Why is EVERYONE Buying THIS Audio Interface? Focusrite Scarlett Solo

[@FocusriteTV]

Thanks for taking the time to create this! Rest assured, we have plans to replace the plastic bag that's supplied in the box, with a recyclable alternative in the near future.

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

I really appreciate you watching! I was mostly kidding, you guys do a better job on packaging than most manufacturers!

[@Alex_Martz]

Please create an interface with footswitches in a pedal form factor!, like the failed Xsonic Xtone series or ToneShifter Mega

[@keisaboru1155]

What if there is no future tho ;3333

[@marcvanheugten9472]

@@Alex_Martz and able to connect to Android by usb-c

[@MichaelFG]

Mine says no hardware detected.... Tried troubleshoot got nothing

[@StephenBerlinPOV]

As a newbie, the Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen meets my needs musically, financially and aesthetically (looks cool peeking out from below my computer monitor). It makes me look (and feel) like I know what I'm doing. Never knew $100 could buy confidence and encouragement. Now if I could just find a talent generator for my setup.

[@RetroPlus]

That is spot on

[@FluidITGuy]

OK. Didn't know ppl need to feel like they know what they are doing.

[@jakeblair8876]

Same I use one as well

[@plocky401]

found the guy that buys gear for aesthetics LOL

[@thefeelcompany]

My bro kindly gifted me a Focusrite recently for my new iPadPro and it’s bloody brilliant. It was so easy to plug into GarageBand and ping: it immediately took the signal from my SM58 just for a “One, two!” test. Gorgeous sound just off the SM58. Zero latency. Zero worries.

[@aegisofhonor]

I have use the Scarlet Solo for over 2 years and it's just a very good solid dac and headphone amp and works great, can't say anything bad about it, it just works.

[@ronhutcherson9845]

I have a 2i2, 2nd gen. I picked it over the Behrenger mostly because it was red. That matters more then you might think.

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Red ones go faster I hear.

[@lioncurlew]

The Devil's Colour!

[@The_Monkey_Rider]

I´ve just bought the Scarlett 4i4 yesterday. I´m very happy. The sound quality , the construction materials, all the software included... Simply perfect and it is so beatiful... I love it!!

[@axilleas]

The sound quality is great, it’s one of the cheapest interfaces that offer mono direct monitoring (both channels to both ears instead of 1->L and 2->R) and it comes with a whole host of software. What’s there not to like?

[@RetroPlus]

We're living in a time where anyone can have access to pro level recording for less than £100, it's amazing

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Absolutely!

[@rodakjones7574]

Not including the price of a laptop, internet access, a midi controller, instruments, instrument accessories, and microphones, plus the time to do it...

[@flaekingr5109]

@@rodakjones7574 Have-not eh? Well, have-not, most people have a computer already, internet access too (even from a phone) and musos USUALLY have the instrument that they, ya know, play? Time? Is it for funsies or for money? Grown-ups usually get pretty good at devoting what time they can to the things they want to do after the things they need to do get done. But yeah, boo-hoo you can't get everything neatly wrapped in an entire bundle I suppose.

[@TheRedRaven_]

@@flaekingr5109 You're right, most people have pretty powerful computers these days and I so happen to be one of them. Found out about amp sims and other cool things you can do on a PC these days so I picked up my old guitar and bought this audio interface. I sold all my old equipment (pedals, amps) so this was the perfect solution to get back into guitar and this time, actually record some riffs!! Hell even back in the day (2008) I was using a computer to play anyway for tabs and Guitar Pro (which was amazing software for the time).

[@corm1000]

Someone said in another video that the focus rate could be dangerous, in terms of electrical issues or issues involving grounding, is this true?

[@granbyplungar2929]

This is undoubtedly a great interface. Unfortunately, the lack of independent volume controls for the headphones and monitors means that you have to disconnect the monitors when using headphones for recording. If this is an issue, then the 2i2 would be a better bet. Otherwise highly recommended.

[@KenTeel]

... yes, lousy headphone control, only one XLR input, only one choice of output connector types, no MIDI capability. But, you do get to brag to your friends about the brand name..... oh yeah.... that's so satisfying. (It's kind of like owning an Apple, you get to brag to your friends about owning one, despite the fact that you have problems with it, and everything associated with it is proprietary, and costs twice as much. Keep your priorities straight... it's the bragging rights that count.)

