Well done. Your coverage is actually better-detailed from a tech perspective, and provides a better understanding of what each feature *actually does* than many of the other channels... many of which seem to completely overlook the core purpose of some of these features. Either because they're mainly 'computer musicians' with little real audio-recording experience, or worse - just gamers. No one in the top 10 results in CZcams, for instance bothered to mention that the purpose of the 1/2 -vs-3/4 monitoring is mainly as a DJ cueing device. I just bought one of these units (a gen 1), but that was the core selling-point value for me; few other units offer that feature. A detail maybe worth adding: gen 1 units will also run on the newer gen 2 drivers, which improve latency of the entire family. this is 'partially confirmed' (a number of users have confirmed they work, and focusrite tech support said changes to the gen 2 driver include some support for gen 1) , but Focusrite doesn't officially say so on their website.
Thanks for the feedback and the note about the Gen 2 drivers working on the Gen 1 devices. I had a small issue when I first got my Gen 2 and had to use the Gen 1 drivers temporarily until the problem was fixed but didn't know it would work the other way around.
Thanks again, Mark. I know I'm late on viewing this video essay but I just came across the 2i4 earlier this week. Great video and please keep up the wonderful work, my brother.
Thanks for the video. I just bougt one and you have proven that i made the right choice. I've been searching for features this interface has since the M-Box 2.
I'm currently using one of these for my video/music production machines. And if anyone is wondering it works with Linux as well, ALSA drivers support this DAC with either JACK OR PulseAudio as your server, but most Linux music production software requires JACK, some allow only ALSA, but your routing capabilities will be limited without JACK. JACK is necessary for low-latency routing in/out, a real-time kernel is not, but I'd recomend it if your using a DAW for MIDI with a lot of music production software. AVLinux is a good way to achieve this with no fuss. Great DAW with great audio, and I really enjoyed your review Mark Warren.
One thing to pay attention to is whether an interface supports stereo signals when you are direct monitoring your performance. The Steinberg interface I have sums the inputs to mono in the headphones. This makes sense if you're monitoring two different instruments and don't want them hard split left and right in your headphones. But if you're trying to stereo mic a source, it's useless when you can't hear a stereo signal. It looks like this 2i4 supports both mono and stereo direct monitoring (see the switch), and the direct/daw blend knob is a very handy feature. I'm just about to replace my Steinberg interface with this one, and the monitoring features are a big part of my thinking.
Did you buy 2i4? How's stability of it's driver on Windows? Does it pop or crack at lower buffer settings (like 64 samples @ 44.1 kHz). Also, does Focusrite consume more CPU than Steinberg?
Nice review/demo - thanks! A couple questions - it looks like there's only one 48V button for phantom power that probably applies to both inputs? I assume that means you can't use both a condenser mic and a ribbon mic at the same time? Also, if you plug an instrument (synth set to Line) into one input, and have a mic with phantom power on the other, will that cause problems? Thanks again!
48V - phantom power switch for mic inputs - enables 48 V phantom power at XLR contacts of both Combo connectors, so it would work with 48V XLR mic with instrument, but not 2 different XLR mic.
Thanks for the review. Interesting that your current firmware was 1116 while the latest available firmware was 1051. Wondering if you were using some test/beta firmware and the update actually downgraded your unit.
It would be nice to compared with the new Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen (replaces the Scarlett 2i4). I like all that hardware nobs and buttons on 2i4. 4i4 is probably more software controlled.
QUESTION FOR ALL. If I get this Interface, will I be able to hear the INSTRUMENTAL in a DAW through headphones, AND monitor my mic in real time? Im pissed cause I spent almost as much on a creative AE-5 and it's trash! Now, here I am looking to buy a interface. I used to have an old soundcard, this was 10 years ago, with the ASIO DRIVERS i was able to hear my mic in real time, also any effects I put on the mic via FL STUDIO.. and I really like it.. I hate not being able to hear myself.. recording vocals I dont have the same ENERGY when I can't hear myself.
Thanks for this video.. I’m curious, what do you do after you finish using it since it has no power off switch. Is it healthier to keep unplugging the USB each time you are done? Or do you leave it powered on? Also, do you unplug the mic every time after your session is done or do you just leave it plugged in? I’m wondering what’s best or does it really matter? Would appreciate your thoughts on this. Thanks again.
