Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $89

Budget/Beginner

$150

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* 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

The Focusrite Solo is your gateway to professional-grade recordings in a compact form, ideal for musicians and creators looking to elevate their home studio setup. This versatile audio interface offers exceptional sound quality with its high-performance converters and renowned Focusrite preamp, ensuring your recordings are clear and detailed. Whether you're capturing vocals or instruments, the Solo provides a straightforward, user-friendly experience with its intuitive design.

Perfect for solo artists or small setups, it features a single XLR input for microphones and a line/instrument input for guitars or other instruments. The Solo's USB connectivity ensures seamless integration with your computer, making it compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems. Plus, it comes bundled with a comprehensive software package that includes Ableton Live Lite and a collection of plug-ins, empowering you to start recording right away.

Key Features:

  • High-performance 24-bit/192kHz AD-DA converters
  • One high-headroom instrument input for guitars
  • One Scarlett mic preamp with high-headroom for clear recordings
  • Direct Monitor function for latency-free monitoring
  • USB-powered for easy setup and portability
  • Compatible with Mac and Windows
  • Includes Ableton Live Lite and plug-in bundle for a complete recording solution

Product specs

Brand Focusrite
Model Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface
Finish Red / Black
Year 2019 - 2025
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 1
Sample Rate 192 khz
Simultaneous I/O 2 x 2

FAQs

What are the main connectivity options for the Focusrite Scarlett Solo?

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo offers USB connectivity for seamless integration with your computer. It includes two analog inputs, one for a microphone and one for an instrument, as well as two analog outputs and a headphone output for monitoring.

Is the Focusrite Scarlett Solo compatible with macOS and Windows?

Yes, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo is compatible with both macOS and Windows operating systems, making it versatile for a wide range of recording setups.

Does the Focusrite Scarlett Solo require an external power supply?

No, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo is bus-powered, meaning it draws power directly from the USB connection to your computer, eliminating the need for an external power supply.

What is the sample rate and bit depth of the Focusrite Scarlett Solo?

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo supports a sample rate of up to 192 kHz and a bit depth of 24-bit, providing high-quality audio resolution for professional recording.

How many mic preamps does the Focusrite Scarlett Solo have?

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo is equipped with one high-quality mic preamp, ideal for solo musicians or podcasters who need to record vocals or a single instrument.

Edward Smith

Edward Smith

How to Setup an Audio Interface | Focusrite Scarlett Solo Setup | Audio Interface Setup 2021

Video thumbnail for How to Setup an Audio Interface | Focusrite Scarlett Solo Setup | Audio Interface Setup 2021 by Edward Smith

How to Setup an Audio Interface | Focusrite Scarlett Solo Setup | Audio Interface Setup 2021

Edward Smith

Edward Smith

Video thumbnail for Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen - REVIEW by Julian Krause

Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen - REVIEW

Julian Krause

Julian Krause

Video thumbnail for 14 Tips To Get Started With The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd gen by Audio Tech TV

14 Tips To Get Started With The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd gen

Audio Tech TV

Audio Tech TV

Video thumbnail for Why is EVERYONE Buying THIS Audio Interface? Focusrite Scarlett Solo by The GarageBand Guide

Why is EVERYONE Buying THIS Audio Interface? Focusrite Scarlett Solo

The GarageBand Guide

The GarageBand Guide

Video thumbnail for Connecting Guitars to your Scarlett Solo by FocusriteHelp

Connecting Guitars to your Scarlett Solo

FocusriteHelp

FocusriteHelp

Reviews

PROS

  • Perfect for beginners in home recording

  • Easy setup compatible with multiple devices

  • Excellent for use with condenser mics needing Phantom Power

  • Simplifies transition from older recording methods

  • Cost-effective solution for basic recording needs

CONS

  • Issues with USB connection recognition

  • Requires extensive troubleshooting for installation

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Focusrite solo.

Features and functionality

  • The Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen includes a mic input and an instrument input, accommodating both vocal and guitar recordings directly.

    Source
  • The 4th Gen Scarlett Solo now includes a separate volume knob for headphones, resolving the previous generation's issue of shared monitor/headphone control.

    Source
  • The headphones included in the Scarlett Solo 4th Gen set have a linear frequency response and require significant power, affecting volume when connected to low-power devices.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The 3rd Gen is seen as a cost-effective choice, especially when considering used options or pairing it with a USB-to-USB-C adapter instead of upgrading to a 4th Gen.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • It comes with a complete tutorial for beginners, which is highly appreciated by new users looking to learn recording basics.

    Source
  • Windows users frequently report audio dropouts and crackling issues, often requiring driver experimentation or reverting to older drivers for resolution.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • While it's sufficient for mixing through speakers, investing in high-quality reference speakers is crucial for accurate sound reproduction.

    Source
  • The included headphones are well-suited for mixing due to their non-bass-heavy, linear frequency response, though this may not appeal to casual music listening preferences.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Both the Scarlett Solo and 2i2 4th Gen models share the same upgraded AD and DA converters, ensuring identical playback quality.

    Source
  • The 2i2 4th Gen includes preamps from the Clarett line, unlike the Solo, offering potentially higher input quality for certain recording applications.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners note the 2i2 offers a higher gain level (69dB) compared to the Solo (57dB), beneficial for high-end microphones requiring more gain.

    Source
  • Initial discomfort is noted with the headphones, but they become more comfortable after several uses.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 6 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
lustatnight

Fire !

Awesome for condenser mics that require Phantom Power. Must have If you're serious.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

More Focusrite Audio Interfaces

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides