Focusrite has launched its Scarlett 4th Gen interface line-up, comprising the Solo, 2i2, 4i4, Solo Studio and 2i2 Studio and claiming better specifications that the prior generation. Key features include Auto Gain, Clip Safe and a re-engineered Air mode.
Among the new features are 120dB dynamic range, provided by using converters from the flagship RedNet range, remote-controlled preamps with 69dB of gain, a re-engineered Air mode with Harmonic Drive and Auto Gain to set recording levels. Also on offer are Clip Safe management of recording levels, redesigned Dynamic Gain Halos with output metering, and a headphone amp. A refreshed’ Easy Start tool, assists set up and recording.
The Scarlett Solo is aimed at singer-songwriters, offering a single mic preamp, a Hi-Z instrument/line input and headphone amp. Solo also features Air mode with Presence and Harmonic Drive for vocals and acoustic instruments. The Scarlett 2i2 offers two remote-controlled mic preamps and two Hi-Z instrument/line inputs for guitars, keys and groove boxes. The 2-input/2-output interface features new like Clip Safe, Auto Gain and Air mode.
For the multi-instrumentalist, the Scarlett 4i4 provides two remote-controlled mic preamps, switchable line or Hi-Z instrument inputs, two fixed line inputs, and four balanced outputs for the flexibility to record mics, guitars and synths. Midi I/O also allows synths and grooveboxes to sync with recording sessions. The 4i4 also includes new features like Clip Safe, Auto Gain and the re-engineered Air mode.
The Scarlett Solo Studio and Scarlett 2i2 Studio packs provide an all-in-one solution for high-quality recording. Including either a Solo or 2i2 interface, CM25 MkIII studio condenser mic and closed-back SH-450 headphones, these bundles have everything needed to start recording studio-quality vocals and instruments
Th 2i2 and 4i4 now feature remote-controlled preamps with 69dB of gain. A custom-designed headphone amp drives high-impedance headphones louder and clearer than any previous Scarlett. In addition, all models now have independent controls for headphones and monitors.
With Auto Gain, users will never have to worry about setting levels again. Just play or sing for ten seconds, and Auto Gain will set the perfect level for recording. Clip Safe monitors levels up to 96,000 times per second and automatically adjusts the gain to prevent clipping, allowing users to fully immerse in performing and not have to worry about their levels. The re-engineered Air mode takes a sound’s unique character and brings it to the front of the mix, for standout vocal or instrument tracks. Air mode includes the original all-analogue Presence mode, plus a new DSP-based Harmonic Drive mode.
The new design includes Neutrik connectors, spacious knob placement, and endless gain knobs on 2i2 and 4i4. The Dynamic Gain Halos make it easy to set and monitor levels. Loopback routes computer audio to DAWs via Scarlett’s virtual inputs. It can also mix Scarlett inputs and computer audio for sampling from other software, streaming and recording flexibility.
Focusrite’s Easy Start tool quickly guides users through set-up, so they’re ready to record with the included Ableton Live Lite and three months of Pro Tools Artist recording software. The Hitmaker Expansion software bundle provides a suite of studio plug-ins from names including Softube, Native Instruments and Antares. Also included are five free masters from Landr that can be used at any time, plus a two-month subscription to Landr Studio, offering and unlimited music distribution on streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music and TikTok.
Focusrite Control 2 is also provided and enables remote control setup and mixing from a PC or Mac.
More: www.focusrite.com