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Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen – Range Overview

Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen – Range Overview

Introducing Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen - The complete range

Introducing Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen - The complete range

Focusrite

Description

The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen is a powerful USB-C audio interface designed for musicians and producers who need the flexibility to record full bands or complex setups. With 18 inputs, 20 outputs and eight high-quality mic preamps, the Scarlett 18i20 delivers pristine 24-bit/192kHz sound quality and all the connectivity required for professional recordings. Whether you're working in a home studio or a professional setup, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen provides everything you need to achieve studio-grade results.

Versatile Connectivity for Any Setup

The Scarlett 18i20 offers extensive I/O options to handle a wide range of recording scenarios. It includes eight analog inputs, two high-impedance instrument inputs, and digital ADAT and S/PDIF I/O, allowing for up to 18 inputs and 20 outputs in total. Use the analog connections to patch in microphones, instruments, keyboards, or drum machines, and expand your setup with ADAT for additional preamps or converters. The built-in MIDI I/O lets you connect synths and controllers, while word clock I/O ensures precise synchronization with other digital devices.

Expand Your Setup

Unlock up to 16 extra inputs and 16 extra outputs using the four ADAT ports—perfect for live sessions, large drum recordings, and other I/O-heavy setups. Connect two additional Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen interfaces to achieve a total of 24 mic preamps and set levels in just 10 seconds using multi-channel Auto Gain.

Studio-Grade Preamps and Audio Quality

The eight mic preamps in the Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen feature an ultrawide gain range and low noise, ensuring clean and detailed recordings for any source. Focusrite's re-engineered Air mode adds rich harmonic drive and high-end presence, emulating the sound of vintage analog consoles. Paired with Focusrite's flagship-grade 24-bit/192kHz AD/DA converters and up to 122dB of dynamic range, the Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen captures every nuance of your performance with exceptional clarity.

Enhance Your Sound With Studio Plug-ins

The Scarlett 18i20 includes a suite of professional plug-ins to take your recordings to the next level. Recreate the warmth of Focusrite's legendary consoles with the Red 2 & 3 plug-ins, dial in realistic guitar tones with Softube Amp Room, or add depth with Relab's LX480 Essentials reverb. Auto-Tune Access provides real-time pitch correction, while Splice Sounds offers access to millions of royalty-free samples and presets. These tools give you a complete virtual studio, right out of the box.

Intuitive Control Software for Seamless Workflow

Focusrite Control, an intuitive app for macOS, Windows, iOS and Android, makes configuring your Scarlett 18i20 easy. Use it to adjust routing, monitoring and preamp gain with just a few clicks. Auto Gain automatically sets optimal input levels, while Clip Safe ensures you never lose a take by tweaking gain in real time to prevent clipping. With Focusrite Control, you can set up sessions quickly and focus on your creativity.

Auto Gain: Work Faster

The Scarlett 18i20 has unique workflow tools that benefit engineers of all experience levels. With Auto Gain, in just a few seconds, Scarlett will set the perfect level for whatever you’re recording. For more complex setups, multi-channel Auto Gain adjusts levels for multiple microphones, either directly on the 18i20 or through the Focusrite Control 2 mobile and desktop applications.

Industry-Standard Software Included

The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 comes with a powerful software package to jumpstart your recording projects. Ableton Live Lite offers a streamlined platform for songwriting and beatmaking, while Pro Tools Intro+ provides a fully featured DAW for recording, editing, and mixing. Combined with virtual instruments, effects and samples, the Scarlett 18i20 delivers all the tools you need to produce professional-quality music.

Included Software

  • Ableton Live Lite: A powerful DAW for songwriting and beatmaking
  • Pro Tools Intro+: A fully-featured DAW with virtual instruments, effects, and advanced editing tools
  • Splice Sounds Membership: Access millions of royalty-free samples and presets for creative inspiration
  • Additional Plug-Ins:
    • Focusrite Red 2 & 3 for classic EQ and compression
    • Softube Amp Room for authentic guitar amp simulation
    • Relab LX480 Essentials for studio-quality reverb
    • Auto-Tune Access for pitch correction and creative vocal effects

Capture Every Detail With the Scarlett 18i20—Your Professional Recording Powerhouse

The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 combines professional-grade sound quality, versatile connectivity, and advanced features to meet the needs of modern recording setups. Whether you're capturing full band performances, producing intricate arrangements, or syncing complex digital systems, the Scarlett 18i20 delivers the tools and reliability to elevate your music. Bring studio-quality recording to your setup with the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen and create like a pro.

Talkback and Monitoring Tools

The 18i20 features a built-in talkback mic, A/B speaker switching for instant referencing on various monitor configurations including multi-speaker systems, and eight channels of LED bar metering which can be assigned to inputs or outputs, as well as master output metering.