[@BrentAlanBeck]

@@KenTeel You're a breath of fresh air to read your comment here now! I could on and on and on! What's worse is there even seems to be an accidental result of almost collusion? Where people & connected salesmen are suggesting these things be bought by people who don't need them, by creating trend, just as professional entertainment participants suggest wearing masks & getting vaccinated because of Covid which is understandable for global health & people! It's not understandable for selling everyone, just as many, new focus rite "interfaces." "Mastering" is also currently the masturbative Hollywood buzz word of the week also. You know whatever company that is suggesting mastering is and has been a normal part of a garage amateur recording set ups as to normalize it, thus shaming those who don't purchase it at this date. Good work if you can get it? Everyone wants major label quality but affording it is why it's only available by multinational record company corporations! Music makers are now being told their music is low quality so someone else can sell them supposed higher quality recording equipment. It's why antitrust laws exist, when company's act like this. It's bad of companies to act this way. Period.

[@KenTeel]

​@@BrentAlanBeck Interesting stuff, Brent. Thanks for the reply. Long live good quality homemade. Everything doesn't have to sound slick and homogenized. Old recordings from the 30s and 40s are still being listened to. Some of them were done on wire recorders. They still are listenable, and display soulfulness in what the musicians/singers were doing. Down with the herd instinct. Do your thing. Be unique.

[@BrentAlanBeck]

@@KenTeel Yes and thank you likewise! You're exactly right. All in life is fact or opinion, art involves a lot of opinion. You show experience upon your own behalf and I simply recognized where you're coming from! I stride with everything you say. Rockband's smarty-pants re-comment below proving my point? For more education of anyone or everyone, "are cassette deck rms per channel, vu meters showing 0 then red 3 and red 6, the same as some of these videos from twenty year old currently showing zero as being the only acceptable top end meter? I realized last night the focusrite is double 96khz so that's worthy of note because I do favor to my ear years ago 32bit WAV mixdowns being better than 24 or 16, and many may debate but I think that's where any questions about quality are answered. I am in a situation now, where there are a FEW things going on. I cannot see my comment you call interesting and I don't know why, but focusrite being compared to Apple hysteria fits perfectly! I am having other separate companies say I need to buy the focusrite if I want to work with them and that the hysteria part, stopped only by monopoly laws. Not to mention people bearing false witness saying, "you've recorded & mixed your song & then had it mastered." Trying to act like something had been normal all along when it NEVER actually was normal. I see right now on KZbin many going to mastering colleges and then claiming they're producers. I wonder if that's, credible? I worked next to major label artists and for twenty year old KZbin class people to say that they know what they're doing is well again untrue? False witness? I have Filtertron pickups twenty year old claims I "clipped" signal I say, nooooo, filtertrons run hot, it's their famous fuzzy sound. Nothing is clipped, but I have to have these arguments with twenty year old know it all's, that have also started to act out discrimination against those they simply don't like. So the focusrite is not a cure-all automatic road to success and too many may be saying it is? Seems the industry is possibly colluding in order to sell new equipment if you consider in total only a few of the things I mention, that have only occurred in the recent six months or so. Focusrite is not a cure-all neither was Apple. If newly the subject of recording was put forth in a way that's not so ultimatum-ish I'd be more receptive but kids are putting forth things that are inaccurate to sell equipment, a lot of equipment, and a lot of equipment, quickly. So MELLOW out, step back from focusrite is the only acceptable way to distribute music and the public will not be so cynical as plainly seeing what they're obviously up to? Haste makes waste in the purchase world. So again thanks, glad you recognized what I had also.

[@rodakjones7574]

@@KenTeel all that really matters is the quality of the preamp and its a good one. All the other stuff can be worked around. And why would you want to run a midi device thru a preamp anyway?

[@boiki9663]

Nothing wrong with the 212 3rd Gen, it's my first interface and i love the sound quality. It's a great hardware and very good priced aswell

[@U2360TO]

The main reason Focusrite is ahead of competition is because of their control software that comes with the box. You can route virtually any input to any output. Other cheaper audio interfaces and USB mixers can't do that despite providing more inputs/outputs. You can even save and load your favorite configuration. This is a hidden feature that I discovered recently and totally blown by it!

[@NullStaticVoid]

MOTU, UAD and others do this just fine. I don't think the average beginner that picks up a Scarlet Solo (instead of the other Scarlet interfaces with 4 or more inputs) is awae of or concerned with such features. Rather it probably has more to do with being made by a company that offers a whole range of hardware from USB keyboards to full size synths, from USB interfaces to MADI ADDA converters and professional mic preamps. That gets them in Guitar Center, and has them included in those producer bundles with a pair of haedphones a mic and some LE versions of software. Most other interface manufacturers either only make those (like Motu) or like Behringer, don't make any high quality stuff.

[@walteregeaux]

mine is over 10 years oldScarlett 18, is left on all day 24/7 and it still delivers, the pre amps records grand headroom!

