Does the Gen 4 live up to your expectations? ➡ Auto-Gain & Safe Mode Tutorial: ruclips.net/video/6axDCNkjtvE/видео.html ➡ 10 Things You Didn't Know About the Scarlett Gen 4s: ruclips.net/video/OwNqH3ZtjjA/видео.htmlsi=3RIL50zGP7mrewwv ➡ Get your tracks mixed at www.EdThorne.com
69dB of pre-amp gain is crazy at this pricepoint! Digitally controlled pre-amp gain is also incredibly useful, and not something very common in cheap interfaces. The conversion is also supposed to be excellent. I'm a devoted RME user, but Focusrite has really done something excellent with this generation of Scarlett interfaces. I don't think anything can get even close to these interfaces in regards what you get for your money.
@@Redingote- It should probably have enough gain. My RME Fireface 802 and Babyface Pro, that both have 65dB of gain, can drive an SM7B without using a mic booster. I don't know what the noise would be with the Scarlett interfaces at those gain levels tho, so it's still adviceable to use something like a FEThead mic booster, but you probably don't need one. A FEThead is so cheap anyways, so it's good to keep at least one around if you should need it.
@@Redingote- Yes. I know this for a fact, because I have a 3rd gen, and I tried both with and without a cloud lifter, and without sounded fine. I had to crank the gain at roughly 90%, whereas with a cloud lifter I only needed to set it to about 50%. Playing back my voice on RUclips, I can't tell a difference. The cloud lifting thing I use is an ART something, giving me 20 dB boost. No doubt that extra 14 dB from gen 4 will be more than enough.
Hey Ed with your problem that you have with direct monitoring and headphone amps built into audio interfaces. you have to remember that this particular model is built at a price point and that price point is meant for entry level consumers what this means is it depends on the input impedance of the headphones. If you're running a headphone with a 300 ohm input impedance, you're going to need a dedicated headphone amplifier, not the one built into an interface. But if you're the target audience and you've got something like some AKG 240s or in a closed back headphone under 50 ohms. If you do the math on the amount of gain that the amplifier has, it could easily get over 100db
I understand it is still a budget interface doing a lot for great value for money and not every part can be high end. I’m not sure about the maths but the output is nowhere near 100dB! You’ve just made me realise though what I didn’t test was the HP amp with a mains power plugged in! Often this improves HP amp performance. I’ll test this. Thanks.
Hey from Dublin. Excellent and honest review. You mention at the start that it can be connected to any iOS device. So, could I record from this Gen 4 into my IPhone 14Pro Max? Cheers. Niall
great run-through, pal! it seems this new series has become more competitive in its immediate price range. you should do a comparison with this and the Volt’s preamp modeling 😊
Great video! Finally they put attetion in the converters!!! hope this sounds equally or better than a ID14. Direct monitoring is a stupid thing, is so weird have the blend knob, just low the buffer on your interface to compesate the latency 🙌
Your channel is incredible … SUBSCRIBED … this video helped me so much … I just updated to Sweetwater’s custom Creation Station PC … it is loaded with xtra internal SSDs … 64 RAM … but beware on … .to date after 1 month … Sweetwater Support has still not gotten my computer up and running … I have used MOTU M2 since it was released … incredible performance NEVER any latency on VSTs or buffer 128 … amazing unit … but with Windows 11 … it crashes the new system … it has been a nightmare … I hope MOTU will get this issue addressed promptly …. if you’re funning Windows 11 …. beware of the incredible MOTU M2 …. it is NOT working for me and the Sweetwater Support team … such a shame ….
A decent standalone headphone pre-amp has always been worth its weight in gold. Even on my old RME gear. The Scarlet v3 stuff is now going for crazy cheap prices.
You're probably thinking about an amp. Or Integrated amp to be more accurate. A pre-amp won't do your headphones any good. It only attenuates the signal from line level
MOTU is great regarding latency, and you’re correct … HOWEVER … BEWARE … if you run Windows 11 (and I have a top tier brand new loaded PC) …. MOTU is having conflicts … my entire system is down because of it … having to find a new interface, at least temporarily …
2:35 Nope. Equivalent Input Noise specs published for preamps are typically specified at maximum gain, because that is where it should be at its lowest. I think a lot of this misconception stems from the fact that gain pots on many cheaper preamps are very disproportionate in structure. Quite a large amount of the upper gain range can be concentrated in that last 10% (as much as 15dB or more). Hence the sudden increase in noise that comes with that signal boost. But the SNR won't be any worse.
Ed, Thank you for your awesome content! Question for you: are you still using/how are you liking the Audient Evo16? I am stuck between trying to decide between the Evo16+evo8 combo or to go Focusrite+Octo for drum tracking.🤯🤯
Hi. You’re welcome. I hope the videos are helpful. I am still using the Evo 16/SP8 for tracking drums. I’d be tempted to wait until the Gen 4 Scarlett’s come out and see what surprises they have with the larger models.
Thank you! Welcome back 🙂 Its more likely the YT algorithm not presenting content if didn’t watch a few videos in a row. Kinda frustrating how it works.
For guitar recording through amp sims get the Motu M2/4 for the lowest latency. The Scarlett has slightly better RTLs than the iD but I think the iD is still a better interface (marginally… there may need to be a comparison, lol).
Great run through - thanks! I was planning to get the 18i20 3rd Generation may have to wait now for the 4th gen. sorry bit off topic - Any suggestions in the 18i20 price range - I am also looking for adat in out for syncing the modular gear ?
I don’t know when the Gen 4 18i20s will be out but I’d have thought before the end of the year. In the mean time, for ADAT, check out the EVO16/SP8. Incredible interfaces, also with Auto-Gain.
Yes @@EdThorne I saw your video on the EVO. It looks great audio wise etc, but I was a little concerned by the latency as I will be recording and layering tracks from the modular. Maybe I am getting to fussy at this price point. Next step up would be a Motu Travelite MK5.... but its a bit pricey haha Thanks again!
I was thinking of upgrading to the 4i4, but I really don't know after this review. The video whilst interesting doesn't answer the basic question "Should I buy this or not?"
Do their cards really have RedNet converters in them? So, we can record, do mastering, connect preamps, and achieve the same quality as their high-end converter with a $200 card? I still can't believe it; it's incredible. If this is true, they've just set a new standard for entry-level cards. This is exactly what we expect from market leaders, that they come and shake things up.
Not so - the RedNet converters are not in the new 4th Gen Solo - and it doesn’t have the 69dB of gain that the 2i2 and 4i4 have either - so it’s different, as it’s changes are more cosmetic than functional.
That's right, Solo, 2i2 and 4i4 4th Gen all benefit from converters direct from our flagship RedNet interfaces. We wanted to improve upon the already excellent audio quality of Scarlett 3rd Gen and to position ourselves as the market leader in terms of audio quality in our category. Although the supply chain has caused challenges across our portfolio it was not a deciding factor in our decision to use the new converters.
Hi. Talking about the line outputs for the stereo monitors, reading on the Focusrite website the model "Solo" has 200 ohm of impedance and the 2i2 model has 100 ohm of impedance. Can you explain what it implies with studio monitors? The 2i2 model can drive speakers with more power or what? I hope you will reply. Thanks!
Thanks for the awesome review! I'm on the fence between Volt 1 and the Scarlett 4th Generation solo. You mentioned the Volt 1 sounds better. But all I do with the interface is playing some guitar with plugins, and using mainly headphones for that (as every around are asleep). You mentioned the output from the headphones is week, but the headphones output is actually better compared to the Volt? so if mainly using Headphones the Scarlett is the better option (with perhaps external amp?)
If you’re predominantly using the Hi-Z input and headphones, I’d go for the Scarlett but be aware the HP output is quiet. The Volt is louder but the conversion isn’t as good.
The 4i4 gen3 tied the headphone output to out 3&4 so you if you wanted to use the 3&4 outputs you could not assign 1&2 to the headphones, do you know if the 4i4 gen 4 fixed this? I haven't found some one who knows the answer.
I’m still using and liking my Gen 1 18i8 but I’m half expecting they will drop support for MixControl in macOS Sonoma. It’s pretty creaky as it is. I’m considering upgrading to the Gen 4 but I also really miss the hardware monitor mute button. I don’t know why they dropped that. I really don’t trust all that functionality in software as they can drop support for newer OS versions any time they want. Focusrite already kind of screwed me on the older Red plugins which no longer work. I wish they would at least open source the software so the community could potentially keep it alive on newer OS versions.
I have a gen1 18i20. Just got a new Mac mini with Sonoma and the mix control installed and was detected by Logic easily. On that note, for just recording vocals / guitar do you think the gen4 4i4 would sound better?
@@jeffwhite1334 Did MixControl come up and work correctly? Is your new Mac using Apple silicon and if so, is there a native MixControl available for it?
