Absolutely fantastic review and walk-through! Thanks for this Mark! Great interface, high quality audio. I'd say this is right up there w/ the Roland "Capture" line for sure...
For me it's more just to play my bass through my PC when I learning songs, but having midi again, after so many years without it, has resulted in me messing with keyboards again. It's a big step up from my ageing M-Audio 2496. Enjoying all your posts, keep them coming :-)
Thank you so very much for this presentation Mark. I just purchased this exact item and the first thing I did was return to my studio to look you up. You often have input on something I purchase and as usual, your videos are very thorough. Thanks again friend. 1LUV!
Thank you, very much , Mark, for your well done, very detailed, and thorough, product review! I will be buying some kind of "audio Interface, like this, or, maybe a notch up from this. I prefer a 19" rack mounted frame unit, but, these stand alone units are pretty nice! I look forward to all of your future reviews, as well! Thanks, again!
sir, your tutorial helped me a lot, i have also got the scarlett 6i6,,just wanted to know,, how can i set up my midi keyboard to the interface,,6i6 have got only 2 mic preamps, where i can set my guitar and vocal mic,,in my keyboard there is midi in and out port and my keyboard model is casio CTK 551, so is it possible for me to connect the keyboard through the midi port ? I have tried,but failed. I want to record my vocal,guitar and keyboard simultaneously. Plz help.
I'm unfortunately recently experiencing a really crippling problem with my 6i6 (which of course is happening a few months after the 1-year warranty has expired). What's happening for me is, for whatever reason, the output is being fed back into/is bleeding into the input in a subtle but significant-enough way to ruin my ability to record. Basically anything that's being monitored or played back is also recorded in the channel... so you can imagine how detrimental that is to any project. If I have an electric guitar FX plugin running, and I monitor it, with even a bit of overdrive/gain, I'm almost certain to get a traditional amp-style wall-of-feedback squeel. If I turn off the effect, and listen back to the raw recorded audio, you can clearly hear the effect in the background, underneath the freshly recorded track, squeeling away. Alternatively, if I record something and then make a second track, if I hit record and don't play anything, then listen back to what I recorded with the original track muted, you can clearly hear the original track, proving that it's feeding back the output to the input. Also, on top of that, I also had the exact same high-pitched squeely noise caused by the USB, which you described. I used your electrical tape remedy and that worked out, so thanks for the tip. Unfortunately, though, this other problem is way more destructive and can't be remedied through simple noise removal like the other was. I'm not sure what to do about it because when I was trying to figure out the USB squeel problem, over a year ago, customer service was absolutely useless, and now that i'm out of warranty, I'm almost certainly up the creek. I mean, I could always try to send them an email but I'm certain that they'll just ask if I'm using the latest driver and to check all of my cables, and then just tell me if I want it to be fixed, I can send it to a service place across the country (I'm in Canada, by the way), at my own cost. Have you experienced anything similar to this? It appears that you've owned the box longer than I have (I bought mine in June 2014) so I just wonder if it's something that eventually happens when the box begins to fail/break down.
Thanks for this video!! I was having a tough time trying to figure out the Mix Control software and routing a click to my drummer. After watching about 2 hours of other videos and reading, I found this! Now I understand the Mix Control. Thanks!
Thanks for adressing the high pitched squeel issue, been driving me mad for months. I found that it goes away if you lower the input gain on Guitar Rig for an example. I hope that my Scarlett won't squeel when i buy it
I liked your review. You cleared up some things I was wondering about. You mentioned some of the other focusrite interfaces have that loop back feature, do you remember what models? I know the new Saffire Pro 26 has the feature but I'm not interested in the fire-wire series. Anyways keep up the good work.
B Dema Thanks! Mainly the Saffire series offer loopback in the MixControl software. Of the Scarlett interfaces, any unit with an SPDIF In/Out, can achieve hardware loopback using a cable. That would be the 6i6 and above.
Great Review! I just got one of these, and sadly have the same high pitched squeal with a guitar plugged in...really don't want to send it back already! The guitar, a Fender strat, is also very quiet. It's volume is turned all the way up, and I still have to set the gain to max to get any decent signal on the interface...but then I also the a louder squeal...frustrating.
I have gotten an offer from a Music production lecturer to buy a 2i4 with a MAudio Keystation and MAudio AV40 Speakers all for slightly more than I can get the 6i6. Would you take this deal or still go for the 6i6 instead?
Personally I had two 2in 2out interfaces before I got the 6i6. I never thought I'd use all the ins and outs but I've found them to come in handy from time to time. I now would rather have more than ports so they are there when I need them than to not have enough port when I need them most. I'm even considering the 18i20 next! I can't speak much on the AV40's and Keystation, but I can say I won't be buying any more M-Audio equipment in the future unless they make some big changes in their support. I still have and use the M-Audio Axiom Pro and don't get me wrong, it's a great keyboard. However M-Audio stopped supporting/updating it well before it even became discontinued. I'll keep the Axiom Pro until it's dies but it won't be replaced by another M-Audio product. I've read too many disappointing things about their new products like the Axiom Air and lack support in popular DAWs. Take a look at KRK Rokit monitors. They may be a bit more expensive but they seem to be a standard for home studios. As for controllers do you homework and make sure it will work with the Daw you plan to use or are considering using.
I have bought a scarlett 6i6, I haven't got any software cd inside the pack, just got the 6i6, an usb cable, a power chord, getting started guide and the registration token. i have downloaded ableton live lite 9.1 from the links I have got after the online registration, but when ever i am trying to install, it is coming up with this message "winrar diagnostic message : C:/USER/.......: THE ARCHIEVE IS EITHER IN UNKNOWN FORMAT OR DAMAGED.'' I am badly stuck here, please help.
subhasish christche The Scarlett 6i6 doesn't come with any software CD's and all the software is accessible after registering the product. If there is a problem with the Live lite download trying going to Ableton's website, create an account, register the serial number you got from Focusrite and then it will allow you to download the latest version of the Live 9 Lite software.
Hello, nice video.I have a cuestion, using this device can i record separate channels in an audio software?... lets say for example Adobe Audition CS6?.Because i want to record a drum set but im trying to record by separate channels so i can be able to edit every single cannelThank u, and apologies for the grammar, i dont really speak english xD
Looks like a great unit. My Tascam US-144 is nearing it's end of life and I want to replace it with something a little nicer. I find it odd that there's software to control things like Hi-Z instead of a simple hardware switch, but it looks like the software is powerful. I'm sure I can get used to it. I'm tempted to go for the 18i8 for future proofing, but being on a small budget I could probably use that money more effectively somewhere else. Thanks for the demo.
Lol, you have Rocksmith too? for a second I thought that was my desktop, you automatically rock!.(pun intended) I have a question, I connected my new Scarlett 6i6 to the computer with the cable and I turned it on, am I missing something? I feel I'm missing something as it says in the mix control that it is disconnected.
Mark great videos on this unit and the software!!! I'm going to use my Focusrite 6i6 for an in house rehearsal. The unit only has 2 headphone jacks and I need 4. This might be a really stupid question. I had a headphone amp but it died. Is there a work around where I can use this unit and just split the 2 head phone jacks into 4 with splitter cables? A
I consider buying these unit and the main reason behind that is the believe that i will be able to mic my guitar with this sequence: mic -> interface -> analog delay pedal -> interface. So as a result will have much better effect quality on the record. I'm new to recording and not really good at english, please tell me whether it is possible?
***** Typically there are two ways people use guitars with computer audio interfaces. Either they mic their amps + effect pedals or the plug their guitar directly in the interface and create software effects. You could do what you want above but there could be some latency issues. I would suggest Analog delay pedal->Amp-> Mic->Interface-> Main Output.
Not really a good idea. Most pro of recoding engineers use that approach to record analog effects. It is too hard for mics to catch guitar + effect without significant quality loss (i mean time based delays, vibrato, tremolo etc). Can u please check whether it is possible with the software to configure 6i6 interface that way?
Learning with Mark Warren Thank you very much! I also realized that your advice is very reasonable. Although the method i described still may be effective in certain cases
I just got Reason 9 myself and I think it's a great upgrade. I haven't used Reason much over the past few years as I've been using Ableton Live a lot more. I think I need a refresher course myself! Lol. I'll still consider a review or Reason 9 once I get a little more time with it. Thanks!
Hey Mark! Great review! But I have question: I'm interested in this interface but I've also seen the Focusrite Forte which looks amazing. I just wanted to know which one would you recommend in terms of sounding. I want to plug my guitar directly to the interface. Thank you!
As far as sound, I don't think there would be any real difference between the two and you can plug and guitar directly in both interfaces. While I've never used the Forte, it looks like a nice unit but there are some things that personally bother me about it. It's great that it's small and portable but I don't like the idea of break out cables and the lack of separate knobs and buttons to make changes. For instance if I want to adjust the gain on my Mic 1 input the knob is right there on my 6i6. With the Forte, I would have to push a touch screen, scroll through a menu, and then make my adjustment. If I had the extra money and wanted something for travel I'd consider the Forte, but for the money I think the 6i6 is excellent value and great quality.
By pushing the Phantom power button, both XLR inputs will get phantom power. It's all or nothing. That being said if you have lets say a guitar plugged in the combo jack 1 and a phantom power mic in two, only the mic on 2 will get phantom power. You can even use combos of non-phantom mics and phantom powered mics at the same time. The non-phantom power mic will ignore the phantom power (except ribbon mics). I highly recommend checking that your mic will ignore the phantom power if it doesn't need it but most mics already do that. Cheers.
Mark, I also use Reason, do a praise band and use click tracks. If I moved up to an 18i8 would Mix Control let me use the headphone outs as alternate outputs to get three separate stereo mixes or maybe a stereo on 1&2 and two additional mono outs for click and voice cues?
I had to think about what you were doing and I think I got it. If you currently have the 6i6 you can use the main output 1&2/headphone jack 1 for your main mix. You can use output 3&4/headphone 2 jack two for a click track/voice cue mix. If you need more headphone outs of the same click/voice cue mix you could always connect a headphone amp to outputs 3&4 (something like a Behringer HA400 with a Y-adapter cable). If you need a separate click/voice mix for each headphone output then 18i8 probably won't help you much. It has a main stereo 1&2 output. The two headphone jacks can be assigned to anything via the mix control, so that will give you two more stereo mixes. You can also use the SPDIF out for mixes but most people don't use or have devices to convert the digital to analog. There really aren't any other physical outputs on the 18i8. You would probably be better off with the 18i20, which has plenty of individual, physical inputs and outputs, stereo or mono as you need them. I hope this makes since and any other questions let me know.
Hi Mark. I'm just setting up for the first time and i'd like to know; do i need a separate midi in out interface as well as the 6i6? When i used Midi previously you needed two separate units. Audio and midi interfaces. I am using analog synths and a roland work station as well as vocals guit etc. Thank you in advance!
Hi Mark. I throughly enjoyed our video. I have a question. I noticed that this is a 6i6 and that all the item descriptions I've found online say "6 inputs and 6 outs". Can you actually record 6 instruments/mics at once?? (If not what do they mean?) Also, what are all "outputs" in the back usually used for? Thanks for sharing your knowledge. :)
+Emma Anderson In theory one could record up to 6 instruments at once with the 6i6. On the front with inputs 1/2 you can either record two mics at once , two instruments at once (ex guitar/bass) or a combination of the two (ex mic + guitar). On the back you have two more mono, 1/4" inputs 3/4 that could be used for mics, instruments or other devices but note these inputs do not have a mic pre-amp built in like the front inputs do. Here's where it gets a bit tricky for inputs 5/6. There is an SPDIF in and out that is capable of recording a stereo pair input with an stereo pair output. In order to use this input you would need an SPDIF digital mic or some type of converter box that would take an analog mic signal and change it to a digital signal that the SPDIF would recognize. So in theory you could record up to 6 devices at once but in practical terms most people would only use up to the 4 1/4" or mic inputs on the 6i6. Hope this makes sense. Cheers!
No. When Focusrite talks of "6in/6out" they are specifically talking about audio. In fact to confirm this when you go to your DAW settings you can choose to turn on all 6 inputs and outputs, either 3 stereo pairs, 6 mono in/out, or a combination of stereo and mono. SPDIF is counted as 5/6 in/out. All of this is also confirmed in the Mix Control Software and midi isn't even mentioned at all.
Learning with Mark Warren I have a video request. I am a beginner in home recording and I'm embarrassed to say that I'm really confused with the mix control that came with my Scarlett6i6 ( your video helped me make the decision to purchase one) I have invested a little over $3000 in my home studio and I have been trying for a couple days now to figure out how route my interface to garageband. Do you think you could make a video targeted to beginners like me using mix control and garageband? I'd really appreciate it thanks!
Thomas Keene I just uploaded a new video to hopefully better explain the Scarlettt MixControl Software. You can view the link here: Scarlett 6i6 MixControl Software Tutorial
Are there any benefits to having midi ports/cables over a usb connection for a controller? Seems like the main difference between the 2i2 I have and this one minus the extra ports. Thinking about the upgrade.
I'm late to the party. Question. I have to sets of monitors coming out of outputs 1+2 and 3+4. I'm trying to figure out to control the volume of each set of monitors separately. Any advice? Thanks
Hi Mark nice video! i got a question.. as we know the scarlett can be used to multitrack recording and so do alesis multimix 8 USB 2.0 (yes it's a multitrack recording mixer). my question is which one will i choose? i know the question sounds ridiculous, but since there's just view review about multimix on internet. thanks, regards
It really depends on how you record. If you plan to use a DAW for recording, mixing can be done internally in the software. Also the Scarlett does come with a mix control software that allows you to setup custom routings according to your needs. If you need hands on mixing or perhaps outboard effects then the Alesis may do the job for you. While I've never used the Alesis, I think you would get more bang for your buck with a Focusrite Audio Interface. They offer 24bit recording up the 96Khz, whereas the Alesis only offers 16bit recording up to 48Khz. Focusrite is know for the awesome mic-pre amps and top notch build quality.
I own the Alesis Multimix 8 USB, which by the way is only a 2out/2in device. The 8 mixing channels on the Alesis get summed into only a stereo bus to your computer/DAW. I bought it a couple of years ago thinking that it would be my primary audio interface into my DAW. However, the latency with the Multimix 8 was too severe to be useful, even after various ASIO driver updates and configurations, so I bought a PreSonus Audiobox USB interface, which has served me well. I would NOT recommend the Alesis for multitrack recording. It is suitable as an affordable and handy line level mixer that just happens to have 4 noisy mic preamps and a handful of thin DSP effects. Today I just ordered the Scarlett 6i6 because I want the 24b/96khz resolution, the better mic pre's and the additional input/output options that the Scarlett provides.
So I have some simple questions. Can I record 4 tracks simultaneously? And is Logic Pro 10.2 a good match? Need to record a 3 piece band live in my rehearsal space. Thanks in advance!
Thanks! I used to own the 2i4 (Gen 1) in addition to the 6i6. I recently sold both and replaced it with the 2i4 (Gen 2). I believe any Gen 2 Scarlett will be worth it over the Gen 1 due to one thing... latency! The Gen 2's are much lower than the Gen 1's and I have found the new 2i4 to be very stable in everything I've used thus far. While I don't need more than a 2in 4 out at the moment, I do plan to also get an 18i8 Gen 2 in the future.
It really depends on how many inputs/outputs you need or think you'll need. If you plan on using no more than 2 inputs/4 outputs then go with the 2i4. If you ever think you'll need more than 2 inputs and multi outputs then go with the 6i6. For example if you know you need to record guitar, bass and run a mic then the 6i6 would be a better choice.
Thinking of picking up a new interface since mine is no longer updated, and hasn't worked properly for a while. Would you still recommend this interface? It has everything I need. The software seems intimidating.
+Learning with Mark Warren Thanks for the reply and recommendation. Picked it up, and no problems at all on mac. Huge upgrade from my old outdated hand me down.
have been using the roland ua 25 for the last 3 years and today something just fried out in my ears ! and it's dead .It has been rock steady until today. So here I am waatchinn your video. I work in sonar x2. Do you think there could be any compatibilty issues if I get this sound card ?
This unit should work fine in Sonar x2. Most DAW software these days take advantage of ASIO drivers and as long as Sonar does as well you should be fine. While I've not used Sonar in years, I'm using my 6i6 in Reason 7, Ableton Live 9, Adobe Premiere Pro and as a Windows Sound source. All work just fine with no hiccups.
Excelente vídeo. Podrías explicar el mix control con una 18i8, please explain with an Focusrite 18i8 el mix control, and the outputs with headphones I cant undestand this!!! Thanks a lot, and excuse for my english
The 18i8 and 18i20 pretty much work exactly the same as the 6i6. The only difference is that it has more ins/outs. I don't own an 18i8 so I won't be able to do a video on it. Just rewatch this one a few times until you understand it better and then apply the knowledge to the 18i8.
please help!!! i recently purchased the 6i6. i cant get it paird up with my laptop. it shows in the mixer display that sound is there, but i cant here anything coming out of my laptop. and it wont record any sound in my DAW. i reinstalled the drive many times and even a different drive for different usb and nothing works!!! please help!!
Hey Mark (or anyone in the audience) would you say that the headphone level is lacking/ underpowered on the 6i6? I've read that the scarlett units have that issue.. Thanks in advance for any help!
+Constantine Georgiadis The headphone level is not lacking or underpowered! I have heard that some headphones depending on the impedance many not work well but I'm using my 6i6 with Audio Technica ATH-M50's and they work fine. I've also used the M30's as well. You should have a problem with most studio phones.
so i can plug this right into my macbook via USB and it will work as an audio interface as well as a pre amplifier to give me a quality sound? right now I have an M-Audio usb interface but it doesnt have a pre amp in it
Hi ! Where can I control levels for the other two inputs on the interface? I mean there are only 2 knobs on top of the 2 inputs but where should I adjust the Levels for the other two inputs 3 and 4 ??
Hi Mark- How does this work with Mac(Mac mini )? My old Duet is finally biting it and I really liked it but I really don't want to spend another 500.00 big ones....Yet!
I've never used a Mac or Mac Mini but I'm sure it works just fine. In fact I gave my old 2i2 to a friend of mine and it works great. I don't see the 6i6 being any different.
Alfonsus Liguori Wahyu Wardhana Yes! Pretty much all you have to do is arm mulitple tracks to record in your DAW and pick which inputs you want to include. Hit the record button and go! You can record 6 mono inputs simultaneously, 3 stereo pairs or a combination of stereo and mono inputs depending on your needs.
Very informative. I've got to feed into an xlr jack at my church, how can I output from this audio interface- is there some kind of chord that goes from (2) 1/4" jacks to a single xlr to maintain the stereo- is there any way that I can go from trs to xlr? I'm planning on feeding from Ableton Live 9 with the Push console.
Just catching up on all my comments but you can use a 1/4 phone trs to XLR adapter + a Stereo 1/4" Female to 2 Mono 1/4" Male Y-Cable. The other option would be to plug into a small mixer that has XLR outputs.
Learning with Mark Warren Thanks for the input- you're reviews are pretty fantastic. Maybe you'll upload some more on what you've accomplished with Ableton Push in church- I'd digg it. Also, I've confirmed that the outputs are TRS capable (SHAZAM!). www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/974164-REG/focusrite_scarlett_6i6_usb_audio.html All I need is a 1/4" TRS to XLR and I'm set. Until I can afford this beast I'm going the cheap route of running 1/8" TRS to XLR from my laptop. Awful idea, I know, but it'll show the congregation that I've been serious about upgrading when they start hearing what should be an orchestra. Keep on keeping on, brother man. Peace.
I’m only using channel one with an XLR cable to mic an instrument. How can I get the USB to output both L and R when I record external audio to my iphone videos? Currently, when I play back the video I only hear the recorded audio on Left side. Thank you in advance for your help🙏
I'm looking for audio interface so I can record music but also use it like normal sound card for games or movies. I was thinking about buying this version of Scarlett (6i6) and I have a question. Is it possible to set software for 5.1 (3 jacks) output?
Probably the best demo/tutorial that I've seen for this device.
Thanks!
Just got one from Amazon last night for a 6i6 2nd Gen £141.67 GBP and then found this vid!! Thank you so much..
Absolutely fantastic review and walk-through! Thanks for this Mark! Great interface, high quality audio. I'd say this is right up there w/ the Roland "Capture" line for sure...
For me it's more just to play my bass through my PC when I learning songs, but having midi again, after so many years without it, has resulted in me messing with keyboards again.
It's a big step up from my ageing M-Audio 2496.
Enjoying all your posts, keep them coming :-)
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Thanks for taking the time to do this review. Very helpful.
Thank you so very much for this presentation Mark. I just purchased this exact item and the first thing I did was return to my studio to look you up. You often have input on something I purchase and as usual, your videos are very thorough. Thanks again friend. 1LUV!
+Ben Johnson You're welcome! Glad this helped.
Thank you, very much , Mark, for your well done, very detailed, and thorough, product review! I will be buying some kind of "audio Interface, like this, or, maybe a notch up from this. I prefer a 19" rack mounted frame unit, but, these stand alone units are pretty nice! I look forward to all of your future reviews, as well! Thanks, again!
i bought this and have had in for like 6 months and didnt even know about all these features! thanks man!
Yoooooooooooo!!!!!! This has just solved my huge problem I had.
I can't believe something of 10 years ago has just solved my problem.
Thank you for the ground loop explanation thrown in there. I noticed that with mine as well and now I know the problem! Great review
You're welcome and thank you!
Thank you very much for such a sensible review/overview... I got alot out of it.... I was so frustrated watching some other videos for this interface.
The review was very informative. Nicely done! Thanks Mark!
You're welcome!
great overview!
this was really helpful, thanks for taking the time.
sir, your tutorial helped me a lot, i have also got the scarlett 6i6,,just wanted to know,, how can i set up my midi keyboard to the interface,,6i6 have got only 2 mic preamps, where i can set my guitar and vocal mic,,in my keyboard there is midi in and out port and my keyboard model is casio CTK 551, so is it possible for me to connect the keyboard through the midi port ? I have tried,but failed.
I want to record my vocal,guitar and keyboard simultaneously. Plz help.
Thank you for this practical, concise and well structured review.
Glad to see another Reason user! Great video!
Thank you sooo much. Planning to upgrade my audio interface and this review was all i needed to know. Thanks so much subscribed. 😊
I'm unfortunately recently experiencing a really crippling problem with my 6i6 (which of course is happening a few months after the 1-year warranty has expired). What's happening for me is, for whatever reason, the output is being fed back into/is bleeding into the input in a subtle but significant-enough way to ruin my ability to record. Basically anything that's being monitored or played back is also recorded in the channel... so you can imagine how detrimental that is to any project. If I have an electric guitar FX plugin running, and I monitor it, with even a bit of overdrive/gain, I'm almost certain to get a traditional amp-style wall-of-feedback squeel. If I turn off the effect, and listen back to the raw recorded audio, you can clearly hear the effect in the background, underneath the freshly recorded track, squeeling away. Alternatively, if I record something and then make a second track, if I hit record and don't play anything, then listen back to what I recorded with the original track muted, you can clearly hear the original track, proving that it's feeding back the output to the input. Also, on top of that, I also had the exact same high-pitched squeely noise caused by the USB, which you described. I used your electrical tape remedy and that worked out, so thanks for the tip. Unfortunately, though, this other problem is way more destructive and can't be remedied through simple noise removal like the other was. I'm not sure what to do about it because when I was trying to figure out the USB squeel problem, over a year ago, customer service was absolutely useless, and now that i'm out of warranty, I'm almost certainly up the creek. I mean, I could always try to send them an email but I'm certain that they'll just ask if I'm using the latest driver and to check all of my cables, and then just tell me if I want it to be fixed, I can send it to a service place across the country (I'm in Canada, by the way), at my own cost. Have you experienced anything similar to this? It appears that you've owned the box longer than I have (I bought mine in June 2014) so I just wonder if it's something that eventually happens when the box begins to fail/break down.
