Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface Review / Explained

[@Kidneyspears]

Focusrite shipped an update (4.36.4) for the Windows USB ASIO driver on 14.06.2017 in which the common bug (supposedly) got fixed. This is what it says on their website: Changes since the last release (4.15): -Fixed an issue that could cause audio dropouts/distortion after a long period of time -ASIO Control Panel retains buffer size/sample rate between disconnects/restarts -Fixed an issue with combined MIDI and Audio streaming at low buffer sizes Known issues: -It’s possible to get clicks and pops if streaming audio when also sending/receiving large amounts of MIDI data when the interface is connected to a USB 2.0 port on an AMD-based machine. Intel machines and computers with USB 3.0 ports are unaffected. I would highly recommend you to install that update and check if you still have noise issues on Windows 10. I'm on mobile rn but I will update my drivers asap and see if anything changed (I, personally, only had problems regarding crackling and noises with Shadowplay so I hope that this update fixed that).

[@Kidneyspears]

The update I mentioned above COMPLETELY fixed the distortion appearing when capturing the screen using Shadowplay therefore I'm confident to suggest that you guys install this one as it will most likely fix everything for you. Oh and btw the Scarlett 2i2 (2nd gen) has awesome, crisp and clean quality in case you're looking to buy one but got scared by all these comments saying it is garbage or whatever.

[@brtcobra]

this update didn't fix the issue with shadowplay at all in fact it is worse. do they even care about compatability for shadowplay? :(

[@Kidneyspears]

well for me it is (mostly) fixed. the only time i ever got that problem is when streaming while using shadowplay while also using Discord. In fact, Discord is the problem for me as after a certain amount of time the noises come back. Other than that I never got any problems anymore.

[@brtcobra]

not after the windows 10 creators update it isn't as you can now remove the ASIO driver and the 2i2 is now plug and play like on mac with solid sound. only thing you have to do is disable the focusrite cp (control pannel) in device manager if you want to stream or the stream wont have playback sound from game.

[@johnhreyes1928]

What is the problem? What do i have to use to record music on focusrite?

[@ryanwilson5936]

Dude, you're a hero for whispering during the noise demonstration. Very much appreciated!

[@jackValentine189]

I thought that was genius

[@devilmayclarify666]

But, but, it's inconsistent!

[@kazigkaasje]

Asmr

[@YTCalynk]

@@kazigkaasje It's not inconsistent, the noise test was to demonstrate the noise from the preamp, not the added gain.

[@yoonicornman]

100% was lowkey ASMR lmaoo

[@glugblub7524]

it was sexy

[@reddeadryan78]

Just ordered the 2i2 and a tlm 102 mic. I have windows 7. Wish me luck

[@timothylofi]

Was it all fine?

[@RobertLailvaux]

Glad I read some of the comments here. I was about to purchase the Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface. Decided not to as I have Widows 10.

[@Podcastage]

Yeah. A lot of folks have issues with focusrite and windows. A popular alternative is the Steinberg series.

[@MohammedSamireviews]

please i want to purchase roland tri capture audio interface but i cant find any helpful reviews on the internet .. can u help :) thanks

[@Laiqul]

i just wondering how awkward you saying all that word all the time , in the same way , i thank you offcourse , i just can't imagining me doing that thing over and over , and then new brand comes , and then new version of that new brand comes , oh my God , you awesome.

[@IkerZamora]

As other people are pointing out, you shouldn't buy any 2nd gen Scarlett interface if you are using Windows10. The drivers work awfully and your mic and sound will sound robotic every 5-10minutes, forcing you to restart the device. I had to return mine and I bought with the Yamaha AG03 instead. Another good options in a budget are: Steinberg UR22 MKII or UR12 interfaces, M-Track 2x2M, Behringer UMC202HD or UMC204HD, Presonus AUDIOBOX, Yamaha MG06 or Mackie Onyx Blackjack. Although I cannot guarantee that will work with W10, since I have not tried them, you should check them out too.

[@Podcastage]

That issue appears to be a common occurrence. What a bummer.

[@fireflame608]

Iker Zamora I

[@Kidneyspears]

please be so kind to read the pinned comment. that update fixed the problems for me so it might work for you as well.

[@comaodinsson3893]

You're pretty great on the guitar. Where's your album at bro?

[@Podcastage]

Don't have one.

[@rhall89]

Podcastage get on it! I'm dusting off my kit as we speak!

[@Nokitron]

it would be awesome to hear a track or something actually lol

[@GraphiteBlimp27]

Podcastage YET!

