Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Gen 4 Review - Why Would A DJ Want This?!

[@digitaldjtips]

⚡ TIMESTAMPS ⚡ 0:00 Intro 0:22 Use cases 1:15 Build 1:54 Inputs & outputs 2:48 Controls 4:49 How it works 6:01 Alternatives 8:07 What we like

[@indegruv]

USB c is also on 3rd gens

[@mark_delight]

I use the version 3 2i2 for my DJ streams on twitch at the moment, and it's a good little unit. It also connects to my laptop via USB-C to provide the power and data transmission to and from the laptop. Those AUTO and SAFE functions would be a definite step up for my use case, as the gain knobs are very sensitive, and it's very easy to go from good audio to clipped audio with just a hairs-width turn of the gain knobs. Plus, the Focusrite ASIO drivers are very solid and stable in the Windows environment, which not all DJ controllers ASIO drivers are (I'm looking at you Hercules!)

[@digitaldjtips]

The more we think about it, the more we think those auto gain and clip protection features are genius on an audio interface.

[@SamBass]

Thanks for putting this out! I have spent a lot of time looking for videos on how a DJ would use an interface, but most, if not all, videos I've found always talk about production. Not live-streaming or recording sets.

[@digitaldjtips]

Glad it was helpful!

[@chrizoic]

ditto! Thank you!

[@NJX_ONe]

I have the 2i2 and 8i6 and I love them... For the price they do the job very well

[@digitaldjtips]

Agreed

[@dieselcam]

Thanks for uploading this. I was hunting around for how to set this up and which interface to use for my RX3 and here it all is!

[@digitaldjtips]

So glad this helps you

[@andrewyarwood5625]

it's s actually a good bit of kit 👌I'm using it with my rx3.

[@potterb39]

phenomenal piece of gear to have

[@ElephantTurd]

If you're looking for a decent inexpensive DJ audio interface I would recommend the Steinberg UR24C or a used Komplete Audio 6 MK I. Both are 4 channel that allow you to use channel 3/4 for cue with the flip of a switch while giving you many of the same features you'll find on most 2 to 4 channel interfaces. The UR24C has the added bonus of USB 3 protocol over a USB-C connection giving you lower latency.

[@HARDBEA7]

Can you set like that for cue in rekordbox? And can you increase audio sample to 48 or 96 khz?

[@houstoner]

Been using one for years. Great for recording and streaming.

[@digitaldjtips]

It really is!

[@lorato2me]

Greetings exactly what cable are you running from controller to interface thanks for the video

[@randyj420]

Just grabbed 1 - my 1st interface! Thanks for the videos as I like that UR a DJ and take many things from that angle. I absolutely love the AUTO button and the light level rings - huge addition and so happy I didn't buy a 3rd gen last year. My new Mac has tons of USBc so I was very interested in one that had USBc on it but didn't even realize that it ultimately is a USB 2.0 signal and comes with a USBc to USB A cable, anyway. I just wanted to be able to use USBc to USBc cable and I hope that will work going into my recently purchased new Mac. Otherwise - so far - I've used the included USBc to USB A cable and set it up and updated the new software/firmware (or whatever that update was during setup). All said - thanks for your vids.

[@digitaldjtips]

Yes, the cable will work fine.

[@KronenProd]

I have the ddj flx6 ,scarllet and yamaha ,can i connect the dj console to scarllet and play here?without connecting to yamahas ,i have connected yamaha to scallet

[@jaycrucialofficial]

I have got the older version of the Scarlett's, I have got a Scarllet 2i4 First Gen for my Desktop connected to Active Speakers, and a 3rd Gen 212 with XLR's on the front for my Radio and Live Streaming side, you can use TRS to XLR for the older versions. They are great soundcards and generate great sound for recording. Work with all the streaming software such as Butt, Winamp with Shoutcast DSP Plugin (Proper Oldskool), Audacity, Adobe Audition, XSplit OBS etc. The new version looks ace :)

[@digitaldjtips]

Yeah it does indeed look great!

[@IamPreacherMan]

I’ve used this exact unit for live-streaming. It’s ok. I prefer my SoundCraft live mixer. It’s more versatile.

[@Latear85]

What is the orange cord ?

[@maschiavone5283]

Hey! What kind of cable is that? I just got the focusrite, and am trying to connect to the rx3 P.s. love your videos!

[@LegendaryMaoMao20]

This is the perfect mini audio interface I need! Can you review the AIAIAI Unit-4 wireless studio monitors? I'm curious to see what's your opinion on it!

[@digitaldjtips]

We have requested a pair for review.

[@kokofelix-omonubi6272]

Will this work with the Scarlett Solo? if yes, Can you please briefly explain input the set up? I already have a solo and don’t want to spend the extra money upgrading if not needed

[@digitaldjtips]

What is it you want to do?