[@MPrint67]

I got the 18i20 and it’s been wonderful. Plenty of inputs and ADAT compatibility if my GAS gets out of hand. The two headphone outputs are great for mixing with my open back and closed headphones. I’ve got 2 sets of studio monitors and room for more.

[@andrewgoldsby]

Absolutely on the money! Love my solo and no reason in my opinion to upgrade. For me, it comes into its own with recording acoustic guitars and using one channel xlr and one channel for Jack input. Gives you options to blend the sound as you want!

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Absolutely mate, it’s a cracking little interface.

[@johnsguitarmusicanddemos]

I got this brand because it was recommended to me in the beginning. It was the beginning of me trying to upgrade my own KZbin channel. It was cheap and had good reviews so I bought it. I’m definitely not disappointed with it but I’m sure that there are better options that cost more money but why spend more when I’m happy with what I got? Definitely a really cool video and I appreciate you making it.

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

I got my first gen Focusrite years ago for the exact same reasons! Thanks for watching! 👍

[@stereoroid]

I thought about this one but ended up getting the Mackie Producer 2*2, since I wanted MIDI ports too. About the same price for two combo input preamps, very happy so far.

[@peteandpuy]

I've got the Steinberg UR12 which seems to be the same thing. Required interface that I've used with iOS and now the Mac. Flawless.

[@QoraxAudio]

I have the Steinberg UR12 and it works just fine too. There's not much difference between these things, as long as they work properly.

[@Ataraxia_Atom]

I have the soloV2 that ive had a few years and it's been great piece of kit. Especially when you want to record on the go.

[@timothy5974]

Thanx Patrick for the review. I went the solo route just for use with amp software works great, I am sure thunderbolt will be faster but this just works. I spent way too much time reading the comments, we are lucky we have the options we do. I definitely believe the solo headphone amp sounds better than my 424. 🤓👍

[@RichTones]

I’ve had my eye on these for sometime, need to upgrade my outdated interface. You just confirmed the quality is there Patrick 👍Great review sir🎸🎸

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Cheers Rich! I was genuinely surprised at how good it is for such a compact interface.

[@teeaymusik9811]

I upgrated from an 18 (!) years old Studio Projects vtb1 preamp. The Focusrite is SO MUCH better.

[@TheUkuleleTeacher]

Scarlet! Solo! Scarlet! Solo! SCAAAAARRRrrrrrr LEEEeeeettt SOOOLOooooo-uhhh! Genuinely been singing this all morning! 😂

[@NikolaTomic]

Hehe I "noticed" that too :) Well done :)

[@luckyankraj]

My gen1 Scarlett is still going strong. Can vouch for the sturdy build quality

[@francispower1418]

Also worth mentioning, if used with a regular iPad/GarageBand that you a) because you don’t need to plug the Scarlett into the wall (it takes bus power from the iPad) and b) you can’t plug your iPad into the wall either (without adding a power hub into the chain) because the Scarlett is already using the USB C port, you are completely mobile. Free of any need for wall power. Fabulous for recording environmentals outdoors for example. And I find my iPad battery runs for well over ten hours even ruining the Scarlett. Its the easiest and most mobile recording set up I’ve ever had. Even if you have a fancier interface this is so cheap and versatile, and easy to use, that it’s worth having one just for back up and field work. Looking back had I been able to buy an interface like this when I was starting out I wouldn’t have known I was born!

[@Seansquatch7]

I love the “if you’re a musician who is on the move”. Like i am constantly on the move from my room to the garage if I’m tracking or jamming. 😂

[@MikeSeften]

Haha 😂

[@IamMusicNerd]

I had one, and it’s great, but I bought a Universal Audio Volt, and the 76 compressor built into the UA Volt is far better sounding in my opinion.

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

I hear good things about UA’s volt interfaces.

[@ariel4238]

Les cuento que ví un vídeo en You tu be de las volt y un hombre comparando no es mucha la diferencia pero les cuento que el hombre subía 7 d sin el compresor y sonaba como si tuviera el compresor activado 😂😂😂😂o sino bajaba 7 db la grabación con el compresor activado y en el otro canal dejaba a 0 y sorpresa diferencia no había ninguna hasta en el dibujo de las ondas era todo diría igualito lo que si para persepcion de mis oídos no digo que sea súper en distinguir lo único escuché fue pero apenas un pelín más de cuerpo pero muy muy poquito diría que casi ni se nota pero vamos que tendríamos que estar atentos a todo y creo que el escucha no se detendria en eso 😂😂😂😂😂😂👍

[@ariel4238]

Si es mejor creo que es muy pero muy poquita la diferencia y ahora con montones de vst que existe se pueden hacer cosas impresionantes 👍😉👌

[@BdeJJG]

@@ariel4238 esos lo que yo a visto tambien y los articulos comparandolos.

