Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 (3rd Gen) Review & Loopback Setup
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- čas přidán 3. 08. 2019
- Is it worth getting the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 (3rd gen) in place of the 2nd gen 2i4 or even the 2i2?In a couple cases yes.
DISCLOSURE: Focusrite sent this 4i4 for me to review and all links should be considered affiliates, thanks for the support!
Loopback demo starts at 10:05 (got this wrong in the video, oops).
The Scarlett 4i4 (3rd gen) brings a new feature to the Scarlett lineup and that's Loopback. This is a software/digital input that allows you bring in any software on your computer (ex: Skype for podcast interviews) and record that input onto it's own separated channel in your DAW (Adobe Audition, Pro Tools, etc.). This is a great feature and may be one reason to upgrade.
The preamps of the 4i4 have been improved over previous Scarlett generations, providing more gain (56db gain). The preamps are still nice and quite and able to push a microphone like the Shure SM7B even if you have to use most of the gain provided, the audio is still 'clean' and any preamp noise that can be heard is easily taken care of post with light noise reduction if desired.
The 4i4 adds two more inputs but these are TRS line inputs and probably have more use to musicians than podcasters but if you were running other outboard gear and wanted to bring in two more channels, you could do that.
The Air feature from the Clarrett series was brought into the Scarlett series but I don't think this would be a reason to upgrade. It's simply adds sparkle or crispness or yep, airiness to the high end frequencies for a brighter sound and I would prefer to do this in post production.
The 4i4 is still bus powered but now uses USBC which is a nice addition. As well, the device is still well built and now even smaller than before. The only downside to this is less room for the knobs means less room for your fingers.
The headphone preamp is also clean and the knobs themselves are an improvement in feel as well as design, now with a white mark so I can see them better in the dark compared to now contrast on my 2i4.
However, the removal of several hardware switches and buttons leaves me disappointed. I love to push a button, flick a switch or turn a dial when I want to make a change but that is now all handled in the Focusrite Control app. It's a decent app, I just prefer hardware for these functions especially the 2i4's direct vs playback dial for blending the two signals, a much better design.
Overall I really like the 4i4, I've had my 2i4 for many years and have loved it the whole time, its the hub for all audio going in and out of my computer.
For a podcaster of voice over artist looking for an audio interface, I certainly recommend any of the Scarlett series options and if you need the unique combo of 2 combo inputs with two TRS inputs, the 4i4 would be a good choice. But most podcasters would benefit with just sticking with the 2i2 if you don't need more than two microphone inputs.
I don't know if Loopback is available yet for any Scarlett below the 4i4 so if you are buying for that reason, make sure it's available first. I believe those devices are supposed to get that option as well.
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Thanks for this Ray, especially appreciate the detail and thoughtful evaluation.
Thanks, Curtis. I think between those that cover interfaces here on CZcams, all the specs and considerations a pretty well covered. It's a pretty cool time if you're into gear, you can really see the details before you buy. Of course there's a flip side to that LOL.
And........He is back!! Great review as usual! I need to pick up one of those.
Periodically back. That's my style LOL. Thanks, Eric!
Thanks for the video, I've been looking for a good simple loopback solution and this works great on my PC.
Another excellent review, thanks Ray.
Thanks!
I'm getting this primarily for 4 outputs. I use interfaces for recording & mixing purposes and doing an a/b with 2 studio monitors as well as having the headphone out in the front would really give great sound perspective with 3 different mediums
Thanks Ray for the informative video! I liked and subbed! I'm receiving my Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen mixer soon, can't wait to try out the LoopBack function!
I do have one question. Some CZcams reviews criticize the Focusrite Scarlett mixer for their lack of decent visual display of levels/gain compared to other brands. For example, on other brands of mixers, there is an LCD display that shows vertical bars for levels/gains to better see if audio is peaking/clipping. Do you find this to be an issue for lack of a decent visual display on the Scarlett? Sorry if I'm not asking the question clearly.
Great review! Very informative and well structured! Thanks! :)
Thanks, Cornelis!
This may be a dumb question. I want to use my Shure SM7B and Focusrite 4i4 on my stream. The mic input into my computer via USB-c is left channel only. Do I just need to make everything mono to make it work successfully? Thanks!
i know it's been 11 months, but this is for everyone else who has this problem as well.
if you only hear your microphone in the left channel, it's because a lot of programs are expecting a stereo audio signal. each input in your interface is a mono signal, so since the computer is expecting a stereo signal, it will automatically select channel 1 to be the left and channel 2 as the right.
in most streaming programs, you'll be able to 'downmix to mono' to fix the problem, or just create a new mono input.
