Auto gain, continuously rotating pots, and the halo level indicator are all wizbang stuff that makes me not want to purchase this interface. I have no problem correctly setting my levels. I want to do this myself and know for sure what the gain is set to rather than wondering what the hell the Scarlett has chosen and assuming it can replicate from one session to the next which is fairly doubtful. I just like things manual and in my control rather than automatic. While the XLR's on the back is better to keep cables out of the way the lack of a balance control for direct monitoring is a fail. Cool product for some people I suppose but if the things I mentioned seem like they might be annoying then look elsewhere as there are lots of quality interfaces around with good clear level metering, old school gain controls, and proper direct monitoring with a balance control.
Having the XLRs on the back feels like an odd decision here. Certainly a nagative for me. I can undertsand having XLR inputs on the back of large desk where you might be leaving things plugged in and set up to different dedicated inputs; but this size of AU for me is something I just want to quickly throw a cable into and get recording.
I think most little interfaces have XLR on back; Pro Tools M-Audio interfaces certainly do; the UAD Apollo faces have all inputs on back. The advantage to me is you don't have to swap out guitar for mics; just leave XLR mic(s) always plugged in the back; I have one SM-58 and one Blue always plugged into back - no cables in front. I use Front/Back button to choose mic(back) or guitar(front) on the M-Box. Always use 48v phantom even if mic doesn't need it - more is better! -Keys would go thru USB and bypass interface altogether. Your mileage may vary 👀
To me the problem with the 4th is the knob: it shows the meter, so you don't know where the gain is set at; and when you change the gain, you don't see the meter, so... beautiful to look at, but annoying to use. And no, the Auto Gain doesn't replace manual adjusts. Actually, this 4th is making me buy a MOTU M2 to replace my old Scarlett.
The GarageBand Guide: This Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Generation can be used for Voice over? I would like to make a great commercial with my voice. Is this the correct equipment to make the commercial with my original voice?
I've never tried this before, but am looking for a new interface. My studio monitors have XLR inputs. Do the balanced outs work well with a converter to XLR or is it best just to find an interface with XLR outs?
@@TheGaragebandGuide Cool, thanks! As long as they're pretty "clean," it should be cool. Right now I'm using a Peavey USB box with XLR's to go from my Mac to my monitors. Want to minimize my devices.
I see it doesn't come with a mains USB-C supply. I take it a bog standard USB-C power supply (plugged into the wall) will suffice? I believe they deliver 5v as standard. Cheers!!
Nice to see these updates! Although the MIDI and USB-through will still keep me using my MiniFuse. But here’s hoping this convinces Arturia to add auto-level and better input meters to the next iteration of it.
I've been working with a Gen2 Focusrite 18i8 for a few years now, and while it's starting to slowly show it's age? It's Optical and SPDIF expandability are well valuable enough to keep it within my rig even well after I choose to slightly upgrade to something more modern and/or practically mobile on the go, and even with only 4 mic preamps? One can still get a fairly a decent drum track with merely a measuring tape and solid understanding of the Glyn Johns 4 mic Method. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ Ideally tho, expanding it with an affordable eight channel preamp strip would obviously fair better.
Both the Focusrite and my laptop only have USB C ports, but the Focusrite cable included with this interface is USB A to USB C. Would it be better to 1. Use my own USB C to USB C cable 2. Use the Focusrite cable connected to a docking station with a USB A port or 3. Use the Focusrite cable connected to the USB C on my laptop via a USB A to USB adapter?
The lack of a USB Hub like the MiniFuse is surprising giving the (iOS/Laptop?) market this is aimed at. A Gen4 review v the MiniFuse would interesting. I have the Gen3 and the MiniFuse2 and preference the MiniFuse.
I agree with you that the Minifuse is better than the gen 3 Scarlett. I think the extra features in the 4th gen Scarlett’s puts them ahead slightly, but a comparison video is a great idea!