The driver sucks, it buffers with clicks and pops when i'm trying to play a song or video online BUT sound works fine when i'm in my daw or just playing music through my downloaded songs. The only way for it to stop buffering online is if i uninstall the driver. ugh idk what to do and nothing works
I'm not sure whether to get a Headphone DAC (eg. Creative Sound Blaster) or this Focusrite Scarlett so I can connect my headphones to it and also my studio monitors and sub. Is a dedicated headphone DAC like the Creative Sound Blaster for example have better specs in terms of powering your headphones than this Focusrite?
It depends on your headphones. I use Audio Technica M50's and I've never had any issues going directly through the Scarlett headphone jacks. I've owned several Scarlett's and no problems with any of them.
.....I was looking at (Sweetwater) a bunch of the various Focusrite products,(various Audio Interface units), and I see that they make several 19" rack mounted versions. What similarities, or dissimilarities exist between these devices, and a "microphone" (rack mounted) "MIXER"?!.... Do I (we) need both? (an A.I., and a Mixer, or can one or the other suffice?!....
Great review and breakdown! I do have a question. Is it possible to connect a cellphone to this interface? I want to be able to talk and hear people that call me but respond via my XLR mic versus earphones plugged into the phone. I think on a mixer the set up is cc called a mix minus. Thanks!
It is possible but it may be a little tricky to setup. One of your inputs would already be used by your XLR. So that only leaves one left for the input from your cell phone. You will need some kind of adapter that will take the output of your cellphone's headphone/mic jack and split it to separate signals (something like this: a.co/eA653Gd). The headphone jack on the adapter would plug into 2i4 input so you could hear the audio from your cellphone. The 3/4 output from the 2i4 would plug into the Mic input of the adapter so they could hear you when you speak into your mic. It would require quite a few xtra cables and the adapter to make it work. An easier solution would be to use something like Skype or Hangouts for your calls and then route the audio from the programs to your DAW or audio mixer program so you can speak back and forth. No extra cables required but you may need a program like virtual audio cable to re-route the audio signals. I would probably do this over using cables and my cellphone.
Hey Mark, I used it with MacBook. It was well and good. Now I want to use it with Windows 10. But the thing is we did not copy bundle code and the box thrown into the trash. Now my windows 10 is asking drivers. Will I be able to use this with my windows?
You can download the Windows driver for Focusrite Interfaces right from their website and it doesn't require the bundle code. The bundle code is only needed for the extra plugins and sound packs. If you registered your unit, I believe you can also find the codes once you login.
Will any firmware updates show up in the download section? I have a Scarlett Solo (2nd Gen) And 8i6 (1st Gen) No firmware appears for me. How do I check the current version?
Hello Thanks for the video. I have a practical question: I would like to play live with this interface, through my pc, because I use Guitar Rig 4 for my guitar sounds. It would be great to connect it to my DAW (FL Studio 10) so I can use the settings/plugins for the vocals and on a second channel for the guitar (+ setting/plugins) My pc is a AMD C-60 APU (1Ghz) with 4gig ram. Do you think I would have latency problems? thx for your answer grts Kennet
While I'm not too familiar with AMD processors I looked up the specs and it's a little lacking compared to the Intel i5. I don't think that's a big issue but I don't think you'll have enough Ram especially if you're running Windows 10. I would recommend a minimum of 8GB for an audio system, preferably 16GB. 4GB of Ram is barely enough to run your OS let alone any apps. Typically the slower the system the higher the latency. I run an Gen 6, i5 with 16GB and it has been very stable and has fairly low latency with Ableton 10 and Reason 10. HTH
I bought this interface but returned it soon after. I found the sound had little bottom end and a very compressed sound . Also the headphone output was weak and volume dropped when direct monitoring was engaged. Very disappointing unit.
The interface helps output sound. If you had issues with low end frequencies it's either your monitors, the music you're having on playback, how the songs were produced (if you're producing), or how your room is set up.
Hello Mark. Great Review i must say. I bought Scarlett 2i4 just after i watch your review. I have some questions here. I have a pair of stereo speakers which are connected through my 5.1 amplifier to Scarlett Unbalanced 1-2 RCA output. Now i want to add my subwoofer. Is it possible to add sub with 3-4 RCA output?