Very nice and comprehensive review. Thanks!
+Mage Music You're welcome!
Good review. Cheers for this ;-) Sizing one of these up so good to get an in depth overview/ review.
thanks brother ... very helpful, very articulate !
great review mark , it was very useful, is the kind of USB interface I'm looking for good job and thanks
This is super helpful. Thank you for taking the time!
+Scottro Mc You're welcome!
Great and fancy review! Thank you.
Thanks for this video!! I was having a tough time trying to figure out the Mix Control software and routing a click to my drummer. After watching about 2 hours of other videos and reading, I found this! Now I understand the Mix Control. Thanks!
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Brilliant review...cant wait to get mine.
How are you finding it so far Leigh? :)
Nice review. Ive just taken delivery of a 2i4 and love it. Then again, my needs are a bit more modest.
Thanks! I actually had a 2i2 some years ago but my needs grew. If I start recording more this year, I may be looking at the 18i20 next!
Thanks for your review! Quite informative.
Thanks for adressing the high pitched squeel issue, been driving me mad for months. I found that it goes away if you lower the input gain on Guitar Rig for an example. I hope that my Scarlett won't squeel when i buy it
I now have any 18i8 MK2 and I don't have the squealing issue anymore. I hope it was addressed on the 6i6 MK2 as well.
Thanks Mark, I play in a church band too. I've been looking at these peices of kit & your review was informative. God bless you
You're welcome!
I liked your review. You cleared up some things I was wondering about. You mentioned some of the other focusrite interfaces have that loop back feature, do you remember what models? I know the new Saffire Pro 26 has the feature but I'm not interested in the fire-wire series. Anyways keep up the good work.
B Dema Thanks! Mainly the Saffire series offer loopback in the MixControl software. Of the Scarlett interfaces, any unit with an SPDIF In/Out, can achieve hardware loopback using a cable. That would be the 6i6 and above.
Cool, well this has helped me narrow my choices down. Cheers...Looking forward to any other reviews
excellent review , many thanx
Great Review! I just got one of these, and sadly have the same high pitched squeal with a guitar plugged in...really don't want to send it back already! The guitar, a Fender strat, is also very quiet. It's volume is turned all the way up, and I still have to set the gain to max to get any decent signal on the interface...but then I also the a louder squeal...frustrating.
Great work, Mark! Thank you very much!!!
Thanks and you're welcome!
Great review, Mark, thank you!
Thanks and you're welcome!
Great video man, I was considering buying this unit and I think you just convinced me.
Thanks! This has still been my best interface yet and I still love it after almost a year of use.
I have gotten an offer from a Music production lecturer to buy a 2i4 with a MAudio Keystation and MAudio AV40 Speakers all for slightly more than I can get the 6i6.
Would you take this deal or still go for the 6i6 instead?
Personally I had two 2in 2out interfaces before I got the 6i6. I never thought I'd use all the ins and outs but I've found them to come in handy from time to time. I now would rather have more than ports so they are there when I need them than to not have enough port when I need them most. I'm even considering the 18i20 next!
I can't speak much on the AV40's and Keystation, but I can say I won't be buying any more M-Audio equipment in the future unless they make some big changes in their support. I still have and use the M-Audio Axiom Pro and don't get me wrong, it's a great keyboard. However M-Audio stopped supporting/updating it well before it even became discontinued. I'll keep the Axiom Pro until it's dies but it won't be replaced by another M-Audio product. I've read too many disappointing things about their new products like the Axiom Air and lack support in popular DAWs.
Take a look at KRK Rokit monitors. They may be a bit more expensive but they seem to be a standard for home studios. As for controllers do you homework and make sure it will work with the Daw you plan to use or are considering using.
I have bought a scarlett 6i6, I haven't got any software cd inside the pack, just got the 6i6, an usb cable, a power chord, getting started guide and the registration token. i have downloaded ableton live lite 9.1 from the links I have got after the online registration, but when ever i am trying to install, it is coming up with this message "winrar diagnostic message : C:/USER/.......: THE ARCHIEVE IS EITHER IN UNKNOWN FORMAT OR DAMAGED.''
I am badly stuck here, please help.
subhasish christche The Scarlett 6i6 doesn't come with any software CD's and all the software is accessible after registering the product. If there is a problem with the Live lite download trying going to Ableton's website, create an account, register the serial number you got from Focusrite and then it will allow you to download the latest version of the Live 9 Lite software.
Learning with Mark Warren thanks a lot, I will do it the same way and will let you know if I overcome it.
Great review
Hello, nice video.I have a cuestion, using this device can i record separate channels in an audio software?... lets say for example Adobe Audition CS6?.Because i want to record a drum set but im trying to record by separate channels so i can be able to edit every single cannelThank u, and apologies for the grammar, i dont really speak english xD
Looks like a great unit. My Tascam US-144 is nearing it's end of life and I want to replace it with something a little nicer. I find it odd that there's software to control things like Hi-Z instead of a simple hardware switch, but it looks like the software is powerful. I'm sure I can get used to it. I'm tempted to go for the 18i8 for future proofing, but being on a small budget I could probably use that money more effectively somewhere else.
Thanks for the demo.
Thanks for the review, i just may get this.
+MurF -A- ZoiD You're welcome!
Thanks my friend for this excellent video I have a query after downloading Scarlett MixControl
Show me NO HARDWARE COMNNECTED WHY
Great review! Thanks!
Lol, you have Rocksmith too? for a second I thought that was my desktop, you automatically rock!.(pun intended) I have a question, I connected my new Scarlett 6i6 to the computer with the cable and I turned it on, am I missing something? I feel I'm missing something as it says in the mix control that it is disconnected.
Mark great videos on this unit and the software!!! I'm going to use my Focusrite 6i6 for an in house rehearsal. The unit only has 2 headphone jacks and I need 4. This might be a really stupid question. I had a headphone amp but it died. Is there a work around where I can use this unit and just split the 2 head phone jacks into 4 with splitter cables? A
Very helpful! Thanks!
+Dennis Block You're welcome!
This was a great video.
best review, thx a lot.
Thanks for his video! It helps a lot!
+Austin John'D You're welcome!
Good, honest review
Thanks!
Very helpful, many thanks :)
Thanks Mark
Great video
I consider buying these unit and the main reason behind that is the believe that i will be able to mic my guitar with this sequence: mic -> interface -> analog delay pedal -> interface. So as a result will have much better effect quality on the record. I'm new to recording and not really good at english, please tell me whether it is possible?
***** Typically there are two ways people use guitars with computer audio interfaces. Either they mic their amps + effect pedals or the plug their guitar directly in the interface and create software effects. You could do what you want above but there could be some latency issues. I would suggest Analog delay pedal->Amp-> Mic->Interface-> Main Output.
Not really a good idea. Most pro of recoding engineers use that approach to record analog effects. It is too hard for mics to catch guitar + effect without significant quality loss (i mean time based delays, vibrato, tremolo etc). Can u please check whether it is possible with the software to configure 6i6 interface that way?
***** No need to check :-). You can certainly setup the routing to do what you want in the Scarlett mixcontrol software.
Learning with Mark Warren Thank you very much! I also realized that your advice is very reasonable. Although the method i described still may be effective in certain cases
Great review, awsome, thanks
You're welcome!
What is the software you switch to after Scarlett Mix Control? Great video by the way!
Thanks, I'm using Propellerhead Reason in this video but I also equally use Ableton Live.
Thanks!
And one other thing - would you consider doing a review of Reason 9? One for experienced Propellerheads? Been a user since Reason 1.
I just got Reason 9 myself and I think it's a great upgrade. I haven't used Reason much over the past few years as I've been using Ableton Live a lot more. I think I need a refresher course myself! Lol. I'll still consider a review or Reason 9 once I get a little more time with it. Thanks!
Hey Mark! Great review! But I have question: I'm interested in this interface but I've also seen the Focusrite Forte which looks amazing. I just wanted to know which one would you recommend in terms of sounding. I want to plug my guitar directly to the interface. Thank you!
As far as sound, I don't think there would be any real difference between the two and you can plug and guitar directly in both interfaces. While I've never used the Forte, it looks like a nice unit but there are some things that personally bother me about it. It's great that it's small and portable but I don't like the idea of break out cables and the lack of separate knobs and buttons to make changes. For instance if I want to adjust the gain on my Mic 1 input the knob is right there on my 6i6. With the Forte, I would have to push a touch screen, scroll through a menu, and then make my adjustment.
If I had the extra money and wanted something for travel I'd consider the Forte, but for the money I think the 6i6 is excellent value and great quality.
Learning with Mark Warren Hum, ok! Thank you very much for the fast and kind answer, Mark! Wish the best for you and for your channel!
Nice video, does the Phantom power apply to both xlr inputs?? or just one
By pushing the Phantom power button, both XLR inputs will get phantom power. It's all or nothing. That being said if you have lets say a guitar plugged in the combo jack 1 and a phantom power mic in two, only the mic on 2 will get phantom power. You can even use combos of non-phantom mics and phantom powered mics at the same time. The non-phantom power mic will ignore the phantom power (except ribbon mics). I highly recommend checking that your mic will ignore the phantom power if it doesn't need it but most mics already do that. Cheers.
Mark, I also use Reason, do a praise band and use click tracks. If I moved up to an 18i8 would Mix Control let me use the headphone outs as alternate outputs to get three separate stereo mixes or maybe a stereo on 1&2 and two additional mono outs for click and voice cues?
I had to think about what you were doing and I think I got it. If you currently have the 6i6 you can use the main output 1&2/headphone jack 1 for your main mix. You can use output 3&4/headphone 2 jack two for a click track/voice cue mix. If you need more headphone outs of the same click/voice cue mix you could always connect a headphone amp to outputs 3&4 (something like a Behringer HA400 with a Y-adapter cable).
If you need a separate click/voice mix for each headphone output then 18i8 probably won't help you much. It has a main stereo 1&2 output. The two headphone jacks can be assigned to anything via the mix control, so that will give you two more stereo mixes. You can also use the SPDIF out for mixes but most people don't use or have devices to convert the digital to analog. There really aren't any other physical outputs on the 18i8. You would probably be better off with the 18i20, which has plenty of individual, physical inputs and outputs, stereo or mono as you need them. I hope this makes since and any other questions let me know.
Hi Mark. I'm just setting up for the first time and i'd like to know; do i need a separate midi in out interface as well as the 6i6? When i used Midi previously you needed two separate units. Audio and midi interfaces. I am using analog synths and a roland work station as well as vocals guit etc. Thank you in advance!
You do not need a separate interface with the 6i6. It has a MIDI interface already built into it.
Hi Mark. I throughly enjoyed our video. I have a question. I noticed that this is a 6i6 and that all the item descriptions I've found online say "6 inputs and 6 outs". Can you actually record 6 instruments/mics at once?? (If not what do they mean?) Also, what are all "outputs" in the back usually used for? Thanks for sharing your knowledge. :)
+Emma Anderson In theory one could record up to 6 instruments at once with the 6i6. On the front with inputs 1/2 you can either record two mics at once , two instruments at once (ex guitar/bass) or a combination of the two (ex mic + guitar). On the back you have two more mono, 1/4" inputs 3/4 that could be used for mics, instruments or other devices but note these inputs do not have a mic pre-amp built in like the front inputs do. Here's where it gets a bit tricky for inputs 5/6. There is an SPDIF in and out that is capable of recording a stereo pair input with an stereo pair output. In order to use this input you would need an SPDIF digital mic or some type of converter box that would take an analog mic signal and change it to a digital signal that the SPDIF would recognize. So in theory you could record up to 6 devices at once but in practical terms most people would only use up to the 4 1/4" or mic inputs on the 6i6. Hope this makes sense. Cheers!
Aren't the 5/6 inputs the midi-IN and SPDIF-IN? Not just the SPDIF- I/O?
No. When Focusrite talks of "6in/6out" they are specifically talking about audio. In fact to confirm this when you go to your DAW settings you can choose to turn on all 6 inputs and outputs, either 3 stereo pairs, 6 mono in/out, or a combination of stereo and mono. SPDIF is counted as 5/6 in/out. All of this is also confirmed in the Mix Control Software and midi isn't even mentioned at all.
+Learning with Mark Warren Gotcha. Thanks for clearing that up!
Hi, thank you for the review.
Please could you tell me if the 6i6 line inputs will work with the pc turned off?
Thank you!
is any way to set up gain for input 3/4 in focusrite 6i6? this input is really really LOW - in fucusrite there is NO setup for insert 3/4 :-/
Great vid! so If I want to connect my KRK's to the 6i6, and I want to use output 1 & 2 as left and right, in need mono jack 1/4' male right?
You're awesome!
+L77kim77l Thanks!
Brother , if i get the scarlett 2i2 will that effect majorly in the quality ? or is 2i2 and previous versions ok for professional releases?
Learning with Mark Warren I have a video request. I am a beginner in home recording and I'm embarrassed to say that I'm really confused with the mix control that came with my Scarlett6i6 ( your video helped me make the decision to purchase one) I have invested a little over $3000 in my home studio and I have been trying for a couple days now to figure out how route my interface to garageband. Do you think you could make a video targeted to beginners like me using mix control and garageband? I'd really appreciate it thanks!
Thomas Keene I just uploaded a new video to hopefully better explain the Scarlettt MixControl Software. You can view the link here: Scarlett 6i6 MixControl Software Tutorial
Are there any benefits to having midi ports/cables over a usb connection for a controller?
Seems like the main difference between the 2i2 I have and this one minus the extra ports. Thinking about the upgrade.
I'm late to the party. Question. I have to sets of monitors coming out of outputs 1+2 and 3+4. I'm trying to figure out to control the volume of each set of monitors separately. Any advice? Thanks
hello. is it possible to send four individual mono signals to outputs 1,2,3,4 on the back? i'm trying to solve this right now...
+Arturas Bumsteinas is it possible to send seperate mono signals to 3 and 4 ?
My laptop has usb 3...would i run into issues using this interface, being a usb 2.0 audio interface?
Can you use the 6i6 on other softwares or does it have to be the one it starts you with ?
Hi Mark nice video! i got a question.. as we know the scarlett can be used to multitrack recording and so do alesis multimix 8 USB 2.0 (yes it's a multitrack recording mixer). my question is which one will i choose? i know the question sounds ridiculous, but since there's just view review about multimix on internet.
thanks, regards
It really depends on how you record. If you plan to use a DAW for recording, mixing can be done internally in the software. Also the Scarlett does come with a mix control software that allows you to setup custom routings according to your needs. If you need hands on mixing or perhaps outboard effects then the Alesis may do the job for you. While I've never used the Alesis, I think you would get more bang for your buck with a Focusrite Audio Interface. They offer 24bit recording up the 96Khz, whereas the Alesis only offers 16bit recording up to 48Khz. Focusrite is know for the awesome mic-pre amps and top notch build quality.
thank you Mark, what a response :)
You're welcome and good luck!
I own the Alesis Multimix 8 USB, which by the way is only a 2out/2in device. The 8 mixing channels on the Alesis get summed into only a stereo bus to your computer/DAW. I bought it a couple of years ago thinking that it would be my primary audio interface into my DAW. However, the latency with the Multimix 8 was too severe to be useful, even after various ASIO driver updates and configurations, so I bought a PreSonus Audiobox USB interface, which has served me well. I would NOT recommend the Alesis for multitrack recording. It is suitable as an affordable and handy line level mixer that just happens to have 4 noisy mic preamps and a handful of thin DSP effects. Today I just ordered the Scarlett 6i6 because I want the 24b/96khz resolution, the better mic pre's and the additional input/output options that the Scarlett provides.
So I have some simple questions. Can I record 4 tracks simultaneously? And is Logic Pro 10.2 a good match? Need to record a 3 piece band live in my rehearsal space. Thanks in advance!
Cool....I'm learning with Mark Warren!
Heeey buddy, the only I couldn't get is if the record sftware is included on the interface 😃😃😃😃😃
great video! is the interface better than the 2i4 2nd generation?
Thanks! I used to own the 2i4 (Gen 1) in addition to the 6i6. I recently sold both and replaced it with the 2i4 (Gen 2). I believe any Gen 2 Scarlett will be worth it over the Gen 1 due to one thing... latency! The Gen 2's are much lower than the Gen 1's and I have found the new 2i4 to be very stable in everything I've used thus far. While I don't need more than a 2in 4 out at the moment, I do plan to also get an 18i8 Gen 2 in the future.
thanks for your response, very fast! Would you suggest I purchase a 2i4 2nd gen over the 6i6 then?
It really depends on how many inputs/outputs you need or think you'll need. If you plan on using no more than 2 inputs/4 outputs then go with the 2i4. If you ever think you'll need more than 2 inputs and multi outputs then go with the 6i6. For example if you know you need to record guitar, bass and run a mic then the 6i6 would be a better choice.
Thanks Mark, you have been very helpful. All the best! :)
Hey Mark, I purchased the 6i6 interface. Does it come with the software or do you download it from Focusrite website? Kind regards.
Good video. Very informative. Thanks Sir.
Thinking of picking up a new interface since mine is no longer updated, and hasn't worked properly for a while. Would you still recommend this interface? It has everything I need. The software seems intimidating.
+SEPALVIZION I would still recommend this. The software may look intimidating but it's really not that hard once you get used to it.
+Learning with Mark Warren Thanks for the reply and recommendation. Picked it up, and no problems at all on mac. Huge upgrade from my old outdated hand me down.
have been using the roland ua 25 for the last 3 years and today something just fried out in my ears ! and it's dead .It has been rock steady until today. So here I am waatchinn your video. I work in sonar x2. Do you think there could be any compatibilty issues if I get this sound card ?
This unit should work fine in Sonar x2. Most DAW software these days take advantage of ASIO drivers and as long as Sonar does as well you should be fine. While I've not used Sonar in years, I'm using my 6i6 in Reason 7, Ableton Live 9, Adobe Premiere Pro and as a Windows Sound source. All work just fine with no hiccups.
How do you hookup a6i6 interface to 286s preamp and a yamaha 10xu mixer mixer and can you tell what can't jacks to use with it Thanks
Excelente vídeo. Podrías explicar el mix control con una 18i8, please explain with an Focusrite 18i8 el mix control, and the outputs with headphones I cant undestand this!!! Thanks a lot, and excuse for my english
The 18i8 and 18i20 pretty much work exactly the same as the 6i6. The only difference is that it has more ins/outs. I don't own an 18i8 so I won't be able to do a video on it. Just rewatch this one a few times until you understand it better and then apply the knowledge to the 18i8.
please help!!! i recently purchased the 6i6. i cant get it paird up with my laptop. it shows in the mixer display that sound is there, but i cant here anything coming out of my laptop. and it wont record any sound in my DAW. i reinstalled the drive many times and even a different drive for different usb and nothing works!!! please help!!
Hey Mark (or anyone in the audience) would you say that the headphone level is lacking/ underpowered on the 6i6? I've read that the scarlett units have that issue.. Thanks in advance for any help!
+Constantine Georgiadis The headphone level is not lacking or underpowered! I have heard that some headphones depending on the impedance many not work well but I'm using my 6i6 with Audio Technica ATH-M50's and they work fine. I've also used the M30's as well. You should have a problem with most studio phones.
I just bought the 6i6 but the monitor button on interface won't control the volume how do I fix this problem?
good work my friend.
so i can plug this right into my macbook via USB and it will work as an audio interface as well as a pre amplifier to give me a quality sound? right now I have an M-Audio usb interface but it doesnt have a pre amp in it
Hi ! Where can I control levels for the other two inputs on the interface? I mean there are only 2 knobs on top of the 2 inputs but where should I adjust the Levels for the other two inputs 3 and 4 ??
How do you add the effects to the Scarlett control mixer??
how do i get the same settings like you, i need to send a click for my band out of the headphone outputs. How do i fix that?
Hi Mark- How does this work with Mac(Mac mini )? My old Duet is finally biting it and I really liked it but I really don't want to spend another 500.00 big ones....Yet!
I've never used a Mac or Mac Mini but I'm sure it works just fine. In fact I gave my old 2i2 to a friend of mine and it works great. I don't see the 6i6 being any different.
Dude I have a question.
Does it allow you to record vocal and guitar at once? Much obliged
Alfonsus Liguori Wahyu Wardhana Yes! Pretty much all you have to do is arm mulitple tracks to record in your DAW and pick which inputs you want to include. Hit the record button and go! You can record 6 mono inputs simultaneously, 3 stereo pairs or a combination of stereo and mono inputs depending on your needs.
Very informative.
I've got to feed into an xlr jack at my church, how can I output from this audio interface- is there some kind of chord that goes from (2) 1/4" jacks to a single xlr to maintain the stereo- is there any way that I can go from trs to xlr? I'm planning on feeding from Ableton Live 9 with the Push console.
Just catching up on all my comments but you can use a 1/4 phone trs to XLR adapter + a Stereo 1/4" Female to 2 Mono 1/4" Male Y-Cable. The other option would be to plug into a small mixer that has XLR outputs.
Learning with Mark Warren Thanks for the input- you're reviews are pretty fantastic. Maybe you'll upload some more on what you've accomplished with Ableton Push in church- I'd digg it. Also, I've confirmed that the outputs are TRS capable (SHAZAM!).
www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/974164-REG/focusrite_scarlett_6i6_usb_audio.html
All I need is a 1/4" TRS to XLR and I'm set. Until I can afford this beast I'm going the cheap route of running 1/8" TRS to XLR from my laptop. Awful idea, I know, but it'll show the congregation that I've been serious about upgrading when they start hearing what should be an orchestra.
Keep on keeping on, brother man. Peace.
If I have a Midi Pad Controller and connect it to the MIDI ports, do you know if the signal would be tied into the microphone input? Thanks ahead!
I’m only using channel one with an XLR cable to mic an instrument. How can I get the USB to output both L and R when I record external audio to my iphone videos? Currently, when I play back the video I only hear the recorded audio on Left side. Thank you in advance for your help🙏
Would I be able to use this interface to hookup both of my monitors and a sub?
Thank you
You're welcome!
My main monitor volume knob on my hardware isnt working. How can i go about fixing that?
Contact Focusrite support.
I'm looking for audio interface so I can record music but also use it like normal sound card for games or movies. I was thinking about buying this version of Scarlett (6i6) and I have a question. Is it possible to set software for 5.1 (3 jacks) output?
I want to get one of these tomorrow when I travel to Dallas. Should it work well with MainStage 3?
FUMCMarshallTx I don't see why not!