[@chipsawdust5816]

For the same price as the 4th gen Scarlett I’m leaning towards the UA as well. I have an ancient M-Audio they no longer support that still works though … even an ancient Digitech Genesis3 🤪

[@stephanieamare]

Literally, right now, as I'm watching this and was figuring out which interface to go with as an upgrade from my old Peavey Xport--the 3rd gen is on Amazon for £75. No brainer right now. Thank you for this video!

[@Havanacuba1985]

I’ve got a solo and a 2i2 both bought 2nd hand for about £40 - £50 . They just work great and are simple to use with my Mac

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Sounds like you got a good deal!

[@rolandgerard6064]

Bought the 8i lately, no regrets. Great device. Thanks for your reviews.

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Nice! Thanks for watching!

[@oakandiron_]

By far the best review out there on the solo, and that full mix though! 🤝👍

[@ElricX]

I came very close to buying the Scarlet 2i2 but went with the comparable Presonus 24c because I like their DAW, Studio One. The upgrade to the pro version was extremely reasonable. If Focusrite had a similar deal with Ableton Live I might have chosen differently.

[@johnvender]

I got the Solo with the Studio bundle, great value for money. Both the headphones and the microphone are much better than what would be expected at the price.

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

It seems like a great bundle, glad you’re enjoying it!

[@MobileMusicPro]

Still rocking my Focusrite 2i2 2nd gen!

[@vikingqueen9]

As a beginner, I found this video very helpful and informative. Thanks.

[@gwugluud]

I had to give up on my 2i2, because I began getting a delay effect which would not go away, no matter whether I restarted my PC, unplugged then restarted the PC, I tried everything. My local music store, miraculously, had some Mackie Onyx interfaces (mom and pop store in a small town), so I bought one. Getting the driver was effortless from their site, and I'm glad I got it. There's no perceivable latency, even under a buffer setting of about 500. The Focusrite, I was forced to use settings to the edge of clicking and wobbling, and there was still a bit of obvious latency. Where has Not Focusrite been all my life?

[@kingdan6776]

This is my go to. It holds up against my ssl interface. Its more convenient to move around with my laptop. Records clean enough to add ssl plugins etc and alongside a st69 tube mic that i scored for $100 it sounds pretty dang good. Even in my noisy living room. My ssl is in my main studio. But the solo is very good quality. Probably the best bang for your buck.

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Yep, the price to performance you get from it is pretty much unmatched.

[@justinmoore3669]

My old Yeti decided recently to not be recognized by windows and I'm looking for microphone etc. Whether its usb or xlr, would you suggest this just for microphone use only if I went the xlr route?

[@michaelniallodochartaigh6171]

My homie made professional quality music with this like 8-9 years ago. I recently bought 1, and it’s pretty dope. Especially the air button

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Nice! It’s definitely a decent bit of kit.

[@kristaylor7119]

I was going to buy this interface, but the pre amps just don’t compare to Audient. Focusrite if you’re listening, upgrade your pre amps, and add some some XLR/TRS ports to the rear of the interface and I would buy in a heartbeat.

[@davidlawlor4317]

The kit is beautiful and straightforward. It's not reinventing the wheel.

[@PhantomxDrive]

Was going to buy an Audient interface, but I’ve heard so many things about issues with Windows. Went with this instead and it’s well worth it for the price tag.

[@markemmerton5350]

I've got one. Worked with Windows no issues. Whereas the Audient ID14 I had previously had massive driver headaches (and their customer service sucked). I play guitar and this works well with amp sims like Helix Native etc. No chirping or cutouts which can happen with bad drivers (or ancient CPUs). I am sure there are higher end interfaces but this one has been fine at my level.

[@EricOehler01]

I've got a bunch of interfaces. My studio has a nice, rather high-end Metric Halo. My live and streaming rigs live and die by the Focusrite Scarletts - the 18i20 and a 2i2. They just work, are cheap, easy to get, and can handle a ton of abuse. I've dragged my 18i20 all over the place and smacked it around in a variety of clubs and bars and baggage claims and it just keeps going. It's just...handy.

[@pageluvva]

I have the basic Steinberg UR12 and have had it for years and I love the thing. I do love those buttons that light up on this one. Maybe next time. Great review my friend.

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Nothing wrong with the UR12, it’s also a great interface 👍

[@nonnoinsandiego8303]

My friend recommended this and I owe him an espresso! Totally awesome.