I recorded an extremely layered shoegaze EP with dozens of heavy guitar (all DI amp sims,) and vocal tracks per song on a 1st gen 2i2. It was played on FM radio, Sirius XM and a well known blog at the time did a headline story on my “band” with full interview. All the drums were done with AD2. I bypassed the mic pres by leaving them all the way to the left and instead used a Rane MS1. Headphones were AT40s and I used a single cheap Media One speaker connected to the 2i2 as my headphone amp for extra gain. DAW was reaper on a 2014 Mac with plugins by Waves and PA mostly. Just reading the specs of this 2i2, I wouldn’t have needed the work arounds I used for the gen 1. You can make a record on this with a lot of trial and error like I did…but even easier. I would avoid the auto level feature. That feature seems like it’s for podcasts anyway. Also avoid SM7s for home recording. Waste of money. The SM7s diaphragm is recessed into the mic making everyone’s voice sit flush and even when pressed against the foam. This can be easily replicated with a 2 layer windscreen, a ruler and a 57. SM7s are literally SM-57s in a large body.
The SM7(b) is not a waste of money. Not everyone wants to deal with the presence peaks that both the sm57/sm58 share. The sm7(b)s capsule is not identical. It lacks a transformer and has more body in its tone due to its acoustic chamber. Overall the microphone is more linear in frequency response. No matter how much foam you put on an sm57, it will never sound as smooth as an sm7b. No, they're not " literally the same mics".
@@Hardware244 the transformer makes no difference in sound. The lack of a transformer = low input = cranking up mic pres. Ppl often mistake the sound of mic pres being driven harder (which does sound good) for the sound of no transformer. The sound of an SM7 comes from its recessed diaphragm which gives a very consistent sound, especially for speaking. Not the actual components that make up the microphone but rather their placement. It was designed as a broadcast mic and that’s what broadcast mics do. Most ppl immediately enjoy the sound of their own voice on SM7s bc like other many broadcast mics, they require zero mic technique. They offer amazing rejection and their large body allows for more bass but this also makes them limited in other areas. They can make acoustic guitars sound weird for example. They’re not a good choice for home recording imo as there are more affordable options that cover a wider variety of instruments. Look up interviews with Shure’s own historian Michael Peterson where he explains the technical differences in Shure mics and their origins. Its really interesting.
@@Ryan-rn3cf The transformer actually has an effect on the sound. How do I know? Experience. I've 3 sm58s, 2 sm57s ( standard, tab mod) , and one 7b. Sm58s-one without a transformer, one with the tab transformer mod, and one standardized. The default transformers in both contribute to the presence peaks heard and found on the frequency response chart, while the tab transformer mod smooths out those peaks a great deal. Each sounds different and I actually prefer the transformerless sm58,with it's extended bottom and highs, and attenuated presence peak though the noise floor is higher. The transformer serves as passive amplification with the side effect of having boosted frequencies. It has little to do with a gain level placebo effect unless its a preamp intended to add character via tubes, transformers, and/or impedance changes. In my case, it's going straight into a motu m4 which is measured to have a very linear response on the mic inputs. You can take an sm58/57, and a sm7b, put them at equal distances ( of course accounting for the grills distance from the 7bs diaphragm)and you will get a similar yet different sound due to their characteristics. They're not the same mics at all. Similar, yes. Identical, no.
@@Hardware244 ok so lets take your word for it. Now given the difference you’ve just explained, how on earth does that justify needing an sm7 for anything? I mean you are sortve proving my point. We are also talking about mics pre processing which is really ridiculous. These are the tiny, tiny , so tiny they are non existent or if they do exist, only noticeable while solo’d, only to someone who’s obsessed on them for no reason differences that people waste time on. It’s exactly the stuff ppl talked about 15 years ago and I’d say “cool! Can I hear some stuff? “ I was naive then and I’m still waiting for them to make anything they’ll share with me. You will carve up mics with eq, do vocals on different mics and forget which one was which, swap out lyrics, have best takes that are filled hiss noise or with pops and sibilance but just sound cooler, different fx sends. A million things. Nobody that releases music worries about anything you just said but EVERYBODY that never releases music does.
@@Ryan-rn3cf My man, look at the frequency response charts for the SM7, SM58, and SM57. Do you not hear and see those huge presence peaks? Those peaks may not translate well on everyone's systems. You aint gotta take my word for it. Just look at the charts and use your ears. If you can't hear an audible difference between them then- spare yourself the SM7 purchase. These mics are all similar in tonality, that doesn't mean they're the same as you allude to. We're talking a variability of anywhere between +2 to 7db in the harsh treble range. Is that " tiny, tiny" to you? This potentially exacerbates *harshness, sibilance and provides us with uneven tonality. Now, You can mask those frequencies at the expense of artifacts or you can just buy a more fuller sounding * tonally balanced version of the two mics without the extra presence peaks. You aint even gotta buy it new, there's a used market flooded with sm7s on reverb and ebay. Why would you buy a mic that forces you to chop out a bunch of unwanted frequencies when you could just get the right mic for the job and be done with it? If a 57 works for you, cool. That shit sounds pretty harsh to my ears, especially with that nasty +7db peak around 6500khz. Saying the SM7b is waste of money is bad advice overall my man. Your cup of tea aint everyones. The initial interaction between the source and the interface is a greater determinant in overall quality than using a million plugins in attempt to rectify a sub par recording. If the source, environment and interfacing is on point, you shouldn't need to carve out or add a bunch of frequencies anyway unless its for effect or you need to make room for sources. Now, if your music benefits from those presence peaks, then have it, there's no doubt they (SM57, SM58) can be used in a studio environment.
Love the video! I already liked the sound from the 3rd Gen, so I'm gad they made it even better. On another note, I saw that you asked Present Day Production about reviewing their MUM-8 Monitors in your GearFest UK video. Is that in the works? 👀🤞🏼
Thanks, Daniel. Yes, that video is in the works. it'll be part a three/four video speaker upgrade mini-series coming after a Scarlett mini-tutorial series :-)
I'm new here and want to thank you for what you do for the music community on channel. I'm a music producer eventually want to lean to engineering. I have been hearing all over about these new interfaces and I'm just curious are these better than the ID22/ID Series from Audient? I'm looking to get a good interface that can be compatible with the new MacBook Pro M2 Chipset seamlessly with no issues. What are some good interfaces you could recommend I've also looked at RME and Arturia and NI. I have not seen any videos on interfaces and compatibility with new macs yet so I thought I would ask. Kind Regards Rob
Thank you, Rob, I appreciate your comment. The iD series is very good! I haven’t decided which is better yet but the iD has a louder headphone amp and the monitor mixing iD App so I’m leaning that way. All interfaces should work with Mac Silicone because they’re all class compliant meaning you don’t need drivers on a Mac and they’ll work instantly. I’ve literally never had a problem with any interface on my M1.
Well another important trick they've missed if true is independint phantom switches. Especially for mono podcasts. Obviously for stereo you use 2 condensers so fine there. Ah and instead of that cklip thing. Just go 32 bits dude.
I make beats in Reason (MIDI keyboard) and do my mixing and mastering in StudioOne and Steinberg WaveLab, respectively. Don't have much treatment in my studio, and I have been using the Focusrite Solo 3rd Gen with my monitors. The headphone volume isn't separate, and I am in the market for something that suits my needs. Money is not really an object. Will be prepared to go to $1000 Australian dollars if needed. Any thoughts?
I've never understood why these smaller interfaces doesn't have software controlled monitor mixing, like on basically all of their other offerings. The direct monitoring buttons and the blend/mix knobs between input and DAW are just terrible designs IMO. Just have the software do it. If some hardware thing is needed to do that, then just add that in and slightly increase the price
It requires DSP which keeps some manufacturers away from it, also the cost can be prohibitive. But this model has DSP so it’s strange they didn’t implement it. Maybe they will in the future, it depends how they’ve designed the DSP architecture.
Your summary says the headphone amplifier isn't loud enough - did you mean while direct monitoring recording audio? I'm finding it hard to believe the headphone amplifier cranked isn't loud enough for playback from a daw ...
Definitely to hear myself during recording. With low impedance headphones it’s fine, but not LOUD. And with my HD600 high impedance headphones at full volume it’s as loud as a conversation. Good for your hearing but I’d rather not push the HP to max to only get a barely satisfactory level.
@@EdThorne so specifically while direct monitoring, during recording. Because if you're not direct monitoring, you can balance the levels however you like in the daw, to hear yourself while recording, right?
I’ve just got the 4th Gen 4i4 and whilst the volume of the headphone output is decent, I agree, it could’ve been louder. I wish they’d give the option to switch the volume of the headphone output’s volume via the control app, like the SSL 12 can. The dual headphone outputs can be made stupidly loud on that thing and I wish other manufacturers would implement it.
This sounds like sample rate compatibility. Make sure your DAW and the interface are set to the same Sample rate, eg 48kHz (this can be adjusted in the Focusrite Control App)
I was in search of an interface for the SM7B microphone, and it appears that the 3rd generation Scarlett interface doesn't gave much gain for that microphone due to its low gain. Is the microphone directly plugged in to the Scarlett during testing without requiring an external amplifier? If that's the case, I may consider purchasing this interface.
@@EdThorne Hi thank you for replying, I am not interested in the preamps, I am interesting in mixing only, so how good that is in comparison, can you feel more detail?