This looks really good. I would be interested in seeing how you would set up loopback on a Mac (or iPad) with this, recording a USB mic and music from say Logic (Mac) or AUM (iPad) or both!
There are 2 Line inputs at the front, and 2 XLR inputs at the back, yet it remains a 2-channel device. If I plug in 4 devices simultaneously, where do I choose the 2 which are active?!
An excellent review, Patrick, thanks. Am thinking of upgrading from my Behringer UMD202HD, which has been ... pretty good. The 4th gen 2i2 seems like it might be worth it! (Oh, and you know that Captain Planet joke you always make? ... Ehhh, never mind.)
Should've kept the combo inputs on the front and added midi on the back. Why go through the effort of adding new inputs that don't give anything extra the previous generation had?
Wanted to get the 4th Gen but the 3rd one was on sale for 100$ less... now I'm wondering if I'm missing a big difference or not. I do podcast and vinyl recording anyway, so I guess it should be enough?
@TheGaragebandGuide thanks for the reply. I record mostly female vocals and never use the air function on the 3rd gen. If the sound difference between 3rd and 4th gen is not that much, I also do not see reason to upgrade.
The 5v USB is NOT an output to charge a device - it's an input in case you need extra power to the interface if your computer doesn't provide enough. Terrible info you're giving here. Very lazy demo.
Where do I say that the 5v USBC output is suitable for charging a device? I DO say that those using this interface with lightning based iPads and iPhones will love that they don’t need to introduce extra power via a USB hub or adapter. Were you aware that Lightning based iPads/iPhones don’t provide enough power to audio interfaces on their own?
In latest news... "Focusrite Scarlett 2i2" reaches #1 on Spotify. Great review, certainly interested as I don't have an interface yet. I mainly want to record guitar and bass with switching between instruments so the 2i2 would be better than the Solo, plus the Solo didn't get all the new features. With the advert like full mix demo, maybe I'll have to get one of these.
Before you buy an interface make sure you understand if it supports loopback recording. The 2i2 gen 3 did not and that caused me no end of contortions to setup on MacOS with blackhole.
Hello sir, can I connect my ipad to this just using the cable I received with an ipad (9th generation)? Or do I need power adapter to connect the both?
The specs for this 4th Gen says; Software compatibility USB-C iPad. Does that mean it will absolutely not work with an older Lightning iPad, or could it work if you add a C to Lightning adapter?
Hello, I have a small question for you. I'm going to buy myself a new studio headset and the brands that come to my mind are; Among AKG K-371, Beyerdynamic DT770 and Audio Technica M50X, I will prefer to buy AKG K-371 32 ohm. So, what would you recommend as a sound card? I will use these devices for Mixing-Mastering and for the Phonk/Trap music genre, including the Rode NT-1 microphone. × Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Gen 3 × Audient ID14 MKII × Steinberg UR22 MK2 × Rode Al-1 I'm currently undecided, can you help me?
Thanks, your video is what boosted my purchase. So I'm just waiting for the delivery. Very excited. btw, I have a stupid question with having both xlr inputs on the back side, assuming i need to record using just the first line input, am I right that i can keep the xlr (e.g. microphone) plugged in on the back side, but disable the second input by 'select' and use 'inst'. that means there's no signal will be captured for sure from the second input even if the mic cable is plugged in ?
My Scarlett 2i2 Gen 4 finally got delivered yesterday. I ordered it 2 months ago but it was lost in the mail and I forgot about it to be honest. I'm using it with my MV7 and I love it. Wish I could turn up the gain all the way without it clipping though. Might have to get the SM7b. idk.
I know nothing about audio interfaces. I would want to record with my pedals. Is this something you can connect them to for recording? If not, what would I need?
Are you able to Test if you can play backing tracks from your 'Samsung Phone' VIA the USB C port, I do this on my Solo Gen 3 and it works perfectly out through my monitors, I just dont want to buy this product and realize that Focusrite have changed something.
