Home
... Musical Instruments
Studio Recording Gear
Audio Interfaces
Focusrite
Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen)

Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen) main image

Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen)

^# 91

Equipboard's ranking is determined by analyzing factors such as professional artist usage, popularity, user ratings, reviews, and more.

$542.15 Price Tier: Standard

4.5 (22)

1 Critic Review

5 Reviews

Newer option

Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (3rd gen)

$283.00 - $599.00

5.0 (5)

Find out who is using Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 2nd Gen

1 community setup

0 wishlisted

43 saved

Page last updated Jul 04, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated July 4, 2026.

Store

Reviews

Price

5.0 (36)

$542.15 1 available New

$177.00 6 available Used

View Deal

Average Price: $360

Standard/Professional

$150

$501+

Price Tier

In the Audio Interfaces category, Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen) is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

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

Edit description

Unleash your creativity and capture every nuance of your music with the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen). This powerhouse audio interface, beloved by studio professionals and home recording enthusiasts, offers unparalleled flexibility and ultra-low latency for a seamless recording experience. Whether you're a multi-instrumentalist or a producer working with multiple artists simultaneously, the Scarlett 18i8 provides the versatility and quality you need to bring your sound to life. With its robust build and intuitive design, it's your dependable partner in the journey from inspiration to final mix.

Key Features:

18 inputs and 8 outputs for versatile connectivity options
Ultra-low latency for real-time tracking and monitoring
Dual headphone outputs with separate level controls for collaborative recording sessions
Superb audio quality with 24-bit/192kHz resolution
Four award-winning Scarlett mic preamps for crystal-clear recordings
Includes a suite of software to kickstart your recording journey
Robust construction and intuitive design for ease of use

Product specs

Brand	Focusrite
Model	Scarlett 18i8 2nd Gen USB Audio Interface
Finish	Red / Black
Year	2016 - 2018
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	30
Number of Digital Inputs	10
Number of Digital Outputs	2
Number of Headphone Outputs	2
Number of MIDI Inputs	1
Number of MIDI Outputs	1
Number of Mic Preamps	4
Sample Rate	192 khz
Simultaneous I/O	18 x 4

FAQs

What are the main connectivity options for the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen)?: The Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen) offers USB connectivity for computers, with compatibility for both Windows and macOS systems. It features 8 analog inputs, 2 analog outputs, 10 digital inputs, and 2 digital outputs, along with MIDI input and output capabilities.
How many mic preamps does the Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen) have?: The Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen) is equipped with 4 high-quality mic preamps, providing excellent sound clarity and dynamic range for recording vocals and instruments.
Is the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen) suitable for home studio recording?: Yes, with its 18 inputs and 4 outputs, the Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen) is ideal for home studio setups, offering flexibility and high-quality audio for recording multiple instruments and vocals simultaneously.
Can the Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen) be used with popular DAWs?: The Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen) is compatible with most major DAWs, including Ableton Live, Pro Tools, and Logic Pro, ensuring seamless integration into your existing recording setup.
Does the Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen) require an external power source?: Yes, the Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen) is not bus-powered and requires an external power source, which is included with the interface, to operate efficiently.

Videos

Add video

Jonathan Simpson

Apollo Twin Duo Usb vs. Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 2nd Gen. - Comparison / Shootout

Jonathan Simpson

Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 • Unboxing • 2nd Generation / 2nd Gen

Fredrik Cedergren

Reviews

Add review

PROS

Works flawlessly with MacBooks, easy software installation
Clear, clean playback with ample headroom
Multiple inputs with independent volume controls for versatility
Very low latency, improving recording quality
Sturdy build quality ensures durability and stability
Additional features like monitor mute and output volume controls enhance usability

CONS

Front headphone output volume low until 75% rotation then jumps
Occasional crackling when adjusting knobs
Some units may have a loose power port
Occasional glitches requiring sample rate adjustments or reconnecting

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen).