@@trascendents I am not a professional musician, but from a technical point of view and as far as i know, the mixing is done digital, not analog. Each input should have an ADC ach, converting the analog signal to digital, so there should be no analog mixing.
The Hitmaker expansion and Lite Live is yours to keep. The Pro Tools Artist is a three month subscription. LandR is a two month subscription (+5 free masters to use anytime).
Thank you for video. Both my scarlet 6i6 and 8i6 stopped being recognized by my iMac out of nowhere i have had them for a number of years. So, I now have two 25% off upgrades from focusrite. I'm thinking about the 4i4 that is coming out in Nov. I engineer podcasts and use it for voice and percussion recording. My question is, should I get the scarlet 4i4 Gen 4 of get a Clarett+ 4pre, the 2 doesn't have enough onboard inputs for me, and save more with that 25% off? granted, at the moment I don't do heavy mixing or audio processing. i was thinking about buying two Clarett+ 4pres with the 25% off and then selling one NIB at MSRP.
Yes except in my experience the 25% is in reality worth at 57p when compared to street price and factoring in postage on some items. I am really annoyed about this as I feel it's a fake discount and so tempted to jump ship and not stay with the brand
Had Evo 4, thought the focusrite 2i2 would be an upgrade.. it wasn’t lol random distortion in recordings etc. I’m now going for the Volt 276, right choice?
Some nice improvements for sure but I wonder why they didn't tackle the latency. For guitars and soft synths the M2 is still the king at this price point.
What latency? Lower your buffer size to lower latency. It has direct monitoring of analog inputs, that's practically zero latency as well. You really have no idea what you're talking about my dude.
@@nugznmugz Bro. Direct monitoring is useless for guitar sims and soft synths, you understand that yeah? Any bullshit piece of shit card can do direct monitoring. Lowering the buffer with a mediocre card like this one gets you pops, clicks, and stutters. It does not have the performance to handle low buffers under load. 10.1 ms at 128 buffer size is extremely average and is absolutely no improvement over the 3rd gen Scarlett. The old PCI based cards in the late 90s and early 2000s had better latency performance than this.
From the chart in the video there's at most 3ms differences between the motu M2 and the scarlet's at any given buffer size. And humans can't perceive that difference.
@@smugler1 3ms is a significant difference for the purpose of recording guitars via amp sims and VST synths. A total roundtrip latency difference of 6-7 vs 10 ms is completely noticeable.
Well at least its faster on 192khz, I guess thats the native sample rate of the converters, thats good for live playing i.e. using the interface as an guitar amp@@smugler1
One of the big plusses of the Scarlett in my opinion is that there is no need for drivers, due to it being USB class compliant. I'm having to replace my Edirol UA25EX audio interface because it is no longer compatible with MAC past OS 10. (Now at OS 14).
Every audio interface is class compliant. Some have the added complication of monitoring software required (Apollo/Audient/Lewitt/Topping) but they will work without this regardless.
@@EdThorne I chanced upgrading to the latest version of MAC OS and the Edirol worked but a message said that it wouldn't be compatible in future OS upgrades. Would this be because class compliancy may change?
Analog to Digital and Digital to Analog. Not audio. Lol. Great review though. I have a gen 1 and wasn't sure about upgrading to the 3 or 4, but 4 it is.
Hi, I just detected to you are having the same problem with me, there is crackling or kinda rubbing sounds coming with your sound. I did a lot of troubleshooting to solve to problem. I talked with the focusrite team, they didn't solve it yet. Let me warn you it is really hard to hear but, once u hear it, it is always disturbing you. I recorded many vocals with it, and even you put a lot of of plugins after the record it does not go away. If you closely listen to 4:30 you would see what I mean.(when you are saying accurate and CONSISTENT (on this word you can hear the bad sound) . Especially with the rap vocals or when you talk fast, it ruins the record. If anyone have the same problem, please helppp! It happens just when u talk to mic. To solve this I changed my Mac computer and got I m3 MacBook Pro, I didn't help. I think I am going to change the Scarlett. I think finally Scarlett is the problem.
From a monitoring perspective, yes but I actually prefer the sound of the Gen3 preamps. And if you’re making that work, you won’t need the extra gain available on the Gen 4.
I noticed there was an improvement on your voice at least a lift however I was not listening through headphones, so that is about as far as I can comment on that aspect. The Red Net converters are their flagship which brings a better value then its predecessor for sure. The original Scarlett did not sound good at all to my ears, so take that for for what it is worth. In this price the Audient is more compelling with its sound and features. If I were in the market at this pricing level I would go with the Audient over the Scarlett although the latter has improved.
@@EdThorne Oh wow that would be a great video to have! Yes, I support that idea and will definitely watch it. Now your comment section may explode, but hey at least it's engagement 🤣
@@EdThorneI've been looking for this exact video the past couple days as I am looking to upgrade my interface. I would be very grateful for any insight you may be able to provide on it. Subscribed.
EVO 8 gives you more inputs, Presonus i24 gives you inbuild equalizer, compressor/limiter and 32bit recording is waiting around the corner. Just saying we made our very good preamps even better and have one equalizer setting "AIR" built in does not necessarily convince.
Much better sounding HP amp although probably no louder (I’ve only used the Gen 1 & 3 for comparison). Better sounding speaker output as a result of the improved conversion. But I prefer the sound of the preamps on the Gen3 (and likely previous gens).
I recently bought a Scarlett 2i2 3rd gen... Since I can still return it, do you think it's worth buying the new 4th gen one? I also have a Behringer UMC204hd, and although it has more connections than the Focusrite, I have compared them and I notice that the sound I get when recording acoustic guitar with a condenser mic is a little more muffled on the Behringer, while with the Scarlett it has a little more clarity and brightness (with the AIR button off), it seems to capture more detail, it is subtle, by the way, the guitar sounds more organic and beautiful. Also, the recording with the Behringer has a little more low frequency noise. (In terms of latency, with a buffer size of 64, I have almost the same in both, it is little but when playing a virtual piano I do not fully enjoy it). That's why until now I was determined to stay with the Focusrite - it was very cheap with the studio pack - but of course, now that the 4th gen has just been released it makes me angry, although at the moment it’s very expensive, so now I have considered returning the 3rd gen Scarlett to get the new one, and wait to see if prices drop, or maybe an SSL2+ which looks very nice for recording guitars (although I think it has more latency). Any advice on whether or not to keep the 3rd gen Focusrite, or return it and go for the 4th gen or the SSL2+?
Up to you. I have the Behringer and I have a 2nd Gen Focusrite and I prefer the 2nd Gen Focusrite over the Behringer. I believe Focusrite just makes better stuff. 3rd Gen is likely fine enough to keep IMO and likely wouldn’t see much of an upgrade to 4th gen from 3rd. SSL 2 seems cool too, but likely comparable to Focusrite. I’m not sure how the SSL 2 drivers are which is important to me.
No. The architecture is a two channel interface. The line ins take precedent and will bypass the XLR ins if used. I suggest looking into setting up an aggregate device (Audio MIDI Settings on Mac)
@@mychess5821 yes, thunderbolt has higher bandwidth, but an audio interface should not even come close to saturating even older USB ports. the extra bandwidth is generally useful for uncompressed video signals and large data transfers (fast external drives).
Shame that the output isn't any louder. I have a Gen 3 Solo, and I quite highly doubt I'd be able to power DT 1770's with it which I've been considering buying. The Gen 3 also has a scratchy, stiff, and randomly unbalanced stereo monitor control, only temporary fix being moving it rapidly to heat the pot up. If I could move to a passive interface with good (enough) output for 1770's I'd be very happy, anyone know of any? (High enough output power to get 250ohm 1770's loud enough. From trying them on a phone they seem easier to power than other 250's but I don't think would be loud enough for every scenario, without quite a bit of power.)
Nothing this guy says makes any sense from 6 minutes on this is all marketing jargon to say that a DAC has bass extension completely nullifies everything said about linear audio sweeps if you do a linear audio sweep from 20hz to 20 kHz and the lines flat and you take another DAC and you do another audio sweep from 20 to 20k and the line is also flat. Neither one of them have a bass extension the dac should be transparent. If there is actually bass extension in the DAC, what will happen is A low Pass filter curve will start at a lower roll off point. Showing more linearity than the one that doesn't have an extension and if the extension is actually a boost. Like in an EQ it'll show slight boost of the frequency after the sweep.
With respect, I don’t think you understand what’s being said in the video. The 20-20k sweep is for the PREAMPS. The conversion comments refer what I can HEAR out of the speakers and headphones on both interfaces.