Control Your Mixes With Desktop and Mobile Apps

The Focusrite Control 2 software takes care of setting up routing, levels, monitor mixes and all other functions on the 18i20. It’s fast and simple to operate; and in addition to the desktop application, the iOS and Android Focusrite Control 2 apps enables engineers and performers to adjust monitor mixes and multiple mic pre gains—Scarlett’s preamps are remote controllable—away from the computer in the live room.

Easy Control With Desktop and Mobile App

Use the software, Focusrite Control 2, to manage routing and levels, monitor mixes and control other features of Scarlett 4th Gen interfaces. The desktop software, plus apps for iOS and Android, enable producers and performers to adjust monitor mixes and mic pre gains remotely.

Open Box Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen 18x20 USB-C Audio Interface Level 1
Open Box Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen 18x20 USB-C Audio Interface Level 1
Open Box Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen 18x20 USB-C Audio Interface Level 1

Features

  • 24-bit/192kHz AD/DA converters for pristine audio quality
  • Eight mic preamps with Air mode for rich harmonic drive and enhanced presence
  • Two instrument inputs for direct recording of guitars and basses
  • Digital I/O via ADAT and S/PDIF for expanded connectivity
  • MIDI I/O for seamless integration with synths and controllers
  • Word clock I/O for precise synchronization with digital devices
  • Focusrite Control software for intuitive configuration and monitoring
  • Auto Gain for quick input level setup and Clip Safe technology to prevent clipping

Specs

  • Number of Microphone Preamps: 8
  • Phantom Power: Yes (Independent)
  • Instrument Inputs: 2
  • Line Inputs: 8
  • Air Mode: Yes
  • Auto Gain: Yes
  • Clip Safe: Yes
  • Line Outputs: 10
  • Headphone Outputs: 2
  • ADAT Inputs: 2 (16 channels at 44.1/48kHz and up to 8 channels at 96kHz)
  • ADAT Outputs: 2 (16 channels at 44.1/48kHz and up to 8 channels at 96kHz)
  • SPDIF Input: 2
  • SPDIF Output: 2
  • Loopback: Yes
  • Connectivity: USB Type-C
  • Protocol: USB 2.0
  • Form Factor: Desktop
  • Simultaneous I/O: 20 x 24 (including Loopback)
  • A/D Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
  • Bus Powered: No
  • Software Compatibility
  • Scarlett 18i20 is class compliant so will work with Mac, Windows PC, Chromebook, USB-C iPad and iPhone
  • Power Requirements
  • 100-240V, 50/60Hz 30W (IEC cable included)
  • Included Software:
    • Antares Auto-Tune Access
    • Softube Marshall Silver Jubilee 2555
    • Native Instruments MASSIVE
    • Sonnox VoxDoubler
    • Landr Studio, plus five free masters
    • Brainworx bx_console Focusrite SC
    • Focusrite Red 2 & 3 Plug-in Suite
    • XLN Audio Addictive Keys
    • XLN Audio Addictive Drums 2: Studio Rock
    • Relab’s LX480 Essentials
    • FAST Balancer
    • In the Box
    • Scarlett 18i20
    • IEC cable
    • USB cable

    Reviews

    5

    1 Reviews

    100%

    of respondents would recommend this to a friend

    Filters
    Best Uses
    1. Outdoor Events / Games1
    2. Pro Audio / DJ / Mixing1
    3. Professional Recording1
    Cons
    1. Bulky/Heavy1
    Describe Yourself
    1. Professional Musician1
    Pros
    1. Compact1
    2. Durable1
    3. Good Audio1
    4. Versatile1
    • Major upgrade!

      5

      submitteda year ago

      byAbraham

      fromAmarillo, TX

      Opens up a world of opportunities with the new 4th gen 18i20 a major upgrade in recording from my 3rd gen 2i2 absolutely love this and have not had any issues at all!

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    Q&A

    Have a question about this product? Our expert Gear Advisers have the answers.

    • asked byJay Garcia

      fromAZ

      Is the interface rackmountable, and where can it be purchased?

      Open Reply - Gear-Support
      1) No, it isn't. It can be purchased in-store or online.
    • asked byShaneP

      fromBeaumont, TX

      I see it can do it's own mixes, are you able to set up one of these mixes while multi-track recording in a DAW? I would like to use the mix feature as a live mix during rehearsal/recording, and record at the same time and mix and master later. Is this possible or is it one or the other?

      Open Reply - Gear-Support
      Yes, you can do both at the same time with the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen—that's one of its strengths. Here's how it works: The 18i20 has a built-in DSP mixer called Focusrite Control. You can create multiple custom monitor mixes in real-time with near-zero latency using Focusrite Control. At the same time, you can multi-track record each input independently in your DAW (e.g., Logic, Pro Tools, Reaper, etc.) via USB.
    • asked byAchaiyah

      fromPhils., PA.

      will this unit work on Mac platform

      Open Reply - Gear-Support
      Yes, it will