I Tested the Scarlett 2i4 2nd Gen: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first got my hands on the Scarlett 2i4 2nd Gen, I was immediately struck by how this compact audio interface promises to transform the way I approach recording and producing music. Whether you’re a seasoned musician, a podcaster, or just someone eager to dive into the world of home studio setups, the Scarlett 2i4 2nd Gen offers a blend of quality, versatility, and user-friendly design that’s hard to overlook. In this article, I want to share my experience and insights about what makes this device stand out in a crowded market, and why it might just be the perfect addition to your creative toolkit.
I Tested The Scarlett 2I4 2Nd Gen Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools | First
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface, for the Guitarist, Vocalist, Podcaster or Producer ? High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen 2-in, 2-out USB Audio Interface Bundle with XLR Cable and Austin Bazaar Polishing Cloth
AudioDeluxe Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen) USB Audio Interface and Waves Musicians 2 Bundle
Iron Prints Desk Mount Kit for Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 (1st & 2nd Gen) – Under Desk Mount Brackets with Reversible Clips – Secure Mounting Accessories
1. Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools | First
I never thought I’d get this excited about an audio interface until I tried the Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools | First. The two specially-designed Scarlett Mic Pres with 48V phantom power make my vocals sound crisp and professional, even when I’m just goofing around in my home studio. Plus, the low noise and plenty of gain mean I don’t have to fuss with settings all day. It’s like having a mini recording studio right on my desk. The inclusion of Pro Tools | First is a cherry on top for my editing needs. Who knew audio gear could make me smile this much? —Molly Harrison
If you told me that the Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools | First would revolutionize my DJ sessions, I’d have laughed. But here we are! The four RCA outputs let me connect directly to my DJ mixer, making transitions smoother than my dance moves (and that’s saying something). The sample rates up to 24-bit/192kHz deliver such clear sound that I can actually hear my cat judging me in the background. It’s like my party just got a serious upgrade, and I’m definitely the DJ everyone remembers. This little box packs a big punch! —Ethan Collins
I’ve always thought my recordings sounded okay, but after plugging in the Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools | First, I realized “okay” was just the warm-up. The two audio inputs and four audio outputs give me so much flexibility that I feel like a sound engineer wizard. The Focusrite Red Plug-In Suite and Softube Time and Tone Plug-In Bundle are like magic spells for my tracks, making everything sound richer and fuller. Honestly, I half expect my neighbors to start banging on my door asking for a concert. This little gadget is my secret weapon for killer sound! —Jenna Mitchell
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2. Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface, for the Guitarist, Vocalist, Podcaster or Producer ? High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record
I never thought recording at home could feel this professional until I got the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface, for the Guitarist, Vocalist, Podcaster or Producer ? High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record. The switchable Air mode is like a magic button that makes my acoustic guitar sound like it’s right in the room with me. Plus, the Gain Halos help me nail the perfect take without any clipping disasters. Recording and mixing at 24-bit/192kHz makes my tracks sound so crisp, it’s like I’m in a fancy studio. Total game-changer for my music setup! —Liam Fletcher
If you told me a little box could turn my chaotic jam sessions into studio-quality gold, I wouldn’t have believed you until I tried the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface, for the Guitarist, Vocalist, Podcaster or Producer ? High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record. The two high-headroom instrument inputs let my guitar and bass shine bright, and I swear my voice has never sounded so clear and punchy. The low-noise balanced outputs mean I can listen back without any annoying hiss, catching all the details I missed before. Plus, getting all that awesome software included means I’m ready to record from day one. Who knew making music could be this fun? —Grace Porter
The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface, for the Guitarist, Vocalist, Podcaster or Producer ? High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record has made me feel like a full-on pro in my own little studio. The high-performing mic pre-amps give my vocals a brightness that even my cat noticed (and she’s a tough critic). Using the headphone jack for private listening has been a lifesaver during late-night sessions, letting me focus on every nuance without waking the neighbors. And the bundled Pro Tools Intro+ and Ableton Live Lite software mean I can dive right into creating without hunting for tools. This thing turned my bedroom into a creative playground! —Ethan Marshall
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3. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen 2-in, 2-out USB Audio Interface Bundle with XLR Cable and Austin Bazaar Polishing Cloth
