Looking at buying a new audio interface for your recording rig?! It might be a good call to seriously look at getting a Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen!
No placebo effect with monitors output. When I switched from an old 2i2 to my Apollo x6, I was blown away (that was pretty obvious as the x6 is a high-end AI, big gap). So pretty sure you got that effect too with a rack unit AI, which usually got better components (and headrooms due to proper power solution). Great video!
Thanks for watching! Yeah, it's something I think it not highlighted enough with newer/nicer interfaces. It was seemingly night and day from my old 2i4 2nd gen to the new 18i20 3rd gen. Everything sounded better!
This looks like exactly what I've been looking for. I plan to use it live as a solo show using reaper and having backing tracks. So having 8 mic inputs was a big deal since I'll need 4 for my guitar amps (stereo pair for clean and stereo pair for lead) as well as a least one for vocals. That's 5 and the other interface I've been looking at was the SSL 12 which only has 4 leaving me one short. It will connect to my macbook pro and I'll use a midi out to run my light show which will be programmed into reaper. So this looks perfect! Also, later when I decide to add my acoustic guitar (which is an electric Taylor) I can use one of the inputs and when I think about also adding my hammered dulcimer I'll still have two mic inputs for it as well. For live this should be perfect on a small one man show! Thank you for the great review!
Thank you bro. Your right. It does sound "tighter". I thought it was me! lol. THANK you for that. I thought I was losing my mind. lol. Its incredible. Thanks again for the content. It was well served bro.
Very great video, I was wondering if I can use it as a sort of live mixer (by using reaper as a daw) to mix all the instruments and to send the audience sound to the PA speakers and it record them for live performance video production and at the same time send several different custom mixes to the musicians IEMs. I’d be glad if you could give me an answer on that
Have the 18i20 almost a year. I updated to an Apollo X8 but can absolutely recommend that Interface. The sound is pretty good and the price is insane. The pres are solid and the build quality insane. Everything is fine with the interface.
As I look at all the interfaces in this range with 8 inputs, so many, like this 18i20 have a major flaw - no independent 48 volt phantom power selection. Either a global switch that affects all the microphone inputs or, like this one, four channels at a time. Now, at a live gig you're unlikely to encounter a condenser mic that needs phantom power so just leave both switches off. However...all it take is for one of the mics to need it switched on and you've now got three inputs that can't be used. So you're down to five mic inputs. Unless you want to take a chance on damaging a dynamic or ribbon mic or having some sort of sound issue with current going into a mic not designed for it. How simple and cheap it would hav been to have switches for each input. I like everything else about the 18i20 but am leaning towards the eleven year old, still in production Roland Octa Capture. Couple old reviews complain of noise - hard to believe that would be a real world issue in a proper mix even though it might show up on test instruments.
Most live gigs are performed with dynamic mics but here's a recent gig I recorded where she had a condenser mic that required 48v power: ruclips.net/video/sw3iNU32Awo/видео.html
@@bobwoolcock Ah cool! Yeah I just ordered the UMC 1820 as well. I had it a few years ago but sold it when the Tascam Model 24 came out. Now I don’t have the space for a big unit and found myself on the hunt. I like that the 1820 requires no drivers to run. It still feels like the best bang for the buck option. I’ll check out the vid for sure! -Joe
Hi Zach great video! So I’ve been considering on upgrading my interface from a behringer umc404hd to the 18i20, but I’ve been having trouble on whether I should save the money and go for the 2nd gen, or just go for the investment to the third gen. I guess my real question is that is there any real difference between these two generations?
I've had the chance to work with a 1st gen, 2nd gen and now my 3rd gen and in my opinion, the difference is pretty noticeable in each generation. If it were me, I'd keep my eye out for a b-stock on Reverb.com and pick up a 3rd gen. I noticed a difference right away just with playback vs my 2nd gen scarlett. The biggest difference between the two in my experience is the sound quality with the ins and outs. Hope that helps!
I have same Behringer and also looking to get 18i20 3rd gen. On a side note. The Behringer is pretty damn good isn’t it? Pretty shocked how good it is. Been using it for about 2 years and love it..
@@BAND-MAID-USA I highly recommend the 18i20 3rd gen! I've been using the heck out of it and it's been perfect for me! And the Behringer, you literally can't beat the price!
Got mines on order, thanks to your insight! Quick question though....Is it possible to hook up an external eq and compressor? I will not be using a mixer with my gear, I mainly want all analog hardware for tweaking my sounds for mastering. Thanks again!
Great question and I actually just released a video showing how to set it up in the DAW. I run my external gear off the extra outputs and inputs. Here is a link to that video. Let me know if you have any other questions! ruclips.net/video/EU_6F3DpTJY/видео.html
@@ZachWirchak That video served two purposes for me; Initially I was looking for wiring setup, but instead, you fulfilled wiring and DAW assistance! You da' Man!!!!
Thanks buddy! Lots of useful insights! Would you still recommend getting one this day? The smaller ones got updated to the 4th generation, so would you recommend waiting toll Gen 4 drops on this baby?
Great question! I still recommend this unit for sure. It's still been perfect since day 1. With the 4th gen it's hard to say... if you don't "need" it right now it might be worth waiting? The only reason I say that is the step up from gen 2 to gen 3 was incredibly noticeable. Is that the case with 3rd to 4th gen tho? But I still feel for the price to performance with this 3rd gen is and will be very hard to beat, especially assuming the 18i20 4th gen will come in at a higher price point.
@@ZachWirchak I'm currently using a 8i6 Gen 2, but I'm building myself a new studio desk, this I why I'm currently considering getting a rack mounted interface. I feel like it could be worth it, especially with the better pre amps. Furthermore I could sell my old 8i6 or just keep it for on the road.
@@MeynbergMusic I kept my 2i4 2nd gen for thar exact same thing. The jump from 2nd to 3rd gen was noticeable to me right away. I do like how clean the preamps are with the 3rd gen. I get the color I want before I hit the interface with my Warm Audio preamp and compressor.
I've seen a few things with people talking about some compatibility issues with the new M1 Macs. I think I saw ways had some updates for plugins for people with M1's.
