Pricing and availability
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Reviews
Price
Average Price: $150
Budget/Beginner
$150
$501+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* Showing prices and availability for the newer version, Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen.
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Description
For musicians and creators yearning for a seamless recording experience, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is your gateway to professional-grade sound. This compact yet powerful audio interface is the perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication, making it an ideal companion for both budding artists and seasoned producers. With its award-winning preamps, the Scarlett 2i2 captures every detail of your performance, ensuring crystal-clear recordings every time. Whether you’re laying down tracks in your bedroom studio or capturing inspiration on the go, this interface adapts to your workflow with ease. The Scarlett 2i2’s robust build and intuitive design mean you can focus on what truly matters: the music.
Elevate your creative process with high-resolution 24-bit/192kHz AD/DA converters that retain the tonal integrity of your sound. The direct monitoring feature eliminates latency, allowing you to hear yourself in real-time without any distracting delays. Plus, its USB-powered convenience means you won’t be tethered to a power outlet, making it a truly portable solution for artists on the move.
Key Features:
- Award-winning Focusrite mic preamps with switchable Air mode
- High-performance 24-bit/192kHz AD-DA converters
- 2 combo inputs for mic/line/instrument
- Direct monitoring for latency-free recording
- USB Type-C connectivity for fast data transfer
- Compact and durable design suitable for mobile recording
- Compatible with all major DAWs on Mac and PC
- Includes Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools First Focusrite Creative Pack, and other software tools to kickstart your projects
Product specs
| Brand | Focusrite |
| Model | Scarlett 2i2 USB 2.0 Audio Interface |
| Finish | Red / Black |
| Year | 2011 - 2016 |
| Made In | United Kingdom |
| Categories | Audio Interfaces |
| Bit Depth | 24-bit |
| Bus-Powered | Yes |
| Compatibility | Windows, macOS |
| Computer Connectivity | USB |
| Electronics | Analog, Digital, Solid State |
| Format | Desktop Standalone |
| Number of Analog Inputs | 2 |
| Number of Analog Outputs | 2 |
| Number of Channels | 4 |
| Number of Digital Inputs | 0 |
| Number of Digital Outputs | 0 |
| Number of Headphone Outputs | 1 |
| Number of MIDI Inputs | 0 |
| Number of MIDI Outputs | 0 |
| Number of Mic Preamps | 2 |
| Sample Rate | 192 khz |
| Simultaneous I/O | 2 x 2 |
FAQs
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Is the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 compatible with both Windows and macOS?
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Yes, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is compatible with both Windows and macOS, making it versatile for users on either operating system.
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How many inputs and outputs does the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 have?
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The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 features 2 analog inputs and 2 analog outputs, allowing for simultaneous recording and playback.
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Does the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 require an external power source?
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No, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is bus-powered via USB, eliminating the need for an external power source.
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What is the maximum sample rate supported by the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2?
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The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 supports a maximum sample rate of 192 kHz, providing high-resolution audio recording.
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Are there mic preamps included in the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2?
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Yes, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 includes two high-quality mic preamps, delivering clear and detailed audio capture.
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Can the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 be used as a standalone device?
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Yes, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 can be used in standalone mode, allowing it to pass audio without being connected to a computer.
Videos
Focusrite
Focusrite // Scarlett Studio Bundle
Reviews
PROS
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Ideal for beginners and home studios
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Easy to use with minimal setup required
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Compact and portable, perfect for on-the-go recording
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Offers professional audio quality at an affordable price
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Durable build quality with a sleek design
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Includes useful features like 48V Phantom Power and direct monitoring
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Low latency for virtual instruments and real-time applications
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Compatible with both Windows and Mac
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Offers two inputs, allowing for simultaneous recording of vocals and instrument
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Comes bundled with useful software
CONS
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Some users experienced connectivity issues with USB-C port
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Can pick up unwanted frequencies and noise in recordings
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Limited to two inputs, may not suffice as needs grow
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Some reports of unbalanced headphone output at low volumes
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Initial setup and driver installation may be challenging for some
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Lacks MIDI I/O which may be a drawback for certain users
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Focusrite Scarlett 2i2.
Features and functionality
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The Scarlett 2i2 lacks a pad function, making it prone to clipping, especially for guitarists, unless paired with external attenuators or DI boxes.
Source -
The Behringer UMC404HD is praised for its low noise floor and flexible I/O options, offering dedicated ASIO drivers and intuitive controls, providing a competitive alternative.
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The 2i2 4th Gen features auto gain and clip-safe technology, beneficial for users handling high-gain microphones.
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The 4th Gen Solo now offers separate volume knobs for headphones and monitors, addressing a key limitation of previous generations.
Source
Comparisons
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The Steinberg UR22 offers built-in Hi-Z input, optimized for guitars, and MIDI inputs, suggesting it may be more suitable for guitarists compared to the 2i2.
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Users highlight the UA Volt series as having superior preamps for guitars compared to the Scarlett 2i2, especially for high output pickups like Fishman Fluence and Schecter Apocalypse.
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The MOTU M2 is noted for its MIDI compatibility and input/output display, which some users prefer over the Scarlett 2i2, despite initial driver issues.
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The 4th Gen 2i2 includes upgraded preamps from the Clarett line, unlike the Solo, suggesting a higher quality for instrument recording.
Source
Software and compatibility
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Users report better latency performance on Linux systems compared to Windows, where ASIO4ALL can help mitigate latency issues.
Source
Use cases and applications
User experience
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Some users experience frequent disconnections if the USB connection is slightly disturbed, requiring a full system restart to regain functionality.