[@kokofelix-omonubi6272]

@@digitaldjtips I’d like to use the Scarlett solo for recording mixes and streaming with OBS but the version of the Scarlett Solo I have only has a single TRS input for instruments and XLR input for microphone.

[@lynxng7445]

Was gonna get the 6i8 when they announced the 4th gen series *sweat*

[@digitaldjtips]

Great! 👍

[@trimworld3730]

I use a mackie profx10, i feed the master out from the controller straight to the line, use the usb on the back of the mackie into a hdmi/usb/power adapter then straight into my ipad/iphone which eliminates any irig, evermix4 device. The sound is soon clean with plenty kf bass!!! On the plus side you now can use more mics which ive set up wireless, eq what going out to the stream and acts as a fail safe if the controller breaks down. No idea how much this focusrite costs but there are much cheaper solutions. This seems very simple but effective and would be interested on the overall sound it produces

[@digitaldjtips]

As we said a mixer/interface is another option if you need more flexibility

[@amkorlee]

Pls. I would like to find out if I can stram from laptop to main speakers in church?

[@djxcel23]

I used either my Irig or my mackie board with usb out. If you already have that there is no need for another else.

[@digitaldjtips]

Of course, you only need one audio interface if you choose wisely

[@essex__rider]

Would you still need the cloudlifter for an XLR mic with this?

[@andrewhayhoe4600]

Always enjoys your channel both very informative and educational Hope you don’t mind my question although it’s not related to your latest update I have two technics SL1200 Mk 2 ( Mint Condition)and a X/ Zone 23c as well as two decent speakers. I have a fairly decent collection of vinyl mostly Northern and modern soul and classic dance records which I self indulge at home and sometimes play a few family get togethers Looking for your thoughts on the best stylus or cartridge which will produce the most natural sound while protecting my vinyl collection Kind Regards

[@digitaldjtips]

I'm no purist here. Depending upon the style you prefer, the Audio-Technica AT-XP3 for a traditional cartridge/stylus is good value, or the Ortofon Concorde Mix Mk2 if you prefer one that replaces the headshell too. I still have my Stanton 500s from God knows whee.

[@andrewhayhoe4600]

Thank you for your thoughts 0:35

[@thelabcookfoodie]

So, how is this different to an external live mixer? Can't I do the same thing with the yamaha mg10xu?

[@djadamlive]

Can you go around buying one of these interfaces for live streaming and just use the Reloop app to OBS instead?

[@digitaldjtips]

Not sure what you're asking, but if you're DJing from a laptop you don;t need an audio interface.

[@djadamlive]

@digitaldjtips what I mean is, if your using an audio interface like in this video to send audio to your laptop, can't you do the same by using Loopback app? (Sorry I got the name wrong I called it Reloop I meant Loopback). In my case I would like to use it with OBS for live streaming. I have 2 Mevo cameras but the audio input jacks on the back have a bad connection and always distort. Even when I wiggle the jack and get the best sound sweet spot, I still don't have a clear sound and too much base. I am trying to work around it by using an audio interface or just by using Loopback. My next concern is if there would be a delay between the cameras and the audio going into the OBS system? What would you recommend the best solution for my situation? Would I need to use an audio interface to get better sound or use Reloop instead? And lastly I can't take my Mevo cameras to service easily because I live in Thailand

[@DBeauLeMarsh]

Got a link for the orange lead please ?

[@digitaldjtips]

DJTechTools

[@lewismead6007]

If I just want to record the audio into a DAW, could I just get the solo?

[@digitaldjtips]

yes

[@DanielleKingdjdinosaur]

i have a cheapo Behringer audio interface and also a virtual sound card on my computer.Focusrite make nice gear but they tend to be bit on the expensive side.

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks for sharing!

[@ianrichards2054]

Great video. Thinking of getting one of these for internet radio broadcasting. You’ve used 1/4 inch line input cables from the DJ controller, is there any benefit instead to use the XLR input ? I have a spare Booth XLR output on my Prime 4+ that I could connect to the Focusrite with a twin XLR female to XLR male. Hoping to find the best audio quality…

[@digitaldjtips]

No, there’s no benefit

[@hvxcolors396]

Technically it doesn't make sense to take a to analog converted signal, and make it digital again to send it over usb to a laptop. I think that at least the InMusic 's self contained controllers should be able to connect straight to a laptop via a firmware update. This has been requested in the past, maybe it is still on their todo list, it is worth asking them. In this day and age of streaming that would be a logical but great feature.

[@digitaldjtips]

We are not sure this will happen, but we can hope

[@jamescater66]

This is shortcoming of the XZ and RX3. They don't have master digital out that the club mixers have. An A9 can connect digital output to your interface. Of course you'll need a better interface like the 6i6 or an RME rather than the 2i2 which is missing the digital input

[@djpeteb6092]

I was agonising over if I should buy one of these Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Gen 4 interfaces, I am currently using an iRig Pro I/O and its ok but I wanted to try something else, I have always used iRig products and explored the Compression settings in OBS. I Will give this Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Gen 4 a try and hope that maybe there is a surprise in a set up in Audio output quality into Twitch.