Do you think we can have high quality recording with the 18i20?, because i heard a lot of people complain about the quality they say the preamp is poor and less detailled? I would like to hear a comparison between the 18i20 3rd gen vs the SSL12 interface, please sir..
I'm super happy with the sound I get from it. I also feel that so much can also come down to the mixing in the box. I will say, most every project I do, the signal touches my analog gear too. I'll see if I can get my hands on a SSL12 and do some sort of comparison video!
I need some help. So I’m looking to get into modular hardware and drum machines etc. Does this interface help me connect all those instruments into my computer to record in Ableton or do I need something else? Some of the few instruments im looking to get are the moog grandmother, (Dfam, Subharmonicon, mother 32), drumlogue, elektron digitakt just so you guys know what im tryna work with.
Thanks for this review. Im new to recording and my brother who is a sound tech bought this for me to get me started. One question that comes up is what kind of head phone jack works with this?
That is awesome! The 2 headphone jacks on the front at 1/4". So depending on what headphones you're using, there is a good chance you'll need a 1/8" to 1/4" adapter.
Hello Zach! Thanks for the review! I use FocusriteI forget which one I use but l’ve been interested in this one you’re reviewing! They’ve gone up in price or you got a great price because Guitar Center is selling these for a little over $500 now, I just don’t think it’s worth this price! Everyone who sells it sells it for this price, even Amazon sells this price!
@@ZachWirchak Everyone selling them on Reverb want too much for them! The lowest is $475! There a tone of them on the reverb site! Why is everyone selling these? I’m suspicious now!
@@ronaldboykin9755 A lot of what you see are brand new units distributors are selling. There are only 8 used units up for sale and that is very little for such a popular unit! I wouldn't let that scare you away from buying one on Reverb!
It's been the perfect addition! Especially when wanting to start using external gear more. Some day I'll upgrade to the Clarett+, but I'll probably always keep the 18i20 as a backup unit or run it with ADAT for the extra flexibility.
I can't full test 20 because I don't have a octo pre or anything running with the ADAT. But of the ones I have available, the main outs are an option on every channel.
Great vid Zach, but i can’t seem to use and record inputs 3-8 at the back, OBS is only getting signals from 1-2 infront… is there something i need to adjust within the Focusrite Control Software?
The way I set mine up for OBS record is, I have headphone 1 left mono and headphone 2 as right mono. And I run those into input 1 and 2. Most of my outputs on the back are used up for offboard gear, but I assume if you assign output 7 as a left and 8 as a right, you'd be doing the same that I'm doing with the front headphone outputs. I also assume you're using Focusrite Control software to route the 18i20?
@@ZachWirchak i’m using OBS to stream Live at Facebook. I’m totally noob here and got lost about that routing in the Focusrite Controls. The thing is, i stumbled upon an article that FBL only accepts the first two Channel inputs, is that legit? Thanks so much for the help and reply. More power bro
@@Worthless99 So what I had to do to stream live to social was the following (this was with my older Focusrite 2i4 which didn't use Focusrite control). I ran my microphone to input 1 which was recognized in OBS like we talked about earlier. Then, I ran output 3 & 4 (RCA) to my mic in on my computer tower (1/8th inch). For that I had a male L+R RCA to male 1/8th inch. Then in Cubase I setup the control panel to send the main DAW stereo to the output 3 & 4. Once in OBS I set up 2 mixer controls, 1 mixer channel was for my mic (focusrite 1+2), and the 2nd channel was stereo output from the DAW (mic in - computer). So my guess would be, if you can run a second output from the 18i20 to the mic in on the computer, then it might work the same. I haven't done a live stream with the 18i20 yet, but I'm sure I'll do one again in the future. Let me know if any or all of that made sense!
@@ZachWirchak just got an idea from your advices, with the 18i20 3rd, i tried putting in the Electric Drums-Guitar-Bass thru 3-5 inputs at the back, then tinkered with the output routing, making them all come out at outputline 3, then plugged it in the front input 2 by a 1/4 jack. it worked at the last minute before the stream went live… the input one is for the mics. And mixed the signals in the FocusControl. Still, so much thanks again bro for your suggestion and idea. Appreciate it. 👍
This is what's annoying me. I've had my 1st generation 18i20 since 2013 and it's never gone wrong once. However, as my skills are updated, I feel I need to update my gear. I already have some new mics for recording guitars, just need a DI box, some drum mics and of course a new interface. The Air feature is what caught my attention on the clarett 8pre. I mainly wanna start recording drums so I need more channels. I'm stuck in a dilema about whether to get the clarret 8pre or the 3rd gen 18i20. I'm a focusrite guy through and through. I just need to see a shootout to see which would be easier for me. Great insight by the way 🤜🤛
That's a great dilemma to be in! The Clarett is the better of the 2, BUT is spending the extra money worth it in the end? Could you use the money saved to get other gear? I looked into the Clarett series myself, but in the end went this this guy because of the b-stock deal I found. And I put that extra cash saved into my analog gear. I figured I'd update my interface again at some point, but my analog gear would be here for a long time, so I got the Scarlett to be able to start working/tracking/mixing with analog gear sooner. That said, I also held myself to a budget... I didn't have to, but I based it off my return as a musician, that I felt no guilt about dropping all that money on a new interface and analog gear!
@@ZachWirchak Based on what I've seen in the reviews, the claret does look a bit easier as you can do it on the board itself instead of the app. I could be wrong. That's what's swinging me towards the claret at the moment. Simplicity is what draws me in. Appreciate the help bro 🤜🙏🤛
does anyone know how to mute inputs 1 & 2? on both my Scarlett and Sapphire interfaces (both have 8 inputs) I can't mute or turn off monitoring. I use reaper and I right click the arm button and the monitoring is not checked.
Have you checked input 1 and 2 in Focusrite Control software? A few times I've had to turn off monitoring input 1, it seemed to have randomly turned on (or I somehow fat fingered it).
I have a few pieces of older outboard gear (Alesis Quadraverb, Intellefex) I suppose I could use along with my new Focusrite 18i20; how would I do so and what would be a benefitting factor?