So if I understand correctly, when connecting to an iPad with Lightning port (9th gen) I would only need the Lightning to USB-C cable that comes with the iPad to connect the iPad to the Focusrite, then just use the 5VDC brick to power the interface, and that's it? No more need for a powered USB HUB and the Lightning to USB camera adapter, etc.?
@@JacopoGianfreda I’d say the Scarlett then. Better build quality, better pre amps and it has Auto gain, which I’d say is one of the main selling points of the evo 4. I still really like the evo 4, but if budget isn’t an issue, the Scarlett is definitely superior.
Hahaha love the song. I'm intrigued with this version and would love to know where it sits in terms of sound quality amongst its peers and also how it compares to the Clarett
Volt 476 or the new Focusrite? I don't know which one to choose. Universal Audio seems a bit more high-quality and has a nice built-in compressor, but the new Scarlett has a lot of great options as well.
Thanks for the very informative review, first class. As a Scarlett 2i2 Gen 3 owner / user my big question is Does the Gen 4 sound better than the Gen 3?
I’ve been completely upfront and honest about every single sponsored/paid promotion video on my channel. Why would I break UA-cam’s terms of service now? 🤔
That focusrite scarlet 2i2 song is so catchy, it stucks in my head now lmao
still no mute Button :/
Unfortunately not!
I really like my 3rd gen version and tho the new features are compelling I really like having XLRs up front
Yep, the 3rd gen models are still brilliant. I think the placement of the XLR ports is going to be a bigger deal than Focusrite thought…
Yeah the way I have things set up using the XLRs in back would be very inconvenient @@TheGaragebandGuide
and I hate it, its on my desk constantly, why would I want wires coming out of hte front....
@@Deceniumeasy fix, 3M velcro strips on the top of the interface and under mount on your desk, that’s how I have mines set up.
thanks for pointing that out, i was considering getting the 4th gen but having the xlr on the back is very inconvenient
So stoked for the xlrs on the back. Hate having them up front when managing cables.
Auto gain, continuously rotating pots, and the halo level indicator are all wizbang stuff that makes me not want to purchase this interface. I have no problem correctly setting my levels. I want to do this myself and know for sure what the gain is set to rather than wondering what the hell the Scarlett has chosen and assuming it can replicate from one session to the next which is fairly doubtful. I just like things manual and in my control rather than automatic. While the XLR's on the back is better to keep cables out of the way the lack of a balance control for direct monitoring is a fail. Cool product for some people I suppose but if the things I mentioned seem like they might be annoying then look elsewhere as there are lots of quality interfaces around with good clear level metering, old school gain controls, and proper direct monitoring with a balance control.
Having the XLRs on the back feels like an odd decision here. Certainly a nagative for me.
I can undertsand having XLR inputs on the back of large desk where you might be leaving things plugged in and set up to different dedicated inputs; but this size of AU for me is something I just want to quickly throw a cable into and get recording.
I think most little interfaces have XLR on back; Pro Tools M-Audio interfaces certainly do; the UAD Apollo faces have all inputs on back. The advantage to me is you don't have to swap out guitar for mics; just leave XLR mic(s) always plugged in the back; I have one SM-58 and one Blue always plugged into back - no cables in front. I use Front/Back button to choose mic(back) or guitar(front) on the M-Box. Always use 48v phantom even if mic doesn't need it - more is better! -Keys would go thru USB and bypass interface altogether. Your mileage may vary 👀
To me the problem with the 4th is the knob: it shows the meter, so you don't know where the gain is set at; and when you change the gain, you don't see the meter, so... beautiful to look at, but annoying to use. And no, the Auto Gain doesn't replace manual adjusts. Actually, this 4th is making me buy a MOTU M2 to replace my old Scarlett.
Regarding the XLR inputs on the back - can you control their gain with the front knobs?
Yes!
6:33 is that an iPhone 3GS???
It is! Doesn’t work anymore sadly.
The GarageBand Guide: This Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Generation can be used for Voice over? I would like to make a great commercial with my voice. Is this the correct equipment to make the commercial with my original voice?
I've never tried this before, but am looking for a new interface. My studio monitors have XLR inputs. Do the balanced outs work well with a converter to XLR or is it best just to find an interface with XLR outs?
Not sure about converters, but you can just grab some 1/4” to XLR speaker cables. That’s what I use with my Adam Audio T5Vs.
@@TheGaragebandGuide
Cool, thanks! As long as they're pretty "clean," it should be cool. Right now I'm using a Peavey USB box with XLR's to go from my Mac to my monitors. Want to minimize my devices.
This vs ua volt 276?
No SPDIF is a big MEH for me. I use my kemper in SPDIF and it sounds infinitely better. I'll keep my old Focusrite then .
FOCUSRİTEEEE SCAAARLETT TWOO I TWOO !! :d
I see it doesn't come with a mains USB-C supply. I take it a bog standard USB-C power supply (plugged into the wall) will suffice? I believe they deliver 5v as standard. Cheers!!
@@Skinhead-201 yep, 5v USB C charger will do the job 👍
@@TheGaragebandGuide Perfect min. Thanks for the info.
An interface review that doesn't discuss performance in terms of ASIO buffer sizes or round trip latency is no review at all.
Sorry you didn’t enjoy the video, but thanks for watching anyway.
Great video as always, thank you Patrick.
Nice to see these updates! Although the MIDI and USB-through will still keep me using my MiniFuse. But here’s hoping this convinces Arturia to add auto-level and better input meters to the next iteration of it.
I've been working with a Gen2 Focusrite 18i8 for a few years now, and while it's starting to slowly show it's age? It's Optical and SPDIF expandability are well valuable enough to keep it within my rig even well after I choose to slightly upgrade to something more modern and/or practically mobile on the go, and even with only 4 mic preamps? One can still get a fairly a decent drum track with merely a measuring tape and solid understanding of the Glyn Johns 4 mic Method.
¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Ideally tho, expanding it with an affordable eight channel preamp strip would obviously fair better.
Both the Focusrite and my laptop only have USB C ports, but the Focusrite cable included with this interface is USB A to USB C. Would it be better to 1. Use my own USB C to USB C cable 2. Use the Focusrite cable connected to a docking station with a USB A port or 3. Use the Focusrite cable connected to the USB C on my laptop via a USB A to USB adapter?
The lack of a USB Hub like the MiniFuse is surprising giving the (iOS/Laptop?) market this is aimed at. A Gen4 review v the MiniFuse would interesting. I have the Gen3 and the MiniFuse2 and preference the MiniFuse.
I agree with you that the Minifuse is better than the gen 3 Scarlett. I think the extra features in the 4th gen Scarlett’s puts them ahead slightly, but a comparison video is a great idea!
Hello, let me ask you a little about sound cars
Does focusrite scarlett 2i2 gen 4 work fine on FL Studio Producer? Thank you
Scarlett 2i2 4th gen or UA Volt 276, which is more beginner friendly for vocals and guitar?
This looks really good. I would be interested in seeing how you would set up loopback on a Mac (or iPad) with this, recording a USB mic and music from say Logic (Mac) or AUM (iPad) or both!
There are 2 Line inputs at the front, and 2 XLR inputs at the back, yet it remains a 2-channel device. If I plug in 4 devices simultaneously, where do I choose the 2 which are active?!
An excellent review, Patrick, thanks. Am thinking of upgrading from my Behringer UMD202HD, which has been ... pretty good. The 4th gen 2i2 seems like it might be worth it! (Oh, and you know that Captain Planet joke you always make? ... Ehhh, never mind.)
Why do you want to upgrade eventhough it has been pretty good?
Should've kept the combo inputs on the front and added midi on the back.
Why go through the effort of adding new inputs that don't give anything extra the previous generation had?
