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Average Price: $191
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Description
Perfect for home studios and on-the-go musicians, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i6 USB Audio Interface packs a punch with its impressive channel count and compact design. Whether you're a budding producer or an experienced engineer, this interface offers the versatility you need for any recording situation. With its 18 inputs and 6 outputs, you can effortlessly connect microphones, instruments, and other audio sources, making it an ideal hub for your creative projects.
On the front panel, two renowned Focusrite mic/instrument preamps await your voice or guitar, while the back panel is equipped with additional line inputs, ADAT, and S/PDIF options. This robust setup ensures you never run out of connectivity options, even as your studio grows. The included MixControl software provides unparalleled routing flexibility, allowing you to create custom mixes and save them for quick access without the need to rearrange your setup physically.
Adding to its charm, the Scarlett 18i6 comes bundled with a suite of plug-ins and software, including Ableton Live Lite and the Scarlett VST/AU/RTAS plug-in suite. These tools offer classic Focusrite processing options like compression, EQ, and reverb, enabling you to shape your sound with precision. The package also includes a collection of loops, samples, and the Novation Bass-station synthesizer, turning your interface into a comprehensive production suite ready to capture your musical inspiration.
Key Features:
- 18 inputs and 6 outputs for versatile connectivity
- Two Focusrite mic/instrument preamps on the front panel
- ADAT and S/PDIF I/O for expanded recording capabilities
- MixControl software for flexible routing and low-latency monitoring
- Includes Ableton Live Lite and Focusrite’s plug-in suite with classic processing tools
Product specs
| Brand | Focusrite |
| Model | Scarlett 18i6 USB 2.0 Audio Interface |
| Finish | Red |
| Year | 2011 - 2016 |
| Made In | United Kingdom |
| Categories | Audio Interfaces |
| Bit Depth | 24-bit |
| Bus-Powered | No |
| Compatibility | Windows, macOS |
| Computer Connectivity | USB |
| Digital Input Format | ADAT/Optical, S/PIDF |
| Digital Output Format | S/PIDF |
| Electronics | Analog, Digital, Solid State |
| Format | Desktop Standalone |
| Number of Analog Inputs | 8 |
| Number of Analog Outputs | 2 |
| Number of Channels | 22 |
| Number of Digital Inputs | 10 |
| Number of Digital Outputs | 2 |
| Number of Headphone Outputs | 1 |
| Number of MIDI Inputs | 1 |
| Number of MIDI Outputs | 1 |
| Number of Mic Preamps | 2 |
| Sample Rate | 96 khz |
| Simultaneous I/O | 18 x 6 |
FAQs
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What are the main connectivity options for the Focusrite Scarlett 18i6?
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The Focusrite Scarlett 18i6 offers USB connectivity for computer integration, with 8 analog inputs, 2 analog outputs, 1 headphone output, and digital I/O via ADAT/Optical and S/PDIF. It also includes MIDI input and output for connecting external MIDI devices.
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Is the Focusrite Scarlett 18i6 compatible with macOS and Windows?
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Yes, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i6 is compatible with both macOS and Windows operating systems, making it versatile for different studio setups.
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Does the Focusrite Scarlett 18i6 require an external power supply?
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Yes, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i6 is not bus-powered and requires an external power supply to operate, ensuring stable performance for all connected devices.
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How many mic preamps does the Focusrite Scarlett 18i6 have?
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The Focusrite Scarlett 18i6 is equipped with 2 high-quality mic preamps, providing excellent sound quality for recording vocals and instruments.
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What is the sample rate and bit depth of the Focusrite Scarlett 18i6?
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The Focusrite Scarlett 18i6 supports a sample rate of up to 96 kHz and a bit depth of 24-bit, offering professional-grade audio quality for recording and playback.
Videos
PMTVUK
Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 & 18i6 USB Audio Interfaces Overview
Reviews
PROS
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Affordable for simultaneous recording of 8 analog and multiple MIDI tracks
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Transparent mic preamps with good gain for various mic types
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Compatible with multiple DAWs across different devices
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Versatile with strong, quiet preamps
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Includes ADAT connectivity for expanded input/output options
CONS
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No driver support for Pro Tools 12, requiring beta version use
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Stability issues leading to crashes
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Lacks a power switch, inconvenient for turning on/off
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Potential buffer issues after extended use, possibly RAM-related
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Focusrite Scarlett 18i6 USB Audio Interface.
Software and compatibility
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Users report crackling issues with Scarlett 18i6 on Windows 7 x64, possibly resolved by updating drivers or changing USB ports.
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One user found a potential update from Gearslutz that claims to address audio interface issues, suggesting that official support updates may lag.
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Interface latency from USB, PCI, or FireWire adds to ASIO and DAW latency, impacting overall performance.
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Users report stable performance of Scarlett interfaces with Windows 10, unlike some Behringer models which experience connectivity issues.
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User experience
Features and functionality
Comparisons
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Focusrite Scarlett 18i6 offers more I/O options compared to Audient iD14mk1, appealing to users needing extensive connectivity.
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Audient preamps are noted to outperform entry-level competitors in noise performance, including Focusrite, though noticeable noise may still require reduction processing.
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The "Air" button on Scarlett 18i20, meant to emulate ISA110 Mic Pre, enhances mic sound quality, albeit not exactly replicating the original preamp sound.
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Use cases and applications
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For users on a budget under $200, the likelihood of using gain-hungry mics is low, making entry-level preamp limitations less concerning.
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4.5 out of 5
Based on 5 Reviews and 12 Ratings
79
Good for starters
Good for starters, but then you hit a brickwall. No driver support for PT 12 (I had to use a beta version) and having stability issues. Crashes are awful setbacks.
2130
Versatile interface with quiet, strong pre-amps and ADAT support
So versatile, especially nominated pre-amps such a quiet strong. Also it has adat too
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.