Yes! I made a couple videos on how to set up external gear with a Focusrite 18i20. The most beneficiary piece of using off board gear for me, is I focus more on getting the sound I want off the bat, other than thinking "I'll just fix it in post". That along with, my external pieces sound better than my plugins. Below are two links:
Great question! I haven't tried it, but I feel it wouldn't have latency issues. Especially if you're buffer size is set to something that can help cut that down.
So if I have keyboard only setup with one master keyboard /workstation for hardware synths (the Roland Fantom) this could be it for me? (MIDI from the Fantom via the interface into DAW and audio as well)
@@ZachWirchakThank you. I want to be sure before I buy. I´m thinking about using the external zones of the Fantom for external gear into DAW and then audio via the same interface.
@@gretareinarsson7461 Yeah, the 18i20 3rd gen has most all the options as the more expensive options on the market. All the sends and returns, midi in/out, ADAT, etc. So you can do most all the same as a unit 4 times the price, those just might just have cleaner preamps and clearer sound. I'd be surprised if the 18i20 couldn't do whatever you needed (within reason).
So I just got one of these and everything seems fine, except the headphone outputs on the front are extremely quiet. I even tried them with IEMs and still very quiet. It also seems to be panned significantly to the left. Do I have a faulty headphone amp in my interface?
Interesting... Do you have Focus Control installed? Are both headphone outputs having the same problem? My first guess would be something in Focus Control isn't set right. Maybe the outputs are in mono? Are they assigned to the correct output from your DAW? I'm just typing down some ideas while I'm not home near my interface.
@@ZachWirchak yes, it’s both headphone outputs. I plugged it up to the outputs in the back just to see what it would do and they are much louder. I do have Focus Control and I’ve tried reinstalling it more than once after watching another video from someone who said that fixed his problem. I think it’s playing in stereo, although it’s hard to tell because of the low volume. I’ve been planning on running it through a headphone amp to hear what’s going on a little better. It could also be user error, since Focus Control is still very new to me but everything else in the software has worked as it should so far.
@@ProphesytotheWind maybe to see if it is in stereo, add a track or instrument withbaudio in your DAW, then with the headphones on, pan left and right to see if it tracks that way in the headphones.
@@ZachWirchak it did pan left and right but not evenly, if that makes sense. I tried panning on my DAW with a song as well as Focusrite Control with one of my yt videos and they both responded about the same.
@@ZachWirchak I just tried my condenser mic in channel 1 and guitar in channel 2 and activated the 48V and worked fine, it's an old Scarlett 2i2, I assume the circuitry will be the same in the 18i20 ?
With both having ADAT, you should be able to. I'm guessing you'll just need to set both up correctly in Focusrite Control or Mix Control. I did a little digging out of curiosity and it looks like people do it semi often. Here is a link to an article on Focusrites website that might help! support.focusrite.com/hc/en-gb/articles/207545975-Using-two-1st-Gen-Scarlett-18i20s-Pro-40s-to-increase-your-channel-count
Are you talking about any particular interfaces? Components like preamps, circuitry, build quality and all that can add up to sound different from each other.
I would still choose the Focusrite for what I need/want it for. It has a few more options that are handy especially the LED level read out on the front. I've owned about 5 pieces of Behringer gear over the past 15 years and 2 of them died on me. So I'm always a little hesitant to buy Behringer, BUT, they are very affordable and can do the job. I've used 3 pieces of Focusrite gear over the past 10 years and they've always worked perfectly. For me, I spend a lot of time working on music, so the extra $300 for 15-30 hours a week for years for a better unit is worth it.
Hi there, Im interested in purchasing the Focusrite 18/i20 3rd gen. I have a qustion. I have and still use the digi 003 rack factory audio interface and ive had it since '99. Today I wanted to connect my external sampler (the novation circuit rhythm) to the input and was not getting any sound. Even when open my preferred daw which is reason. I used to use pro tools and had its perpetual license and it expired never looked back again. The avid coreaudio driver still works. I havent used to the inputs in the rear panel meaning I havent connected an external hardware to the inputs in so long I cant remember the last time. Like I said I wasnt getting sound from my sampler thruogh the audio interface and im wondering if it has to do with renwing my pro tools license. I know avid could do such things to make people buy their products. But then again I could be wrong about that. Anyways here is my question, does this focusrite 18/i20 3rd gen work with any daw and not have to be licensed by a daw to use the audio interface?
That's very interesting that you'd have that problem! But with the Focusrite you should have any problem with it working with any DAW. Anytime I've hook the 18i20 3rd Gen or my 2i4 2nd Gen to any computer/DAW, it's recognized without a hitch!
@@ZachWirchakHey Zach thank you for your response. I might also purchase one of the their smaller models like the Scarlett solo for when im traveling and want to make some music on the go.
@@ivanvelez7668 I bought my 2i4 in 2018 I believe? And the 18i20 last year. I use both of them everyday. The 2i4 I use on my video editing computer with a pair of Kali Audio LP6's. And the 18i20 is for my music production rig.
If the budget isn't an issue, then I'd say go with the Clarett. It is a better unit in the end, but the Scarlett punches above it's weight for sure. My biggest complaint about the Scarlett is always wondering if I should get the Clarett...
@@ZachWirchak what do you record and how if I may ask? Im trying to record all my synths and drum machines live and I will be not using any mics maybe just one. My current audio interface is tascam model 12 but I would want to expand it with focusrite. I think it will be no porblem to use both audio interface on windows. Model 12 has no ADAT.
@@Judasz696 I record a little bit of everything. But most of the time I'm tracking just 1 or maybe stereo signals. I use most of the in/outs on my Focusrite for my off board gear. With my 3 keyboards I use 2 via USB and 1 via midi with the Focusrite and I use in the box plugins for synth/keyboard sounds. I can't comment on using both at the same time in windows/your DAW, I've always been a 1 interface guy. What DAW are you running?
Pretty much plug and play. My PC recognized is right away and made it the main playback device. The only thing I really needed to add was the focusrite control which is a super handy PC app.
Here is a link: support.focusrite.com/hc/en-gb/articles/206850129-How-do-I-use-all-18-inputs-on-the-Scarlett-18i20-#:~:text=To%20do%20this%20with%20a,at%20the%20same%20sample%20rate.&text=Input%201%2D8%3A%20Analogue%20inputs,11%2D18%3A%20ADAT%20inputs.