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After 3-4 years of use, some owners report volume knob issues on the Scarlett 2i2, causing balance shifts between monitors.
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Users with higher-end mics note the 2i2's 69db gain is more suitable for maximizing mic performance compared to the Solo's 57db.
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Mods and upgrades
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A passive DI box is recommended for the Scarlett Solo’s hot Inst in jack, though it costs as much as the interface itself.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 137 Reviews and 797 Ratings
7007
From Great to Disappointed in Three Years
I want to start with the "Pros" of this USB interface.
It's well-made and feels extremely solid. It is moderately easy to set up and get running although the free software downloads are somewhat convoluted, I eventually, ended up with what I needed.
At first, the hardware performed flawlessly but a couple of months ago, I noticed static coming from the unit. I attempted to clean the pots but discovered that they were sealed. I want to point out that this unit is never moved or abused in any way, shape, or manner.
It was reasonably priced but I certainly expect more than three years of service from a unit that has been essentially babied all of its life.
At the time of this writing, I am thinking about replacing the Focusrite with a Universal Audio Volt.
I cannot recommend this particular USB interface.
2038
All you really need
If you are recording your own guitar and not doing it for others as a pro, then this interface is really all you need. It works very well, is quiet and accurate. It's easy to use and in my studio where I only ever record one guitar and one voice at a time it's perfect for what I do. The price is very fair. I am not a studio expert by any stretch of the imagination and am more concerned about value for my dollar and this certainly delivers it. There are more expensive units out there with slightly better specs that unless you are making professional recordings I'd doubt you'd hear.
115
Handy and affordable!
I have owned the Scarlett 2i2 for a few years now, it works just how it should. I will probably move up into more inputs due to more gear in my setup but for someone who only needs a mic and a mono instrument like a guitar I can see it working wonders.
372
Compact, Portable and a Curse.
I have been using this device for about 3 years now. It is good for beginner producers who want to record through direct input. It is very simple and easy to use. Some of its flaws... It picks up frequencies in recordings which is very annoying. This includes making a high pitched squealing noise whenever I plug in an instrument. The constant buzzing gradually starts to show the more that you use this device. The USB-C Jack in the back of the device wiggles and is not durable. Sometimes it turns off until I wiggle it back in place.
Preferred Settings + Usage:
Volume Rocker Lights
931
Perfect Setup for Budget Musicians
I want to make it clear that I am in no way an expert when it comes to recording gear. That should help illustrate the intuitive nature of the 2i2 because I was able to pick it up with a minimal learning curve. I bought this interface after extensive homework and encouragement from the equipboard forum contributors. Focusrite really has something decent going for them with their compact interfaces. The main benefit to the 2i2 is that it is easy to use. If you know how to plug in a USB cable, press record in Garageband (or whatever DAW), and can work a volume knob you are well on your way to recording quality tracks in no time. The gain controls are insanely easy to use with a simple red/green, bad/good clip-indicating light around each knob. I was worried about the mic preamps but those fears for unfounded. Every mic that I tried sounded excellent through the 2i2. I bought the 2i2 because I wanted to record individual tracks and I didn't see the need for more inputs. I was also on a budget. If you want to upgrade to more in the future then simply put your 2i2 on a local classified listing and watch the texts/calls roll in.
79
Great for home recording
Sounds great in recordings. Using this to record some stuff for my band. Very nice
322
Really great for the price!
When I was looking for audio interfaces, many reviews directed me towards this one in particular. I am satisfied with what this little thing can do especially for the price! I record all my instrument and my Mic's straight into it, the recordings come out really clean. The only minor problem for me is that I have to disconnect and connect the USB every time I close my laptop for it to work properly, it might just be my Laptop again just a minor detail.
299
Good but a trouble for a guitarist
A very good small audio interface, with a huge con against it. The first generation has no Pad button for the Instrument input and the gain reaches clipping on the lowerst Gain knob values. It means that you have to use some attenuation from a di-box or something else, when you want to record a guitar. It's a pain if you have a little gear :( Grab MkII version, they say it's inputs are not that hot.
104
225
Scarlett 2i2
The Scarlett series by Focusrite is exceptionally popular and not without reason! These interface are all easy to use, they offer professional audio quality and seamless compatibility with Windows as well as Mac laptops and computers. This Scarlett 2i2 is a 'starter model', but its quality is equal to that of more extensive versions. The 24-bit/96kHz digital audio resolution guarantees a wide dynamic range and crystal-clear audio quality. Thanks to the stable quick drivers, a low latency is ensured - perfect for use with virtual instruments and other high-speed audio applications.
Artist usage
Add artist
we can se the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 USB Audio Interface just under dimtri's v-moda m100!!
In this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pIGvhzp0qDE you can see Tim showing the interface (min: 8:16)
In this Instagram video at 0:00 you can see the Focusrite on top of the soundboard next to the computer.
Shown at 3.36 in this video where he is showing the gear he uses to record guitar in videos.
In this photo posted by Underworld to their Instagram on April 2016, a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 USB Audio Interface can be seen on the left on top of the stack of books. This appears to be Underworld's mobile gear setup. The photo is captioned, "Hotel recording with #rick" ("#rick" referring to Underworld's Rick Smith).
In this photo of Jay and his studio, a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is seen in the stack of equipment on the desk.
Per this screenshot of a tweet dated Oct 22, 2018, Clairo is no stranger to a Scarlett 2i2.
made everything in garageband w a midi keyboard, drum machine from a yamaha psr 170 + all keys presets were just in garageband lol , cant remember name of microphone but just had that and a scarlett 2i2 interface
Album Usage
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 has been featured on the following albums:
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 Scarlett 2i2, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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