Honestly not sure how this would work as I don't have a sub-woofer setup. I'm sure it could be done but you would need to send the audio out of your main and 3/4 setup at the same time. That would all depend on the DAW or program you are using for your audio.
Learning with Mark Warren thanks so much for your response. Actually I’m not getting that punchy sub through my stereo speakers when I connect them to 2i4 so was wondering if I could connect my sub woofer separately by 3-4 output. But anyway thank you.
@@sanketmusiclive not getting the punchy sub depends on a number of things. What are your speakers? Is your room treated so that when you sit in the center the low frequencies are close to you? What kind of tracks are you playing on playback? If you're using a subwoofer, it's usually ok for playback purposes, but not for real-time producing as that gives you a false reading.
Have you ever used the Scarlett as a headphone amp for your computer (computer sound card running into the mic in for the Scarlett)? I am hoping to buy one and use it as a headphone amp sometimes and for microphone phantom power at other times.
I use the Scarlett as the sound card for my computer and don't use the internal one at all. The Scarlett interfaces will work as your regular system audio and as Asio with your DAW or other audio apps. No point in daisy chaining audio devices.
So you would recommend this model for producing and also DJing? In wanting to set up montiors for producing in my room, but eventually get into DJing so this will work for both? And I'm deciding between this or the 2i2 but after your vid I think I'll go with the 4
If you want to get into DJing then you will need the 2i4. The 2i2 is good for producing but not DJing. Reason is it only has 2 in and 2 out. You need 2 in 4 out if you want to have a mix to play to your audience (outputs 1/2) and a separate mix to cue to your headphones (outputs 3/4).
Learning with Mark Warren cool thanks man, and yea both producing and djing, I think I'll go the extra couple bucks and get the 4 for sure, thanks for the info, great review btw
Should I go for the 2i4 or the 6i6? Am I able to use the 6i6 without using MixControl at all? I already have Ableton and i don't want to deal with another software. I just want to record my instruments (guitar, bass, midi Keyboard) and use my SP404sx as an external effect. But also I want to buy something future-oriented, because of possible additions to my gear. All i'm interested in are the I/O. It woudn't be that bad, if i had to change the cabels often, but if the 6i6 works without MixControl i think i would spend the 50 more bucks for the comfort, not always having to change the cabels. Thank you for your help! I hope it's understandable.
It's up to you to whether you go with the 6i6 or 2i4. I can say that I started out with a 2i2 years ago and found I quickly out grew it. I now currently have a 2i4 Gen 2 for my mobile setup and a 18i8 Gen 2 for my desktop setup. I got the 18i8 because it has all the ins and outs I currently need but it is also expandable via the ADAT. I have everything I use plugged into it and never have to worry about swapping cables. As for the mixcontrol (now called the Focusrite Control on the Gen 2 devices) in theory you can use the 6i6 and above without it but... it is actually apart of the default driver install. It's not just another piece of software to learn to use, it controls how you want the inputs and output to be routed. It's not that hard to setup and use. Once you understand how it works and once you set it up the way you want it to be, you never have to go into again as the settings will save to the hardware. I highly recommend that you use it! I did a video on how to use the Focusrite control as well and the MixControl for the 6i6. It will be worth taking a look at to understand what it actually does.
Hey Mark, I've been looking at a lot of reviews saying that the 2i4 works well with mac, but for windows 10 it's a nightmare and is super buggy. It looks like you're using it with windows 10. Have you ever had any problems with the audio cutting out, sounding robotic, or just it not working ?
Nope, I've had no issues at all but...I have taken steps to optimize my computer for production audio prior to installing the 2i4. This is the part that many people may be missing in trying to work with audio in Windows. I've been using Windows computers for over 20 years and have always optimized them for audio production. It will make a huge difference and save you lots of headaches. If you search google for Molten Music, look on his blog for posts on optimizing your computer. I use a Surface pro 4 with my 2i4 and specifically used the SP4 optimization guides. I've done similar tweeks on my Desktop computer with an 18i8. The other thing is I run a very clean install. I don't put a lot of junk software on my computer or unnecessary apps or programs. I've very cautious as to what programs I use and things I download. I couldn't tell how many friends and family have asked me to help them with their computer only to find they are filled with junk, malware, and stuff they don't need. Knowing how to use and maintain your computer resources will keep your audio stuff running on a tight ship!
Will this work with USB 3? I upgraded to High Sierra on my IMAC and my 5 year old M-Audio interface is NO longer working, I suspect the upgrade made my interface obsolete. Thanks in advance, want to go buy this one, but want to make sure it will work with USB 3. Great video by the way, very informative.
hey mark am having a problem with my scarlett 2i4,when i play keys i can hear my keys very well but when i record the keys its coming before the metronome,i need your help mark,thank you.
I prefer the second gen as it has slightly better latency then the gen 1. As far as the operation and functionality they are the same between both versions.
I recommend buying the 2nd gen brand new. Make sure to register your unit on Focusrite's website so you can avail some free stuff and, of course, latest drivers (both PC & Mac) and customer support. If you can find a used 1st gen at close to half the price of a brand new unit, that's good too. But make sure to test the unit first before you buy it (especially the latency if you find it to your liking or not).
I'm assuming you want to record your Korg Keyboard workstation into a DAW. If that's the case then yes. You would plug the outputs of the Korg into the inputs of the 2i4. That audio can be recorded in your DAW and then output to the speakers plugged into the 2i4.
Great video man, but I have a question What do you think about Presonus audiobox iTwo against Focusrite 2i4 (2nd generation)? I'm looking for an audio interface Wich one is better? Thanks
I can't really say which is better as I've never used the Presonus. Spec wise, the 2i4 Gen 2 has 2 inputs/4 outputs whereas the Presonus is only 2in/2out. If you're are looking to do any DJ type stuff having the extra outs is perfect for cueing tracks. Anything less you'll find you'll outgrow it quickly! If you're not doing any DJ stuff than I'm sure the Presonus or the smaller Focusrite 2i2 would be comparable.
The one you decide to use! It's all about preference and tools you need. If Reaper has better tools for what you need in your production, use it. If Reason has better tools, use it. There's no such thing as a better DAW.
Well done. Your coverage is actually better-detailed from a tech perspective, and provides a better understanding of what each feature *actually does* than many of the other channels... many of which seem to completely overlook the core purpose of some of these features. Either because they're mainly 'computer musicians' with little real audio-recording experience, or worse - just gamers.
No one in the top 10 results in CZcams, for instance bothered to mention that the purpose of the 1/2 -vs-3/4 monitoring is mainly as a DJ cueing device. I just bought one of these units (a gen 1), but that was the core selling-point value for me; few other units offer that feature.
A detail maybe worth adding: gen 1 units will also run on the newer gen 2 drivers, which improve latency of the entire family. this is 'partially confirmed' (a number of users have confirmed they work, and focusrite tech support said changes to the gen 2 driver include some support for gen 1) , but Focusrite doesn't officially say so on their website.
Thanks for the feedback and the note about the Gen 2 drivers working on the Gen 1 devices. I had a small issue when I first got my Gen 2 and had to use the Gen 1 drivers temporarily until the problem was fixed but didn't know it would work the other way around.
Thanks again, Mark. I know I'm late on viewing this video essay but I just came across the 2i4 earlier this week. Great video and please keep up the wonderful work, my brother.
Thanks!
Thanks for the video. I just bougt one and you have proven that i made the right choice. I've been searching for features this interface has since the M-Box 2.
You're welcome!
I'm currently using one of these for my video/music production machines. And if anyone is wondering it works with Linux as well, ALSA drivers support this DAC with either JACK OR PulseAudio as your server, but most Linux music production software requires JACK, some allow only ALSA, but your routing capabilities will be limited without JACK. JACK is necessary for low-latency routing in/out, a real-time kernel is not, but I'd recomend it if your using a DAW for MIDI with a lot of music production software. AVLinux is a good way to achieve this with no fuss.
Great DAW with great audio, and I really enjoyed your review Mark Warren.
How easy is it to set up in Linux? I have an M-Audio Fast Track Pro, and it was all but a nightmare to set up in JACK.
Fantastic tuto. Very clear. Thank you so much. Philip
Man thank you so much. Great breakdown, plus i learned somethings i didnt really understand. Thanks!
nice video. made it super clear and easy to start.
Great! Succinct and to the point and covered everything I was looking for...liked and subscribed
One thing to pay attention to is whether an interface supports stereo signals when you are direct monitoring your performance. The Steinberg interface I have sums the inputs to mono in the headphones. This makes sense if you're monitoring two different instruments and don't want them hard split left and right in your headphones. But if you're trying to stereo mic a source, it's useless when you can't hear a stereo signal. It looks like this 2i4 supports both mono and stereo direct monitoring (see the switch), and the direct/daw blend knob is a very handy feature. I'm just about to replace my Steinberg interface with this one, and the monitoring features are a big part of my thinking.
Did you buy 2i4? How's stability of it's driver on Windows? Does it pop or crack at lower buffer settings (like 64 samples @ 44.1 kHz). Also, does Focusrite consume more CPU than Steinberg?
Wow! Very thorough review! Thanks for sharing!
Nice review/demo - thanks! A couple questions - it looks like there's only one 48V button for phantom power that probably applies to both inputs? I assume that means you can't use both a condenser mic and a ribbon mic at the same time? Also, if you plug an instrument (synth set to Line) into one input, and have a mic with phantom power on the other, will that cause problems?
Thanks again!
48V - phantom power switch for mic inputs - enables 48 V phantom power at XLR contacts of both Combo connectors, so it would work with 48V XLR mic with instrument, but not 2 different XLR mic.
Should've showed markers on the video when you mention each parts/buttons/knobs/sockets, etc.
What is the difference in focusrite scarlet 2i4 and 2i4 gen2?
Am also waiting for that what the difference between
Thanks for the review. Interesting that your current firmware was 1116 while the latest available firmware was 1051. Wondering if you were using some test/beta firmware and the update actually downgraded your unit.
how can you review an audio interface and not plug anything into it?
Awesome! Thanks for your most excellent training video!
You're welcome!
It would be nice to compared with the new Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen (replaces the Scarlett 2i4). I like all that hardware nobs and buttons on 2i4. 4i4 is probably more software controlled.
I have one in the works and will be uploading it soon!
amazing sir
Great insight to this unit. Thank you
You're welcome!
QUESTION FOR ALL. If I get this Interface, will I be able to hear the INSTRUMENTAL in a DAW through headphones, AND monitor my mic in real time? Im pissed cause I spent almost as much on a creative AE-5 and it's trash! Now, here I am looking to buy a interface. I used to have an old soundcard, this was 10 years ago, with the ASIO DRIVERS i was able to hear my mic in real time, also any effects I put on the mic via FL STUDIO.. and I really like it.. I hate not being able to hear myself.. recording vocals I dont have the same ENERGY when I can't hear myself.
Cool review. Thanks player.
Thank you so much, for the breakdown !!!
You're welcome!
Thanks for this video.. I’m curious, what do you do after you finish using it since it has no power off switch. Is it healthier to keep unplugging the USB each time you are done? Or do you leave it powered on? Also, do you unplug the mic every time after your session is done or do you just leave it plugged in? I’m wondering what’s best or does it really matter? Would appreciate your thoughts on this. Thanks again.
It shuts off with your 🖥
I have a problem with mine, I can't get any output on jacks 3&4. Know why?
The driver sucks, it buffers with clicks and pops when i'm trying to play a song or video online BUT sound works fine when i'm in my daw or just playing music through my downloaded songs. The only way for it to stop buffering online is if i uninstall the driver. ugh idk what to do and nothing works
Hello, I buyed a Scarlett 2i4 gen 3 and I would like to know what is the difeference on gen 2 and gen3 ? Thanks.
I have DT 770 Studio 80 ohm headphones....... they dont seem as loud and powerfull as they should through this, do I need an amp inbetween???????
I'm not sure whether to get a Headphone DAC (eg. Creative Sound Blaster) or this Focusrite Scarlett so I can connect my headphones to it and also my studio monitors and sub. Is a dedicated headphone DAC like the Creative Sound Blaster for example have better specs in terms of powering your headphones than this Focusrite?
It depends on your headphones. I use Audio Technica M50's and I've never had any issues going directly through the Scarlett headphone jacks. I've owned several Scarlett's and no problems with any of them.