[@DaveStarr100.3]

Well done. Need this for the studio. Renting space time and equipment, this will make a great addition to the in house catalog.

[@hanzsantos]

Make sure you're not a Windows 10 user man. Driver issues.

[@nabeelbankosly2163]

I love this channel

[@paz0u]

Finally ! I waiting for this review since I subscribed to your channel !

[@muldersfile4504]

Tempted to get this, but if I like switching from a USB interface I already have (ART Project Series MP USB) I usually just hook one of my high end, hardware preamps to a mixer and do line in to my DAW. The only way I'd consider getting this is if my other one kicked the bucket, but it would mostly likely only kick the bucket because its tube needs to be replaced, which is much more inexpensive than even an affordable USB interface. Still, it's great to know there are so many options out there today. My ART unit is wonderful and clean sounding, but when I got it, it was literally one of the only options for such a set up years and years ago, but damn, it is a reliable workhorse with a nice clean signal and some very subtle coloration if you want to turn it on.

[@Firmbie]

well presented and well researched review.

[@davidcastillo4532]

Thank you! Your information helped me solve the problem I was having,

[@caniican]

I fell asleep during the whispering it's so soothing :-)

[@williammangus5526]

Thx for this review. I was going to buy the solo one but this is it

[@Sashik]

I want to see a review of Zoom H6 with it's microphones and know everything about it's noise floor, but it's not in the vote list

[@johnmarin9490]

Thanks just got my yesterday works great

[@vere9652]

I was skipping through the video and i clicked at 3:39 I was like, what? 😂😂

[@brtcobra]

i have this and it's great but be careful not to set it to 1 channel ( in windows audio settings) or it can cause it to crackle with windows 10 when using obs or shadowplay

[@rhall89]

The hipster hat has made a comeback! Hell yeah!

[@Podcastage]

It's going no where!

[@plus1miniatures344]

good videos! you should have more subscribers

[@samiulislam16]

Please do a behringer 404hd review and comparison with Scarlett or other same price interfaces

[@FinalBaton]

Great review, very thorough and informative. Question : since it doesn't have the "Pad" buttons like the 2i4, will I be okay(avoid clipping and have nice gain) with guitar that has passive pickups? or do I need the "Pad" option in my case?

[@sirnigelcogs]

I'm not entirely sure, but I was under the impression that instead of using a proprietary USB 2.0 standard like the original model did, the 2nd gen model is USB 2.0 class compliant, though again I'm not sure about that. I do know that both models work on Linux without the need for any additional software.

[@Up_All_Night]

It is class compliant. It would be interesting to know what drivers people are using, Focusrite's ASIO drivers or the Microsoft drivers.

[@SalmorejoGeek]

Nice review

[@TheTalemaster]

Does it record only to the left channel like the gen 1 solo you reviewed in 2016?

[@Deluxxo]

Thanks mate, this helped a lot.

[@Alt-mv3ok]

Very informational review, thanks

[@Podcastage]

Happy to hear it helped.

[@christiannagy3429]

Very good Review, Dude!

[@prime23jordan69]

I have all of that but you make it super clear please tell me what did you do

[@MrFuser22]

I really liked your review on all the devices. The thing that im missing (possible because im new to this) is what does all those things do? What does Line/instrument do different? whats the moniter thingy for? Why is there even sound output on those interfaces? :s Do you have a video explaining all this? :p

[@Podcastage]

If you're connecting a 1/4" jack you switch to whether you're inputting a line or instrument level input.Which monitor thing? Why is there sound output on the interfaces? So you can hear the audio you're recording.

[@jengeddie360]

Should I buy this in 2019? is it still considered good in present ? I want to record singing and guitar. Thank in advance.

[@WilfredBryaq]

Absolutely. You can also buy 3rd gen if you want.

[@TheNickjv123]

I'm going to purchase the Focuserite 2i2 Gen 2 Audio interface...and from what I have gathered If I'm looking to have at least 2 people on a podcast and they both want to use headphones, I will also need the Mackie 4 way Headphone amplifier. My question is how do I plug the audio interface into the head phone amplifier, so all guests can have a pair of headphones? Is there a cord I need? TSR?

[@acexprt]

Glad to see more people commenting about the 2i2 being shitty on windows 10. I can also vouch for these issues. It's absolutely annoying. I've had to scrap hours of videos because of the robotic distortion.

[@brtcobra]

easy fix though mine is great on windows 10 now

[@GrimmieXII]

brtcobra what is this easy fix you speak of? Would love to solve my problems.