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Nice!

[@zeekmx1970]

For example I want to run stereo left and right signal into the DAW on my laptop. The Focusrite Scarlette 2i2 Gen 3 fits that description perfectly.

[@gilrosado_media]

The Scarlett is ok for basic recordings but a small mixer is a much better option. There are more features with a mixer and the onboard EQ controls make condenser mics sound much better than the Scarlett.

[@tymillz700block]

I agree! Or running your mic through the mixer then to the interface. I’ve had much better results

[@lioncurlew]

I might buy a cheap Behringer Mixer to do just that.

[@luciano.armani]

works well on mac, piece of crap in windows. still have issues on zoom calls occasionally that i have no idea how to fix (even fixing the sample rate)

[@BrentAlanBeck]

There is a wally market down my street that's selling a focus rite and a swell fret dressing. Believe you must buy both immediately.

[@narayanacooper8571]

I bought a Steinberg UR-44 because it has MIDI In & Out ports on the rear panel. Focusrite Scarletts do not have MIDI In & Out ports, which is a huge no go for me. 😘

[@syjo4701]

I've got an 18i8 and it's awesome. Used to have a Sapphire, which was awesome too, but they discontinued it.

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Nice!

[@michaelbeasley5783]

I've been weighing whether to purchase one of these. Your pitch was persuasive. Thx much.

[@EasyHeat]

I've been using a Gen 2 Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 at home for almost 4 years now. Coming from a weeny 1st Gen Presonus Audiobox USB? It was a chalk & cheese gamechanger. The preamps on the Scarlett are just fantastic IMO. Not sterile, but not over colored either. Even though I initially cut my old teeth upon the analog gear of yore, and personally experienced the sometimes tumultuous rise of the "affordable" AD/DA interface market for the masses? This interface was, without hesitation, exactly what I needed when I first purchased it. Full Stop. Color me shamelessly "brand loyal" henceforth. Haha! Cheers! Excellent content BTW Mi Amigo : )

[@Gongtopia]

The Scarlett range ar built well, use quality components, are easy to use, and sound great. They also make a nice DAC for listening to music through headphones on your computer. What's not to like about them?

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Absolutely!

[@CR-sj7xd]

@@TheJohnsofDoes Motu, Presonus, even Zoom interfaces, they all sound the same: Great clarity and professional sound, 120db dynamic range bla bla bla cool when you try to impress people on internet. but too harsh for music production. When you have 30+ tracks on your project they sound bad and lifeless. Thats why Scarlets sound so good. A little plastic and weak when you record an acoustic guitar, but when you have a lot of tracks.. They sum just right.

[@Jefuslives]

I just got myself a 2i2. Nice little piece of kit. A couple of things I wish these came with are a built-in USB hub, and optional external power.

[@vadimmartynyuk]

I used many focusrite, Motu, m-audio , presonus, e-mu, steinberg, rme, UA, behringer, interfaces throughout past 15 years. I would highly recommend RME, UA is ok, if on a budget: MOTU M4 or M2. Stay away from focusrite and behringer. Focusrite Scarletts have unstable drivers especially on windows. the 4 XLR channel scarlet has hardware monitoring only on input 1 and 2. When every single other interface on the market has hardware monitoring for all XLR inputs. Also had one scarlet that was introducing audio pops and clicks into signal chain when the interface mixer was open. There are many more reasons, but for now that’s the only ones I can remember. But… Of course there will be some people saying “have been using scarlett interface for xx years without any issues”.. good for them.

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Can’t say I’ve used a Windows machine for audio production, so can’t speak to this interfaces reliability on that platform. On Mac and iOS I’ve found it to be completely stable and, of course, ‘plug and play’.

[@stefanbregenzer]

I can't speak for the Scarletts because I never used one. But I am working with a Clarett 4 Pre and after three years of working with it I couldn't say anything like "stay away from Focusrite". Don't remember a single issue with it so far and there's no problem with monitoring all the channels (at least not the analog inputs - I haven't used others yet so I don't know about those). Nothing wrong with RME, UA or others (I might get a Babyface too one of these days - just seems like the perfect portable and forever supported device) but also I don't see what's wrong with for example a Clarett for some good recording. Plus: At least here in Europe there's 1.300 € price difference between a Focusrite Clarett with 4 preamps and a RME with 4 preamps. In addition it seems RME is also struggeling with a supply problem at the moment, most of the shops I checked don't have their interfaces anymore and can't say when they will have em again. You can get used ones for almost the new price because they are so rare at the moment.

[@hellomagar5063]

What about Audient id14 mkii ?? Is it best to use as musician and for future?