[@digitaldjtips]

I'd be clear why you want to change - sounds like your current interface is fine.

[@ericreynolds7191]

What kind of cord is the orange you're using? Ts to Ts for booth output into the interface?

[@digitaldjtips]

It could be from DJ Tech tools

[@blackistheword7]

So once you hooked up the the dj controller,where does the mic go in this thing now?

[@digitaldjtips]

Hang on, it all depends why you're using it.

[@seatulpatel565]

Hi I have a DDj 1000, 2 speakers and 2 turntables connected. What I wanted to know is it worth buying an interface to improve my vinyl rips not for live streams or anything else ? As the controller already has a built in interface. Cheers 👍

[@digitaldjtips]

A phone preamp is a good idea as the ddj1000 phono stages are not very good

[@VerbalKint07203]

Would I need an audio interface for my Pioneer Rev5 with a Shure MV7X? I typically stream from my Rev 5 to my iPhone. Using Serato on my iMac. I’m getting the Shure MV7X for Christmas. Wanted to know if I need this in order to get any vocals from the mic. To talk & interact with the chat. I don’t record.

[@digitaldjtips]

No, you can plug straight into the DJ controller

[@VerbalKint07203]

@ thank you

[@AMBIANNSS]

Can someone Told me what the option 48v and INST are useful for ?

[@DJDizziDee]

I have one and it's great. But guess what? I still use the old Native Instruments Audio 8 Audio Interface for live streaming. It's the ultimate external sound card for recording and streaming for DJs. It's simply cannot be beat. It's rare to find one now. I'm unsure if it's still available through NA. Nonetheless, It is for me the best interface that I have ever used.

[@digitaldjtips]

Yes, it's a great interface

[@vegaf2011]

Where can I find those orange cables you just used?

[@digitaldjtips]

DJTechTools

[@vegaf2011]

@@digitaldjtips thank you 🙏🏻 they look so cool

[@TheSaabClinicUK]

Seems a bit overkill. I just use a ESS 24bit USB sound card with Audio in, and a XLR to 3.5mm jack converter, using my Booth out to feed the live stream. Total cost £40.

[@digitaldjtips]

Fair enough, more flexibility here though

[@RC75]

When it’s just for recording sets, is this better than a Tascam DR-40X? I guess when you use this gear you also need something like audacity for example?

[@RC75]

Nobody? Really? It’s a professional KZbin channel, right? 😢

[@kmarlis]

Hello, I am trying to figure out how to run obs and stream from windows while running serato on a separate Mac. I have a rev7 so trying to use the built in audio interface. I’ve downloaded the virtual audio cable on the Mac which allows serato to be heard in obs (which worked when I was running both serato and obs on Mac) but I’m having trouble figuring out how to get my pc to use the audio interface. I downloaded the virtual audio cable on pc as well but it does not pull anything from serato. I’m about ready to just buy a Scarlett and use that but figured I’d try to figure out how to use the built in one before spending more. any advice would be appreciated. thanks.

[@digitaldjtips]

Most people use a separate audio interface for this

[@andrewverran3498]

zoom H6 works a treat.

[@digitaldjtips]

Yes a good device!

[@ErikJamesVisuals]

What cord are u using? It appears to be a dual female XLR connected to a dual TRS. I’m having trouble finding that option. Dual XLR to a single trs is very common.

[@digitaldjtips]

Just buy two singles... not sure where ours came from to be fair.

[@jakobmurray3115]

The sound was muffled when my DDJ 1000 master went into the 1 and 2 input channels. I realized is my left Master channel, when plugged into input 1, distributed the sound to both L and R speakers rather than only the L. Respectively, my right Master channel when plugged into input 2 did the same. To fix it, I panned input 1 hard Left in the Focusrite app and the Input 2, I panned hard right. Does this make sense to anyone or should I not do this?

[@digitaldjtips]

This is the right way to do it

[@djlotussutol]

Been trying to solve this. I have a FLX6GT, AG06 mixer, running into my DJ laptop. I have one of the audio out running over to my streaming PC/OBS software. I have a mic and want to start talking some on my live stream. I don't want to have to switch headphones. I have my headphones for cueing/mixing plugged into my DJ controller. And, I don't want Rekordbox to have my mic in the mix recording. Right now the mic is plugged in via XLR into my AG06 and a head set plugged into the AG06 where I can hear a mix of music and mic. I don't see an easy answer. I can't split a signal and run the mic to both the DJ controller and Mixer as I would have my voice coming in via the controller and the mixer. I think this device might work. I could run my xlr mic into this device and then into the DJ controller. The output to my streaming PC would have both the music and mic and in Rekordbox I could turn off the mic to master REC (I don't want the mic in the audio recording). This would eliminate me having to use the AG06 mixer to. What do you think?