[@hanzsantos]

I also have random pops and crackles in my recorded audio tracks even on the highest buffer size and at 48khz. What a joke of an interface (or drivers? don't really know if the problem is with the interface as well).

[@Kidneyspears]

please be so kind to read the pinned comment. it explains how to completely fix all of the issues you guys have.

[@brtcobra]

forget that fix nothing is fixed at all they are still working on the problems that beta driver does nothing.

[@idisc0rdthebeatmakerryanma75]

Great video! I was wondering if the scarlet works with FL studio? And also I will be playing an instrument so I was wondering if I should I get the 2I2, or the scarlet solo bundle? But most importantly I want to get the best USB interface for FL studio… What are your thoughts and suggestions!?? Thank you for your time and keep up the great work.

[@SareXp]

How much db does the Scarlett 2i2 provide I’m getting the shure sm7b with the cloud lifter and the Scarlett can you let me know how much db will these item provide I’m struggling to find it online

[@yehonatanashush409]

For some reason a day after I recorded like it should be in the scarlet, the scarlet doesn't react to USB connection anymore, The USB light did'nt turned on and the computer didn't get the scarlet (I triend two USB cabels and it still didn't work) How can I fix this? The scarlet doesn't have screws and I dont want to ruin my scarlet so how do I fix it? Pls help

[@juliovieitasconsultoria]

Hi there. Thank you so much for your review! I'm only a broadcaster so I won't plug any musical instrument to it. Only my voice while teaching online. Should I get the 2i2 or the solo. Thanks in advance :)

[@TavoIce]

i have this interface and its exelente

[@glytch5]

SO you just need one of these... and you are set to use guitar plugins?

[@GILAD-420]

Please do the stienberg ci1 because I want to know the quality, if you will test it it will be great!! If you will be able to test it with the at2020 I will be so happy!!!

[@SportMinsitry]

why scarlet has no midi port?

[@DividedLines]

Great review.

[@Aktlast]

bruh someone please help me if you see this and know how to fix it. i'm on windows ten and my mic only records on one side. it plays the vocals through both sides when the interface in connected but without it connected the audio is one sided because of the recording, how do i fix this?

[@erickmorfin1420]

Is the headphone out jack stereo monitoring or mono?

[@trashboy9517]

stereo

[@carleyeshield]

Is this compatible with an ipad and android phone?

[@waltertomaszewski1083]

Any reason to use this combined with a DBX268 when you could use a mixer with USB output?

[@tuomasantero]

+1 sub here. Great content and production quality! :)

[@Podcastage]

Thank you very much.

[@iRretB]

My mic is usually 1 foot away from my mouth. Can the scarlette 2i2 pickup my voice at that distance, given than I talk in a normal voice and not shouting? Thanks! Great Review btw.

[@zeluisbelo]

Hello, thanks for your review. I'm trying to get a grasp on this audio thing. Between this Focusrite and the Yahama AG-06 don't they do essentially the same thing? The Yahama seems to offer more options, is it better?

[@happyday5410]

Sir... As a DJ remix producer..can I buy it or not...is this perfect for us or any other option... plz need ur best suggestion...

[@ccanyways8297]

thank you so much !!! I just started my asmr channal and has been thinkin to get a interface. the whisper testing is totally so helpfullllll!!!! That's what i have been looking for!! Do you think i can attach zoom h1n to it?? Thank you!!!

[@Podcastage]

You cannot attach the Zoom h1 to this. The Zoom h1 should be able to function as a USB Audio Interface, if I'm not mistaken.

[@ccanyways8297]

@@Podcastage Yup its just the noise level too high so thats why i wanna get a interface

[@Cpotebnya]

Thanks for the video! If you don't mind clarifying, would the monitor dial ONLY affect the output on the back while the headphone dial would affect the headphones? In other words, could I turn down the monitor dial to only get sound from my headphones and vice versa?

[@UnaPersonaVioEsto]

i recently bought the Scarlett 2i2 secound generation combo, and i have a problem, the Windows 7 doesnt accepts the interface,( and i have the drivers installed), i had to do so much steps in Windows, to make it work,( a total nightmare)

[@ROYYYBERT]

How well does this device preform with two microphones? A friend and I have a podcast and we are looking for a decent interface that will run two rlx mics simultaneously. Also does it work well with audacity? We are not famous podcasters so we are trying to save some coin! Thanks for the video!

[@DanTechTV]

Have you ever used the Scarlett as a headphone amp for your computer (computer sound card running into the mic in for the Scarlett)? I am hoping to buy one and use it as a headphone amp sometimes and for microphone phantom power at other times.