Great review my man. Super detailed and thorough. Unfortunately, I need the midi, but I agree that the front controls are preferable in the 2i2 I own! Thank you!
Hey man, do you know if the loopback function is already available in the 2i2 software?
@@luisnuricumbo8313 yes, it is works
@@JustEnglishPro awesome, thank man
Great review Ray, and also that’s a nice looking shirt. 😉
Ha was waiting to see if you’d catch that. Thumbnail is a bit of an homage as well. aka rip off;)
Great review ! Thank you
Good informative review. Thanks for posting.
I agree that taking away the front panel switches is a BIG loss of functionality when comparing 2i4 vs 4i4. Unfortunately My 2i4 is bricked so I'm truly stuck!
Very interesting video, thank you
Thanks for sharing! I am a musician and my old lexicon omega stopped working with Reaper. Was just gonna go for the 2i2 but I am thinking for a few more bucks I would benefit from the 4i4. Newbie here so I will be watching alot of your videos. Subscribed!
Thank You So Much. Great Help
Great video! Awesome material per usual.
Was hoping you could assist with a couple questions. If I want to use the 4i4 as an interface into the DAW (audacity) and then try to have a back up recording at the same time, connecting the 4i4 to a zoom h6 or something of that nature, is this doable? I'd like to be able to have a second option in case the software goes down - so if I had two on site hosts, I would plug in the 2 xlr cables to the 4i4, usb to the computer, and then what would be needed to connect to the zoom H6 and would it be the computer or the 4i4 going to the H6?
Also, would I still be able to have multi-track with the back up recording in this case on the sd card?
Very well done.
Awesome video man! Just a quick additional tip, in case someone hasn't already posted this.
If you're using a DAW like Logic Pro X, you may be a bit confused not seeing the inputs labeled as "Loop 1" and "Loop 2" as it was in this video. In that case, the naming convention for the Loopback inputs is as follows:
4i4 -> Inputs 5 & 6
8i6 -> Inputs 9 & 10
18i8 -> Inputs 11 & 12
Hope that saves someone the time of cycling through all the inputs
Very cool, thanks for sharing!
i am absolutely fine with my 2i4 Gen2...cant even imagine an audio interface without a direct monitoring knob :3
It's a real pain to use the 4i4 Gen3 software mixer control. It's a horribly designed interface. I can never make sense of it, and I'm fairly experienced. Even if it that interface was nicely designed, I've really grown to hate this box because I can't just control a hardware knob/button to do what I want. And if I want to use it on a Linux machine, forget it. Yeah, it works, if you set up the software mix before using it on Linux.
Coming from a 2nd gen 2i2, I was considering upgrading to a 4i4 because having the extra 2 inputs (even if those are 1/4" only) would be super-helpful. The only reason I haven't done it yet is because of the direct monitor switch, as you said. Thanks for explaining just how inconvenient not having the physical direct monitor switch is. It has solidified my decision NOT to get a 2i4.
With that said, is there another interface you can recommend that has at least two combo jacks, 2 additional instrument jacks and a physical direct monitor switch/button?
Hi. Where are the control knobs for inputs 3 and 4? Can you record with all those inputs simultaneously? Example 2 mics and a keyboard synth?
3/4 are line inputs so your any control over those will be done in your DAW but yes you can put each input onto it's own track in your DAW.
@@RayOrtega thanks alot.
I agree 100% about the hardware buttons, and especially the direct monitor input/playback mix knob. I really love the hardware button/knobs layout of the 2i4 in general, but the software for this thing has just been crap for me for a LONG time now. It used to happen like once a day- I'd come back to my daw (still open from previous session) the next day and I'd get no audio and have to deselect/reselect the device. I finally upgraded drivers and now the whole driver is crashing like every 15 minutes... I can tell the driver is crashed because the device doesn't show up in OS devices when it happens. I have to unplug/replug it in.
Anyone know a good audio interface with a similar hardware layout to 1st gen 2i4, but actually stable and works without having to restart it all the time. I don't care about going cheap anymore just want something dependable!
If this applies to your situation; I changed from the Scarlett 2i4 to Scarlett 4i4. I had the Shure SM7B microphone plugged in, with a separate TritonAudio Fethead Mic Preamp. I had to remove the Fethead Mic Preamp to make it work with the new Scarlett 4i4. It's mentioned on the Focusrite website that the 3rd gen has an upgraged mic preamp, which is maybe why the internal built-in preamp in the audio interface with the external Fethead preamp combined doesn't work.
