OVERVIEW. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen

OVERVIEW

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing this Third Generation Scarlett 2i2, one of the family of Focusrite professional computer audio interfaces incorporating high quality Focusrite analogue preamps. You now have a simple and compact solution for routing high quality audio to and from your computer and you will also be able to download some exciting new software plug-ins once you’ve registered the product.

In developing the Third Generation series of Scarlett interfaces, we have made further improvements to both performance and features. Audio specifications have been upgraded throughout the unit to give you greater dynamic range and even lower noise and distortion; additionally, the mic preamp now accepts higher input levels. An important enhancement is the inclusion of Focusrite’s AIR function.

Individually selectable on each channel, AIR subtly modifies the preamp’s frequency response to model the sonic characteristics of our classic transformer-based ISA microphone preamps. When recording with good quality microphones, you will notice an enhanced clarity and definition in the important mid to high frequency range, just where it is most needed for vocals and many acoustic instruments. We have also enhanced the Direct Monitor feature found on previous Scarletts: now you can monitor as you record in either mono or stereo, with zero latency. Third Generation Scarlett interfaces are class compliant on macOS: this means they are plug-and-play, so no need to install a driver if you are a Mac user.

This User Guide provides a detailed explanation of the hardware to help you achieve a thorough understanding of the product’s operational features. We recommend that both users who are new to computer-based recording, as well as more experienced users, take the time to read through the

User Guide so that you are fully aware of all the possibilities that the Scarlett 2i2 and accompanying software has to offer. If the main User Guide sections do not provide the information you need, be sure to consult https://support.focusrite.com/ , which contains a comprehensive collection of answers to common technical support queries.

Features

The Scarlett 2i2 hardware interface provides the means for connecting microphones, musical instruments or line level audio signals to a computer running macOS or Windows. The signals at the physical inputs can be routed to your audio recording software / digital audio workstation (referred to throughout this user guide as the “DAW”) at up to 24-bit, 192 kHz resolution; similarly, the DAW’s monitor or recorded output will appear at the unit’s physical outputs.

The physical outputs can be connected to an amplifier and speakers, powered monitors, headphones, analogue mixer or any other analogue audio equipment that you wish to use.

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