[@SocietateaAscendenta]

I think that the Steinberg's PREs are bit better.

[@paulaandreaquinterogarces5733]

Hey pod i want you to answer a very important queation of microphones which is better:blue yeti,razer seiren,rode nt usb,samon c01u pro,samson meteor mic

[@dingopes3847]

witch u recommend it to buy in 2021 this model Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd Gen) or Focusrite Scarlet Solo(3gen). i will use mostly for record guitar to jam alone.i am new to interface. Thnank u

[@brtcobra]

The windows 10 issue is now 100% fixed , simply install the windows 10 creators update, uninstall the ASIO driver, restart your pc and windows will install the 2i2 with a new official driver. the device will then show up in windows as "Scarlet 2i2 usb" make sure to turn down your gain in windows to around 50% from the default 100 as it is now so much louder. i also had to turn my gain down on the device too. so far 100% fixed with not a single crackle or audio drop out,not even when recording with shadowplay :) small tip be sure to set a minimum of 48khz in windows if using shadowplay to record, as shadowplay has always hated 44khz ,do this for mic and speakers. Enjoy :)

[@GramOfMayo]

is it the 2i2 1st gen? I have to crank my 2i2 to 100% volume to get my mic to even record.

[@brtcobra]

i have the 2nd gen. just make sure to uninstall the ASIO driver and let windows 10 install it's own driver, then in device manager disable the focusrite control. it sounds amazing now even on shadowplay.

[@96ezam]

thought of buying the ur 12, but since the problem is solved. ill stick to the scarlett solo i guess?

[@haggisbassmusic]

Do I need to buy a Pre-Amp for this product? I'm travelling around Asia and would like to buy this product. Thanks for the video :)

[@offthatdaily33]

No, you dont

[@brainwasher0]

Any physical differences between the two generations?

[@vagner3472]

Is it just me or the audio in the win 10 is lower? Why is that? I was considering buy a very good win 10 machine, but now I wonder if the audio would be better in a mac mini, for example.

[@Anime-nl9mr]

OMG THE I WANT TO BELIEVE MADE ME SUBSCRIBE! X'DD

[@45Bryseida]

good review

[@smmusicplus96]

Did they fix the problem with the drivers yet? I have windows 10.

[@ranajoyshil]

I am going to buy a Audio interface to record my electric guitar and acoustic guitar, so what will be better Focusrite Scarlett solo or Behringer UMC202HD??

[@idane1234]

Theres a difference between the 2i2 to the solo from the cables aspect? If i move fro msolo to 2i2 i dont need to buy new cables?

[@Ayralis]

So what happens when you activate the 48V phantom power and have your guitar in one input and a mic in the other? Is this a problem? Shouldn't you record with guitar while you have a mic with phantom power on? Edit: Nevermind, found the answer :)

[@owenmason8957]

J. P. Morgan hey, what was the answer to that question?

[@bendix980]

Hey, i have an super annoying issue with mine. It only wants to record audio on one side. Ive searched everywhere but cant find an solution, Please help!

[@Podcastage]

I have a video on that: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eZeqi6yKdsuXZ8U

[@jallantan]

I already have a zoom h5. If I were primarily using this for podcasting or 2 person dialogue, is buying this 2i2 unnecessary. I plan to get dynamic mics because i am concerned about background noise and room reverb. Thank you.

[@nateboone9671]

my friend gave me one of these without any of the paperwork or the box or the power cable, can I still use it? can I still get the software?

[@JeffBourke]

im confused, IF you're using a pre-amp - how do you balance the gain on the preamp with the gain on the scarlett?

[@meanjester8917]

Can you make a video on a "kit" that you should buy when shopping for the Audio Technica ATR 2500

[@Podcastage]

ATR2500 is a usb mic. You just buy that, a boom arm, shockmount, and pop filter.

[@belezuera]

Do you still recommend the mic "Zalman Zm-mic1"? Or you think that have another option for this range of price?

[@eprg401]

What pop filter is that square one in the minute 6 with 44 seconds?

[@AntAskew]

Hey, great video. I currently have a xenyx 802 but find I get a bit of self noise from the mixer itself. The issue is I use the current mixer to podcast and live stream. I like to be able to hear my on voice slightly through the headphones as well as connect a separate audio source for example a PS4 for streaming. Is it possible to have the PS4 input into the Scarlett?

[@nathantorres7187]

Hi I literally know nothing about all this and am trying to get into recording and mixing some of my music. I have no clue how interfaces/mics and whatnot work. So as a complete beginner i dunno what i should get between the Scarlet Solo or this Scarlet 2i2?