[@Glicksman1]

I, too, have this one. It's inexpensive, easy to use, and it works. Yeah, it's not perfect, but then, neither am I. Any questions?

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Nope, sounds good to me.

[@beanogreenmusic]

I went for the Presonus bundle, I’m very happy with it although I have never tried anything else PreSonus AudioBox iTwo Studio Bundle, interface, microphone, headphones & monitors with software including Studio One Artist, Ableton Live Lite DAW and more for recording, streaming and podcasting £170

[@shuvobiswas1226]

i bought focusrite scarlett solo this week 🤘

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Nice!

[@sleekitwan]

Spent all my money on an iPad Pro M1, and the attendant hub/dock (Belkin F4U095 - both are pre-owned items). I already had a jam guitar interface, and had bought a MIDI interface iRig make. Because of this, I have struggled to find a use for this type of interface, that everyone buys! I know this particular one does not have MIDI, but I mean the ‘big brother’ ones you showed alongside. I considered carefully what money should be spent on and came to the conclusion, that with a qwerty keyboard (wired of course, for instant connection to iPad), and a USB hub, and a backup drive, and a speaker output needed, and the need for ‘thru power’ (only a single Thunderbolt connection on this M1 iPad), it became a logical inevitability I’d buy the Belkin dock, before any interface. So even though I solely buy my iPad Pros based on music creation, I still opted for an organically-grown couple of single-purpose interfaces and in the end a Thunderbolt Dock to act as my interconnection rather than a Scarlett type device. In other words, I realised, the IT side of it had to be attended to, as it facilitates backups and provides most of the I/O that a Scarlett would. There are however, tiny niche aspects I cannot resolve, but I accept these: I cannot record stereo music tracks into GarageBand, that Apple Corp and Sony UMG wouldn’t like me to (!); and I cannot easily make my actual iPad Pro M1 speakers be used, without unplugging the single connection there is, out of it (a pukka Thunderbolt cable 20/40Gbps the customary short length). These are shortcomings I live with - I can record music tracks in mono into GarageBand, and I can use earbuds or my big busker speaker/amp combo (QTX) which has the necessary electronics to turn my stereo output of the Belkin dock, into a mono, summed properly inside of it. If you have ever tried just using cables, you will have heard it’s like the track has been ‘remixed’ and this is a well-known thing, if proper ‘summing’ is not deployed in turning stereo to mono. Technically of course, every mono mix is a different mix to a stereo one anyway, as many of this community will be aware. So, these interfaces like the Scarlett, I have looked at - and even bought a 2i4 one brand new when it was a thing, but never pulled it out of the polybag. In the end, computer technology and music technology, are so intertwined in the modern way to make music - whether we choose to make ‘modern music’ or older generations of music is another matter - there is a blurring of exactly where audio signals are better or needed, instead of digital signals as opposed to digital audio per se. I struggled for the immediate week after I bought the used M1 iPad, before wrestling the concept to the ground that I MUST purchase a suitable hub or dock. I further wrestled with the research of which one - and no surprise, settled on the Belkin brand who make lots of Mac-compatible hubs/docks. Tip: do not buy the ones they say are ALSO PC compatible, they have some glitches with Apple devices! Focus, right?! One product, one job, it has to work, or you hand it back. It’s so odd, that it takes Belkin to be the best here, because they too are California based. what happened to the Global Village. Somehow, being almost next door to Apple DOES mean your kit suits it better! I think, they must talk a lot about work at these cool Cali bars. Thanks Patrick, for the demo and overview. I liked the Scarlett jangle.

[@ElegantBass]

Its very good value for the money, the recordings sound very good and it also comes with a collection of vst's that cost more then the interface itself.

[@shockthemonkey7046]

Had one now for 18+ months - though only used the line in for electric guitar - very happy with for the price

[@damianthomson6402]

Thanks for a great video, I’ve dabbled with using an old rockband guitar interface and Apple camera / usb adapter to my iPad Air 3 and it made me want to upgrade to something a bit better so I’ve just taken the plunge on the Scarlett solo 3rd gen - can’t wait to try it out

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Nice!

[@HaruSkage]

I've had Gen 2 for years and I bought because at the time this was the one recommended by several KZbinrs. Sure there were cheaper ones but as the adjective states, they also 'looked' cheap. Saving a few bucks here was not wise as it would compromise sound and durability.

[@StefanGenov7]

I bought Behringer UMC22 and believe me is working well with my SM7B and also I have SSL 2 this what I recommend.

[@leslie6217]

Referencing Captain Planet is an auto like no matter the rest of the content. But still, good content as always, especially for beginners!