A DAC will not do what you state this can be easily proven by sweeping both the outputs of both devices in question and comparing them. You will get no significant sonic eq changes from changing DACS and the "smearing" is the crappy clock arguments we had in the early 90s none of this is a thing in modern design. Here are the published output specs of the line out +/- .02db frequency response for the gen 4 and +/- .01db frequency response for the gen 3 most studio monitors have a speaker sensitivity of 90db at 1 watt of power that means out of a 100 watt amplifier 1 watt pushes the signal to over the typical listening recommendations of a single day (8 Hrs) so you have an amplifier doing 1% of its output power to push the DAC to maybe 25% of its spec'd output volume to get to deafening levels and you can hear bass extension from a .02% frequency variance? @@EdThorne
Just here to read all the black lion overlookers. Revolution is the BEST economical choice. Price has even dropped because so many people need a screen to hear sound instead of their ears
5:45 About the ADC/DAC, the problem is there's not a lot of reference for this kinda thing. Of course you can find reviews that compare the most common ones like this focusrite vs Apollo twin, etc etc. but anything beyond that there's no info. Someone needs to do a massive database of measurements lol For example I have an eleven rack. which is a guitar preamp with audio interface. I have no idea how the ADCs or DACs compare to other audio interfaces. I don't know if it would make a huge difference getting something like this for the interface part and use that as preamp only, or if a higher end unit like apollo twin, or quad cortex would give much better performance.
It’s true, there’s no (common) standardised way of comparing converters and I, too, think it would be useful. Ultimately it’s what you can hear that’s important. These converters give the Gen 4 a genuine step up in headphone and monitor sound quality. I think the Gen 3 preamps sound better though on reflection.
@@EdThorne Bro, i apologize for being a bit “dickish” about it. And honestly i need to stop getting hung up on acronyms, its not like im getting paid to correct people. Keep it up dood 🙌 P.S. Im not gonna lie, ive made that same mistake myself. I aint holier than thou.
Does anybody know if I can use both instrument jacks + mics at the same time? I mean, I want to plug 2 instruments and 2 mics at the same time using 2i2 4th gen
No one is allowed to tell you that the fourth generation is coming, because it's likely wrapped up in NDAs. I'd say check with the retailer you bought it from to see if you'd be able to upgrade (provided that it's still in perfect condition and you kept all the boxes etc).
Contact Focusrite and really sound sad and upset, but polite and they may offer you some sort of swap with a decent price break. Or who knows a complete swap. I had the Saffire Pro 24 DSP and when they stopped and what I felt prematurely supporting Windows 11 with drivers I complained. They offered to replace the Saffire with a Scarlett 8i6 3rd Gen at half price. I just had to send my Saffire to them. They paid all shipping for everything. I can’t guarantee anything, but they seemed keeping me as a happy customer and user was important. I did squeeze in my original email that “I couldn’t in good conscience consider them as a choice in future purchases” and it’s a shame because they always had a great reputation. Basically, appeal to their corporate ego. Oh I also threw in that this was a waste of a perfectly good electronic device that is going to a landfill and hurt the environment. This was right about the time they started with all the corporate woke crap about being environmentally friendly. I see they’re still pushing that stuff. Try to use that angle in some way even though your situation isn’t quite the same. Good Luck. Personally I’m not that interested in the Gen 4. At least not now. All this gear the RUclips guys review is pretty much the same in the grand scheme. When I factor in that my skill level is as such that if I was ever to become a big star (I’m 58 LOL) Everythig I ever record would be done on really state of the art equipment. Basically this gear is for making demos and compared to 25 years go is light years ahead in quality.
I want to upgrade my 2nd gen scarlett but i think i will move to the Arturia brand and only because i use a laptop with only USB-C. And my midi controller is a USB-A. Arturia provide a USB-A connections, where i can just connect my MC direct to the sound interface. No need for an extra USB extension.
11+ minutes of whining about the headphone amp & puffing the "new improved hotness" features, but not a word about how they've stripped the XLR combo inputs out of the 2i2 forcing users to either use an XLR-to-1/4" adapter or spend an extra $80 to move up to the 4i4. As an owner of a 2nd gen 18i8 and 2nd & 3rd gen 2i2s, I'm not going to upgrade to 4th gen because I just need an XLR and guitar cord input for my purposes. I was lucky to find the 2i2 3rd gen at a resale shop nearly new for $49 in 2019 and I'm just gonna keep using that, thank you very much.
It appears to have worse round trip latency than both the generation 3 and generation 4 scarlett interfaces, based on the stats in the video, and doesn't do 192khz recording, so not really all departments
Does the Gen 4 live up to your expectations?
➡ Auto-Gain & Safe Mode Tutorial: ruclips.net/video/6axDCNkjtvE/видео.html
➡ 10 Things You Didn't Know About the Scarlett Gen 4s: ruclips.net/video/OwNqH3ZtjjA/видео.htmlsi=3RIL50zGP7mrewwv
➡ Get your tracks mixed at www.EdThorne.com
Hey Ed, the "A" in DAC/ADC stands for analog
You are correct, I’m not sure how that slipped through the nets of both the script writing and the editing process. My bad, thanks for the correction.
69dB of pre-amp gain is crazy at this pricepoint! Digitally controlled pre-amp gain is also incredibly useful, and not something very common in cheap interfaces. The conversion is also supposed to be excellent. I'm a devoted RME user, but Focusrite has really done something excellent with this generation of Scarlett interfaces. I don't think anything can get even close to these interfaces in regards what you get for your money.
Indeed it is!
Can I use a sm7b with this interface without needing a fethead? Does this interface would give me enough gain
@@Redingote- It should probably have enough gain. My RME Fireface 802 and Babyface Pro, that both have 65dB of gain, can drive an SM7B without using a mic booster. I don't know what the noise would be with the Scarlett interfaces at those gain levels tho, so it's still adviceable to use something like a FEThead mic booster, but you probably don't need one. A FEThead is so cheap anyways, so it's good to keep at least one around if you should need it.
@@Redingote- more than enough. You can clip an sm7b with this gain. Just make sure to use the mic as intended
@@Redingote- Yes. I know this for a fact, because I have a 3rd gen, and I tried both with and without a cloud lifter, and without sounded fine. I had to crank the gain at roughly 90%, whereas with a cloud lifter I only needed to set it to about 50%. Playing back my voice on RUclips, I can't tell a difference. The cloud lifting thing I use is an ART something, giving me 20 dB boost. No doubt that extra 14 dB from gen 4 will be more than enough.
Hey Ed with your problem that you have with direct monitoring and headphone amps built into audio interfaces. you have to remember that this particular model is built at a price point and that price point is meant for entry level consumers what this means is it depends on the input impedance of the headphones. If you're running a headphone with a 300 ohm input impedance, you're going to need a dedicated headphone amplifier, not the one built into an interface. But if you're the target audience and you've got something like some AKG 240s or in a closed back headphone under 50 ohms. If you do the math on the amount of gain that the amplifier has, it could easily get over 100db
I understand it is still a budget interface doing a lot for great value for money and not every part can be high end. I’m not sure about the maths but the output is nowhere near 100dB! You’ve just made me realise though what I didn’t test was the HP amp with a mains power plugged in! Often this improves HP amp performance. I’ll test this. Thanks.
Promising audio quality result. Is the loop-back practical and easy to use? Audient (and EVO) did great in this feature.
Great video. And thank you for pointing out the headphone output. I had this problem with GEN1 and 2. I will picking up an SSL 2 this time around.
Glad I could help!
I'll still wait for some comparative converter tests, but, this will be my next sound card
It’s really hard to compare converters without laboratory spec oscillators. Take my word for it though, the RedNet’s are huge step up from the Gen 3.
Hey from Dublin. Excellent and honest review. You mention at the start that it can be connected to any iOS device. So, could I record from this Gen 4 into my IPhone 14Pro Max? Cheers. Niall
Thanks, Niall. Yes, providing you power the Scarlett with a separate USB-C supply.
@@EdThorne oh wow, that’s awesome, thanks so much
great run-through, pal! it seems this new series has become more competitive in its immediate price range. you should do a comparison with this and the Volt’s preamp modeling 😊
Thanks, Robin. It’s a good idea, no promises but I’m sure there’ll be an quick comparison at some point. Also with the iD14.
@@EdThorne iD 14 mkII comparison...yes please
Great video! Finally they put attetion in the converters!!! hope this sounds equally or better than a ID14.
Direct monitoring is a stupid thing, is so weird have the blend knob, just low the buffer on your interface to compesate the latency 🙌
Thanks, Fernando!
Your channel is incredible … SUBSCRIBED … this video helped me so much … I just updated to Sweetwater’s custom Creation Station PC … it is loaded with xtra internal SSDs … 64 RAM … but beware on … .to date after 1 month … Sweetwater Support has still not gotten my computer up and running … I have used MOTU M2 since it was released … incredible performance NEVER any latency on VSTs or buffer 128 … amazing unit … but with Windows 11 … it crashes the new system … it has been a nightmare … I hope MOTU will get this issue addressed promptly …. if you’re funning Windows 11 …. beware of the incredible MOTU M2 …. it is NOT working for me and the Sweetwater Support team … such a shame ….
Thank you. Hope the vids are helpful and your MOTU with Windows gets sorted soon.
which one is better.this one or audient id14 mkii?
This question KEEPS popping up! And I can’t decide. Watch this space for a comparison.
@@EdThorne I'm very curious about it, I'll decide and buy accordingly, I'm waiting for the comments.🧐
Great review: Question, 2023 4i4 Focusrite 4th Generation Scarlett Line inserts on the rear (3-4) 100% bypass the preamps?
Thanks, Mike. Very good question. I didn’t get a 4i4 to test so I’m not sure, however, I do know inputs 3&4 are line-level inputs only.