[@marge973]

Nathan Torres both good options the main difference is the scarlet solo allows basically “one” person to record at a time (do instrument and mic) or one person can record at a time The 2i2 has 2 inputs so two people can record at a time Obviously processing power etc is different but I wouldn’t say a crazy difference If you’re new I would get the Scarlett solo decent price and will get you accustomed with recording etc

[@toturichard]

sorry if this a stupid question :D with one audio interface the sound quality is better on my headphone ? like a normal soundcard ?

[@WiredSpaceWizard]

All I want to use it for is getting soft synths out of my computer and into my Eurorack modular sampler. Would it be good for that? Thanks!

[@NewbArchitect]

It's the solo 2nd gen as loud as 2I2 2nd gen? You had 1st gen to compare...please let me know thanks

[@Apodyopsis369AllEyezOnMe]

AMIGO UNA PREGUNTA LA 2I2 Y 2I4 QUE DIFERENCIA TIENEN? ME PUEDES RESPONDER! O SOLO ES 2I4 POR QUE TIENE MAS ENTRADAS Y SALIDAS MIDI O ALGO ASI?? PERO TIENEN LA MISMA CALIDAD 2I4 2I2 6I6 ?

[@psl9265]

Guitar input with amplitude and music from KZbin at the same time possible? Multi asio compatibility?

[@felixmitchell7888]

can you connect a turntable to this and play sound through your pc? please need help ?

[@ThekidEdwin]

audio mixers or audio interface when requiring phantom power ?

[@romadloniqbal3378]

How do you get the driver?

[@vadimmartynyuk]

Tried almost all the 2ch audio interfaces available now, focusrite Scarlett were the only ones with crackling sounds getting recorded. Behringer and Focusrite pretty much are the worst

[@ZTOssb]

When is your prog metal solo album dropping?

[@nguyenthanhuyen6711]

Hello, I am using win 10. Which one should I choose for Recording my voice to make the audio bookS? Focusrite Scarlett Solo Gen 2 OR Steinberg UR12 USB Interface PLEASE HELP ME, THANK YOU SO MUCH!

[@jennyligu]

Do I need a phantom power too ?

[@F0XFeed]

Hi! Will you do Yamaha mg10xu review?

[@13magic74]

QUESTION: I have Windows 10. I just purchased the Scarlett solo (2nd gen) and I downloaded all of the software and updated drivers.. I plugged in the USB to my PC, connected my guitar but nothing happens. What am I missing? Please help me get started.... thank you so much!!!

[@13magic74]

Bueller? Bueller?

[@WuClear]

Bueller ?

[@jac6567]

Bandrew,can you do a dynamic Mic(Shure SM7B) test of behringer um2 and Scarlett solo？

[@serigrafiabasica3005]

hi, scarlett 2i2 or audient id4 ?

[@perrypelican9476]

I have a first Gen 2i4 that I use when I travel and an iconnectaudio4+ in my small studio running Windows with reaper and an iPad(it has a separate port for each). The one thing that I wonder about and would have thought changed in this version of Scarlett is not having individual 48v control for each XLR input. Do you know why it’s like it is? It can’t be the cost of a simple switch or 2 and a few knobs, can it?

[@Hollywoodintx]

Mine was up and running, out of no where I can’t record anymore and am not able to hear myself, I can barely if I turn my gain all the way up

[@Podcastage]

Are you still within the warranty window? If so, you should definitely be able to get Focusrite to repair it for free (assuming it wasn't abused).

[@Hollywoodintx]

Podcastage ended up being a lose cable lol

[@KoD83]

Can I set the Input device to Scarlet 2i2 USB and the Output device to "my soundcard" and get very low latency ? I wanna hear my Amplitube processed guitar sound on my 5.1 PC speakers, without using the monitor output of the 2i2.

[@KoD83]

Ok I bought a Focusrite - doesn't work. No matter what. If I route it with voicemeeter, there's too much latency, mic in jack also has too much latency.... only setup that works: Windows 7 + Realtek ALC892 onboard sound + usb audio interface

[@ivanalvarez8946]

Other than XLR Microphones, am I able to connect this to Yamaha HS5 and any other studio monitors / speakers?

[@Podcastage]

You should be able to. This has speaker outputs and the HS5's are powered monitors if I'm not mistaken.

[@ivanalvarez8946]

Podcastage Yes, they are. Appreciate it so much! Will definetly look into the Scarlett!

[@2thousan9mmixarchivesflips]

Did you ever get it? And did you get the TRS cable?