The problem with this is the power demands it creates. Had to replace my laptop (dedicated to Ableton).
i just got 3rd gen lol
Cool 💯 I Like It 🎼
You should start a focusrite 2i2 tribute band 😂😂😂
Wanted to get the 4th Gen but the 3rd one was on sale for 100$ less... now I'm wondering if I'm missing a big difference or not. I do podcast and vinyl recording anyway, so I guess it should be enough?
You’ve definitely got a good deal there! You’re not missing out on much if anything that’ll be useful for what you plan to use it for.
Do you think it is wotmrth it to upgrade from the 3rd gen to the 4th gen? Is the difference worth ot?
I don’t think so honestly, unless you’re moving up from a Solo to a 2i2 or 2i4.
@TheGaragebandGuide thanks for the reply. I record mostly female vocals and never use the air function on the 3rd gen. If the sound difference between 3rd and 4th gen is not that much, I also do not see reason to upgrade.
Do you get to keep the focusrite? If so, it’s sponsored
Nope. Focusrite had no editorial control over the content of this video.
The 5v USB is NOT an output to charge a device - it's an input in case you need extra power to the interface if your computer doesn't provide enough. Terrible info you're giving here. Very lazy demo.
Where do I say that the 5v USBC output is suitable for charging a device?
I DO say that those using this interface with lightning based iPads and iPhones will love that they don’t need to introduce extra power via a USB hub or adapter.
Were you aware that Lightning based iPads/iPhones don’t provide enough power to audio interfaces on their own?
Does the 2i2 have the same preamps as the 4i4?
In latest news... "Focusrite Scarlett 2i2" reaches #1 on Spotify.
Great review, certainly interested as I don't have an interface yet. I mainly want to record guitar and bass with switching between instruments so the 2i2 would be better than the Solo, plus the Solo didn't get all the new features.
With the advert like full mix demo, maybe I'll have to get one of these.
Before you buy an interface make sure you understand if it supports loopback recording. The 2i2 gen 3 did not and that caused me no end of contortions to setup on MacOS with blackhole.
As I mention in the video, this model does feature Loopback.
“The Solo didn’t get all the new features”
I don't see why it would. It’s still a great budget interface for singers.
Love the 2i2 tune haha
Cheers! Always great fun doing those!
Hello sir, can I connect my ipad to this just using the cable I received with an ipad (9th generation)? Or do I need power adapter to connect the both?
I have a dt 770 pro 250 ohm headphone and it has enough power to drive it well?
No, the headphone out is only 50ohms.
The specs for this 4th Gen says; Software compatibility USB-C iPad. Does that mean it will absolutely not work with an older Lightning iPad, or could it work if you add a C to Lightning adapter?
Hello, I have a small question for you. I'm going to buy myself a new studio headset and the brands that come to my mind are; Among AKG K-371, Beyerdynamic DT770 and Audio Technica M50X, I will prefer to buy AKG K-371 32 ohm.
So, what would you recommend as a sound card? I will use these devices for Mixing-Mastering and for the Phonk/Trap music genre, including the Rode NT-1 microphone.
× Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Gen 3
× Audient ID14 MKII
× Steinberg UR22 MK2
× Rode Al-1
I'm currently undecided, can you help me?
Excellent review.
Nice review, but why doesn't it have MIDI?
The 4i4 model has Midi connections on the back.
Lalalaala Laaa, Yeeeeeeah
Thanks, your video is what boosted my purchase. So I'm just waiting for the delivery. Very excited.
btw, I have a stupid question with having both xlr inputs on the back side, assuming i need to record using just the first line input, am I right that i can keep the xlr (e.g. microphone) plugged in on the back side, but disable the second input by 'select' and use 'inst'. that means there's no signal will be captured for sure from the second input even if the mic cable is plugged in ?
My Scarlett 2i2 Gen 4 finally got delivered yesterday. I ordered it 2 months ago but it was lost in the mail and I forgot about it to be honest. I'm using it with my MV7 and I love it. Wish I could turn up the gain all the way without it clipping though. Might have to get the SM7b. idk.
Captain Planet 4 life!
Hallo!
