The Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 also adds the ability to make virtual audio routes on your computer which can be used to record online meetings like Skype or Zoom directly. It was my first audio interface and I must say that for a beginner I could have not chosen a better one. Right off the bat the build quality is solid, full aluminium, hard plastic, easy intuitive layout, very simple to get used to. At this price point, I think there is no other better option out there, 4ins 4outs and MIDI.

The Focusrite Scarlett 4i4, on the other hand, has four line outputs. Similarly, you can run them separately to get 4 individual mono mixes or as two stereo mixes. Or you can use two of the outputs as a stereo pair for your studio monitors and then run the remaining two as separate mono mixes.Having an audio interface that is engineered to have a MIDI port is ideal if you have plans of using MIDI controllers that use 5-pin DIN cables for connectivity. The big monitor knob works only for the 1 and 2 outputs the 3 and 4 outputs come out as unity gain (0db) so that's something I had to keep in mind of when I was calibrating my monitors. This means you can’t plug a microphone or a guitar directly into them. But you can plug in a keyboard, synthesizer, mixer, or hardware effects into them. And I’ll show you how to make the most use of these inputs later in the article. We found both worked well, although the clip safe option works best with properly set initial gain levels, as it has the potential to make big gain changes in real-time. The 4th gen Scarletts include technical improvements across all interfaces with 120dB dynamic range RedNet A/D converters, a new improved headphone amp, better implementation of knob halo indicators with output metering for the 2i2 and 4i4, and a reworked Air mode.

Should you buy the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 or spend a little more to get the 4i4? Here are some scenarios to help you decide which one to go for. Ultimately, it depends on what you need an audio interface for. If you have a Scarlett 3rd Gen interface, please make sure you update the firmware on your Scarlett first, before connecting it to an iPad. Refer to this article for more information. And if you’ve been doing your research, you probably know that Focusrite Scarlett preamps are one of the most transparent-sounding preamps on audio interfaces. Many hit songs have been recorded with this preamp The main difference between these two audio interfaces from Focusrite Scarlett is the number of line inputs and outputs they come with. Three-Year Warranty — No matter where you are on the globe, you can trust a three-year warranty to cover any necessary repairs or replacements for Focusrite hardware in the event of a manufacturing fault.Play your way. Hook up a mic, guitar and keyboard and make records. 4i4 is studio sound for all your instruments. This way, you will have the two inputs on the front panel free and readily available for microphones or guitars. Hi-Z instrument and line inputs — Connect an electric guitar to either of the 2i2's Hi-Z instrument inputs for an experience that mimics using an amplifier. Alternatively, link up keyboards, synthesizers, and groove boxes to the exceptionally high-quality line inputs. Works great with both platforms Windows / Mac OS. Better with Mac OS, too be honest, and I have read a lot of posts where people had horrible experiences with Windows drivers. So, Mac is the safest way to go here. (although I would love to have a Linux alternative). The Scarlet 4i4 starts giving me acceptable recording levels for dynamic and compression mics at about 50% gain and will start clipping before it reaches 100%. The signal sounds totally clean to me. It has a MIDI port and 2 more channels than the PerSonus 24c (for a higher price). I would prefer an LED bank to the "halo" signal level indicator, but the halo works just fine.

The newest incarnation of the wildly popular audio interface among artists, producers and podcasters alike, the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen Audio Interface offers a new and improved design that's able to adapt to any user or environment with ease. Also, the four outputs on the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 will give you more flexibility when it comes to audio routing. However, note that plug-ins in your recording software (DAW) will not be heard whilst recording. This is because direct monitoring means you are hearing the signal before it reaches the software. But first, let’s take a look at the specification and the different features both interfaces offer. Specifications Attribute Essentially, the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 is a better option than the Scarlett 2i2 if you’d like to expand your home recording or studio setup in the future. ConclusionThere is a pad for the 1 and 2 input that you can control through the software you also use the software to control whether the 1 and 2 inputs are line or instrument. The analogue inputs 3 and 4 can be controlled though the software only they don't have a hardware controls.