[@seangrogan3622]

I've had a fantastic experience with the scarlet 2nd generation for 7 years

[@NAZGVL_147]

Focusrite rules!!! I haven’t looked back since my 2i2 🤘🏻

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Nice one!

[@TuMalditaMadre]

The reason it's so popular? $119.00 and everyone on KZbin uses them. If you spend the extra $20 and go with a Volt 1 you'll be pleasantly surprised. The preamp is much better. You don't lose monitor outs when you plug headphones in like you do with the Solo. You have actual MIDI ports, both in and out. The monitor outs are also CV outs. Then you have the vintage button, which emulates the UA 610 tube preamp. You get more bang for your buck with the Volt 1. It's also iPhone and iPad compatible.

[@SreekumarNair]

Thank you for the explanation. Is this device useful only while recording or does it help for live shows also.

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

You COULD use it for live performances, though a mixing desk of some kind would probably work better honestly.

[@SreekumarNair]

@@TheGaragebandGuide Thank you🙏 😊

[@wren23_bass-synths]

I just bought the 4i4 because I needed more inputs. This is the best interface I ever had. I use it with my iPad Pro and Mini M1. Clean signal and no hassle installation.

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Nice! Focusrite make some really good gear for sure.

[@jeffbmusic9096]

Great video, thanks for putting these in depth looks for us! I’m on the hunt for my first interface and I’m highly considering the Solo, Evo 4 and the M-Audio air/4. I’m pretty much exclusive to iPad creation at this point and just wondering your opinion as to which of the 3 is better suited for iPad/GarageBand production? I’ve also watched your Evo 4 video which is why I’m considering it. Thanks for your time! 🤘🏼

[@bassaniobrokenhart5045]

Not everyone! I've had the U-Phoria UMC22 for a year or so, and I'm very pleased with it. Mind you, I am no David Gilmour, I don't need layers upon layers of guitars to accomplish my sound... But I guess I kinda could do that with this interface. Yes, I guess I could.

[@richarddoan9172]

That plastic wrapper is recyclable. But, in the US, you have to take it to store drop off instead of putting it in the curbside bin.

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

It’s not. Please see the comment left by Focusrite where they say they plan to replace the plastic with something recyclable in the future.

[@jackedkerouac4414]

I also use the Scarlett Solo with a Rode NT1 mic. Love the quality of my recordings at such a fantastic value

[@Lovenpain]

I had bought the Scarlet 18i20 2nd gen. Love it and use it with my iPad Pro 2020

[@dafingaz]

I was debating between a Motu and Focusrite 2 years ago. Ended up with a Motu M2. Then upgraded to SSL 2+ last year. :)

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

I was a staunch Focusrite user until I upgraded to the M2 - how does the SSL compare?

[@dafingaz]

@@TheGaragebandGuide I like the SSL brand (so I'm biased LOL). I haven't done a side by side comparison, but I've been using the SSL exclusively since I got it. 😂

[@ssef3232]

@@TheGaragebandGuide the ssl2+ has more buttons and offers the minimum for a studio environment

[@canadianintheukbrian]

Your videos are informative, I'm looking for an audio interface to use my PC as a guitar amp , record and all that fun stuff, I'm just thinking of getting a decent used second gen Focusrite instead of the budget alternatives are the second gen still good for my purposes cheers

[@NullStaticVoid]

There are 2 reasons it is so popular. It's been around for a long time and there is a decent amount of brand recognition associated with the red chassis. It's also the interface I most often see bundled with headphones, cables and an entry level mic. Possibly because Novation/Focusrite is a big company with a large portfolio of products. So they get along very well with retailers. Personally I think of the Scarlet line as amateur hour stuff. I prefer MOTU M series. Much better conversion. Or the UAD Apollo line with even better conversion. But then I like features like digital IO, MIDI ports etc.

[@AdoteAzhar]

Those free softwares came with the package, also a huge plus though!

[@SMBorthwick]

Excellent run-down of the Scarlett Solo. Bonus points for the use of the words ba’ hair and sooked. I’m still using my old Focusrite iTrack Solo. Similar to older Scarlett Solos, but with the added advantage of a lightning cable so I don’t need the camera kit. I expect I’ll upgrade someday, but for now, it works for me.

[@upstairsbedroom5506]

Get a used Focusrite 8 pre x.....I have one, and it’s almost on par with my Red.....seriously, it’s very good....

[@jcaiwa185]

Here's me today, looking at this device on the internet, for the last couple of hours, and bumping into your channel, again. Gold! 🤗 Is this gonna work using Logic pro X btw? Danke schön , Patrick!