Well done sir 👍🏼
Thanks!
good review thanks!
.....I was looking at (Sweetwater) a bunch of the various Focusrite products,(various Audio Interface units), and I see that they make several 19" rack mounted versions. What similarities, or dissimilarities exist between these devices, and a "microphone" (rack mounted) "MIXER"?!.... Do I (we) need both? (an A.I., and a Mixer, or can one or the other suffice?!....
Great review and breakdown! I do have a question. Is it possible to connect a cellphone to this interface? I want to be able to talk and hear people that call me but respond via my XLR mic versus earphones plugged into the phone. I think on a mixer the set up is cc called a mix minus. Thanks!
It is possible but it may be a little tricky to setup. One of your inputs would already be used by your XLR. So that only leaves one left for the input from your cell phone. You will need some kind of adapter that will take the output of your cellphone's headphone/mic jack and split it to separate signals (something like this: a.co/eA653Gd). The headphone jack on the adapter would plug into 2i4 input so you could hear the audio from your cellphone. The 3/4 output from the 2i4 would plug into the Mic input of the adapter so they could hear you when you speak into your mic. It would require quite a few xtra cables and the adapter to make it work.
An easier solution would be to use something like Skype or Hangouts for your calls and then route the audio from the programs to your DAW or audio mixer program so you can speak back and forth. No extra cables required but you may need a program like virtual audio cable to re-route the audio signals. I would probably do this over using cables and my cellphone.
Learning with Mark Warren THANK YOU! Happy New Year.
You're welcome! I may try to a video on setting something like this up after the first of year. Happy New Year as well.
Learning with Mark Warren That would be great!
Hey Mark, I used it with MacBook. It was well and good. Now I want to use it with Windows 10. But the thing is we did not copy bundle code and the box thrown into the trash. Now my windows 10 is asking drivers. Will I be able to use this with my windows?
You can download the Windows driver for Focusrite Interfaces right from their website and it doesn't require the bundle code. The bundle code is only needed for the extra plugins and sound packs. If you registered your unit, I believe you can also find the codes once you login.
Will any firmware updates show up in the download section?
I have a Scarlett Solo (2nd Gen)
And 8i6 (1st Gen)
No firmware appears for me. How do I check the current version?
Hello
Thanks for the video.
I have a practical question:
I would like to play live with this interface, through my pc, because I use Guitar Rig 4 for my guitar sounds.
It would be great to connect it to my DAW (FL Studio 10) so I can use the settings/plugins for the vocals and on a second channel for the guitar (+ setting/plugins)
My pc is a AMD C-60 APU (1Ghz) with 4gig ram.
Do you think I would have latency problems?
thx for your answer
grts
Kennet
While I'm not too familiar with AMD processors I looked up the specs and it's a little lacking compared to the Intel i5. I don't think that's a big issue but I don't think you'll have enough Ram especially if you're running Windows 10. I would recommend a minimum of 8GB for an audio system, preferably 16GB. 4GB of Ram is barely enough to run your OS let alone any apps. Typically the slower the system the higher the latency. I run an Gen 6, i5 with 16GB and it has been very stable and has fairly low latency with Ableton 10 and Reason 10. HTH
+Learning with Mark Warren
Thx for the answer, this helped.
grts
Kennet
I bought this interface but returned it soon after. I found the sound had
little bottom end and a very compressed sound . Also the headphone output was weak and volume dropped when direct monitoring was engaged. Very disappointing unit.
The interface helps output sound. If you had issues with low end frequencies it's either your monitors, the music you're having on playback, how the songs were produced (if you're producing), or how your room is set up.
Can i connect 2 studio monitors, 1 mic and 2 headphones to it??
You can connect 2 monitors via the unbalanced rca jacks. You cannot connect 2 headphones. It only has the one headphone jack.
Is this great for AT2020 XLR mic and a MIDI like Arturia or Akai mpk?
Hello Mark. Great Review i must say. I bought Scarlett 2i4 just after i watch your review. I have some questions here. I have a pair of stereo speakers which are connected through my 5.1 amplifier to Scarlett Unbalanced 1-2 RCA output. Now i want to add my subwoofer. Is it possible to add sub with 3-4 RCA output?
