Pricing and availability
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Reviews
Price
Average Price: $93
Budget/Beginner
$150
$501+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface is the perfect blend of simplicity and professional quality, designed for singer-songwriters and content creators on the go. With its sleek design and compact build, this interface is not just a pretty face. It's equipped with Focusrite's legendary preamp, ensuring crystal-clear audio capture, whether you're recording vocals or plugging in your guitar. The addition of the Air mode provides that open, bright sound signature of the classic Focusrite ISA console, adding a touch of studio magic to your home setup.
Setting levels is a breeze with intuitive halo indicators, guiding you to the perfect gain every time. And with its super-low latency, you can monitor in real time, hearing your music exactly as it'll sound post-production. Whether you're a Mac, PC, or iPad Pro user, the Scarlett Solo's universal compatibility ensures that you’re always ready to capture inspiration whenever it strikes.
The Scarlett Solo isn't just about hardware. It comes bundled with a wealth of software, including Ableton Live Lite and a three-month subscription to Pro Tools Artist. Plus, the Hitmaker Expansion pack offers a treasure trove of plugins from industry giants like Antares and XLN Audio, ensuring you have everything you need to craft your next hit.
Key Features:
- 24-bit/192kHz converters for high-resolution audio
- Focusrite's 3rd-generation mic preamp with switchable Air mode
- Intuitive halo indicators for easy level setting
- USB-C compatibility for Mac, PC, and iPad Pro
- Super-low latency for real-time monitoring with plugins
- Includes software bundle: Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools Artist, and Hitmaker Expansion
- USB bus-powered for portability
- Headphone output and balanced TRS L/R monitor outputs
- Phantom power for condenser mics
- 3-year warranty for peace of mind
Product specs
| Computer Connectivity | USB 2.0 |
| Form Factor | Desktop |
| Simultaneous I/O | 2 x 2 |
| Number of Preamps | 1 x mic, 1 x instrument |
| Phantom Power | Yes |
| A/D Resolution | Up to 24-bit/192kHz |
| Analog Inputs | 1 x XLR (mic), 1 x 1/4" (Hi-Z) |
| Analog Outputs | 2 x 1/4" TRS |
| Headphones | 1 x 1/4" |
| USB | 1 x Type USB-C |
| Software | Avid Pro Tools Intro+, Ableton Live Lite, Hitmaker Expansion Bundle |
| Compatibility | USB-C iPad Pro |
| OS Requirements - Mac | macOS 10.15 or later |
| OS Requirements - PC | Windows 10 or later (Scarlett), Windows 10 v1809 or later (3-month Avid Pro Tools Subscription) |
| Bus Powered | Yes |
| Power Supply | USB bus powered |
FAQs
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What are the main connectivity options for the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen?
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The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen connects to your computer via USB-C and includes 1 XLR input for microphones, 1 1/4" input for instruments, and 2 1/4" TRS outputs for monitors.
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Is the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen compatible with my DAW software?
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Yes, the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is compatible with most DAWs, including Ableton Live Lite and Pro Tools Intro+, which are included with the interface.
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Does the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen require an external power supply?
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No, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is bus-powered via USB, so it does not require an external power supply.
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Can I use the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen with an iPad?
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Yes, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is compatible with USB-C iPads, allowing you to record directly into your iPad.
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What is the audio resolution capability of the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen?
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The Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen supports up to 24-bit/192kHz audio resolution, ensuring high-quality recordings.
Videos
Edward Smith
How to Setup an Audio Interface | Focusrite Scarlett Solo Setup | Audio Interface Setup 2021
Reviews
PROS
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Easy to set up, plug in and start recording immediately
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Only needs two inputs, ideal for home studios
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Flawless performance with various DAWs like Reaper
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High-quality hardware, comparable to higher-end Focusrite models
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Attractive design, slick to the eye
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Reliable, with no reported failures across multiple units
CONS
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface.
Features and functionality
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The Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen includes a mic input on the front and a second instrument input, contradicting common misconceptions about its input capabilities.
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A physical button on the Scarlett Solo toggles between options, including a pass-through that can bypass input to the PC.
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The Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen's gain knob is logarithmic, requiring small adjustments past 2 o'clock for significant gain changes, crucial for dynamic microphones like the SM7B.
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Comparisons
Software and compatibility
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The 3rd Gen model uses USB-C, preferred for durability and reliability over Micro USB, which is prone to breaking.
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Users find that the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen treats the microphone input as Input 1 and the instrument input as Input 2 in DAWs like Reaper.
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Some users recommend avoiding ASIO4ALL in favor of the official Focusrite ASIO driver for better compatibility and fewer conflicts with DAWs.
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Users caution against using USB and XLR simultaneously with mics like the Shure MV7, recommending XLR for better integration with the Scarlett Solo.
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Use cases and applications
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It's ideal for guitar recording, praised for high resolution, low noise, and solid reliability, particularly in home studio settings.
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Users recommend getting close to dynamic mics like the SM7B for optimal sound capture with the Scarlett Solo, leveraging the proximity effect for a rich low-end sound.
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Value and pricing
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Despite the release of newer models, the 3rd Gen remains a competitive option at $109, providing excellent value for those focused on guitar recording without needing additional mic inputs.
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User experience
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Owners report using the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen's preamp gain up to halfway without distortion, especially when paired with dynamic mics like the Shure SM58.
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Setup and maintenance
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It's noted that turning off phantom power can clean up signal noise when using dynamic mics with the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
85
4.5/5
It’s simple, sounds clean, and just works with no messing around. Great for anyone starting out or recording solo. I’ve used it for vocals and the sound quality has always been solid.
I personally don't use the Air mode. The regular preamp sounds good enough on its own. One thing to think about is if you plan to get studio monitors or need more inputs later, it might be worth going for the 2i2 instead. It gives you more flexibility.
If you’re an artist looking to get pro results without the studio price tag, this interface won’t let you down.
Genre Usage
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