Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Audio Interface Review

With all of the necessary audio equipment readily being available online, making your own home studio has never been easier.

However, being on a tight budget means that the actual range of products is going to be limited.

Having a good audio interface makes a huge impact on the actual quality of the recordings you’re going to make, but finding the right one isn’t easy.

After browsing through numerous different models, I’ve finally found one that’s pretty much got it all!

Scarlett 2i2 – Focusrite’s focus on home studios

Scarlett 2i2 manages to cater to all the needs of both beginner and enthusiast musicians who prefer recording their tunes in the comfort of their bedroom.

Focusrite products are known for being reliable, great sounding, and offering performance worth every cent. The 2i2 is no exception.

Key Features

Compact design, small footprint
2 Combined mic/instrument inputs
192kHz/24 bit conversion and sample rates
Balanced stereo speaker outputs & headphone out
Separate channel gain controls

Scarlett 2i2 offers the ability to record 2 devices simultaneously, whether they’re 2 vocals, 2 instruments, or the combination of the two, all at eminent quality levels.

Dedicated gain controls, as well as separate monitor and headphone volume level knobs, mean that you can easily adjust the most important parameters on the spot.

Pros

Beginner friendly, easy to set up and use
Recording software packs included
Doesn’t require a powerful PC to use with
Direct monitoring
Affordable and very effective

Cons

No MIDI connectivity
Capable of handling only 2 channels at the same time
Limited to home studio use due to the number of inputs

When should you go for the Scarlett 2i2?

This audio interface may just be your best bet if you’re struggling with space on your desk.

If you’re planning on recording multiple instruments or vocals at the same time, the limited number of inputs is definitely a dealbreaker.

However, for general home studio use, recording bass and guitar, or vocals alongside an instrument, the Scarlett 2i2 is definitely an option worth considering.

What makes Scarlett shine?

Focusrite manages to cram all the necessary features while not overcrowding your desk. Being this petite, you can pop the Scarlett 2i2 underneath your monitor, and still be able to have control over all the necessary parameters on the spot.

While the combined instrument/microphone inputs limit you to recording only 2 devices at a time, saving precious space this way seems like a reasonable thing to do.

Capturing as much detail as possible, the sample and conversion rates of the Scarlett 2i2 ensure you end up with a studio-grade recording.

Pair this audio interface with good speakers and headphones, and you’ve got yourself a home recording studio. The balanced output makes for easy monitoring, and the separate channel gain controls allow you to easily adjust all the levels any time.

Thoughts from the users

Most musicians that have used this audio interface have had a positive experience.

“You can definitely rely on the Scarlett 2i2’s performance”

“Recording and producing my own music has never been easier”

The majority of the problems that some people have encountered was only with the software and the setup process.

“Getting it to work with the included software takes time figuring out”

“Using it with other software packs can be problematic”

You might be wondering…?

You can get the Scarlett 2i2 on Amazon for just under $150.

The package includes the audio interface, one XLR cable, and information regarding the download of the software packs.

Scarlett 2i2 features phantom power and can be used with devices that need require it.

Final words

So, should you get the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface?

Well, if you’re looking for a compact and reliable device, capable of recording 2 channels at the same time, definitely go for it. It’s pretty straightforward and simple to use, even for beginners.

If, however, you plan on doing serious recording, that probably requires you to have more space than there is in your average bedroom, you need to look for something more powerful.

The Scarlett 2i2 is definitely one of the best ways you can get into the world of recording music.