A decent standalone headphone pre-amp has always been worth its weight in gold. Even on my old RME gear.
The Scarlet v3 stuff is now going for crazy cheap prices.
Absolutely!
You're probably thinking about an amp. Or Integrated amp to be more accurate. A pre-amp won't do your headphones any good. It only attenuates the signal from line level
I was gonna jump on a discounted Gen 3, until he mentioned the iOS compatibility 😅
Just FYI. MOTU M2 on 48kHz, 64 samples buffer size has roundtrip latency 3.666ms.
This of course depends on your cable and computer. Also, these numbers are rounded to the nearest 0.1.
@@EdThorne Old i5 Intel Mac with bundled USB-C cable.
MOTU is great regarding latency, and you’re correct … HOWEVER … BEWARE … if you run Windows 11 (and I have a top tier brand new loaded PC) …. MOTU is having conflicts … my entire system is down because of it … having to find a new interface, at least temporarily …
2:35 Nope. Equivalent Input Noise specs published for preamps are typically specified at maximum gain, because that is where it should be at its lowest. I think a lot of this misconception stems from the fact that gain pots on many cheaper preamps are very disproportionate in structure. Quite a large amount of the upper gain range can be concentrated in that last 10% (as much as 15dB or more). Hence the sudden increase in noise that comes with that signal boost. But the SNR won't be any worse.
Very possibly.
Ed, Thank you for your awesome content!
Question for you: are you still using/how are you liking the Audient Evo16? I am stuck between trying to decide between the Evo16+evo8 combo or to go Focusrite+Octo for drum tracking.🤯🤯
Hi. You’re welcome. I hope the videos are helpful. I am still using the Evo 16/SP8 for tracking drums. I’d be tempted to wait until the Gen 4 Scarlett’s come out and see what surprises they have with the larger models.
@@EdThorne I was actually thinking about the Clarett+ and Clarett OctoPre bundle. But that's also a $700 jump in price...
Its funny cause i have a behringer um2 which is kinda terrible except the headphone out which is super loud and clear
This is SO true!
Selling my 8i6 mk3 right away!!..but not to upgrade to a mk4, but because I just bought a zen q lol
Hey Ed, just wondering which speakers did you decide on in the end? PSI, ATC or PDP? 🤔 I notice you have the PSI A23M here in the background.
Hi there. All will be revealed soon my friend 🙂🤘
@@EdThorne I thought you might say that! 😁 interested to hear your thoughts on them all. 👍😎
Another great video! I haven't seen you in awhile, which is most likely my fault. I appreciate this review!
Thank you! Welcome back 🙂 Its more likely the YT algorithm not presenting content if didn’t watch a few videos in a row. Kinda frustrating how it works.
Do you still recommend a ID14 over the scarlett 2i2 4th gen for (mostly) electric guitar recording?
For guitar recording through amp sims get the Motu M2/4 for the lowest latency. The Scarlett has slightly better RTLs than the iD but I think the iD is still a better interface (marginally… there may need to be a comparison, lol).
ID14 defo
It appears they are. I have content scheduled for a few more weeks and then I’ll see what I can do.
Great run through - thanks! I was planning to get the 18i20 3rd Generation may have to wait now for the 4th gen. sorry bit off topic - Any suggestions in the 18i20 price range - I am also looking for adat in out for syncing the modular gear ?
I don’t know when the Gen 4 18i20s will be out but I’d have thought before the end of the year. In the mean time, for ADAT, check out the EVO16/SP8. Incredible interfaces, also with Auto-Gain.
Yes @@EdThorne I saw your video on the EVO. It looks great audio wise etc, but I was a little concerned by the latency as I will be recording and layering tracks from the modular. Maybe I am getting to fussy at this price point. Next step up would be a Motu Travelite MK5.... but its a bit pricey haha Thanks again!
I was thinking of upgrading to the 4i4, but I really don't know after this review. The video whilst interesting doesn't answer the basic question "Should I buy this or not?"
My goal is not to “tell” people what to buy. It is to help inform them make their own purchasing decision. What are you wanting to upgrade from?
@@EdThorne 2nd gen.
Do their cards really have RedNet converters in them? So, we can record, do mastering, connect preamps, and achieve the same quality as their high-end converter with a $200 card? I still can't believe it; it's incredible. If this is true, they've just set a new standard for entry-level cards. This is exactly what we expect from market leaders, that they come and shake things up.
RedNet converters will be all the 4the Generation interfaces. To be honest I think it comes from supply chain issues rather than pioneering.
@@EdThorne That makes sense. The deal still looks very good, though
Not so - the RedNet converters are not in the new 4th Gen Solo - and it doesn’t have the 69dB of gain that the 2i2 and 4i4 have either - so it’s different, as it’s changes are more cosmetic than functional.
@@InspelaRecords Yes, indeed, I noticed that with the Solo
That's right, Solo, 2i2 and 4i4 4th Gen all benefit from converters direct from our flagship RedNet interfaces. We wanted to improve upon the already excellent audio quality of Scarlett 3rd Gen and to position ourselves as the market leader in terms of audio quality in our category. Although the supply chain has caused challenges across our portfolio it was not a deciding factor in our decision to use the new converters.
Hi. Talking about the line outputs for the stereo monitors, reading on the Focusrite website the model "Solo" has 200 ohm of impedance and the 2i2 model has 100 ohm of impedance. Can you explain what it implies with studio monitors? The 2i2 model can drive speakers with more power or what? I hope you will reply. Thanks!
Thanks for the awesome review! I'm on the fence between Volt 1 and the Scarlett 4th Generation solo. You mentioned the Volt 1 sounds better. But all I do with the interface is playing some guitar with plugins, and using mainly headphones for that (as every around are asleep). You mentioned the output from the headphones is week, but the headphones output is actually better compared to the Volt? so if mainly using Headphones the Scarlett is the better option (with perhaps external amp?)
If you’re predominantly using the Hi-Z input and headphones, I’d go for the Scarlett but be aware the HP output is quiet. The Volt is louder but the conversion isn’t as good.
The 4i4 gen3 tied the headphone output to out 3&4 so you if you wanted to use the 3&4 outputs you could not assign 1&2 to the headphones, do you know if the 4i4 gen 4 fixed this? I haven't found some one who knows the answer.
I couldn’t say for certain but I doubt they’ll have changed this. Patching different outputs requires more advanced DSP than these units posses.
I’m still using and liking my Gen 1 18i8 but I’m half expecting they will drop support for MixControl in macOS Sonoma. It’s pretty creaky as it is. I’m considering upgrading to the Gen 4 but I also really miss the hardware monitor mute button. I don’t know why they dropped that. I really don’t trust all that functionality in software as they can drop support for newer OS versions any time they want. Focusrite already kind of screwed me on the older Red plugins which no longer work. I wish they would at least open source the software so the community could potentially keep it alive on newer OS versions.
I have a gen1 18i20. Just got a new Mac mini with Sonoma and the mix control installed and was detected by Logic easily. On that note, for just recording vocals / guitar do you think the gen4 4i4 would sound better?
@@jeffwhite1334 Did MixControl come up and work correctly? Is your new Mac using Apple silicon and if so, is there a native MixControl available for it?
For the money what would you recommend over the Focusrite Gen 4?
I recorded an extremely layered shoegaze EP with dozens of heavy guitar (all DI amp sims,) and vocal tracks per song on a 1st gen 2i2. It was played on FM radio, Sirius XM and a well known blog at the time did a headline story on my “band” with full interview. All the drums were done with AD2. I bypassed the mic pres by leaving them all the way to the left and instead used a Rane MS1. Headphones were AT40s and I used a single cheap Media One speaker connected to the 2i2 as my headphone amp for extra gain. DAW was reaper on a 2014 Mac with plugins by Waves and PA mostly. Just reading the specs of this 2i2, I wouldn’t have needed the work arounds I used for the gen 1. You can make a record on this with a lot of trial and error like I did…but even easier. I would avoid the auto level feature. That feature seems like it’s for podcasts anyway. Also avoid SM7s for home recording. Waste of money. The SM7s diaphragm is recessed into the mic making everyone’s voice sit flush and even when pressed against the foam. This can be easily replicated with a 2 layer windscreen, a ruler and a 57. SM7s are literally SM-57s in a large body.
The SM7(b) is not a waste of money. Not everyone wants to deal with the presence peaks that both the sm57/sm58 share. The sm7(b)s capsule is not identical. It lacks a transformer and has more body in its tone due to its acoustic chamber. Overall the microphone is more linear in frequency response. No matter how much foam you put on an sm57, it will never sound as smooth as an sm7b. No, they're not " literally the same mics".
@@Hardware244 the transformer makes no difference in sound. The lack of a transformer = low input = cranking up mic pres. Ppl often mistake the sound of mic pres being driven harder (which does sound good) for the sound of no transformer. The sound of an SM7 comes from its recessed diaphragm which gives a very consistent sound, especially for speaking. Not the actual components that make up the microphone but rather their placement. It was designed as a broadcast mic and that’s what broadcast mics do. Most ppl immediately enjoy the sound of their own voice on SM7s bc like other many broadcast mics, they require zero mic technique. They offer amazing rejection and their large body allows for more bass but this also makes them limited in other areas. They can make acoustic guitars sound weird for example. They’re not a good choice for home recording imo as there are more affordable options that cover a wider variety of instruments. Look up interviews with Shure’s own historian Michael Peterson where he explains the technical differences in Shure mics and their origins. Its really interesting.