Thanks for the feedback. I've been trying to be more conscious of the music level. When I first started making these videos, I think I was subconsciously trying to hide my voice!
Don't buy one, has white noise issues especially when plugging in instrument TRS cables. This is ok for beginners but not for professionals like myself. I have ordered the Clarrett as the mic preamps are much better.
All interfaces will have a noise floor, this is inherent within electrical components as all electronics generate noise. The noise floor is the sum of the noise each component generates. So when you turn the gain up on the Scarlett you are adding gain to the input signal but also adding gain to the noise floor. It will start to become evident after roughly 12 o'clock on the Scarlett interfaces. This noise will then disappear as you turn the gain dial back to 0. Furthermore this noise will be particularly apparent when there is nothing plugged in to the Scarlett as you are essentially amplifying static as well as the noise floor. For a truer representation of the noise floor alone you need to terminate the input, this can be done by plugging in a condenser microphone (such as the CM25) into one of the inputs but then leaving the phantom power (48V) turned off then adjusting the gain on that channel only. You will then hear the noise floor without any of the static and it should be a lot lower in volume. This is a truer representation of the noise floor.
An “ indicator” of an immature or weak chef…. Is neither knows when to stop adding extra bullshit into the soup…… I keep having to turn off the video to figure out where that bullshit background music/noise/bullshit. Was coming from…. OHHHH …it’s part of the video… IF ITS NOT ACTUALLY A VAULE ADD….. it’s a value minus
Looking at buying a new audio interface for your recording rig?! It might be a good call to seriously look at getting a Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen!
I have the Scarlett 18i20 and the focusrite 40. My iMac is not working, I heard you can hook up w/o the FireWire.is that true?
@@williamkelley4728 I believe if you used the Focusrite 40's as an ADAT extension to the 18i20, then you could run the 18i20 via the USB.
@@ZachWirchak what USB d0es it use
@@yowassupbachee1ett It uses a USB-C to USB-A cable. The unit itself is the USB-C.
Glad you're enjoying it, Zach. Thanks for taking the time to create this 🙌🙏
Thank you for a great product! People seem to really resonate with Focusrite. Any video I do, always performs great on the channel!
Thanks for the review man. I appreciate the insight
Thanks for watching!
I am considering making a similar jump from Scarlett Solo to this! Thanks for the review man!
No problem! For me, the jump was 1000% worth it!
No placebo effect with monitors output. When I switched from an old 2i2 to my Apollo x6, I was blown away (that was pretty obvious as the x6 is a high-end AI, big gap). So pretty sure you got that effect too with a rack unit AI, which usually got better components (and headrooms due to proper power solution). Great video!
Thanks for watching! Yeah, it's something I think it not highlighted enough with newer/nicer interfaces. It was seemingly night and day from my old 2i4 2nd gen to the new 18i20 3rd gen. Everything sounded better!
@@ZachWirchak I can bet! Being happy with our gear is all that matters. Have fun producing!
@@manaberry Agreed 1000%! Happy producing to you too! I checked out some of you vids! Great stuff!
Great review man, thank you.
Thank you! Glad you liked it!
This looks like exactly what I've been looking for. I plan to use it live as a solo show using reaper and having backing tracks. So having 8 mic inputs was a big deal since I'll need 4 for my guitar amps (stereo pair for clean and stereo pair for lead) as well as a least one for vocals. That's 5 and the other interface I've been looking at was the SSL 12 which only has 4 leaving me one short. It will connect to my macbook pro and I'll use a midi out to run my light show which will be programmed into reaper. So this looks perfect! Also, later when I decide to add my acoustic guitar (which is an electric Taylor) I can use one of the inputs and when I think about also adding my hammered dulcimer I'll still have two mic inputs for it as well. For live this should be perfect on a small one man show! Thank you for the great review!
Great video. Thanks man
Thank you for the kind words and watching!
Thank you bro. Your right. It does sound "tighter". I thought it was me! lol. THANK you for that. I thought I was losing my mind. lol. Its incredible. Thanks again for the content. It was well served bro.
Thanks for watching! 👍
Very great video, I was wondering if I can use it as a sort of live mixer (by using reaper as a daw) to mix all the instruments and to send the audience sound to the PA speakers and it record them for live performance video production and at the same time send several different custom mixes to the musicians IEMs. I’d be glad if you could give me an answer on that
Have the 18i20 almost a year. I updated to an Apollo X8 but can absolutely recommend that Interface. The sound is pretty good and the price is insane. The pres are solid and the build quality insane. Everything is fine with the interface.
I've heard nothing great things about the Apollo's top to bottom. I'm excited to try one out sometime soon!
@@ZachWirchak the Apollo is one of the beste AD/DA under $3500. This is crazy.
2nd year in to mine - love it.
A great unit for the price! I've debated getting something higher end, but this does the job so well, I can't justify spending thousands more.
Perfect for my hybrid set up with Traktor and Ableton. 😇
Heck yes! It's perfect for my hybrid setup as well!
@@ZachWirchak 🙏🏽🙏🏽
As I look at all the interfaces in this range with 8 inputs, so many, like this 18i20 have a major flaw - no independent 48 volt phantom power selection. Either a global switch that affects all the microphone inputs or, like this one, four channels at a time. Now, at a live gig you're unlikely to encounter a condenser mic that needs phantom power so just leave both switches off. However...all it take is for one of the mics to need it switched on and you've now got three inputs that can't be used. So you're down to five mic inputs. Unless you want to take a chance on damaging a dynamic or ribbon mic or having some sort of sound issue with current going into a mic not designed for it. How simple and cheap it would hav been to have switches for each input. I like everything else about the 18i20 but am leaning towards the eleven year old, still in production Roland Octa Capture. Couple old reviews complain of noise - hard to believe that would be a real world issue in a proper mix even though it might show up on test instruments.
That is truly a great break down. It would be nice to have independent 48 phantom on each channel.
Most dynamic and new ribbon mics can handle phantom power.