Thanks for the review, I was wondering could I use this to record audio from a Yamaha MX88 keyboard via inputs 3 & 4 while simultaneously recording midi from it?
Thanks for your review. I agree that the direct line input is a real game changer when the choice time is coming, and I'm in this situation :) One one a main remaining question I have is about ADAT & SPDIF, are they able to work at the same time ? Thanks again
Thanks, Cyril, unfortunately I can't say if the two work together. I haven't explored either option at this point.
Hey buddy, great review, I had a really unique use for this - I won't get too much into it, and I'm not sure if you're familiar with Logic Pro x but basically, on the 2i2 1st gen, you can select your output to be between mono 1 and 2 (as well as Stereo 1+2 of course, but for my purpose im looking at the mono). With the 4i4 would there be output 1-4 on the DAW, as well as Stereo 1+2 / 3+4 - Long story short, im routing these outputs to my mixer and im going to need 3 mono outputs to get what I need out of it. Are you able to check this some how?
Thank you for the review Ray, specifically on the headphone listening part where its output assignment is software controlled and no more the front switch/dial...what a hustle !! I buy stuff like this for my 18 years old daughter and she ended up asking me why there is no audio on the headphone ....LOL. I just got 4i4 for her last night.
Just in case any parents here in the shoe as mine, or those wanting to set up recording system for personal use, here is my own limited experience : It all started in 2013.
My daughter has a Yamaha keyboard, so that is 2 output, it has L/R channels.
She has an acoustic guitar , so I got her a AKG CS1000 48V condenser mic. This can be a 3rd channel for vocal or guitar.
She sings, for her vocal I got her Audio Technica AT2035, 48V condenser mic, so this is a 4th channel.
Earlier, I also got her 3 of Shure Beta 58A dynamic mics, this is before I understood a proper vocal mic in a quiet room
is a condenser type...LOL. She sometime sings with her 2 friends, so 3 dynamic mics needed.
I was and still is in many ways an analog guy for audio mixing, so after a failed attempt with a Steinberg UR-28 when my daughter was still 13 years old back then , as I was ( and still is ) a DAW stupid :) ...... I ended up with analog SoundCraft EPM6 and send its recording to a Zoom H4N. I was avoiding laptop based DAW as much as I can....ha ha ha.
She needs the Zoom H4N anyway for outdoor recording when the need arise.
In late 2015 , I bought her a Tascam PortaStudio : tascam.com/us/product/dp-24sd/top to ease the mixing with near DAW like performance but without the Laptop/PC requirement. I really like this unit, easy to use and very capable. I am my daughter's "audio hardware engineer" so to speak, so I must choose a hardware I can teach her to operate.
Being an old analog guy, I am very very happy with this Tascam real physical multi buttons and sliders and paired with super easy to use Vegas Pro video editor which is good for its audio capability and my daughter does not touch up her audio much anyway, its more than enough. She was already able to use Vegas Pro since she was 13 years old. I am a happy Daddy since 2015, as far as my daughter not bugging me on audio and video edit matters...LOL.
Come few days ago. She was recording with a friend who uses Scarlett 2i2 gen 2.
First thing she said was : "Dad, its easy to use , I can visually see the audio track in real time during a recording."
I agree with her, in her Tascam she can in real time hear the audio track but can't see it visually. She has to export the audio file from Tascam to Vegas Pro for final edit into MP3 or whatever she likes the audio format to be. But what I like about the Tascam is , no lag when mixing playback audio of her keyboard playback or guitar playback when she wanted to add her vocal later on.
The simplified sync timing between playback source to new vocal is also what I like about the Tascam PortaStudio.
In my country the Tascam DP-24 cost about 2.5 times what I paid for 4i4, but the Tascam DP-24 has 8 physical XLR/TRS combo input and I think in Scarlet series it will be the much bigger Scarlet units like 18i20 ...yes ?
I initially wanted the 18i8 instead, so that if I buy her another condenser mic, becoming 3 units, I got 4 channels of 48V phantom power ready and 18i8 has the twin headphone outputs. Now I am using 4 channels output headphone amplifier to assist her Tascam DP-24 for 3 person use. After some thinking, she probably will use the Scarlet as portable unit in her friend's place,
so I stick with 4i4.
