dedicated power switch. If the aufient outshines it performance wise I’d go for the id14 though
@@TheHypeCom that's a difficult one. Tbh I was also thinking about upgrading to the id14 mk2 when it came out, because it seems to be superior to most other interfaces by a long shot (especially if adat is of any importance to you. The Clarett does have adat too, but it's quite a bit more expensive where I live). I do have usb C, making it even more appealing.
Another important point for you might be availability. At least where I live the mk2 was sold out in little under a day and will likely be unavailable for another 1-2 months.
good luck finding the right interface :D
Which audio interface can you recommend for up to 350 dollars for home studio ?
Dynamic range and low noise are important.
This is what I like to see. A proper gear review.
Arturia AudioFuse Rev2 is a very interesting USB Interface with lots of options - I might buy this one soon
Nice thorough video. It's interesting that these latest versions are moving to a USB-C connector, and I would like to see a test of ones like this that state they can run off USB power, to confirm that the specs are the same, especially if you test something with 4 mic pres that should all work with a 15W USB-C (3.1) host. (I note that Focusrite's manual is completely silent on which version of USB the device operates at, so we can assume it's USB 2.0. It seems a little disingenuous to omit that part of the spec, while touting the ability to run from USB-C 15W hosts on the webpage.)
Quick question
Which one would u say is better
Motu m2 or m audio air 192|4?
this is legit one of the best product review videos ive ever seen. the amount of depth you went into and the clarity with which you explained everything was extremely impressive. definitely earned a new subscriber! :)
Looks like a great interface .. can it power 600 Ohm headphones?
Hello new subscriber here ... do you have a video about low and high impedance microphones?
i have got problem with Scarlett 2i2. when I turn off headphone sound to minimum i hear sound anyway. do you have same problem?
This is *almost* what I am looking for! Which is: xlr mic input near 60 db gain, enough to eventually upgrade to sm7b without a cloudlifter. A high powered headphone amp, that'll let me push high and low impedance stuff like he400i which needs 64mW to reach 110dB at 35 ohms or the t60rp which need like 3000mW balanced at 50 ohms. The focusrite clarett is getting close with its 12v wall adapter pulling power, but only on high impedance headphones. Another close one is the ADI-2 Pro FS R, a bit too expensive for me though. Should I just stick with the motu m4 and give up on the all in one idea and get a thx789 or a90 to go with it?
I doubt there are any (low priced) this kind of a multipurpose device with a headphone amp that can deliver 3W to 50 Ohm. Most stand alone headphone amps are not capable of that.
💡Many of my friends who need 2W or more for their headphones use their existing high end amps (for speakers) with impedance adapter (to present lower and more stable load as well as possibly drop the level).
03:18 it's 44 instead of 55 :)
Which you think sounds better clarett 2pre vs audient id24
What is better ? This or audient evo 4?
I Will be using it with analogue synths & occasional guitar inputs
@juliankraus, Clerett2pre or Antelope Zen Go Synergy?
Awsome vid.., I have this model and I love its performance.
Still, cause of the low gain, I was thinking to get another one, soooo I will ask you a favor, when you can, review the Arturia AudiFuse, it is not that much of difference in pricepoint to the Clarett 2pre.., I just want to make sure that it will be worth it to buy or if I will get more or less the same.
Keep up the good work.
I have the same problème of low sound gain.
Focusrite is busted. Many users have out-of-sync issue that is not software driven.
Thank you so much for this! Now I know it was a good investment to get this interface.
This pretty pricey considering you could spend a little more and get the clarett octo pre and hook that up to another interface !
Review the Apollo Twin audio interface. Plszzz
Hi there, thanks for a great review
Do you know how this works with the M1 chip on the iMac??
Excellent review. Love the depth and breadth of this very scientific evaluation!
Great review as always. Have to say this is the best I've heard the SM7b - it usually sounds a bit flat and dull. Here, even with the 'Air Mode' off it sounds clearer than I have heard it before.
How would you say the Clarett compares to the Motu Mk5 ultra lite?
