Focusrite is back with 4th-generation versions of the popular Scarlett line of audio interfaces, now featuring souped-up microphone preamps with up to 69 dB of gain and improved converters ported over from the top-tier RedNet interfaces. Three different versions are available, the 16i16, the 18i16, and the 18i20. Any of the three variants can connect to your compatible Mac, Windows PC, or Chromebook computer via USB-C, or to a USB-C iPad.
Smaller home and project studios will be well served by the 16i16, with its 2 front panel mic/instrument preamps, 4 rear panel line inputs, and 2 front-panel stereo headphone outs. Those analog connections are supplemented by 8 channels of digital I/O via optical ADAT and 2 more channels of digital I/O via S/PDIF. If you need more mic/instrument inputs, step up to the 18i16, which adds an additional pair of preamps and line inputs. At the top of the range, the 18i20 offers 8 mic pres for multitrack recording and 10 line outputs for advanced signal routing flexibility—ideal for when you want to give performers individual mixes or incorporate more outboard processors. The 18i20 also offers word clock I/O.
In addition to the additional gain, the preamps are now remote controllable via Focusrite’s Control 2 software. Helpful features include Auto Gain, which listens to the input levels and sets appropriate gain settings for you in seconds, and a Clip Safe function, which monitors your levels up to 96,000 times a second and tweaks the input gain to make sure you don’t overload the interface—without introducing hard-limiting artefacts. Working to ensure premium quality sound are Focusrite’s flagship RedNet converters providing a 120 dB dynamic range at resolutions up to 24-bit / 192 kHz. And for a little extra-special magic, you can engage the re-engineered Air mode, which adds rich musical presence or harmonic drive to vocals and instruments, replicating the mix-forward sound of driving a classic studio console.
Focusrite sweetens the deal on these Scarletts even more by including comprehensive software bundles. In addition to Ableton Live Lite and a 3-month subscription to Pro Tools Artist, you’re also provided with 3 months of Splice Sounds, and an impressive selection of instruments, processors, and effects from industry-leading names, including Antares, Native Instruments, Brainworx, Focusrite, XLN, Sonnox, Relab, and more.
For more information about these new 4th generation Scarlett interfaces from Focusrite, including additional features, specs, and highlights, be sure to check out the detailed product pages for the Scarlett 16i16, 18i16, and 18i20 interfaces. Or drop us a line below, and we’ll do our best to answer all of your comments and questions.
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