Let see in a few months, how she finds the Scarlet 4i4 vs her Tascam DP-24 for 4 channels use. :)
BTW, Scarlet user manual called Direct Monitoring as Direct Routing ..dang. It may confuse some people.
Once again, thank you Ray for the review.
.
👍thanks for the comments and breakdown of how you're using the gear.
Re. the inputs in the back of the 4i4, can you control the volume?😀
Good review, although it definitely comes from a podcaster's point of view. You could say (and I think you did) i'd keep the one I have. Someone looking to use it in music applications would be more positive.
The reason is the 4i4 has nice features over the 2i2 and 2i4 which would be important for musician applications, such as the additional channels, the software control which gives more flexible routing options and adding MIDI interfaces which allows capturing events for music keyboards, pads, controllers into the DAW and can be used for output of recorded data to those devices and even control lighting. Unfortunately, since a podcaster mostly doesn't really have a need for those features they are not mentioned as anything special. So, the viewer watching, which would be unfamiliar with these uses for music production, may not get a full appreciation of the device. Moving some functionality from physical switches to software may not be such a problem for musician applications, since most of the time is spent in the computer interface and other features gained make up for that loss.
great vid, I learned the differences. My only question is, how does the sound quality fair in comparison between the 2nd/3rd, does the new preamps make a difference?
Thanks. I would say they are the same. In theory the preamps are supposed to be a little better but I would not say there is a noticeable difference. All versions do a good job equally from my experience aka you could save some money by getting a 2i2 even the 3rd gen if you didn't need the extra Line Ins in the back or the Loopback feature amzn.to/2MfNJq8 (affiliate link)
Great in depth review. Thanks Ray!
The look and feel of this solid slab is impressive. The red anodized aluminum housing speaks of the quality inside. The Popularity is of no wonder.
I was fortunate to pick up a used 4i4 3rd gen still in the box. No bundled software key, so at a great price. I have migrated to Linux so I did not need it.
Linux is not supported by Focusrite, but if they made this interface fully Class Compliant, there should be no issues. However...
There is one issue that I need to resolve and that is what how to switch input modes (INSTR,AIR,...) and toggle direct monitoring, just like the Focusrite Windows and Mac software does. For the routing and mixing, Jack, Alsa and my Daw is so open and flexible that the interface should be exploitable to it's fullest in Linux.
Any suggestions about this?
Thanks, Dino. You're out of my pay grade so I can't say unfortunately. I didn't know there were hot keys but that would be great. I'm sure you've plumbed the depths of the internet forums but if not there might be some gold in there. Let me know if you find out!
Hi Ray,
My name is actually Paul ;-)
Linux is far from user friendliness, more into hacker territory I guess. There Is so much to learn and I am only starting...
Before going any further, I downloaded the windows drivers to test this used card out fully. I also found a free windows software that can monitor all USB activity between software and hardware.; commands, reponses, data flow. Maybe I can map out the Focusrite protocol. Select AIR on input 1, the software sends _______?
The next step would be to write setup scripts in the Jack software that manages audio in Linux. There can be several, one for each audio routing and hardware setting (ie: vocal Air 1 with guitar on 2 with direct monitoring). Basically I must reproduce the functionality of the Focusrite control software in Linux. Most of the routing that the Focusrite software does is already available in Jack, hence it's name.
That, from what I gather, is the power of Linux. Steep learning curve but powerful as sin. Apart from breathing 10 years of life back into an old laptop that can no longer even boot tge retiring windows 7-64Pro, boots in a flash, is also 64 bit, lightning fast and stable. Yup, it' that lean, maybe 75% less overhead, hard to believe actually. You have All the aps you need, all free, and no security issues, you dont even need an antivirus.
I think that it is worth learning. And if I get tge 4i4 running sweet, I will share.
I've been using my zoom h6 as an audio interface to record podcasts online. Is it worth investing in a scarlett 3rd gen? How are his drives for windows 10? Thank you very much.
Anyone know how I can output audio from this into an Android phone to be able to love stream audio coming from the interface onto Instagram or Facebook???
Thank you for this video, it really helped me but I had a question; Can I make a bridge of output 3 and 4 with software for connecting to an active subwoofer? I'm a DJ and normally I do these actions with mixers and power mixers and amplifiers but for my home studio, I wanna something near like clubs. How much freedom do I have in the audio interface compared to the mixer? I know the live performance equipment is different.
Thanks for the review! I think just because of it missing all the useful hardware buttons, i'll not get it. Instead i'm looking at a used 2i4 or a Native Instruments Komplete Audio 6 MK2.
Great thanks.
Thanks for this video, Ray! I picked up the 4i4 primarily for the Loopback functionality for podcasting. I record a podcast that is 2 in studio mono mics and 1 Skype caller. I use Logic ProX and I'm having some confusion on how to set the Loopback input in Logic for the Skype call. In your example, Audition recognizes the Loopback input and you assign it. In Logic ProX the inputs are simply listed 1, 2, 3...Is there a rule of thumb for knowing which input to set for the Loopback?
5&6
With 2nd gen, I plug my LP player into the 2 front xlr ports and balance the mix with the direct monitor dial. On that 3rd gen, it's nice you have the balanced inputs on the back, which seems like it would also work for lp player?
Thank you so much for the tutorial. So I can hook up 4 of my instruments to this device via 1/4'' jacks and get 2 stereo outputs to headphones simultaneously, right? Cheers
I apologize if I missed this, but do you have a video showing the actual steps in plugging in all the cables for remote podcasting from two locations?
If you use a dbx286s, would you want to use the line in on the back in order to bypass the Focusrite preamp? I'm wondering if that would be cleaner than using the dbx preamp and sending the dbx output into the Focusrite preamp.
Hi Ray! Thank you so much for this awesome review ... would you be so kind if I could borrow a moment of your time to ask you a quick question? On the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4, can you plug two XLR Microphone Cables on the front and two Guitar quarter-inch cable on the back "Line Inputs"? I would truly truly greatly appreciate your response ... Thank you so much!
That is correct
I find it so odd that they kept physical gain knobs but removed the instrument/line switch
Can you do a video to setup the mix minus on 4i4?
Can you use an audio interface in the FX Loop of an amp for time based FX in Plugins (reverbs, delays)
In windows, you have to right-click the Focusrite icon down in the activity field and choose "Expose / Hide Windows Channels" and check Loopback to make it visible in apps. How do I do this on a mac? The loopback 5&6 are not showing up in my audio apps. I have routed it correctly in Focusrite Control just like in this video. I have a 4i4
how about monitoring setting in focusrite gen3? i use compressor external to 4i4. set monitoring 3-4 playback its true?
Hi Ray! Will this model be able to let me plug in my piano keyboard and studio monitors at the same time? What cords do I need to plug in my keyboard? Thanks!
Great review! Thanks. I am so glad you mentioned the differences between the 2i4 and 4i4. The removing knobs and converting them to software control stuff is a fail as far as I am concerned. The one thing engineers don't understand is that for creative purposes, musicians like to operate on-the-fly and not be hampered with software mazes.
Thanks. For what it's worth, I never went back to the 2i4. I definitely prefer hardware controls but I've been getting along with the 4i4 just fine and it's a great device. I'd still vote to put knobs back on ;)
@@RayOrtega very useful to know thank you!
I heard somewhere the 4i4 would also work as a regular preamp (powered by regular usb-charger, but the 2i2 would not. Is this something you know about? Thanks!
4:40 you can do that without the loop back feature of an interface.
Just download Virtual audio cable and change the sound output of each software.
And with it you can have 3 different record-able channels.
Yeah that's one of the tutorials I mentioned where I use another app like Virtual Cables for Mac. This is just a handy feature they've built in. It's great that there are options for anyone regardless of OS. Thanks for watching.
@@RayOrtega Yeah, but Virtual Cable is free :P
@@dreamhax2888 Yeah that's cool, so are a few others. In the case of having Loopback built in, you'd be buying the Scarlett for the preamps and mulitchannel for pro mics, Loopback is just a nice add-on with it.
Do you think that if I'm using zoom I can use the interface for a better audio while also using the direct monitoring from the other software?
Is it possible to connect speakers to line out and subwoofer to different line out and listen to both at the same time? Sorry for my English
Pleaseeee speak about the latency
Thanks for your review
Asio is the answer of your problems
This great.
Question I am a music accompanist for a University Dance Department.
I am considering loopback feature as part of my remote set up.
Will it work with a live set up from Accompanist(me) to Choreographer ( from home) to students ( from home)
I would have the choreographer on loopback and assign her a track on my pro tools?
Will it eliminate a break up of audio during a "live" session while I am recording through Pro Tools?
As you know, as soon as the choreographer speaks, it breaks up the music sound a bit without loopback.
Can it be done live or is it only for recordings?
Hi, maybe you can help with this? I'd like to stream live using my DAW as a mixer (for the reverbs and compressors). Basically send what I hear in my headphones out to OBS. Normally, using my audio interface (Apogee Ensemble) as the audio source in OBS or FB live does not work for playing the DAW audio. It only plays whatever mics I have plugged into the interface. My current solution is to take my headphone out of my Ensemble interface, and send that to a 2nd USB audio interface, and use that as the audio source in OBS. Do you think this new "Loopback" functionality in the Scarlett can eliminate the need for a 2nd audio interface? My method is great, but not ideal. Any sounds coming through my headphones goes through the stream. I just want to make an audio interface send out ONLY DAW audio for streaming, while still using that audio interface to monitor everything happening on my computer. It's quite the headache to do what seems so simple. Thanks in advance.
Yo Ray I have a question I desperately need answered, I'm looking into recording songs and podcasts with a 4i4 interface but I have an issue with getting my voice across loud enough to be heard, do I need to use a preamp or do I just need a better mic
what about mic monitoring? any switch on the interface or do I need to disable microphone monitoring in that app? I don`t want to hear myself (on my headphones plugged in that card) while using mic in my discord / skype etc...
Yeah you would adjust your output monitoring in the app. I prefer the hardware dial on the 2i4 but on the 4i4 you have to go into the app.
in your opinion, beside the 4 inputs in 4i4, is Steinberg UR22C comparable or better over focuriste 4i4? in terms of easy plug and play, setup and functions and features.
Thx! Now, if you can get Motu to send you a M4 for review..:) In the next few months, when I get a USB interface, I'll likely choose between the Motu M4 and the Scarlett 4i4. The Motu has brilliant LEDs up front that show you your music input level. But it is the quality of the MIC PREAMPS that I really am fussy about! One thing about this Scarlett: if I want to record a stereo track along with a Vocal and Line input, I'll have to use both 3 and 4 inputs together...I think. Correct me if I'm wrong. (I mean, are 3 and 4 TRS inputs or TS inputs?j)
Hi Ray, im fairly new to this stuff, mostly did audio recording and then send it away to be mixed. Im starting to do and enjoy lots more privet content (with video and voiceover) and am starting to get the appropriate gear to mix it myself. but would you suggest getting the 4i4 3rd Gen vs 2i2 3rd Gen for a 60 euro price difference? (229 vs 169 euro). For now ill be using monitor headphone + 2 monitor speakers and ofcourse a mic. I don want to look in to podcasting and streaming in the future.
If two channels is enough for you, then the 2i2 is a great buy and I'd go with that.
Good morning, from Spain Ray. I recently bought a 8i6 3rd gen. Could it possible to send audio (let's say analog input for instance from a analog RCA out DDJ400) to direct Instagram transmition? I did the same conecting directly to the Iphone (via DJM-REC) my korg kronos usb output... but I don't achieve any result connecting (once programed the Scarlett, and alone connected usb-c cable , OTG adapter to iphone)...
Perhaps, I'm not setting up properly the Scarlett outputs...
Honestly I'm a little bit stuck, but with your brillant video I started again to think that is possible ;)
Another dubt I have, is about the ios class compliant ...
Thanks for your help.
François
Thank you for your wonderful review! Can I ask you a question? What happens if you change the setting of the device in the control software (the direct/playback mix, for example) and you turn your computer off? Is the new setting kept in the device when you turn it on again? Or maybe all the setting go to a default configuration everytime the device or PC turns on again? (I don't know if I am explaining myself correctly)
Your settings should remain the same for the next time you boot up, they should be saved in the software
Ray Ortega Great, thank you for your response.
I've been thinking of getting this unit but I'm unsure if it'll be able to do everything I need. I have two outputs, headphones and speakers, I was wondering if I can plug in both and choose which output to use and then also plugging in one microphone in first XLR port as well as have a Nintendo Switch in the back while also having my Desktop audio go through the USB into my headphones or speakers with the Nintendo Switch and the microphone so I can hear everything simultaneously but also only have one microphone in the desktop where no one else can hear all the audio from my Switch and desktop. Thanks for any help!
Hi, very good job tnks a lots.
But does it mean thar 4i4 has his own control software to download? Just like for focusrite 4pre, 18i6, 6i6, 8i6. Tnks pls reply help me.🙏🙏
What's even worse is that there is no clear way in the control software to turn up and down the direct monitor as it becomes a lot more obscure with the different options in it. For those of you looking for the solution to this, go to "Output Routing" in the Focusrite Control Software and set all outputs to "Playback 1-2".
