Enter the world of unparalleled sound quality and superior performance with our in-depth Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen review. This article aims to provide you a comprehensive analysis of why this incredible audio interface has taken the music industry by storm. So, whether you’re an aspiring musician or an experienced sound engineer, this article promises a wealth of information tailored just for you.
When it comes to top-notch audio interfaces that deliver phenomenal sound quality and unrivaled functionality, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen undoubtedly leads the pack.
Despite its compact size, it boasts an array of impressive features that streamline music production and recording processes, making it a worthy investment for every musician. From its user-friendly interface to unmatched connectivity options – it’s no wonder music enthusiasts worldwide rave about this remarkable machine!
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Protocol | USB 2.0 |
| Form factor | Desktop |
| Simultaneous I/O | 2 x 2 |
| A/D resolution | 24-bit/192 kHz |
| Number of preamps | 2 |
| Phantom power | Yes |
| Inputs | 2 x Instrument/Line/Mic |
| Outputs | 2 x Balanced Line, 1 x Headphone |
| Bus powered | Yes |
| Frequency response | 20Hz – 20kHz ± 0.1dB |
| Dynamic range | Line: 110.5dB (A-weighted) |
| Instrument: 110dB (A-weighted) | |
| Mic: 111dB (A-weighted) | |
| THD+N | Line: <0.002% |
| Instrument: <0.03% | |
| Mic: <0.0012% | |
| Maximum input level | Line: 22dBu |
| Instrument: 12.5dBu | |
| Mic: 9dBu | |
| Gain range | 56dB |
| Supported sample rates | 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz |
| Connectivity | Requires 900mA USB port |
Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen: A Quick Overview
The Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen is a compact desktop audio interface that boasts USB 2.0 connectivity and supports high-resolution audio recording at up to 24-bit/192kHz. It features two versatile preamps with phantom power, dual inputs for instruments, line sources, or microphones, and provides balanced line outputs along with an independent headphone jack.
With a dynamic range exceeding 110dB for most input types and ultra-low distortion levels, it ensures pristine sound quality whether you’re recording music or podcasts. Additionally, its bus-powered design and broad compatibility with various sample rates make it an ideal choice for both studio setups and mobile recording needs.
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Design and Build
The Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen boasts a sleek, desktop-friendly design that seamlessly integrates into any workspace. Its compact form factor not only saves space but also ensures portability.
The sturdy metal chassis provides durability, while the intuitive layout makes it user-friendly for both novices and professionals. With its eye-catching red finish, this USB-powered audio interface combines aesthetic appeal with robust functionality.
The control knobs and inputs are clearly marked and easy to access, ensuring a smooth setup process and operation.
Sound Quality
Sound Quality
The Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen is celebrated for its exceptional sound quality. It features a 24-bit/192 kHz A/D resolution, ensuring pristine audio capture and reproduction.
The frequency response remains impressively flat across the audible range, from 20Hz to 20kHz with only ±0.1dB deviation, allowing for transparent and accurate recordings. With the mic preamps offering a dynamic range of up to 111dB (A-weighted) and low THD+N values, users can expect clean and detailed sound without unwanted noise or distortion.
Both line and instrument inputs maintain high fidelity with minimal harmonic distortion—less than 0.002% for line levels and under 0.03% for instruments—supporting professional-grade audio performance in various recording scenarios.
The robust gain range of up to 56dB further enhances versatility, accommodating a wide array of microphones and instruments while maintaining consistent audio quality. Overall, the Scarlett 2i2 stands out as a reliable interface that delivers superior sound clarity suited for both studio recordings and live performances.
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Unmatched Connectivity
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen prides itself on delivering unmatched connectivity. This is not just a phrase to spark interest, but indeed a fact for anyone needing an audio interface with flexible connection options.
This compact device comes equipped with numerous ports that grant you the versatility you need in today’s diverse music production environments. Here’s what sets it apart:
- USB Protocol: Utilizes USB 2.0 for reliable and efficient data transfer between the Scarlett 2i2 and your computer.
- Bus Powered: The interface is powered directly via the USB connection, requiring a port that supplies 900mA; no additional power supply is needed, making it highly portable.
Inputs:
- 2 x Instrument/Line/Mic Combination Inputs: These versatile inputs allow you to connect microphones, line-level devices, or instruments using standard XLR or 1/4″ jacks.
Outputs
- 2 x Balanced Line Outputs: These outputs are ideal for connecting to monitors or other professional audio equipment, providing a clean signal with reduced noise interference.
- 1 x Headphone Output: A dedicated headphone output lets you monitor your recordings in real-time with zero-latency monitoring.
Audio Conversion Quality
The Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen provides exceptional audio conversion quality, ensuring that recordings are clear and precise. With a high A/D resolution of 24-bit/192 kHz, this audio interface captures every nuance of the sound.
The dynamic range is impressive, offering up to 111dB (A-weighted) for microphones and maintaining low Total Harmonic Distortion plus Noise (THD+N) values across different inputs.
This makes it ideal for professional-level recording where fidelity is paramount. Additionally, the frequency response ranging from 20Hz to 20kHz with minimal deviation ensures that both the low-end bass and high-end treble are accurately represented in all recordings.
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Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High A/D resolution (24-bit/192 kHz) | USB 2.0 may not be as fast as newer protocols |
| Excellent dynamic range across inputs | Limited to 2 inputs and 2 outputs |
| Low distortion levels (THD+N) | Requires a 900mA USB port |
| Built-in phantom power | No MIDI connectivity |
| Compact, desktop-friendly design | Does not support standalone mode |
| Bus powered for portability |
Conclusion
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen is more than just an audio interface. It offers great flexibility to all level users with its functional design and sound quality. Having a compact structure makes it perfect for users on the go while the range of features enhances workflow significantly.
The interface provides unrivaled connectivity options for different music production setups, and the sound quality is nothing short of impressive. However, it’s not exempt from shortcomings, but they are minimal compared to its outstanding performance backed by a warranty of 5 years. No doubt, this device delivers value beyond expectations.
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