@@whiteshedrecordings I finally decided on the UMC 1820. Here's a recent gig I recorded with it:
ruclips.net/video/c5WhtDwAyFM/видео.html
Most live gigs are performed with dynamic mics but here's a recent gig I recorded where she had a condenser mic that required 48v power:
ruclips.net/video/sw3iNU32Awo/видео.html
@@bobwoolcock Ah cool! Yeah I just ordered the UMC 1820 as well. I had it a few years ago but sold it when the Tascam Model 24 came out. Now I don’t have the space for a big unit and found myself on the hunt. I like that the 1820 requires no drivers to run. It still feels like the best bang for the buck option. I’ll check out the vid for sure!
-Joe
Hi Zach great video! So I’ve been considering on upgrading my interface from a behringer umc404hd to the 18i20, but I’ve been having trouble on whether I should save the money and go for the 2nd gen, or just go for the investment to the third gen. I guess my real question is that is there any real difference between these two generations?
I've had the chance to work with a 1st gen, 2nd gen and now my 3rd gen and in my opinion, the difference is pretty noticeable in each generation. If it were me, I'd keep my eye out for a b-stock on Reverb.com and pick up a 3rd gen. I noticed a difference right away just with playback vs my 2nd gen scarlett. The biggest difference between the two in my experience is the sound quality with the ins and outs. Hope that helps!
@@ZachWirchak sounds good, thank you so much for writing back!
@@mikey1963 absolutely! Best of luck!
I have same Behringer and also looking to get 18i20 3rd gen. On a side note. The Behringer is pretty damn good isn’t it? Pretty shocked how good it is. Been using it for about 2 years and love it..
@@BAND-MAID-USA I highly recommend the 18i20 3rd gen! I've been using the heck out of it and it's been perfect for me! And the Behringer, you literally can't beat the price!
Definitely be getting me hbd soon. Update mines I have the first gen get one in few weeks to update my studio interface
Nice! The 3rd gen is great!
Got mines on order, thanks to your insight! Quick question though....Is it possible to hook up an external eq and compressor? I will not be using a mixer with my gear, I mainly want all analog hardware for tweaking my sounds for mastering. Thanks again!
Great question and I actually just released a video showing how to set it up in the DAW. I run my external gear off the extra outputs and inputs. Here is a link to that video. Let me know if you have any other questions!
ruclips.net/video/EU_6F3DpTJY/видео.html
@@ZachWirchak That video served two purposes for me; Initially I was looking for wiring setup, but instead, you fulfilled wiring and DAW assistance! You da' Man!!!!
@@bflatfive9456 yes!!! So glad it helped! Hope you enjoy your new interface!!!
Thanks buddy! Lots of useful insights! Would you still recommend getting one this day? The smaller ones got updated to the 4th generation, so would you recommend waiting toll Gen 4 drops on this baby?
Great question! I still recommend this unit for sure. It's still been perfect since day 1. With the 4th gen it's hard to say... if you don't "need" it right now it might be worth waiting? The only reason I say that is the step up from gen 2 to gen 3 was incredibly noticeable. Is that the case with 3rd to 4th gen tho? But I still feel for the price to performance with this 3rd gen is and will be very hard to beat, especially assuming the 18i20 4th gen will come in at a higher price point.
@@ZachWirchak I'm currently using a 8i6 Gen 2, but I'm building myself a new studio desk, this I why I'm currently considering getting a rack mounted interface. I feel like it could be worth it, especially with the better pre amps. Furthermore I could sell my old 8i6 or just keep it for on the road.
@@MeynbergMusic I kept my 2i4 2nd gen for thar exact same thing. The jump from 2nd to 3rd gen was noticeable to me right away. I do like how clean the preamps are with the 3rd gen. I get the color I want before I hit the interface with my Warm Audio preamp and compressor.
Upgraded to an M1 Mac and wasn’t able to use my Focusrite Safire Pro 40, I guess I can still adat link it for more ins&out
I've seen a few things with people talking about some compatibility issues with the new M1 Macs. I think I saw ways had some updates for plugins for people with M1's.
Nice Review my friend! My question is: Would it work with a presonus DAW? (studio one five) I am not buying any Presonus products in the future!!!
Thank you for the kind words! And yes, this interface should work with any DAW.
Do you think we can have high quality recording with the 18i20?, because i heard a lot of people complain about the quality they say the preamp is poor and less detailled? I would like to hear a comparison between the 18i20 3rd gen vs the SSL12 interface, please sir..
I'm super happy with the sound I get from it. I also feel that so much can also come down to the mixing in the box. I will say, most every project I do, the signal touches my analog gear too. I'll see if I can get my hands on a SSL12 and do some sort of comparison video!
I need some help. So I’m looking to get into modular hardware and drum machines etc. Does this interface help me connect all those instruments into my computer to record in Ableton or do I need something else? Some of the few instruments im looking to get are the moog grandmother, (Dfam, Subharmonicon, mother 32), drumlogue, elektron digitakt just so you guys know what im tryna work with.
Thanks for this review. Im new to recording and my brother who is a sound tech bought this for me to get me started. One question that comes up is what kind of head phone jack works with this?
That is awesome! The 2 headphone jacks on the front at 1/4". So depending on what headphones you're using, there is a good chance you'll need a 1/8" to 1/4" adapter.
@@ZachWirchak thanks!!
@@dawnmorris3996 no problem! Enjoy the unit!
Yo Zach, what's up Jack! Big ups on the video Bro! Is that a USB-C connection on the back?
Yup! The USB-C connection point is on the back.
@@ZachWirchak Cool beans, thanks!
@@bflatfive9456 No problem!
Hello Zach! Thanks for the review! I use FocusriteI forget which one I use but l’ve been interested in this one you’re reviewing! They’ve gone up in price or you got a great price because Guitar Center is selling these for a little over $500 now, I just don’t think it’s worth this price! Everyone who sells it sells it for this price, even Amazon sells this price!
I love my 18i20! I was able to find a B-Stock on Reverb.com - So if you're looking to pick one up, maybe check out Reverb.com to see what's available!
@@ZachWirchak Ok, forgot about Reverb! I look around! Thanks!
