In addition, both audio interfaces are bus-powered as well. Thus, you do not need to connect them to an external power source before they can function. The Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 comes with a user-friendly Focusrite control software that makes it possible for users to control and make changes to the interface. This software expands the capability of the Scarlett 4i4 significantly above the Scarlett 2i2. The Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 also adds the ability to make virtual audio routes on your computer which can be used to record online meetings like Skype or Zoom directly. The big monitor knob works only for the 1 and 2 outputs the 3 and 4 outputs come out as unity gain (0db) so that's something I had to keep in mind of when I was calibrating my monitors.

The type of preamps found in these audio interfaces is the award-winning Focusrite mic preamps that have now been incorporated with the Focusrite Air mode feature. This means you can’t plug a microphone or a guitar directly into them. But you can plug in a keyboard, synthesizer, mixer, or hardware effects into them. And I’ll show you how to make the most use of these inputs later in the article. Air Mode — Enabling users to capture recordings with the distinctive character reminiscent of a large studio console, and enhance vocals and instruments with an elevated presence and a lush harmonic drive. Optimising your computer for audio can help you achieve lower buffer sizes, lower latency and stop glitches: The analogue inputs 3 and 4 can be controlled though the software only they don't have a hardware controls.Further new features are specific to the 2i2 and 4i4. The reworked preamps have an impressive 69dB of gain, which we found ideal for low-output mics such as ribbons. The 2i2 and 4i4 preamps also include optional auto gain and clip safe. Again, note that the level of these faders will only affect the level of the signal going to that output. The fader will not affect the level into your DAW software. It would be really good if it had an indication of unity gain on the monitor control when everything is set to 0db on the software.

Essentially, the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 is a better option than the Scarlett 2i2 if you’d like to expand your home recording or studio setup in the future. Conclusion It was my first audio interface and I must say that for a beginner I could have not chosen a better one. Right off the bat the build quality is solid, full aluminium, hard plastic, easy intuitive layout, very simple to get used to. At this price point, I think there is no other better option out there, 4ins 4outs and MIDI. Or you can run them as a pair to get stereo output. Usually, these outputs are connected to a studio monitor.However, note that plug-ins in your recording software (DAW) will not be heard whilst recording. This is because direct monitoring means you are hearing the signal before it reaches the software. In addition to having the same preamps, both audio interfaces can record up to 192 kHz sample rate at 24-bit depth. The sound they deliver has better Sonics and is delivered at lower latency as well. Regarding the sound, there is a CLEAR difference when plugging into the audio interface and when plugging into whatever soundcard you might have. Also, it drives 80 Ohm headphones without any issues, to get really satisfactory volume (a bit loud) seems to be at 60% of the volume dial (keep in mind, this is without any headphone amps) - at 100% it is blazing and too loud.