Focusrite Scarlett 2i2

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$118.00 to $189.99 Price Tier: Budget

4.5 (797)

1 Critic Review

137 Reviews

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Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen

$118.00 - $189.99

5.0 (44)

Find out who is using Focusrite Scarlett 2i2

20 community setups

187 wishlisted

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Page last updated Jul 05, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated July 6, 2026.

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Price

$189.99

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4.7 (15725)

Used

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5.0 (90)

$127.80 11 available New

$95.00 8 available Used

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5.0 (151)

$139.99

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4.8 (2930)

$118.00

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Average Price: $150

Budget/Beginner

$150

$501+

Price Tier

In the Audio Interfaces category, Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

Budget

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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.

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Description

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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

Is the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 compatible with both Windows and macOS?: Yes, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is compatible with both Windows and macOS, making it versatile for users on either operating system.
How many inputs and outputs does the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 have?: The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 features 2 analog inputs and 2 analog outputs, allowing for simultaneous recording and playback.
Does the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 require an external power source?: No, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is bus-powered via USB, eliminating the need for an external power source.
What is the maximum sample rate supported by the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2?: The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 supports a maximum sample rate of 192 kHz, providing high-resolution audio recording.
Are there mic preamps included in the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2?: Yes, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 includes two high-quality mic preamps, delivering clear and detailed audio capture.
Can the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 be used as a standalone device?: Yes, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 can be used in standalone mode, allowing it to pass audio without being connected to a computer.

Videos

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Focusrite

Focusrite // Scarlett Studio Bundle

Focusrite

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 - Setup & Demo

BenoniStudio

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Review + Set-up Walkthrough

Caleb Wojcik

Scarlett 2i2 Unboxing / Review - Focusrite Audio Interface - Setup / Overview

macmixingaudio

Reviews

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PROS

Ideal for beginners and home studios
Easy to use with minimal setup required
Compact and portable, perfect for on-the-go recording
Offers professional audio quality at an affordable price
Durable build quality with a sleek design
Includes useful features like 48V Phantom Power and direct monitoring
Low latency for virtual instruments and real-time applications
Compatible with both Windows and Mac
Offers two inputs, allowing for simultaneous recording of vocals and instrument
Comes bundled with useful software

CONS

Some users experienced connectivity issues with USB-C port
Can pick up unwanted frequencies and noise in recordings
Limited to two inputs, may not suffice as needs grow
Some reports of unbalanced headphone output at low volumes
Initial setup and driver installation may be challenging for some
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Use cases and applications

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The 2i2 automatically switches to mic-level input when using XLR cables, which might limit flexibility for users needing line-level input.
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For EDM producers focusing on software synths, the Solo's output quality matches the 2i2 due to identical DA converters.
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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

Value and pricing

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Some users find purchasing second-hand gear, such as a Steinberg interface with free software, provides significant savings over new Scarlett 2i2 units.
Source

Critic Reviews

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) Review | PCMag

pcmag.com

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) is a superb entry-level audio interface, ideal for music and podcast recording. It shines with transparent stereo recordings, low-latency monitoring, and easy setup. While its lightweight design may cause some cable pulling issues, and the gain knobs could be better matched, these are minor quibbles. Overall, it's a must-have for those seeking professional-grade results without complexity.

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Full Review

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 137 Reviews and 797 Ratings

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john_withers

815

over 7 years ago

Never really used

Bought this then got a deal on a better interface soon after so never really used though when I tried to use it I had problems setting it but that is probably my bad as these interfaces have great reputations...I really should sell this but I figure you never know when you might need an interface to use with say an old computer or iPads or whatever.

ttinari

8326

over 4 years ago

Great starter interface

There's good reason it's so popular. It's cheap, comes in a bundle with a condenser mic, and it's decent quality at a reasonable price. Had some issues with a crackling noise when using the interface and the accompanying microphone and cord, but it resolved itself at some point. All in all, no major complaints.

Roles:

Singer Guitarist Bassist

Genres:

Rock Funk / Soul Alternative rock

bujar_bejta1

110

over 4 years ago

The king of home and bedroom studios

This is the go to interface without a doubt especially for at home recording studios. It does have latency (dependin on your pr) and that is the only thing it does not provide like 100% good.

Roles:

Singer Guitarist Audio Engineer

Genres:

Electronic Rock Metal

v15ualk3ys

143

over 10 years ago

Excellent Audio Interface for Starters

This may not be as high tech or advanced as other sound cards out there, but it's the perfect card for starts. It comes with 2 XLR ports and 48V Phantom Power, along with headphone and studio monitor support. Great if you're just starting, but if you're looking for something more expansive, this may not be the best choice.

erynn

456

over 3 years ago

Decent

It works and it sounds good, great portability and a long lifespan.

Preferred Settings + Usage:

48 volts, monitoring set to off, monitoring knob set to 0, headphone gain to about 10 o clock.

microphone gain may vary.

Roles:

Music Producer DJ Audio Engineer

Genres:

Electronic Dance music Electro

victor_ting

132

over 10 years ago

Professional studio performance at home

Used this for basically all my recordings at home, so easy to use, uncompromising performance for such a tiny unit. Recommended for just anyone, even a pro should use one of these if 2 inputs is good enough.

fabrizio_barbisan

166

about 10 years ago

Record on the go

Focusrite is a great brand,produces from low to top end recording gear always keeping an eye on quality. The Scarlett is no less,excellent build quality ,good components and amazing look. It has two inputs ,in wich you can plug XLR cables but also TR cables, with dedicated pre amp with gain knob (surrounded by LED indicating clipping and gain status). Still on the front pannel there is the volume knob for monitors, phantom power switch for both inputs, headphones output with dedicated volume control. On the back pannel there are two jack outputs and the USB cable to connect with computer (it also powers up the soundcard). USB is 2.0 so is slow and may cause some delay on the recording,but its ok for this price. Very good product small,good sounding and rugged.