@@ZachWirchak Everyone selling them on Reverb want too much for them! The lowest is $475! There a tone of them on the reverb site! Why is everyone selling these? I’m suspicious now!
@@ronaldboykin9755 A lot of what you see are brand new units distributors are selling. There are only 8 used units up for sale and that is very little for such a popular unit! I wouldn't let that scare you away from buying one on Reverb!
@@ZachWirchak Ok! Thanks!
S'il vous plaît, puis-je couper le son provenant directement des haut-parleurs ?
Thanks for the review, I was in the same position as you. Had the 2i4 but needed more inputs. Also wanted to go rack mounted. Thanks
It's been the perfect addition! Especially when wanting to start using external gear more. Some day I'll upgrade to the Clarett+, but I'll probably always keep the 18i20 as a backup unit or run it with ADAT for the extra flexibility.
@@ZachWirchak thanks again Dude
After 2 years are you still using the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20? or moved/upgraded to something else? Thanks Zach
I'm still rocking it! It been perfect from day one. I would still recommend the unit 100%!
3:25 In Focusrite Control, is it possible to route all 20 Software (DAW) Playback streams to the Main Monitor Outputs for monitoring? Thanks.
I can't full test 20 because I don't have a octo pre or anything running with the ADAT. But of the ones I have available, the main outs are an option on every channel.
At 6:00 scratched around the USB port - thats funny and so typical
Haha! And the beauty of buying B-Stock!
I am only able to record on channel one can you tell me why I am not able to do on all channel
Great vid Zach, but i can’t seem to use and record inputs 3-8 at the back, OBS is only getting signals from 1-2 infront… is there something i need to adjust within the Focusrite Control Software?
The way I set mine up for OBS record is, I have headphone 1 left mono and headphone 2 as right mono. And I run those into input 1 and 2. Most of my outputs on the back are used up for offboard gear, but I assume if you assign output 7 as a left and 8 as a right, you'd be doing the same that I'm doing with the front headphone outputs. I also assume you're using Focusrite Control software to route the 18i20?
@@ZachWirchak i’m using OBS to stream Live at Facebook. I’m totally noob here and got lost about that routing in the Focusrite Controls. The thing is, i stumbled upon an article that FBL only accepts the first two Channel inputs, is that legit? Thanks so much for the help and reply. More power bro
@@Worthless99 So what I had to do to stream live to social was the following (this was with my older Focusrite 2i4 which didn't use Focusrite control). I ran my microphone to input 1 which was recognized in OBS like we talked about earlier. Then, I ran output 3 & 4 (RCA) to my mic in on my computer tower (1/8th inch). For that I had a male L+R RCA to male 1/8th inch. Then in Cubase I setup the control panel to send the main DAW stereo to the output 3 & 4. Once in OBS I set up 2 mixer controls, 1 mixer channel was for my mic (focusrite 1+2), and the 2nd channel was stereo output from the DAW (mic in - computer). So my guess would be, if you can run a second output from the 18i20 to the mic in on the computer, then it might work the same. I haven't done a live stream with the 18i20 yet, but I'm sure I'll do one again in the future. Let me know if any or all of that made sense!
@@ZachWirchak just got an idea from your advices, with the 18i20 3rd, i tried putting in the Electric Drums-Guitar-Bass thru 3-5 inputs at the back, then tinkered with the output routing, making them all come out at outputline 3, then plugged it in the front input 2 by a 1/4 jack. it worked at the last minute before the stream went live… the input one is for the mics. And mixed the signals in the FocusControl. Still, so much thanks again bro for your suggestion and idea. Appreciate it. 👍
@@Worthless99 Sweet! Glad you got something setup that worked for you! The 18i20 is pretty powerful with routing, I'm still learning myself!
Has anyone had issues with the USB connection? Want to buy the sapphire for a windows pc but don’t want there to be a connectivity or latency issue.
I haven't worked with the Sapphire at all. But on the 18i20 3rd Gen, I haven't had any connection issues and my latency sits at 3ms. 🤘
This is what's annoying me. I've had my 1st generation 18i20 since 2013 and it's never gone wrong once. However, as my skills are updated, I feel I need to update my gear. I already have some new mics for recording guitars, just need a DI box, some drum mics and of course a new interface.
The Air feature is what caught my attention on the clarett 8pre. I mainly wanna start recording drums so I need more channels. I'm stuck in a dilema about whether to get the clarret 8pre or the 3rd gen 18i20. I'm a focusrite guy through and through. I just need to see a shootout to see which would be easier for me.
Great insight by the way 🤜🤛
That's a great dilemma to be in! The Clarett is the better of the 2, BUT is spending the extra money worth it in the end? Could you use the money saved to get other gear? I looked into the Clarett series myself, but in the end went this this guy because of the b-stock deal I found. And I put that extra cash saved into my analog gear. I figured I'd update my interface again at some point, but my analog gear would be here for a long time, so I got the Scarlett to be able to start working/tracking/mixing with analog gear sooner. That said, I also held myself to a budget... I didn't have to, but I based it off my return as a musician, that I felt no guilt about dropping all that money on a new interface and analog gear!
@@ZachWirchak Based on what I've seen in the reviews, the claret does look a bit easier as you can do it on the board itself instead of the app. I could be wrong. That's what's swinging me towards the claret at the moment. Simplicity is what draws me in.
Appreciate the help bro 🤜🙏🤛
@@tombrookes2923 No problem! I hope you enjoy which ever you go with! Let me know how it works out!
@@ZachWirchak Certainly will my good man. Won't be for a fair few months though as I'm still paying some debts off 🤦😭
@@tombrookes2923 Well hopefully that time will be here in a blink of an eye and you'll be rocking it in no time!
does anyone know how to mute inputs 1 & 2? on both my Scarlett and Sapphire interfaces (both have 8 inputs) I can't mute or turn off monitoring. I use reaper and I right click the arm button and the monitoring is not checked.
Have you checked input 1 and 2 in Focusrite Control software? A few times I've had to turn off monitoring input 1, it seemed to have randomly turned on (or I somehow fat fingered it).
is it better than evo 16 ?
