Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $750

High-end/Boutique

$150

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Focusrite 18i20 Gen 2 is a powerhouse for any studio, providing the connectivity and performance needed for professional-grade recordings. As part of the Scarlett series, this versatile audio interface is designed to handle everything from intricate home projects to larger studio sessions. With eight natural-sounding Scarlett mic preamps, it delivers pristine audio quality with low noise and high headroom. The 18i20 is equipped with ADAT expansion capabilities, allowing you to add up to eight additional channels of mic preamps or line inputs. Perfect for musicians and producers who need flexibility, it caters to both digital and analog workflows seamlessly. The intuitive Scarlett MixControl software offers a comprehensive routing and monitoring experience, ensuring you have complete control over your recording environment.

The 18i20 Gen 2 features a sleek design with a user-friendly interface that includes dedicated controls for line and instrument inputs. The front-panel metering provides a clear visual of your levels, while the built-in talkback function lets you communicate effortlessly with artists in the recording booth. A perfect blend of innovation and reliability, this audio interface stands as a cornerstone for any recording setup.

Key Features:

  • Eight Scarlett mic preamps with low noise and high headroom
  • 24-bit/192kHz conversion for high-resolution audio
  • Two high-headroom instrument inputs for guitar or bass
  • ADAT expansion ports for additional channels
  • MIDI I/O for connecting keyboards and controllers
  • Comprehensive software suite included
  • Dual headphone outputs with separate level controls
  • Built-in talkback function for easy communication
Mike Rokken

Mike Rokken

Best Audio Interface Under $500? Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 2nd Gen Review

Video thumbnail for Best Audio Interface Under $500? Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 2nd Gen Review by Mike Rokken

Best Audio Interface Under $500? Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 2nd Gen Review

Mike Rokken

Mike Rokken

Video thumbnail for FOCUSRITE 18i20👉 2nd gen 👈 For Savvy USERS  🎧 by zeb bach

FOCUSRITE 18i20👉 2nd gen 👈 For Savvy USERS 🎧

zeb bach

zeb bach

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent preamps for high-quality sound recording

  • Ideal for home studios, especially for drum tracking

  • Supports up to 8 channels for diverse recording needs

  • Durable and robust build for mobile or practice space use

  • Compatible with all major DAWs, including Ableton and Logic Pro X

  • Long-term compatibility with standard USB connection

  • High-quality signal processing for stunning recordings

  • Great for recording separate mics for podcasts and multi-track projects

  • Tech support is responsive and proactive

CONS

  • Focusrite Control software is essential for configuration

  • Headphone amp and main playback quality could be improved

  • Potential latency issues with slower computers

  • May require modern USB controllers for reliable operation with older hardware

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Focusrite 18i20 Gen 2.

Software and compatibility

  • The Scarlett 2nd Gen uses the same Focusrite Control software and ASIO driver as the 3rd Gen, ensuring compatibility across different models.

    Source
  • Windows users have reported occasional driver issues, particularly with Discord, which may cause crackling unless adjusted for specific settings.

    Source
  • Multiple users indicate that using ASIO4ALL instead of Focusrite's ASIO drivers can result in lower latency, particularly in Ableton.

    Source
  • Some users experience USB disconnection issues on Windows, causing system crashes, though a beta driver may offer improved stability.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Scarlett 18i20 Gen 2 can be used as extra preamps in standalone mode, providing flexibility beyond its primary use as an interface.

    Source
  • The 18i20 Gen 2 can maintain low latency (<10ms) even when running heavy VST loads alongside Elektron Overbridge on older systems.

    Source
  • The 3rd gen offers dual ADAT mode in Focusrite Control, a setting unavailable in the 2nd gen, affecting how interfaces can be configured together.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report excellent durability and performance of the Scarlett 18i20 Gen 2 over nearly a decade of use, with no issues noted.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate its integration ease with outboard gear, noting seamless operation in various DAWs like FL, Ableton, and Pro Tools.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A user acquired the Scarlett 18i20 Gen 2 for $100 and reports it functions excellently, highlighting its potential as a budget-friendly option.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Users frequently connect the 18i20 Gen 2 to other gear via ADAT, effectively expanding its preamp capabilities without driver concerns.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Proper ADAT setup requires the 2nd gen as slave with matching sample rates; ensure optical connections are correct and USB isn't connected to the slave.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Focusrite Scarlett Second-Generation Review | Performer Mag

performermag.com

The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 Gen 2 is a powerhouse audio interface that excels in sound quality and user-friendliness, making it a top choice for home recording setups. With eight TRS/XLR inputs, intuitive control software, and robust phantom power management, it truly delivers on versatility. However, while it offers a fantastic array of features for its price point, some users may find the lack of external power options limiting. Overall, it's an impressive value that will satisfy both novices and experienced musicians alike.

positive

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Nili Brosh uses Focusrite 18i20 Gen 2

Nili Brosh

Guitarist, Music Producer

Dethklok

...
Verified via Instagram

In an Instagram post, Nili Brosh is shown using a Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 2nd Gen audio interface, as part of her home studio setup during quarantine.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Focusrite 18i20 Gen 2, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Ibanez Genesis Collection RG550
Ibanez Genesis Collection RG550 Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
HeadRush Pedalboard
HeadRush Pedalboard Multi Effects Pedals
1

More Focusrite Audio Interfaces

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides