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Description

Unleash your creativity with the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 V2 USB Audio Interface, a versatile powerhouse that's perfect for both budding and seasoned musicians. Whether you're a solo artist or part of a band, the 18-input, 8-output configuration ensures you have the capacity to capture every nuance of your performance. This interface is designed to handle complex recording environments with ease, offering four award-winning Scarlett mic preamps that promise pristine sound.

Built to adapt, the Scarlett 18i8 is equipped with dual headphone outputs, allowing separate monitoring mixes for you and your collaborator. Its compact, sleek design ensures it fits effortlessly into any studio setup, while the USB connectivity guarantees seamless integration with your digital workstation. The interface also features Focusrite's acclaimed low-latency performance, ensuring your recordings are always in sync and crystal clear.

Perfect for the modern musician, this audio interface supports both Mac and PC platforms, making it a versatile tool for any creative process. Whether you're recording a full band or layering intricate soundscapes, the Scarlett 18i8 V2 provides the reliability and clarity you need to bring your music to life.

Key Features:

  • 18 inputs and 8 outputs for versatile recording capabilities
  • Four Scarlett mic preamps with switchable phantom power
  • Two independent headphone outputs with separate level controls
  • USB connectivity for easy integration with digital workstations
  • Compatible with both Mac and PC systems
  • Low-latency performance for real-time audio processing

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 V2?

The Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 V2 connects to your computer via USB and includes 8 analog inputs, 2 analog outputs, digital input and output formats like ADAT/Optical and S/PDIF, as well as MIDI inputs and outputs.

Is the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 V2 compatible with both Windows and macOS?

Yes, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 V2 is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems.

How many mic preamps does the Scarlett 18i8 V2 have?

The Scarlett 18i8 V2 features 4 high-quality mic preamps, making it suitable for recording multiple microphones simultaneously.

Does the Scarlett 18i8 V2 support high-resolution audio?

Yes, the Scarlett 18i8 V2 supports up to 24-bit/192 kHz resolution for high-quality audio recording and playback.

Can the Scarlett 18i8 V2 be powered via USB?

No, the Scarlett 18i8 V2 is not bus-powered and requires an external power supply to operate.

Learning with Mark Warren

Learning with Mark Warren

Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 Gen 2 Review

Video thumbnail for Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 Gen 2 Review by Learning with Mark Warren

Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 Gen 2 Review

Learning with Mark Warren

Learning with Mark Warren

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent sound quality with plenty of headroom

  • Seamless setup with Mac and Windows drivers

  • Four XLR inputs with phantom power for versatile recording

  • Virtually no latency during recording

  • Comes with useful plugins and DAW lite versions

  • Reliable performance with multiple inputs for various instruments

  • Intuitive interface for easy operation

  • Durable design suitable for both studio and live performances

CONS

  • Front headphone volume inconsistent at low levels

  • Power port may be loose on some units

  • Requires app control for certain functions

  • No ADAT or word clock outputs

  • Analog outputs not as strong as some competitors

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 V2 USB Audio Interface.

Software and compatibility

  • Users find success by routing audio through a DAW, setting Focusrite Control loopback to Playback 7-8 for Teams integration on MacBook.

    Source
  • Users appreciate Julian Krause's YouTube reviews for unbiased assessments of audio interfaces, specifically mentioning the 18i8 among others.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Focusrite Scarlett 18i8's loopback feature allows users to incorporate VST effects and manage multiple microphone inputs effectively.

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  • The Scarlett 18i8 claims 8 outputs, but effectively only offers 4 stereo outputs: two 1/4" stereo outputs, MIDI, and SPDIF. Headphone outputs mirror these channels.

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  • SPDIF output can be used with an adapter to connect to external devices, offering some flexibility for routing audio outside of the primary 1/4" outputs.

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Use cases and applications

  • Using the DAW as a mixer provides flexibility for podcasting or live streaming, enabling real-time sound enhancement and individual mic recording.

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  • Users wanting more outputs for external gear, like a Tascam tape portastudio, should consider the Scarlett 18i20 for additional output options.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users note that the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8's preamps and converters are transparent, making it suitable for those requiring an uncolored sound for mixing.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners mention minimal audible difference between Focusrite and Audient preamps at this price point, but prefer Audient's DI for guitar/bass.

    Source
  • The Audient iD44 is preferred for its mixer software, though both interfaces are considered capable of fulfilling basic recording needs.

    Source

Other

  • Focusrite's discontinuation of support for FireWire on Apple Silicon is a noted issue, influencing some users' decisions to switch brands.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 2nd Gen review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 V2 impresses with enhanced preamp performance, high sample rate support, and excellent sound quality, making it a versatile choice for musicians. It integrates seamlessly with Focusrite Control software, offering extensive connectivity. However, it features only a single main stereo analogue output, which might be a drawback for some users. Overall, the 18i8 V2 is praised for its sound clarity and flexibility, making it a solid investment for those needing a portable yet powerful audio interface.

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