I have a few pieces of older outboard gear (Alesis Quadraverb, Intellefex) I suppose I could use along with my new Focusrite 18i20; how would I do so and what would be a benefitting factor?
Yes! I made a couple videos on how to set up external gear with a Focusrite 18i20. The most beneficiary piece of using off board gear for me, is I focus more on getting the sound I want off the bat, other than thinking "I'll just fix it in post". That along with, my external pieces sound better than my plugins. Below are two links:
how to setup Focusrite 18i20 with Warm Audio WA73-EQ: ruclips.net/video/LP0XBAJutws/видео.html
How I use Cubase to setup external gear: ruclips.net/video/EU_6F3DpTJY/видео.html
@@ZachWirchak Great, thx!
@@genghiskhanii6646 No problem!
If I chain one of these to an apollo twin x through optical connection. You think I would have latency or interaction issues besides the DSP stuff?
Great question! I haven't tried it, but I feel it wouldn't have latency issues. Especially if you're buffer size is set to something that can help cut that down.
@@ZachWirchak thank you. I appreciate the help 💯
But does it have loopback like the 8i6
So if I have keyboard only setup with one master keyboard /workstation for hardware synths (the Roland Fantom) this could be it for me? (MIDI from the Fantom via the interface into DAW and audio as well)
Yup! I run an off-board Yamaha synth via midi along with a drum machine with this interface. My other 3 keyboards run usb.
@@ZachWirchakThank you. I want to be sure before I buy. I´m thinking about using the external zones of the Fantom for external gear into DAW and then audio via the same interface.
@@gretareinarsson7461 Yeah, the 18i20 3rd gen has most all the options as the more expensive options on the market. All the sends and returns, midi in/out, ADAT, etc. So you can do most all the same as a unit 4 times the price, those just might just have cleaner preamps and clearer sound. I'd be surprised if the 18i20 couldn't do whatever you needed (within reason).
So I just got one of these and everything seems fine, except the headphone outputs on the front are extremely quiet. I even tried them with IEMs and still very quiet. It also seems to be panned significantly to the left. Do I have a faulty headphone amp in my interface?
Interesting... Do you have Focus Control installed? Are both headphone outputs having the same problem? My first guess would be something in Focus Control isn't set right. Maybe the outputs are in mono? Are they assigned to the correct output from your DAW? I'm just typing down some ideas while I'm not home near my interface.
@@ZachWirchak yes, it’s both headphone outputs. I plugged it up to the outputs in the back just to see what it would do and they are much louder. I do have Focus Control and I’ve tried reinstalling it more than once after watching another video from someone who said that fixed his problem. I think it’s playing in stereo, although it’s hard to tell because of the low volume. I’ve been planning on running it through a headphone amp to hear what’s going on a little better. It could also be user error, since Focus Control is still very new to me but everything else in the software has worked as it should so far.
@@ProphesytotheWind maybe to see if it is in stereo, add a track or instrument withbaudio in your DAW, then with the headphones on, pan left and right to see if it tracks that way in the headphones.
@@ZachWirchak thanks, sure will. I have a song that has the guitar track ping ponging back and forth, so I’ll try it.
@@ZachWirchak it did pan left and right but not evenly, if that makes sense. I tried panning on my DAW with a song as well as Focusrite Control with one of my yt videos and they both responded about the same.
Are u sure this isn’t the 2nd Gen? I didn’t know they upgraded the 18i20
Can you turn on and off the 48volt for each channel, it shows buttons for 48 volt 1-4 & 5-8
Unfortunately it only controls them in those 2 stages.
@@ZachWirchak Thanks for the fast response, I was ready to buy one but that’s the one problem I’m having with it….
@@ZachWirchak I just tried my condenser mic in channel 1 and guitar in channel 2 and activated the 48V and worked fine, it's an old Scarlett 2i2, I assume the circuitry will be the same in the 18i20 ?
6:01 lol the struggle of inserting a cable
Haha! 100%!
wonder why their is no clarett 18i20
CAN WE PAIR 18I20 TO PRO40? USING SCARLETT AS FOR AD AND MONITORING AND FOR MIC PREAMP PRO40
With both having ADAT, you should be able to. I'm guessing you'll just need to set both up correctly in Focusrite Control or Mix Control. I did a little digging out of curiosity and it looks like people do it semi often. Here is a link to an article on Focusrites website that might help! support.focusrite.com/hc/en-gb/articles/207545975-Using-two-1st-Gen-Scarlett-18i20s-Pro-40s-to-increase-your-channel-count
@@ZachWirchak thanks man 👍🙏
@@studio440hzz4 no problem!
Whats the length measurement without the rack thingy?
It measures a hair under 19" so it can fit into a 19" rack space when the rack flanges are added to it.
What’s the difference between high end audio interfaces ???
Are you talking about any particular interfaces? Components like preamps, circuitry, build quality and all that can add up to sound different from each other.
This thing sucks for dawless music making. Sent it back after 1 day. Anyone have better recommendations?
Is it worth the $300 more over the Behringer U-Phoria UMC1820?
I would still choose the Focusrite for what I need/want it for. It has a few more options that are handy especially the LED level read out on the front. I've owned about 5 pieces of Behringer gear over the past 15 years and 2 of them died on me. So I'm always a little hesitant to buy Behringer, BUT, they are very affordable and can do the job. I've used 3 pieces of Focusrite gear over the past 10 years and they've always worked perfectly. For me, I spend a lot of time working on music, so the extra $300 for 15-30 hours a week for years for a better unit is worth it.
@@ZachWirchak Thanks. I have heard others say the same thing about Behringer so I think I'd go with the Focusrite.
@realdemonsofpopculture Excellent! I think you'll be very happy with it!
Hi there, Im interested in purchasing the Focusrite 18/i20 3rd gen. I have a qustion. I have and still use the digi 003 rack factory audio interface and ive had it since '99. Today I wanted to connect my external sampler (the novation circuit rhythm) to the input and was not getting any sound. Even when open my preferred daw which is reason. I used to use pro tools and had its perpetual license and it expired never looked back again. The avid coreaudio driver still works. I havent used to the inputs in the rear panel meaning I havent connected an external hardware to the inputs in so long I cant remember the last time. Like I said I wasnt getting sound from my sampler thruogh the audio interface and im wondering if it has to do with renwing my pro tools license. I know avid could do such things to make people buy their products. But then again I could be wrong about that.