Honestly not sure how this would work as I don't have a sub-woofer setup. I'm sure it could be done but you would need to send the audio out of your main and 3/4 setup at the same time. That would all depend on the DAW or program you are using for your audio.
Learning with Mark Warren thanks so much for your response. Actually I’m not getting that punchy sub through my stereo speakers when I connect them to 2i4 so was wondering if I could connect my sub woofer separately by 3-4 output. But anyway thank you.
@@sanketmusiclive not getting the punchy sub depends on a number of things. What are your speakers? Is your room treated so that when you sit in the center the low frequencies are close to you? What kind of tracks are you playing on playback?
If you're using a subwoofer, it's usually ok for playback purposes, but not for real-time producing as that gives you a false reading.
Have you ever used the Scarlett as a headphone amp for your computer (computer sound card running into the mic in for the Scarlett)? I am hoping to buy one and use it as a headphone amp sometimes and for microphone phantom power at other times.
I use the Scarlett as the sound card for my computer and don't use the internal one at all. The Scarlett interfaces will work as your regular system audio and as Asio with your DAW or other audio apps. No point in daisy chaining audio devices.
So you would recommend this model for producing and also DJing?
In wanting to set up montiors for producing in my room, but eventually get into DJing so this will work for both? And I'm deciding between this or the 2i2 but after your vid I think I'll go with the 4
If you want to get into DJing then you will need the 2i4. The 2i2 is good for producing but not DJing. Reason is it only has 2 in and 2 out. You need 2 in 4 out if you want to have a mix to play to your audience (outputs 1/2) and a separate mix to cue to your headphones (outputs 3/4).
Learning with Mark Warren cool thanks man, and yea both producing and djing, I think I'll go the extra couple bucks and get the 4 for sure, thanks for the info, great review btw
Trevor Berry I’m Going For The 2i4. I Want To Record MIDI Data As Well As Audio.
Should I go for the 2i4 or the 6i6? Am I able to use the 6i6 without using MixControl at all? I already have Ableton and i don't want to deal with another software. I just want to record my instruments (guitar, bass, midi Keyboard) and use my SP404sx as an external effect. But also I want to buy something future-oriented, because of possible additions to my gear. All i'm interested in are the I/O. It woudn't be that bad, if i had to change the cabels often, but if the 6i6 works without MixControl i think i would spend the 50 more bucks for the comfort, not always having to change the cabels. Thank you for your help! I hope it's understandable.
It's up to you to whether you go with the 6i6 or 2i4. I can say that I started out with a 2i2 years ago and found I quickly out grew it. I now currently have a 2i4 Gen 2 for my mobile setup and a 18i8 Gen 2 for my desktop setup. I got the 18i8 because it has all the ins and outs I currently need but it is also expandable via the ADAT. I have everything I use plugged into it and never have to worry about swapping cables.
As for the mixcontrol (now called the Focusrite Control on the Gen 2 devices) in theory you can use the 6i6 and above without it but... it is actually apart of the default driver install. It's not just another piece of software to learn to use, it controls how you want the inputs and output to be routed. It's not that hard to setup and use. Once you understand how it works and once you set it up the way you want it to be, you never have to go into again as the settings will save to the hardware. I highly recommend that you use it! I did a video on how to use the Focusrite control as well and the MixControl for the 6i6. It will be worth taking a look at to understand what it actually does.
Thank you very much for your informative reply!
To hook a DJ controller to a 2i4, would i go from rca's from controller to 2i4 and usb from controller to macbook pro?
Hey Mark,
I've been looking at a lot of reviews saying that the 2i4 works well with mac, but for windows 10 it's a nightmare and is super buggy. It looks like you're using it with windows 10. Have you ever had any problems with the audio cutting out, sounding robotic, or just it not working ?
Nope, I've had no issues at all but...I have taken steps to optimize my computer for production audio prior to installing the 2i4. This is the part that many people may be missing in trying to work with audio in Windows. I've been using Windows computers for over 20 years and have always optimized them for audio production. It will make a huge difference and save you lots of headaches. If you search google for Molten Music, look on his blog for posts on optimizing your computer. I use a Surface pro 4 with my 2i4 and specifically used the SP4 optimization guides. I've done similar tweeks on my Desktop computer with an 18i8.
