Focusrite Scarlett 2i2

^# 1

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

$118.00 to $189.99 Price Tier: Budget

4.5 (797)

1 Critic Review

137 Reviews

Newer option

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

1992 saved

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.

Store

Reviews

Price

$189.99

View Deal

4.7 (15725)

Used

View Deal

5.0 (90)

$127.80 11 available New

$95.00 8 available Used

View Deal

5.0 (151)

$139.99

View Deal

4.8 (2930)

$118.00

View Deal

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

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.

^* 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

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

Add video

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

Add review

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

0 0

The Scarlett 2i2 lacks a pad function, making it prone to clipping, especially for guitarists, unless paired with external attenuators or DI boxes.
Source
0 0

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.
Source
0 0

The 2i2 4th Gen features auto gain and clip-safe technology, beneficial for users handling high-gain microphones.
Source
0 0

The 4th Gen Solo now offers separate volume knobs for headphones and monitors, addressing a key limitation of previous generations.
Source

Comparisons

0 0

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.
Source
0 0

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.
Source
0 0

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.
Source
0 0

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

0 0

Users report better latency performance on Linux systems compared to Windows, where ASIO4ALL can help mitigate latency issues.
Source

Use cases and applications

0 0

The 2i2 automatically switches to mic-level input when using XLR cables, which might limit flexibility for users needing line-level input.
Source
0 0

For EDM producers focusing on software synths, the Solo's output quality matches the 2i2 due to identical DA converters.
Source

User experience

0 0

Some users experience frequent disconnections if the USB connection is slightly disturbed, requiring a full system restart to regain functionality.
Source
0 0

After 3-4 years of use, some owners report volume knob issues on the Scarlett 2i2, causing balance shifts between monitors.
Source
0 0

Users with higher-end mics note the 2i2's 69db gain is more suitable for maximizing mic performance compared to the Solo's 57db.
Source

Mods and upgrades

0 0

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

0 0

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.

positive

Full Review

Add review

4.5 out of 5

Based on 137 Reviews and 797 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

sangceu

118

almost 9 years ago

Great for Artists/Producers that are on a tight budget.

Every studio needs to at least have an audio interface. This Focusrite 2i2 is one of the best Audio Interface for people who are just starting and want to record. Also, most condenser microphones need 48 Volts of phantom power, this is why you need an audio interface. This audio interface is one of the best interfaces that comes in a very cheap price. I recommended this for producers or artists who are just starting out.

c_atk

over 9 years ago

Does everything I need it to

A very strong, compact Audio Interface that does everything you need it to. Two line/instrument inputs that tell you when your input is clipping, Your basic XLR outputs, headphone monitoring with independent volume control, and even direct monitoring. No complaints so far, great sound.

matburn

232

about 11 years ago

Great usb interdface

It's cheap and great quality. Sturdy aluminium build and simple user friendly controls. This model has only 2 inputs so if you're planning on recording more than a simple song by yourself or with a friend aim for more inputs.

erick_barraza

about 5 years ago

Absolutely awesome

I like the warmth in the voice and the fact that we can give it a little push on the highs with the AIR mode.

jaffe

almost 11 years ago

Pleasing

Dont get me wrong, Im super happy with my purchase of the Focusrite 2i2 and the sound quality of its recording and playback are great but as it goes, as soon as you find use for 2 inputs, you need 3 and then 4 and so on. So overall, groovy product but very 'Beginner'.

jimmarchi1

41029

11 years ago almost 11 years ago

on the other hand its really good for a quick 2 mic overdub at your house if you are a veteran who mostly works in commercial studios

tyguitaxe

516

over 11 years ago

Great First Interface

I think this is a great interface for beginners. It's my first and only interface and I bought it at the recommendation of a friend and am happy with it. It only has 2 inputs but I don't think that's a problem at all since I don't have the means or need to have more than 2 inputs.

mersenne

119

almost 9 years ago

Good card for the price

This is my handy-dandy fallback card and secondary cheapo card. I use it while on the go and when I have guests in my cave. I don't let people touch my main card, because she is my wife. This one is the concubine or whatever. She is more public.

The pres aren't that great but it gets the job done, and for the price was unbeatable until Zoom entered the market with their UAC-2s, which I hear people raving over constantly. If it ever dies I will bury her in the family plot and replace her with a UAC-2.

oskarlothe

141

over 10 years ago

An OK Audio Interface...

The Scarlett 2i2 is a very small audio interface. It has a lot of functions to be that small, but the sound quality isn't the best I've heard. Of course it is better than the standard sound card in my computer, but I had higher expections. It is something about the frequency about 14khz I don't like...

alphahotel

263

over 11 years ago

Already sounds really good with my guitar. Just know that if you're on PC, you'll probably need to download the latest drivers from Focusrite (that's not too tricky, though).

I got this as a gift yesterday, and it has sounded very good thus far. After updating the driver for the interface, I plugged in my guitar with a normal guitar cable and started playing in Ableton. It has great sound quality as long as the input and output buffers are high enough to avoid dropouts or noises (but that's a universal problem anyway...might be more CPU-based than interface-based).

officialyoungflaca

over 6 years ago

For the price, It's a beauty

I use this audio interface to hookup up to my computer and microphone to record into my DAW's. The sound comes in crisp and clear and I won't consider using anything else.