Arturia minifuse 4 or Focusrite 4i4 4 grd? I would record music on a Yamaha genos through Logic.
Thx
I know nothing about audio interfaces. I would want to record with my pedals. Is this something you can connect them to for recording? If not, what would I need?
I still dont get what loopback does......if you stream a game, you have the game audio and your mic audio...so what does loopback bring to the table?
Is this thing good for streaming? Would you recommend it?
Is the 4i4 scarlet generation 4 version compatible with a Mac Pro computer?
Hi
What's your view about comparison between older Clarett + 2PRE and new Scarlett 212 4th gen ?
Is there any reason to prefer the Clarett ?
I just bought the gen 4. I haven’t tried it out yet though because it’s cold from being delivered. I’m excited to try it out though! Great video :)
Sang "focusrite Scarlett 2i2" all the way to the music store. Thanks!
I just can’t do it captain, I doon’t have the power
Showing your age by posting this and not a Shrek or Groundskeeper Willie quote.
Are you able to Test if you can play backing tracks from your 'Samsung Phone' VIA the USB C port, I do this on my Solo Gen 3 and it works perfectly out through my monitors, I just dont want to buy this product and realize that Focusrite have changed something.
Don’t have a Samsung phone to test, sorry.
Instant follow after the tune!
What a banger!
🤘🤘
Would you recommend buying this or the audient evo 4?
Hmmm I have a Vocaster one. I'm curious about this one.
for home studio arturia minifuse 4 or scarlett 2i2 4th?
So if I understand correctly, when connecting to an iPad with Lightning port (9th gen) I would only need the Lightning to USB-C cable that comes with the iPad to connect the iPad to the Focusrite, then just use the 5VDC brick to power the interface, and that's it? No more need for a powered USB HUB and the Lightning to USB camera adapter, etc.?
@TheGarageBandGuide please answer this question, I’m wondering the same thing.
Is this better than presonus 68c
Can one of these be used as a stereo ADC, channel 1 for L and 2 for R?
The best 2i2-Gen4th review! Cheers!
ios users get nothing. Lovely.
air mode had alot of noise introduced. not good
This or evo 4?
Thank you!
Different price points (The Scarlett costs double) so don’t think it’s really a fair comparison honestly.
@@TheGaragebandGuide I meant as quality, which do you recommend? I have the budget for both. If the scarlett is better then I take the scarlett 4th
@@JacopoGianfreda I’d say the Scarlett then. Better build quality, better pre amps and it has Auto gain, which I’d say is one of the main selling points of the evo 4.
I still really like the evo 4, but if budget isn’t an issue, the Scarlett is definitely superior.
Hahaha love the song. I'm intrigued with this version and would love to know where it sits in terms of sound quality amongst its peers and also how it compares to the Clarett
The Clarett range is definitely still superior.
Fookusrite
Thanks so much for your insightful and useful comment Locked Roulette. 🙄🤡
We need a 8 channel version of this 0:12
I love the separate headset volume knob. FINALLY!!!!
I’ve been looking for a new audio interface, and this came along at the perfect time. Thank you!
Great video, thank you for taking the time to explain the features!
Awesome review, I love your energy and style! Cheers, mate!
Will it charge a new USB-C iPad that’s plugged into it?
No - it’s only a 5v power input.
Volt 476 or the new Focusrite? I don't know which one to choose. Universal Audio seems a bit more high-quality and has a nice built-in compressor, but the new Scarlett has a lot of great options as well.
Great review! I learned so much and I am now desiring one.
Thanks for the very informative review, first class. As a Scarlett 2i2 Gen 3 owner / user my big question is Does the Gen 4 sound better than the Gen 3?
Just diving in to recording and ordered the 2i2 tonight. Should be here this coming week. Thanks for the informative video.
they are just so boring.
My thoughts are that this is a paid promotion that you're not transparent about!
I’ve been completely upfront and honest about every single sponsored/paid promotion video on my channel. Why would I break UA-cam’s terms of service now? 🤔