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Welcome back! Yeah, it’ll work fine with Logic 👍

[@CineMutt]

My focusrite 2i4 had a spurious burst of static every time the volume knob was used. The company tried to pretend there was something wrong with my setup. I bought another make, installed it the same way and have not had a problem since.

[@Klaboki]

because I could not use my old Line 6Toneport X1 on my new Mac mini I bought last week also the Scarlet 2i2. The sound quality is so MUCH better ! it is really amazing

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Focusrite make great interfaces for sure.

[@VoxTone2009]

I tried the Scarlet interface but wasn't too happy with it. The Claret was really good for the price though and I can use the ADAT cable to get 8 more XLR preamps from my Midas stage box. I wish it had two ADAT inputs so I could take advantage of the 2 ADAT inputs on the Midas stage box.

[@zero11010]

Dude, your accent is amazing. If I could replace Siri with you I’d do it.

[@davidshepack2484]

I REALLY REALLY liked the electric guitar sound demo using GB amp sim.....could you tell us what amp and effects that you used?? Please.

[@ronaskew]

You are correct ad to all the pro-Scarlett arguments; but you left out the most important feature, the color. And, you left out the most significant con-Scarlett argument; internal interface latency. This means a lot when you are playing live I've the Internet.

[@TimmoMcGinn]

Have been running my Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen with Garageband on my M1 Mini with great results apart from one glitch. Waves Clarity VX seems to clash with the Scarlett somehow causing sample errors on Garageband rendering Clarity useless. It works when the Scarlett is not plugged in on the mac mini speaker fine. Similarly, no issues with sample rate when Clarity plugin not engaged. Waves and Focusrite tech support each blame the other. I'd be interested to know if you can detect the same error on your setup....

[@nathanielh8239]

I ran into the same issue. Haven't found a solution but I did find a work around which is to use audacity to record. You just have to add the plug in manually

[@dividedbytimestudios]

I’m still rocking the Scarlett 2i2 Gen One

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

If it still does the job then why not? 👍

[@ams.guitar]

why u have that old iphone on the desk??? make me confuse what year this focusrite scarlet year launch produced..

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

This Focusrite scarlet year launch produced in 2019. The iPhone 3G is in the shot because it looks cool.

[@maxlove8894]

I think focus rites reputation is really what making them so popular. I'm stuck between getting a 2i2 or a 4i4, just hard to find a 4'4 second hand

[@yahshuashemuelnichols6551]

2i2 gen 3 allegedly has no midi, and is just a "lesser". Highly recommend going at least 4i4 gen 3 (recording alone or 2 minimum) or up (if recording a band)

[@hellomagar5063]

​@@yahshuashemuelnichols6551should Midi matter? Can we not just plug midi through usb directly? Is there any difference or disadvantage? I am new can you tell please.

[@backix]

It s the beauty of the design. More so in generation 1

[@BrentAlanBeck]

Focus rite is almost bringing society back to the subject of Gibson lawsuits. Brilliant.

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Is everything ok Brent?

[@DjSegwon]

The Plugin Collective 🤷🏿‍♂️💯🎹🎚🎛 focusrite!🍻

[@FluidITGuy]

I bought a UA volt to travel with and use a Steinberg UR242 for home. For home, the steinberg offers loopback audio so you can capture desktop audio for streaming. And stop whining, are your glasses recyclable?

[@chriswhrtn]

dont go behringer if your expecting sound quality, sure i can throw the thing against the wall and it still works but i prefer my focusrite especially since i play a single coil guitar

[@paulbruce4630]

You pay your money you take your chances. I'll stick with my Apollo 8xp.Unison preamps. Plus its now native with spark. Mac mini x2. And MY EARS plys my ssl uf8. the silk button is just a high mid eq boost that you end up eq'n out in the mix anyway. I'll say it's good for getting an idea down on a tour bus or hotel room.

[@ilmisxx2]

It would be a pretty good interface if drivers were written well. It causes way too many drop outs and BSODs for my liking

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

Windows?

[@ilmisxx2]

@@TheGaragebandGuide yep

[@RetroPlus]

That's never happened to me, must be some quirk with your hardware

[@xxlintux]

On point, scarlets are infamous for their poorly written drivers. Most people get BSOD and don't know where they come from when they're using these. Presonus studio line is way better in that department and for not a lot more money you can get an Audient id14 mkII that will run circles around it.

[@homelessrobot]

@@RetroPlus or it could be some quirk with yours :P

[@BronzedTube]

omg scarlett need to use that song at the end for their ads campaigns n stuff. And more importantly, pay you for it ;)

[@TheGaragebandGuide]

😂 I’d be fine with that!