So I’m not to sure about the new outputs on this, but can i connect 4 monitors on it?
Thank you for your review! Is it possible to plug in two XLR inputs (1 stereo mic) and one instrument into this device? Meaning will I be able to plug in a guitar with a 6.3 mm cable into the line inputs in the back?
Thanks! The 1/4" plugs in the back on line level so you wouldn't have the Hi-Z you need for a guitar, that's only from the front combo inputs.
But essentially I could have 2 - external preamps that I route into the rear panel and plug a mic into those and then be able to have 4 simultaneous channels of audio recording in a bus powered interface correct? Or, if I had 2 instruments with active pickups?
No, because you would have to connect the guitar in a line level.
I think is better to record your mic in mono, then in your DAW make it stereo
I have an 8i6 3rd gen. I have two mics in the front and keyboards in the back inputs. I can’t get my programs to read the back inputs
does plugging line in into the Mic input bypass the preamps?
nice. how do you suggest I use loopback for a virtual live Dance Class? I heard it is possible with my 4i4.
It sounds fine without it but I want a better quality. I am the music accompanist working remotely for a University Dance Class.
Please advise. Pro Tools is my DAW and I use a stereo Synth and 1 vocal mic.
Does it play nice with windows 10 and FL studio?
Ray, I was able to work this on a Mac using with my focusrite 18i20 with sound flower and ladiocast allowing me to route inputs 3,4,5,6 to sound flower 2 channel and stream all via OBS selecting sound flower 2ch as my source. Now I have a windows 10 gaming system and I am trying to do the same with the same focusrite via OBS. Are there windows apps equivalent to soundflower and ladiocast so I can route my audio with the same success. Thank you?
Sorry for the noob question, but I'm looking to buy our first audio interface, and I'd like to record 2 microphone and 2 guitar inputs at once, is this achieveable with this one? I got a bit confused when he said we can't plug 4 things at once.
Am I correct in that all reverb is handled in post editing? So as you're singing, you'll NOT be hearing the reverb effect in your headphones?
That's correct but if you wanted to hear reverb in realtime while singing, you could monitor your recording software with reverb turned on or use some of the plugins that come with the 4i4, you just might experience some latency but that depends on the settings in your computer and DAW.
Ray, I have seen issues with these 4i4 only lasting about 1 to 2 years.. seems like there a problem with USB Controller chip.. They burn out and you have to get the unit replaced... I currently experienced this problem... and have multiple friends that I have recommended the 4i4 and now worried theirs will fail too.. "Search for 4i4 no hardware connected" issue
I wish there was a volume boost for input 3 and 4
Me too, and I agree with the whole "lack of switches" bit he mentioned. I guess the idea is that 3 and 4 are expecting a line-level source that should be strong enough to roughly hit your target levels (a lot of people shoot for ~-18db). For my particular setup I wanted these inputs for a stereo mic pair, so I had to use a small mixing board to supply phantom power and appropriately boost their signal.
If anyone reading this is looking to do recording from multiple mics/lines, my advice is to assume that each line needs to have its own pre-amp, and double the number of lines you think you need. This is the second interface I've outgrown, and I could have bought an 18i8 for the total cost.
People on Skype wont hear themselves, that's cool BUT! will they hear the other sounds coming from the computer like CZcams videos being commented on or music, sfx, etc.?
I agree about the monitor level knob. I don't understand this trend to remove buttons and knobs and make everything tiny. Software has always been unreliable. Buttons and cables rarely fail me. I can see the use in having the software as a back-up, but it's not like I want my interface to be small enough to fit in my pocket, so I don't see the point in sacrificing essentials.
Maybe it's just me, but the loss of those controls is a deal breaker.
I've had the 4i4 for nearly a year now, using for recording, but also for Zoom feed meetings, through my apple laptop, but today, after about an hour, the interface stopped working. It was a little hot on top. I unplugged it and tried again. First I got a couple of red lights on left gain input and instrument light. This went out straight away. I re-plugged in again and everything lit up momentarily. Several times now i"ve tried but I get either the red or all lights on, then nothing. Would I be right in thinking this could be a hardware problem? It's less than 1 year old.
what mic do you have in your setup infront of your monitor?
