Buying either of these Focusrite Scarlett models also give you access to the same bundle of plug-ins and software. This preset assigns a Mix (Custom Mix in Focusrite Control) to each of the interface's analogue outputs. Further new features are specific to the 2i2 and 4i4. The reworked preamps have an impressive 69dB of gain, which we found ideal for low-output mics such as ribbons. The 2i2 and 4i4 preamps also include optional auto gain and clip safe. For further information on using the Ableton software, please view the following tutorial videos: Ableton | Learn Live By default, a Custom Mix is a combination of analogue inputs and DAW 1/2, mixed together. The analogue inputs represent a direct feed from the inputs.

The Scarlett 2i2 and 2i4 are the same in a lot of ways. They both offer the same audio recording quality, microphone support, and usability. This article refers to “ASIO” and “non-ASIO” (sometimes referred to as “WDM”) driver types. For more information about these terms, please see this article. A buffer size that is set in samples equates to a certain amount of time, but that amount of time is dependent on the sample rate (the number of samples recorded per second). The higher the sample rate, the less time (milliseconds) that the buffer size equates to.THD+N 0.0025% (‘A’ weighted measured with 16dB input gain, -1dBFS at output and 22Hz/22kHz bandpass filter) When using Direct Monitor you hear the audio from your recording source before it is passed to the computer, again without input latency in the same way as above - you will however still hear audio passed from the computer regardless. This integrated input design for the gain controls is visualized by the circular lights that wrap around each gain knob. Price

But be warned of phantom power. Just make sure to plug your laptop into an external power source while using these audio interfaces. If you do not do this, then you may hear a 'doubling effect' or echo. This is because you hear the direct sound (before it is passed to the computer) and you hear the same audio that has been processed by the computer afterwards. They are the same interface in terms of looks and functionality, BUT — the latter has more features that offer sound engineers more possibilities whenrecording.Our compact and flexible 2-in, 4-out USB audio interface makes it easy to perform and record studio-quality audio against a cue mix. Take it anywhere, connect and power by USB and get two natural-sounding Scarlett mic preamps, super-low latency, MIDI I/O, four analogue outputs and the same class-leading sound quality and digital conversion as the rest of the Scarlett range. THD+N < 0.01% (‘A’ weighted measured with +16dB input gain -1dBFS at output and 22Hz/22kHz bandpass filter) Focusrite Overview:Scarlett 2i4 is the latest in Focusrite's new generation of USB interfaces alongside the popular 2i2 and other products in the series. This 2-in, 4-out USB audio interface combines affordability, cross-platform operation, a comprehensive feature set and the best audio performance in its class. It's a perfect match for both the musician and the digital DJ - and it comes in an elegant, road-ready anodised aluminium unibody case. This material is both lightweight and strong, allowing them to survive transport and intense studio sessions.

The controls and knobs on the front are also of high quality, made of both aluminum and durable plastic. Your interface is now ready to use! If you're using recording software then make sure you select the Focusrite ASIO driver in the audio settings for that software. The MIDI in/out makes the audio interface compatible with old keyboards and synthesizers. I’d say this feature is necessary for some recording artists and producers.

To reiterate, when setting your buffer size, what you are doing is giving the CPU of your computer a period of time to process audio, before it is passed to and from the interface and the recording software. The 2i2 is lighter and more portable, but compared to the 2i4, it may not enough to make a huge difference. Inputs/Outputs (I/O) Scarlett 2i4 delivers high quality, 24-bit 96kHz audio to and from both Macintosh and Windows computers with USB 2.0 capability - and it's bus powered so you only need to plug in the included USB cable to start making music. This voltage is commonly referred to as phantom power. Note that, even with phantom power on, the mic's signal will still need pre-amplification; the 48V supply is simply there to charge the condenser mic's capsule and power active electronic components. Ribbon Microphones

The latency that you set using your buffer size (and sample rate) is not the latency that impacts the sound by the time it reaches your ears. Other sources of latency include: If these things matter to you, then the 2i4 is the one to get despite the price increase. If not, then the 2i2 is the more affordable way to go. 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.

FOCUSRITE SCARLETT 2I4 AUDIO INTERFACE

As every engineer will tell you, the best practice is to connect all your mics with phantom power turned off, then only engage phantom power on mic channels that need it once they are connected.