@@Ryan-rn3cf The transformer actually has an effect on the sound. How do I know? Experience. I've 3 sm58s, 2 sm57s ( standard, tab mod) , and one 7b. Sm58s-one without a transformer, one with the tab transformer mod, and one standardized. The default transformers in both contribute to the presence peaks heard and found on the frequency response chart, while the tab transformer mod smooths out those peaks a great deal. Each sounds different and I actually prefer the transformerless sm58,with it's extended bottom and highs, and attenuated presence peak though the noise floor is higher. The transformer serves as passive amplification with the side effect of having boosted frequencies. It has little to do with a gain level placebo effect unless its a preamp intended to add character via tubes, transformers, and/or impedance changes. In my case, it's going straight into a motu m4 which is measured to have a very linear response on the mic inputs. You can take an sm58/57, and a sm7b, put them at equal distances ( of course accounting for the grills distance from the 7bs diaphragm)and you will get a similar yet different sound due to their characteristics. They're not the same mics at all. Similar, yes. Identical, no.
@@Hardware244 ok so lets take your word for it. Now given the difference you’ve just explained, how on earth does that justify needing an sm7 for anything? I mean you are sortve proving my point. We are also talking about mics pre processing which is really ridiculous. These are the tiny, tiny , so tiny they are non existent or if they do exist, only noticeable while solo’d, only to someone who’s obsessed on them for no reason differences that people waste time on. It’s exactly the stuff ppl talked about 15 years ago and I’d say “cool! Can I hear some stuff? “ I was naive then and I’m still waiting for them to make anything they’ll share with me. You will carve up mics with eq, do vocals on different mics and forget which one was which, swap out lyrics, have best takes that are filled hiss noise or with pops and sibilance but just sound cooler, different fx sends. A million things. Nobody that releases music worries about anything you just said but EVERYBODY that never releases music does.
@@Ryan-rn3cf My man, look at the frequency response charts for the SM7, SM58, and SM57. Do you not hear and see those huge presence peaks? Those peaks may not translate well on everyone's systems. You aint gotta take my word for it. Just look at the charts and use your ears. If you can't hear an audible difference between them then- spare yourself the SM7 purchase. These mics are all similar in tonality, that doesn't mean they're the same as you allude to. We're talking a variability of anywhere between +2 to 7db in the harsh treble range. Is that " tiny, tiny" to you? This potentially exacerbates *harshness, sibilance and provides us with uneven tonality. Now, You can mask those frequencies at the expense of artifacts or you can just buy a more fuller sounding * tonally balanced version of the two mics without the extra presence peaks. You aint even gotta buy it new, there's a used market flooded with sm7s on reverb and ebay. Why would you buy a mic that forces you to chop out a bunch of unwanted frequencies when you could just get the right mic for the job and be done with it? If a 57 works for you, cool. That shit sounds pretty harsh to my ears, especially with that nasty +7db peak around 6500khz. Saying the SM7b is waste of money is bad advice overall my man. Your cup of tea aint everyones. The initial interaction between the source and the interface is a greater determinant in overall quality than using a million plugins in attempt to rectify a sub par recording. If the source, environment and interfacing is on point, you shouldn't need to carve out or add a bunch of frequencies anyway unless its for effect or you need to make room for sources. Now, if your music benefits from those presence peaks, then have it, there's no doubt they (SM57, SM58) can be used in a studio environment.
Love the video! I already liked the sound from the 3rd Gen, so I'm gad they made it even better. On another note, I saw that you asked Present Day Production about reviewing their MUM-8 Monitors in your GearFest UK video. Is that in the works? 👀🤞🏼
Thanks, Daniel. Yes, that video is in the works. it'll be part a three/four video speaker upgrade mini-series coming after a Scarlett mini-tutorial series :-)
@@EdThorne Doooope! Can't wait!!!
I'm new here and want to thank you for what you do for the music community on channel. I'm a music producer eventually want to lean to engineering. I have been hearing all over about these new interfaces and I'm just curious are these better than the ID22/ID Series from Audient? I'm looking to get a good interface that can be compatible with the new MacBook Pro M2 Chipset seamlessly with no issues. What are some good interfaces you could recommend I've also looked at RME and Arturia and NI. I have not seen any videos on interfaces and compatibility with new macs yet so I thought I would ask.
Kind Regards
Rob
Thank you, Rob, I appreciate your comment. The iD series is very good! I haven’t decided which is better yet but the iD has a louder headphone amp and the monitor mixing iD App so I’m leaning that way. All interfaces should work with Mac Silicone because they’re all class compliant meaning you don’t need drivers on a Mac and they’ll work instantly. I’ve literally never had a problem with any interface on my M1.
Great vid thanks!
But why’s uad apollo twin not on the chart?
Thanks, and good question. I can’t get a reading out of it, I suspect due to the DSP integration.
And UAD Apollo twin x USB launched too
Well another important trick they've missed if true is independint phantom switches. Especially for mono podcasts. Obviously for stereo you use 2 condensers so fine there. Ah and instead of that cklip thing. Just go 32 bits dude.
With the improvements to the Gen 4, I’m wondering if I should get this over the Clarett 2 Pre.
The Clarett+ has better preamps still. Also, I wouldn’t be surprised if there as upgrade to those too soon, maybe with auto gain.
So what would be a better alternative with a better headphone amp?
Audient iD14, SSL2, M-Audio192
@@EdThorne I'll check them out.
I make beats in Reason (MIDI keyboard) and do my mixing and mastering in StudioOne and Steinberg WaveLab, respectively. Don't have much treatment in my studio, and I have been using the Focusrite Solo 3rd Gen with my monitors. The headphone volume isn't separate, and I am in the market for something that suits my needs. Money is not really an object. Will be prepared to go to $1000 Australian dollars if needed.
Any thoughts?
I've never understood why these smaller interfaces doesn't have software controlled monitor mixing, like on basically all of their other offerings. The direct monitoring buttons and the blend/mix knobs between input and DAW are just terrible designs IMO. Just have the software do it. If some hardware thing is needed to do that, then just add that in and slightly increase the price
It requires DSP which keeps some manufacturers away from it, also the cost can be prohibitive. But this model has DSP so it’s strange they didn’t implement it. Maybe they will in the future, it depends how they’ve designed the DSP architecture.
I'm pretty sure it does have software controlled monitor mixing, you guys might have to check the website again @@EdThorne
Your summary says the headphone amplifier isn't loud enough - did you mean while direct monitoring recording audio? I'm finding it hard to believe the headphone amplifier cranked isn't loud enough for playback from a daw ...
Definitely to hear myself during recording. With low impedance headphones it’s fine, but not LOUD. And with my HD600 high impedance headphones at full volume it’s as loud as a conversation. Good for your hearing but I’d rather not push the HP to max to only get a barely satisfactory level.
@@EdThorne so specifically while direct monitoring, during recording. Because if you're not direct monitoring, you can balance the levels however you like in the daw, to hear yourself while recording, right?
Yes, exactly. I didn’t try that actually, it’s a good suggestion. Either way I was referring to the onboard direct monitoring not being loud enough.
I’ve just got the 4th Gen 4i4 and whilst the volume of the headphone output is decent, I agree, it could’ve been louder. I wish they’d give the option to switch the volume of the headphone output’s volume via the control app, like the SSL 12 can. The dual headphone outputs can be made stupidly loud on that thing and I wish other manufacturers would implement it.
Good review.
Thanks for the support, as always 🙂
3gn
Hi! I had sound crackling issues with previous scarlets. Are these new ones any better? 🤔
This sounds like sample rate compatibility. Make sure your DAW and the interface are set to the same Sample rate, eg 48kHz (this can be adjusted in the Focusrite Control App)
@@EdThorne Thx for quick reply. I have this problem even with just listening music without using any DAW.
I was in search of an interface for the SM7B microphone, and it appears that the 3rd generation Scarlett interface doesn't gave much gain for that microphone due to its low gain. Is the microphone directly plugged in to the Scarlett during testing without requiring an external amplifier? If that's the case, I may consider purchasing this interface.
The Gen 4 has 69dB of gain - plenty for an SM7b. For this video the mic was plugged directly into the interface, yes.
What u think is better:
Apollo Solo or Scarlett 4th
Apollo solo.
Should I get the 4th gen scarlett or a volt 2 from UA? Looking for best quality
Personally I think the Volt sounds better but the Scarlett conversion is now better for monitoring/headphone sound quality.
I know cables are still preferred over Bluetooth, but I'm wondering if the lack of impedance from a cable will help with the headphone issue
monitorinG via BT'll most likely cause latency. but Give it a tryyy n see wassup!!!
The Impedance from a short cable is barely measurable compared to the impedance from a headphone driver.
Finally a real generation upgrade! so where the clarett + sits now?