Pls do a review for Apogee Duet..thanks before
Would be really interested to see a column added to your Headphone table for an equal power THD+N comparison, for instance, what is the THD+N of all of these devices when delivering 15mW into a 32ohm load.
Hey, this collumn already exists. I test the THD+N for 32 Ohm at 300 mV and 300 Ohm at 920 mV. Both times this is about 2.8 mW.
Excellent! Thank you for this test I desired to get and the better device testing. Great!
What kind of headphones did you say you needed for the clarett?
Definitely the best audio equipment reviews around, the careful detail in the headphone output is VERY welcome! I'm so tired of people asking if an interface can drive higher impedance headphones and the reply is "sure", when we know it's not always the case. Thank you. :)
yeah, the power on these headphone amps is insane! Especially the new Clarett ++.
4pre user for a couple of years here. Based on practical experience I can completely verify the result of your video. This unit is face melting, except for the headphone amps. I had no idea that high impedance headphones produce no issues with it so thanks for the hint mate. Your channel and in general your mission in this channel is absolutely golden!
Great video, can you do the Audient ID44 next ?
Im new at this, retired never late to learn new things thanks...
Is the clarett + better? I think I prefer the original Clarett
Does it make the speakers pop when computer turn on and off?
Your expertise is very appreciated. Thank you.
can we expect a Clarett+ 2Pre review soon? :-)
Oof, I'd use an external headphone amp with this. Stunning performance otherwise!
no need. The new Clarett ++, especially, matches many external HP amps. Power is pretty insane. Of course, not on hobby HP below 80Ohms, but who uses that in pro audio.
@@massivebeatzz 2 caveats here- you're talking about a different device (this is not about brand loyalty) and under the assumption that people will be using headphones or IEMs that are unaffected by its high output impedance. Also, simple numerical power specifications is one thing but its consistency with regards to frequency and impedance and also distortion etcetera have to be considered
@@massivebeatzz Plus, what's with the ignorant double assumption that this device is only going to be used for pro audio purposes, and that if this were the case, audio pros will not be using lower impedance drivers?
Thank you for reviewing my baby.
Great objective review, thanks
I'm so glad i found this channel before I bought my first audio interface (NI Komplete Audio) last year! Can't stress it enough how good the content is!
Can you do a full review of the rode Ai-1 ?
Does it have the same converters with Scarlett?
Great video, thanks for the info! Based on recording samples I have heard Clarett has really good transient performance and clean highs (great for drums etc.).
A few questions if anyone has answers and some info. Are the knobs aluminum like older models from Focusrite? I really liked my old 8i6 1ist gen and it lasted for over a decade before a hardware failure finally occurred. But I also now have 250ohm headphones and only the Clarett models or RED Thunderbolt from Focusrite are capable of powering greater than 200ohm headphones(to full power). I had to crank headphone volume to max on my 8i6 which only does up to 200ohm technically. 2i2 solos and all the 'i' serious are the same.
The reviewer says only the back is plastic, but it looks like only the front is aluminum and the rest is all plastic. In other words, the top, sides, and back are plastic, yes?
Does anyone know how to make use of the USB-C so I don't have to use a power supply? I understand USB-C would need 15watts in order to not need power supply. Can I buy a expansion card for older motherboard? I have Gigabyte GA-Z77-D3H rev 1.1, if that is helpful info.
Overall great review!
Still hoping to see a UA review :-)
Welches Interface würdest du mir empfehlen ?ich recorde ausschließlich über 1 Mikrofon rode nt1a meinen Gesang. Ps Preis darf bis 300€ sein
Motu M2 ;) Einziger Nachteil: es hat keinen Regler mit dem du den Input und DAW Mix einstellen kannst. Das NI KA1 kann sowas, das wäre auch noch eine gute Option.
Guten tag, Julian. Very informative videos. Theoretically (haha), would you think the AIR mode (higher mic impedance) would be "better" to use with a Royer 121? Royer reecomends 1.5k or higher for the 121. Thanks. I value your opinion. (I record trumpets, mainly, so levels aren't a problem but I still use Royer DB boosters on my two 121s.) Tchuss.
Can you do the Motu 828 mk2 please