Features and functionality

0 0

The 3rd gen boasts increased input headroom and improved preamps, which could enhance recording quality, especially in dynamic environments.
Source
0 0

Users suggest maximizing the output volume of instruments when connecting to rear line inputs to avoid noise issues when boosting levels in DAW.
Source

Comparisons

0 0

The 3rd gen's TRS monitor sends offer an advantage over the 2nd gen, potentially improving monitoring setups.
Source

User experience

0 0

Owners report the 2nd gen as a reliable workhorse, even enduring rigorous touring conditions without issues.
Source

Value and pricing

0 0

A 3rd gen 18i8 at $185 is considered a worthwhile investment compared to historical prices of similar models.
Source

Use cases and applications

0 0

Eurorack Modular synthesizers reportedly work well with rear line inputs, maintaining normal volume settings from the mixer into the Scarlett 18i8.
Source

Setup and maintenance

0 0

For better volume control, a small mixer is recommended when connecting synthesizers to the Scarlett 18i8's line inputs.
Source

Critic Reviews

Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 2nd Gen review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen) shines with its improved preamp performance and extended sample rate compatibility, offering a stellar sound quality that's clear and open. Its impressive I/O flexibility is a key highlight, making it an excellent choice for portable setups. However, the single main stereo analogue output might not meet the needs of some users. Overall, this audio interface delivers great value and versatility, making it a solid investment for musicians looking for a reliable and high-performance device.

positive

Full Review

Add review

4.5 out of 5

Based on 5 Reviews and 22 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

samuele_de_marchi

128

9 months ago

Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen) – Studio Powerhouse in a Compact Box

The Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen) is a brilliant audio interface that strikes the perfect balance between flexibility, sound quality, and reliability. Whether you're recording a full band or running a complex home studio setup, this unit delivers professional-grade performance without breaking the bank.

🎚️ Connectivity: With 4 mic/line inputs, 4 additional line inputs, ADAT expansion, and MIDI I/O, it’s ideal for multi-instrument setups and small ensemble recordings.

🎧 Sound Quality: The preamps are clean and transparent, with plenty of gain and low noise. The 24-bit/192kHz resolution ensures pristine audio capture across the board.

🔌 Ease of Use: Plug-and-play simplicity with Focusrite’s Control software makes routing and monitoring a breeze. It integrates seamlessly with all major DAWs.

🛠️ Build & Reliability: Rugged metal chassis, solid knobs, and a sleek red finish—this thing is built to last and looks great on any desk.

🎁 Bonus Software: Comes bundled with a generous suite of plugins and tools, including Ableton Live Lite, Softube Time and Tone, and Focusrite’s Red Plug-In Suite.

In short, the Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen) is a versatile, high-quality interface that punches well above its weight. A top-tier choice for serious creators.

Roles:

Guitarist Composer Music Producer

Genres:

Electronic Alternative rock Intelligent dance music

From Gear Setup

bloodypalm

almost 7 years ago

Love It

I was using a cheaper Tascam interface with only two inputs. I don't notice much different in the sound of the recordings, both are good for that, but the extra features on this one made it well worth the extra money. Having two headphone jacks with independent volume controls is great. The monitor output also has a volume and a mute button on the interface which is very convenient. Latency is very low but there are models with lower latency. Four inputs is perfect for me, no unplugging and resetting the gain for different instruments. It's very sturdy and well built, stays in place nicely. I liked it so much I bought the 6i6 and the solo version for my living room and bedroom.

alicegrimaude

116

about 6 years ago

Rock solid interface.

Good stuff for what I need. Only thing I have to complain about is the occasional glitch, but nothing that can't be helped by changing the sample rate or unplugging and reconnecting it.

Roles:

Composer

Genres:

Stage & Screen Metal Soundtrack

davidcrickett

250

about 8 years ago

Yummy

I have had this one for Mac, the little one 2i2 for PC and now this, as I needed some more channels and would like the upgrade to 2nd generation. It just works! And it works fine! :D

Roles:

Guitarist Composer Music Producer

Genres:

Rock Pop Folk, World, & Country