The Clarett still has better preamps but watch this space for upgrades coming (I suspect).
@@EdThorne Hi thank you for replying, I am not interested in the preamps, I am interesting in mixing only, so how good that is in comparison, can you feel more detail?
@@trascendents I am not a professional musician, but from a technical point of view and as far as i know, the mixing is done digital, not analog. Each input should have an ADC ach, converting the analog signal to digital, so there should be no analog mixing.
Wait... the softwares that come with the scarlet are perpetual? Or is like 6-12 months of licence? Does anyone knows?
The Hitmaker expansion and Lite Live is yours to keep. The Pro Tools Artist is a three month subscription. LandR is a two month subscription (+5 free masters to use anytime).
It's nice to see Jimmy Neutron grew up but continued to be passionate about science and technology.
Haha. Cheers.
@@EdThorne Cheers mate, nice content.
Should i get this over an audent id4?
Thanks!
I’m never near the mouse when I need to adjust between playback and direct monitoring, I need the knob and this one doesn’t have one.
Thank you for video. Both my scarlet 6i6 and 8i6 stopped being recognized by my iMac out of nowhere i have had them for a number of years. So, I now have two 25% off upgrades from focusrite. I'm thinking about the 4i4 that is coming out in Nov. I engineer podcasts and use it for voice and percussion recording.
My question is, should I get the scarlet 4i4 Gen 4 of get a Clarett+ 4pre, the 2 doesn't have enough onboard inputs for me, and save more with that 25% off? granted, at the moment I don't do heavy mixing or audio processing.
i was thinking about buying two Clarett+ 4pres with the 25% off and then selling one NIB at MSRP.
Yes except in my experience the 25% is in reality worth at 57p when compared to street price and factoring in postage on some items. I am really annoyed about this as I feel it's a fake discount and so tempted to jump ship and not stay with the brand
a question will the amp on the Scarlett be enough to run DT770 pro 80 OHM headphones ?
Sre any of the bundled stuff eorth the licencing hassle to use? Are any better than wgat you get with cubase ir Ableton?
Had Evo 4, thought the focusrite 2i2 would be an upgrade.. it wasn’t lol random distortion in recordings etc. I’m now going for the Volt 276, right choice?
Random distortion will be from incompatible samples rates and/or input audio clipping. Both of these are user errors and easily avoided.
I don't understand why you would ever use clipsafe mode. That's what limiters are for. Maybe for podcasters?
Some nice improvements for sure but I wonder why they didn't tackle the latency. For guitars and soft synths the M2 is still the king at this price point.
What latency? Lower your buffer size to lower latency. It has direct monitoring of analog inputs, that's practically zero latency as well. You really have no idea what you're talking about my dude.
@@nugznmugz Bro. Direct monitoring is useless for guitar sims and soft synths, you understand that yeah? Any bullshit piece of shit card can do direct monitoring. Lowering the buffer with a mediocre card like this one gets you pops, clicks, and stutters. It does not have the performance to handle low buffers under load. 10.1 ms at 128 buffer size is extremely average and is absolutely no improvement over the 3rd gen Scarlett. The old PCI based cards in the late 90s and early 2000s had better latency performance than this.
From the chart in the video there's at most 3ms differences between the motu M2 and the scarlet's at any given buffer size. And humans can't perceive that difference.
@@smugler1 3ms is a significant difference for the purpose of recording guitars via amp sims and VST synths. A total roundtrip latency difference of 6-7 vs 10 ms is completely noticeable.
Well at least its faster on 192khz, I guess thats the native sample rate of the converters, thats good for live playing i.e. using the interface as an guitar amp@@smugler1
What model of DAC is installed inside? Thank you in advance!))
I don;t undertand, why they moved XLR inputs to the back...
I guess so you can leave them plugged in and only plug in instrument cables (which take input precedent) when you need them. Makes sense to me.
What u think is better:
MOTU M4 or Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 Gen4?
I got this dac and I like the sound very clean and sharp but it doesn’t not have any bass to it at all anyway to fix that?
what about them changing the mic input to INPUT 2 ....when daw's search for input 1? any thoughts on that or why they did it?
One of the big plusses of the Scarlett in my opinion is that there is no need for drivers, due to it being USB class compliant. I'm having to replace my Edirol UA25EX audio interface because it is no longer compatible with MAC past OS 10. (Now at OS 14).
Every audio interface is class compliant. Some have the added complication of monitoring software required (Apollo/Audient/Lewitt/Topping) but they will work without this regardless.
@@EdThorne I chanced upgrading to the latest version of MAC OS and the Edirol worked but a message said that it wouldn't be compatible in future OS upgrades. Would this be because class compliancy may change?
How did you get those specs? Focusrite has the exact same specs for the gen 3 and 4 listed on their website
From Focusrite in a pre-release press pack. They probably need to update their website.
Analog to Digital and Digital to Analog. Not audio. Lol. Great review though. I have a gen 1 and wasn't sure about upgrading to the 3 or 4, but 4 it is.
Yeh, I’m not sure how that alternative definition slipped through the script writing and editing nets…
Hi, I just detected to you are having the same problem with me, there is crackling or kinda rubbing sounds coming with your sound. I did a lot of troubleshooting to solve to problem. I talked with the focusrite team, they didn't solve it yet. Let me warn you it is really hard to hear but, once u hear it, it is always disturbing you. I recorded many vocals with it, and even you put a lot of of plugins after the record it does not go away. If you closely listen to 4:30 you would see what I mean.(when you are saying accurate and CONSISTENT (on this word you can hear the bad sound) . Especially with the rap vocals or when you talk fast, it ruins the record. If anyone have the same problem, please helppp! It happens just when u talk to mic.
To solve this I changed my Mac computer and got I m3 MacBook Pro, I didn't help. I think I am going to change the Scarlett. I think finally Scarlett is the problem.
Please listen with headphones
i do voice over work, and use an gen 3 with a sm7b, is it worth while for my needs to upgrade
From a monitoring perspective, yes but I actually prefer the sound of the Gen3 preamps. And if you’re making that work, you won’t need the extra gain available on the Gen 4.
Thank you for your time and reply@@EdThorne
I noticed there was an improvement on your voice at least a lift however I was not listening through headphones, so that is about as far as I can comment on that aspect. The Red Net converters are their flagship which brings a better value then its predecessor for sure. The original Scarlett did not sound good at all to my ears, so take that for for what it is worth. In this price the Audient is more compelling with its sound and features. If I were in the market at this pricing level I would go with the Audient over the Scarlett although the latter has improved.
There may need to be an iD14 Vs 2i2 Gen 4 video… not sure I can get away with rehashing the same ideas though 🤣🤣
@@EdThorne Oh wow that would be a great video to have! Yes, I support that idea and will definitely watch it. Now your comment section may explode, but hey at least it's engagement 🤣
@@EdThorneI've been looking for this exact video the past couple days as I am looking to upgrade my interface. I would be very grateful for any insight you may be able to provide on it. Subscribed.
I'm still on gen 1 but I don't see myself staying with Focusrite, I'd rather go EVO, Arturia or SSL. IDK which one yet 🤔
EVO 8 gives you more inputs, Presonus i24 gives you inbuild equalizer, compressor/limiter and 32bit recording is waiting around the corner. Just saying we made our very good preamps even better and have one equalizer setting "AIR" built in does not necessarily convince.
@@HarmonicaTool I just checkd price and for $200 I can get sooo much features than this. Definitively not staying with Focusrite.
Im on gen 2 what differences can i expect
Much better sounding HP amp although probably no louder (I’ve only used the Gen 1 & 3 for comparison). Better sounding speaker output as a result of the improved conversion. But I prefer the sound of the preamps on the Gen3 (and likely previous gens).
I recently bought a Scarlett 2i2 3rd gen... Since I can still return it, do you think it's worth buying the new 4th gen one?
I also have a Behringer UMC204hd, and although it has more connections than the Focusrite, I have compared them and I notice that the sound I get when recording acoustic guitar with a condenser mic is a little more muffled on the Behringer, while with the Scarlett it has a little more clarity and brightness (with the AIR button off), it seems to capture more detail, it is subtle, by the way, the guitar sounds more organic and beautiful. Also, the recording with the Behringer has a little more low frequency noise.
(In terms of latency, with a buffer size of 64, I have almost the same in both, it is little but when playing a virtual piano I do not fully enjoy it).
That's why until now I was determined to stay with the Focusrite - it was very cheap with the studio pack - but of course, now that the 4th gen has just been released it makes me angry, although at the moment it’s very expensive, so now I have considered returning the 3rd gen Scarlett to get the new one, and wait to see if prices drop, or maybe an SSL2+ which looks very nice for recording guitars (although I think it has more latency).
Any advice on whether or not to keep the 3rd gen Focusrite, or return it and go for the 4th gen or the SSL2+?
Up to you. I have the Behringer and I have a 2nd Gen Focusrite and I prefer the 2nd Gen Focusrite over the Behringer. I believe Focusrite just makes better stuff. 3rd Gen is likely fine enough to keep IMO and likely wouldn’t see much of an upgrade to 4th gen from 3rd. SSL 2 seems cool too, but likely comparable to Focusrite. I’m not sure how the SSL 2 drivers are which is important to me.