Anyways here is my question, does this focusrite 18/i20 3rd gen work with any daw and not have to be licensed by a daw to use the audio interface?
That's very interesting that you'd have that problem! But with the Focusrite you should have any problem with it working with any DAW. Anytime I've hook the 18i20 3rd Gen or my 2i4 2nd Gen to any computer/DAW, it's recognized without a hitch!
@@ZachWirchakHey Zach thank you for your response. I might also purchase one of the their smaller models like the Scarlett solo for when im traveling and want to make some music on the go.
@@ivanvelez7668 heck yes!!! That is what I use my 2i4 for these days.
@@ZachWirchak where did you purchase the 2 focusrite interfaces? Cause was thinking of purchasing it from amazon since they have in stock.
@@ivanvelez7668 I bought my 2i4 in 2018 I believe? And the 18i20 last year. I use both of them everyday. The 2i4 I use on my video editing computer with a pair of Kali Audio LP6's. And the 18i20 is for my music production rig.
Can you multi-track record all 8 channels?
Yup! There are 2 inputs on the front and the other 6 are located in the back.
is it worth to get clarett 8pre instead? From a bedroom studio perspective?
If the budget isn't an issue, then I'd say go with the Clarett. It is a better unit in the end, but the Scarlett punches above it's weight for sure. My biggest complaint about the Scarlett is always wondering if I should get the Clarett...
@@ZachWirchak what do you record and how if I may ask? Im trying to record all my synths and drum machines live and I will be not using any mics maybe just one. My current audio interface is tascam model 12 but I would want to expand it with focusrite. I think it will be no porblem to use both audio interface on windows. Model 12 has no ADAT.
@@Judasz696 I record a little bit of everything. But most of the time I'm tracking just 1 or maybe stereo signals. I use most of the in/outs on my Focusrite for my off board gear. With my 3 keyboards I use 2 via USB and 1 via midi with the Focusrite and I use in the box plugins for synth/keyboard sounds. I can't comment on using both at the same time in windows/your DAW, I've always been a 1 interface guy. What DAW are you running?
@@ZachWirchak running ableton 11 on Windows.
Was it plug and play? Mac, Windows? ASIO driver?
Pretty much plug and play. My PC recognized is right away and made it the main playback device. The only thing I really needed to add was the focusrite control which is a super handy PC app.
@@ZachWirchak ASIO driver download?
Goat
🔥🔥🔥
How is it 18i20 when it has only 8 input ports? I know that 2i2 & 4i4 has what it says 2 input 2 output & vice versa. But this has only 8 inputs.
Great question! When you add an external ADAT device, you can add more ins and outs. But the 18i20 is the brains of it all.
Here is a link: support.focusrite.com/hc/en-gb/articles/206850129-How-do-I-use-all-18-inputs-on-the-Scarlett-18i20-#:~:text=To%20do%20this%20with%20a,at%20the%20same%20sample%20rate.&text=Input%201%2D8%3A%20Analogue%20inputs,11%2D18%3A%20ADAT%20inputs.
What's the name of the site you bought it from??
I bought mine from Reverb.com. It was a B-Stock but was in perfect condition with all the documentation and cable. Saved me hundreds of dollars!
@@ZachWirchak thanks 🙏
@@StomerMadGermzOfficial no problem!
Can you connect 4 monitors and 1 sub to this interface
You can actually set it up for 5.1 surround sound mixing! So yes you can use multiple monitors and a sub together.
@@ZachWirchak awesome man thanks for the info I’m gonna go pick it up today
@@OGTAP43 Nice! I still love mine! For the price and flexibility, it's hard to beat!
@@ZachWirchak I just bought the Apollo twin
@@OGTAP43 I have a couple buddies who have the Apollo Twin and they love it!
Small thing, I wear hearing aids, the music sounds like a clock radio is on. I just want to hear the voice
Thanks for the feedback. I've been trying to be more conscious of the music level. When I first started making these videos, I think I was subconsciously trying to hide my voice!
5:57 Stevie Wonder tried to plug to plug in the USB.
Lol! The beauty of buying b-stock gear.
Got a Scarlett and I'm not impressed. It lacks top end and sounds digital in a cheap way. It sucks.
Sorry to hear! Out of curiosity, what sample rate and bit depth are you working with?
Offboard huh?
Yuppers!
Homey is a boater
outboard.
Don't buy one, has white noise issues especially when plugging in instrument TRS cables. This is ok for beginners but not for professionals like myself. I have ordered the Clarrett as the mic preamps are much better.
That's too bad! I haven't had any of those issues with mine. It's been nothing but fantastic. The Clarrett line is rad. What one did you order?
All interfaces will have a noise floor, this is inherent within electrical components as all electronics generate noise. The noise floor is the sum of the noise each component generates. So when you turn the gain up on the Scarlett you are adding gain to the input signal but also adding gain to the noise floor. It will start to become evident after roughly 12 o'clock on the Scarlett interfaces.
This noise will then disappear as you turn the gain dial back to 0. Furthermore this noise will be particularly apparent when there is nothing plugged in to the Scarlett as you are essentially amplifying static as well as the noise floor. For a truer representation of the noise floor alone you need to terminate the input, this can be done by plugging in a condenser microphone (such as the CM25) into one of the inputs but then leaving the phantom power (48V) turned off then adjusting the gain on that channel only. You will then hear the noise floor without any of the static and it should be a lot lower in volume. This is a truer representation of the noise floor.
@@Group_Anonymous Seriously great post! It's this kind of detailed knowledge I love reading! Thank you so much for sharing!
lol your a scrub bro
An “ indicator” of an immature or weak chef…. Is neither knows when to stop adding extra bullshit into the soup…… I keep having to turn off the video to figure out where that bullshit background music/noise/bullshit. Was coming from…. OHHHH …it’s part of the video…
IF ITS NOT ACTUALLY A VAULE ADD….. it’s a value minus
Offboard gear😂
Off Board, Out Board... Tomato, Tomato? Lol