Hi Ray, i'm going to buy it but have a doubt: the usb-c connection needs to be connected direct on my macbook pro or i can connect through a hub? Thank you
It's a good question. Hubs can be tricky, some may not supply enough power and I always feel less stable via hub
@@RayOrtega Thank you for answer. I've a HUB 2 with usb-c ports. One is Power Delivery and i use it for charging macbook. Other one is not specified. So do you recomend to plug in direct on mac book?
I'm wondering, does the interface remember line/inst/pad settings even after it's powered down? I'd like to plug my guitar amp from it's lineout/effects out (pro level line strength) into the front of the interface, but if I forget to unplug it before turning my system on, will the jack momentarily be set to inst level and blow out any circuitry?
Autoriff yes it remembers the settings, at least for me it does
Does the 4i4 support a stereo input? Like you I have the first gen 2i4 but want to use an external soundcard (Xonar U3) and still want zero latency monitoring from my mic.
Unfortunately the inputs of the 2i4 are unbalanced mono or balanced mono.
Thanks ray! I have a Scarlett studio, I want to change to a scarlet tha help me to conect 1 Electronic drums, 1 mic, 1 bass drum, 1 electronic guitar, 1 midi controler with digital synth . And be able to play live and record with my friends. Which do you recommend me? ( maybe 2 mic but it is no important) thank you
Oh I was hoping it's like a loop-pedal :/
Or is there a way to achieve that thru the PC & software?
What sort of instruments could you plug into the line in on the back? Could you plug acoustics guitars into it?
Don't think so man, those inputs are thought for balance signals. Like keys, mixers outputs, and some audio Fx. Also monitors
so how about the MIDI functions?
great video!
i'd like to know if the beyerdynamic dt 770 pro headphones (250 omh) works fine with this focusrite scarlett 4i4 3th gen?
Tough to say cause it's subjective. I actually just got these headphones and my main interface is now the Rodecaster Pro and I need to use the digital boost. The 4i4 can push them when I turn it all the way up and it's clean but it feels like it's on the edge of not being enough but again depends on your ears. You might also be able to boost some in the software but again I'd say for me it's close to not enough, I've heard other say it's enough.
My HD660S (150ohm), at 100% volume on 4i4 3rd, work like 65% on UMC404HD. But the sound is clean
Hello Ray. I'm still getting significant lag while monitoring multitrack voice input. Especially when I try live monitoring woth effects loaded on the effects rack. Ideas? I am running the 4i4 gen 3 on my i9 processor iMac with the 4i4 connected via USB-C. Shure SM7B mic.
Can you record 4 Channels simultaneously with this? Like two XLR connections + two TRS connections at the same time (4 moon signals total)?
Why not if it's the purpose?
i have a question... when im recording games with video capture card my voice is only recording on the left why???
In a stereo recording channel 1 and 2 will be left and right. You can change this in the Control App and force mono or it may be something you need to in the app your recording with.
I have a video in which audioTurkish is there but I want removeTurkish audio and add hindi audio in that video ? Please help? I wait for ur reply? one more thing to add sir. I trying to sync audio in video but didn't match?
I am plugging in a Shure SM58 beta in the 1st gen 2i4. It seems like it does not have enough gain, I have to go quite high to properly hear it. Would the 3rd gen address that in some way? Or do I need something additional?
Hi ! Is the Scarlett 4i4 headphones output loud enough for a Beyerdynamic DT 770 80 ohms or do i need to choose another interface in the Focusrite offer (Clarett) to get a better headphone level ? Thx for your answer. Franck.
Alcaraz Franck from what I’ve seen these interfaces have enough clean gain to properly amplify a DT770 250ohm. So, your 80ohm version should be no problem.
Hey man. Great video. I just bought the 4i4 3rd gen. I see text on it for “air”, but no button for it. How do you activate the air feature?
If you didn't find it yet, it's in the Focusrite Control app. Check the input settings.
@@RayOrtega hey mate. So sorry. I only just noticed this. I figured it out. Thanks for your advice.
Why the pulled out Stereo-mono Monitoring switch???
Sir can u pls explain how can I connect my MIDI keyboard having USB type A to the Scarlet 4i4 ?
I would plug the keyboard straight into the computer and the scarlett into another usb port.
If you really want to run the keyboard via the scarlett I suppose you could buy an adapter from usb to midi.
Can you have 2 sets of monitors running at same time? 4 speakers
My version of Focusrite Control 3.6.0 does not have loopback. Interesting. Using Scarlett 18i30 2nd Gen.