Can i have outputs from another audio interface into front 2 Lineins and plug mic in the same time to run stream with Scarlett 2i2 4th?
No. The architecture is a two channel interface. The line ins take precedent and will bypass the XLR ins if used. I suggest looking into setting up an aggregate device (Audio MIDI Settings on Mac)
Hi, this or audient id14 mk2?
I really wish they come up with Thunderbolt interfaces, that's the only thing stopping me from buying their interfaces.
Idk if you’ve been watching apple updates but they are moving to usb c at this point thunderbolt will be irrelevant sooner or later
@@Tyre3onthetrack Well I thought Thunderbolt is much faster?!
@@mychess5821 yes, thunderbolt has higher bandwidth, but an audio interface should not even come close to saturating even older USB ports.
the extra bandwidth is generally useful for uncompressed video signals and large data transfers (fast external drives).
Hallo😊
arturia minifuse 4 or focusrite 4i4 4grd? I would record music on a Yamaha genos through Logic.
Thx
I haven’t used the Arturia so it depends on what features you want.
@@EdThorneThx. do you think the new one sounds better? Or is the gr3 series better?
Shame that the output isn't any louder. I have a Gen 3 Solo, and I quite highly doubt I'd be able to power DT 1770's with it which I've been considering buying. The Gen 3 also has a scratchy, stiff, and randomly unbalanced stereo monitor control, only temporary fix being moving it rapidly to heat the pot up. If I could move to a passive interface with good (enough) output for 1770's I'd be very happy, anyone know of any? (High enough output power to get 250ohm 1770's loud enough. From trying them on a phone they seem easier to power than other 250's but I don't think would be loud enough for every scenario, without quite a bit of power.)
would you or anybody else who comments on here recommend this device for voice over at least?
Absolutely, although I really like the compression circuit on the Volt for VOs (and Vintage mode).
Nothing this guy says makes any sense from 6 minutes on this is all marketing jargon to say that a DAC has bass extension completely nullifies everything said about linear audio sweeps if you do a linear audio sweep from 20hz to 20 kHz and the lines flat and you take another DAC and you do another audio sweep from 20 to 20k and the line is also flat. Neither one of them have a bass extension the dac should be transparent. If there is actually bass extension in the DAC, what will happen is A low Pass filter curve will start at a lower roll off point. Showing more linearity than the one that doesn't have an extension and if the extension is actually a boost. Like in an EQ it'll show slight boost of the frequency after the sweep.
With respect, I don’t think you understand what’s being said in the video. The 20-20k sweep is for the PREAMPS. The conversion comments refer what I can HEAR out of the speakers and headphones on both interfaces.
A DAC will not do what you state this can be easily proven by sweeping both the outputs of both devices in question and comparing them. You will get no significant sonic eq changes from changing DACS and the "smearing" is the crappy clock arguments we had in the early 90s none of this is a thing in modern design. Here are the published output specs of the line out +/- .02db frequency response for the gen 4 and +/- .01db frequency response for the gen 3 most studio monitors have a speaker sensitivity of 90db at 1 watt of power that means out of a 100 watt amplifier 1 watt pushes the signal to over the typical listening recommendations of a single day (8 Hrs) so you have an amplifier doing 1% of its output power to push the DAC to maybe 25% of its spec'd output volume to get to deafening levels and you can hear bass extension from a .02% frequency variance? @@EdThorne
Just here to read all the black lion overlookers. Revolution is the BEST economical choice. Price has even dropped because so many people need a screen to hear sound instead of their ears
Are the XTone's so bad they never make it into those charts?
5:45 About the ADC/DAC, the problem is there's not a lot of reference for this kinda thing. Of course you can find reviews that compare the most common ones like this focusrite vs Apollo twin, etc etc. but anything beyond that there's no info. Someone needs to do a massive database of measurements lol
For example I have an eleven rack. which is a guitar preamp with audio interface. I have no idea how the ADCs or DACs compare to other audio interfaces. I don't know if it would make a huge difference getting something like this for the interface part and use that as preamp only, or if a higher end unit like apollo twin, or quad cortex would give much better performance.
It’s true, there’s no (common) standardised way of comparing converters and I, too, think it would be useful. Ultimately it’s what you can hear that’s important. These converters give the Gen 4 a genuine step up in headphone and monitor sound quality. I think the Gen 3 preamps sound better though on reflection.
4th gen doesn't have PAD button
“Digital to Analogue” not “digital to audio”
😑
Yep, silly mistake for something so obvious, thanks.
@@EdThorne
Bro, i apologize for being a bit “dickish” about it.
And honestly i need to stop getting hung up on acronyms, its not like im getting paid to correct people.
Keep it up dood 🙌
P.S.
Im not gonna lie, ive made that same mistake myself. I aint holier than thou.
Does anybody know if I can use both instrument jacks + mics at the same time? I mean, I want to plug 2 instruments and 2 mics at the same time using 2i2 4th gen
I bought a 3rd generation 2 weeks ago and no one told me that the fourth generation was coming.
I feel ripped off by Focusrite.
No one is allowed to tell you that the fourth generation is coming, because it's likely wrapped up in NDAs. I'd say check with the retailer you bought it from to see if you'd be able to upgrade (provided that it's still in perfect condition and you kept all the boxes etc).
I had the exact same with my Apollo Twin mkii before the X came out. Maybe your retailer can offer you a refund/swap. Always worth asking.
Contact Focusrite and really sound sad and upset, but polite and they may offer you some sort of swap with a decent price break. Or who knows a complete swap. I had the Saffire Pro 24 DSP and when they stopped and what I felt prematurely supporting Windows 11 with drivers I complained. They offered to replace the Saffire with a Scarlett 8i6 3rd Gen at half price. I just had to send my Saffire to them. They paid all shipping for everything. I can’t guarantee anything, but they seemed keeping me as a happy customer and user was important. I did squeeze in my original email that “I couldn’t in good conscience consider them as a choice in future purchases” and it’s a shame because they always had a great reputation. Basically, appeal to their corporate ego.
Oh I also threw in that this was a waste of a perfectly good electronic device that is going to a landfill and hurt the environment. This was right about the time they started with all the corporate woke crap about being environmentally friendly. I see they’re still pushing that stuff. Try to use that angle in some way even though your situation isn’t quite the same. Good Luck.
Personally I’m not that interested in the Gen 4. At least not now. All this gear the RUclips guys review is pretty much the same in the grand scheme. When I factor in that my skill level is as such that if I was ever to become a big star (I’m 58 LOL) Everythig I ever record would be done on really state of the art equipment. Basically this gear is for making demos and compared to 25 years go is light years ahead in quality.
Take it back, it's only been two weeks
Dealer don't listen to me.@@HiredGoonage
5:50 Pretty sure you meant _ANALOG to digital and digital to ANALOG._
Yes. I did! I don’t know how I missed that in the script writing and editing phases, my bad. Thanks for the comment.
@@EdThorne Happens to the best of us.
M2 2,7 SEC? HOW?
M1. Don’t know how.
Somebody know when will release 8i6 4 gen?
Any idea if the 4th Gen (specifically 4i4 4th gen) is better then the Motu M4??? Quality wise?
Headphone amp and conversion, yes. Preamps are probably similar. I prefer the pres on the Gen 3. But smart gain and safe mode is useful.
I want to upgrade my 2nd gen scarlett but i think i will move to the Arturia brand and only because i use a laptop with only USB-C. And my midi controller is a USB-A. Arturia provide a USB-A connections, where i can just connect my MC direct to the sound interface. No need for an extra USB extension.
11+ minutes of whining about the headphone amp & puffing the "new improved hotness" features, but not a word about how they've stripped the XLR combo inputs out of the 2i2 forcing users to either use an XLR-to-1/4" adapter or spend an extra $80 to move up to the 4i4.
As an owner of a 2nd gen 18i8 and 2nd & 3rd gen 2i2s, I'm not going to upgrade to 4th gen because I just need an XLR and guitar cord input for my purposes. I was lucky to find the 2i2 3rd gen at a resale shop nearly new for $49 in 2019 and I'm just gonna keep using that, thank you very much.
Aren't the XLR inputs just on the back? All the input types are there, they're just split between the front and back.
Audient ID24 is still all round better in all department.
The iD24 is possibly the best all-rounder in this price bracket, yeh.
Should be at £300.
It appears to have worse round trip latency than both the generation 3 and generation 4 scarlett interfaces, based on the stats in the video, and doesn't do 192khz recording, so not really all departments
@@iainmcguire7190 192 khz for what reason
@@samueloluyinkaojomu6548 better rtt latency for a start, if your interface supports it
❤👍
I just got one & I like it 👍recorded a song on my iPhone with it, it’s posted on my page
Excellent. Well done.
Hahahaa you could at peast clean it man so funny😊
Haha. I know right, but I couldn't get rid of the finger grease once I'd touched it 😆
OMG, noooo
lol, you make this sound like it will not work with anything but apple products....
The official line from
Focusrite is iOS products only, so yeh…
daaaamn...
what a forehead
Haha. Cheers Champ.