[@digitaldjtips]

Have you tested to see if Rekordbox records the mic when plugged in to the controller? I don't think it will.

[@Stanton02]

What software do you use for recordings?

[@digitaldjtips]

Depends upon the circumstances

[@Stanton02]

@@digitaldjtips so I want to start recording mixes again and not sure what program to get for a PC

[@infiltrate808]

Thanks for the review. Do you recommend using the 2i2 with the DJM-A9 to stream live? Does it degrade the sound quality? I was going direct from the A9 into OBS.... should I go run the sound through the Focusrite then into OBS? I tried this and I didn't notice any sound quality loss.... thought?

[@AT-wl9yq]

It may degrade sound quality, but that is going to depend on how good your system is. A unit like this takes the analog signal coming out of your controller or mixer, converts it to digital, and then converts it back to analog. So, if you have gear with really good digital signal processing and transfer, and high quality analog circuitry, you kind of undo what all your expensive gear did to the signal, and sound quality is now based on how good that interface is, and not necessarily your gear. You are better off buying a good quality analog mixer, and if you need to record something, you can get a mixer that has a built in ad/da converter, or use an outboard unit like the one in the video. This will allow you to keep the signal analog going through the mixer, and tap off it to convert to digital to make a recording.

[@digitaldjtips]

What you were/are already doing is fine

[@cueyork8179]

I’m trying to stream a DJ set on twitch, I have the Rane 72 mixer , if I buy this unit what else would I need to properly stream on twitch, also what is those orange wires you used in this video to connect so I can purchase those as well

[@digitaldjtips]

Yes this will allow you to do so

[@juicemanirving]

Do I buy this or a go mixer?

[@digitaldjtips]

Depends on what functions you want

[@manishchauhan5857]

I have a dj controller and midi i am planning to buy studio monitors I would need an audio interface with it, so if i buy 2i2 and i want to use studio monitor as and output speaker can i plug in dj controller as input to audio interface? I have flx4 i am comfised cause both audio interface and dj controller require ucb c !!!

[@digitaldjtips]

You do not need an audio interface with a DJ controller

[@claytonproctor7514]

Would this work if you were to buy a Playdifferently 1.4 and also want to run Traktor with it? Or would you need a different type of sound card? Thanks :)

[@digitaldjtips]

You’d need a 4-in/4-out sound card ideally or even 8-in/8-out depending on how you wanted to configure it. So no, this wouldn’t do it

[@claytonproctor7514]

@@digitaldjtips Ok Thanks for the feed back. I will look at the Arturia Audiofuse 8Pre.

[@ocdg1470]

For DJ use I would like to see more competition and/or options for the Reloop Flux, which I think is more versatile and useful than this. There are still people/DJs out there looking for the DVS option and all the versatility included. Eg. Traktor A4, 6, 8, 10. Serato SL 2, 3, 4. The Denon was promising but too basic hence I think why it failed.

[@RC75]

Never compare things that are twice the price.

[@ryanharris8039]

Is this unit good for an analogue mixer (Mastersounds Radius 4), plus I have x2 Pioneer XDJ700. I've watched a previous video you put out about audio interfaces and it mentions that you require 4 in and 4 out?

[@digitaldjtips]

With some DJ software and the right leads you could probably get it to work, Reloop Flux would be a much better bet

[@ryanharris8039]

Ok thank you

[@ryanharris8039]

@@digitaldjtips So with Audacity for example?

[@mtallguy]

A little confused. If I have a pioneer mixer I don’t need a interface? Can someone help me out.

[@digitaldjtips]

Depends what mixer, and what it is that you are trying to achieve.

[@jeffreymiller1031]

I have the ddi sb2 the sound card is not the best. If i use the focusite as a sound card would the quality of sound be better

[@digitaldjtips]

In theory if you could set it up correctly, for instance using computer audio for master out and selecting this as the master out interface, not tried that though.

[@johnparker8270]

Seems overkill for me when you can buy a berhinger sound card for £20 to £25 quid. It’s what I use for my radio shows and I’ve never had any complaints on my sound quality.

[@digitaldjtips]

Fair enough! This is primarily aimed at musicians

[@RenatoHarripaul1217]

👍👍👍👍

[@allancarter3930]

I use the presonus version slightly cheaper and just as good

[@digitaldjtips]

Thanks for sharing Allan

[@vasiliszaxaropoulos8726]

😮😮😮😮😮

[@triniticoclough6387]

It’s ok but now thanks to iPad os 17 it’s not working any more

[@digitaldjtips]

Wow, not heard that. What is the issue?