The other thing is I run a very clean install. I don't put a lot of junk software on my computer or unnecessary apps or programs. I've very cautious as to what programs I use and things I download. I couldn't tell how many friends and family have asked me to help them with their computer only to find they are filled with junk, malware, and stuff they don't need. Knowing how to use and maintain your computer resources will keep your audio stuff running on a tight ship!
Thank you so much for the detailed reply! Ill definitely check out molten music's blog too
Will this work with USB 3? I upgraded to High Sierra on my IMAC and my 5 year old M-Audio interface is NO longer working, I suspect the upgrade made my interface obsolete. Thanks in advance, want to go buy this one, but want to make sure it will work with USB 3. Great video by the way, very informative.
I can't speak for Mac but all the ports on both my laptop and desktop are USB 3 and they are working just fine.
MARKLINMAN1 same sh*t happened to me. My M-audio FireWire 410 worked perfectly before Mac forced an upgrade. Wasn't happy at all.
I newly bought Focusrite 2i4 and MXL440 microphone.Will it work perfectly?
I don't see why not. I have the MXL770 and it works fine. You may have to increase the gain almost all the way but you shouldn't have any problems.
hey mark am having a problem with my scarlett 2i4,when i play keys i can hear my keys very well but when i record the keys its coming before the metronome,i need your help mark,thank you.
when you plug mic's in do you select line or instrument ? thanks
Should be on line when mics are in, but technically it is for the selection of the 1/4 inch jack and not the XLR.
@@LearningwithMarkWarren thank you. so the XLR inputs are not affected by the line/switch ??
@@MatthewNash92 Correct , I just confirmed no difference on the XLR with my condenser mic.
Do you prefer the first or 2nd gen?
I prefer the second gen as it has slightly better latency then the gen 1. As far as the operation and functionality they are the same between both versions.
I recommend buying the 2nd gen brand new. Make sure to register your unit on Focusrite's website so you can avail some free stuff and, of course, latest drivers (both PC & Mac) and customer support.
If you can find a used 1st gen at close to half the price of a brand new unit, that's good too. But make sure to test the unit first before you buy it (especially the latency if you find it to your liking or not).
I am looking to get a Korg keyboard workstation...not a midi controller. Can I plug into a 2I4 with compatible speakers to obtain audio?
I'm assuming you want to record your Korg Keyboard workstation into a DAW. If that's the case then yes. You would plug the outputs of the Korg into the inputs of the 2i4. That audio can be recorded in your DAW and then output to the speakers plugged into the 2i4.
Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 2nd Gen
Great video man, but I have a question
What do you think about Presonus audiobox iTwo against Focusrite 2i4 (2nd generation)?
I'm looking for an audio interface
Wich one is better?
Thanks
I can't really say which is better as I've never used the Presonus. Spec wise, the 2i4 Gen 2 has 2 inputs/4 outputs whereas the Presonus is only 2in/2out. If you're are looking to do any DJ type stuff having the extra outs is perfect for cueing tracks. Anything less you'll find you'll outgrow it quickly! If you're not doing any DJ stuff than I'm sure the Presonus or the smaller Focusrite 2i2 would be comparable.
How loud is the monitoring?
So with Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 I can use only four synthesizers or instruments? If I want to use more do I need to buy 2i6?
It actually only has two inputs, so you can only use two instruments at a time. The 4 refers to the number of outputs.
Thank you.
@@rdtgn2155 each input is mono and takes either an xlr or a 1/4 inch ts cable
Please respond how do you render
Which is better, reaper or reason
The one you decide to use! It's all about preference and tools you need. If Reaper has better tools for what you need in your production, use it. If Reason has better tools, use it. There's no such thing as a better DAW.
Nice vid..cheers..
Thanks!
Does it need a pre-amp for guitar?
Hi-z instrument input should be enough
What about for gaming?
Using mine for everything. It will work for Windows audio as well as ASIO.
Can this work with fl studio on pc ?
Short answer, Yes!
Copy That
That's the whitest sounding black man I ever heard
Talk English man not a tech geek
Mark can the 2i4 record guitar in stereo ,my old multimix8 did but not having any luck with this
Thanks