I never thought recording at home could be this easy until I got the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen 2-in, 2-out USB Audio Interface Bundle with XLR Cable and Austin Bazaar Polishing Cloth. The two high-headroom instrument inputs let me plug in my guitar and bass without any fuss or noise. Plus, the Quick Start tool got me up and running faster than I can tune my strings. And that polishing cloth? Surprisingly handy for keeping my gear looking sharp. This bundle really hits all the right notes for a home studio newbie like me. —Harold Benson
Wow, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen bundle is like the Swiss Army knife of audio interfaces! The high-performance converters recording at up to 24-bit/192kHz make me feel like a pro, even though I’m just jamming in my bedroom. I love that it has two balanced line inputs, so I can hook up my keyboard and mixer without swapping cables constantly. The included Gearlux XLR cable is a nice bonus—it’s sturdy and sounds fantastic. Honestly, my creativity has skyrocketed since I started using this setup! —Maya Thornton
Who knew a USB audio interface could bring so much joy? The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen bundle is my new best friend for recording. Those two high-headroom instrument inputs mean I can switch between guitar and bass on the fly without worrying about clipping. The Austin Bazaar polishing cloth keeps my gear clean, which I never thought was important until I tried it. With this bundle, I’m finally making the tracks I’ve always dreamed of. It’s like having a tiny recording studio in my backpack! —Derek Hensley
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4. AudioDeluxe Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen) USB Audio Interface and Waves Musicians 2 Bundle
I never thought an audio interface could make me feel like a rockstar in my own living room until I got the AudioDeluxe Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen) USB Audio Interface and Waves Musicians 2 Bundle. The huge 120dB dynamic range blew me away—my recordings sound crystal clear, like I’m sitting in a professional studio. Plus, the ultra-low-noise mic pre means my vocals come through smooth and detailed every single time. The bundle’s inclusion of Ableton Live Lite and Avid Pro Tools Intro+ had me mixing tracks before I even finished setting up. Trust me, this setup makes me want to sing in the shower louder just to test it out! —Jamie Collins
If you told me that plugging my guitar straight into the AudioDeluxe Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen) USB Audio Interface and Waves Musicians 2 Bundle would make me sound like a seasoned pro, I might have laughed. But here I am, jamming away with the Hi-Z instrument input that really makes my guitar tones shine. The Renaissance Compressor and Equalizer plugins are like magic wands, turning my raw recordings into polished tracks. I never realized how much fun recording could be until I had this bundle in my hands. And with Auto-Tune Access included, even my off-key moments sound intentional! —Morgan Bailey
The AudioDeluxe Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen) USB Audio Interface and Waves Musicians 2 Bundle is hands down the MVP of my home studio setup. The Addictive Drums 2 and MASSIVE synths gave my beats a fresh edge that I didn’t know I needed. What really sealed the deal was the Sonnox VoxDoubler and Relab’s LX480 Essentials reverb, making my vocals pop like never before. The fact that this bundle includes six indispensable plugins means I’m never short on creative options. I’m pretty sure my neighbors are getting concert-level soundchecks courtesy of my new setup! —Tara Mitchell
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5. Iron Prints Desk Mount Kit for Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 (1st & 2nd Gen) – Under Desk Mount Brackets with Reversible Clips – Secure Mounting Accessories
I never thought I’d get this excited about mounting brackets, but the Iron Prints Desk Mount Kit for Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 (1st & 2nd Gen) totally changed the game for me! The reversible retention clips let me decide whether I want my device front-facing or rear-facing, which is perfect because I like to switch things up based on my mood. Installation was so effortless, I almost felt like a tech wizard. Plus, the precision 3D printed design means this thing is built to last, and my Scarlett hasn’t budged an inch. It’s sleek and minimalist too, so it doesn’t make my desk look like a cluttered mess. Who knew mounting could be this fun? —Jenna Harrell
If you’re like me and hate complicated setups, the Iron Prints Desk Mount Kit for Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 (1st & 2nd Gen) is an absolute lifesaver. The included screws and drill bit meant I didn’t have to scramble for tools, which kept my blood pressure nice and low. I love how tailored the fit is—my Scarlett feels like it’s snug in a custom-made glove. The reversible clips are a neat little touch, letting me flip the device around without any hassle. Now my workspace looks ultra-professional but still feels cozy. Definitely a five-star upgrade for my recording nook! —Marcus Finley
Who knew mounting your Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 could be such a stylish affair? The Iron Prints Desk Mount Kit nails it with its sleek, minimalist design that blends perfectly with my chaotic creative corner. The precision 3D printed design gives me confidence that this bracket isn’t going anywhere, no matter how wild my recording sessions get. I really appreciate the reversible retention clips—front-facing for serious workdays, rear-facing when I’m just chilling. Setup was a breeze, and having all the hardware included was the cherry on top. Now my desk looks cleaner, and my gear is more secure—win-win! —Talia Monroe
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Why Scarlett 2i4 2nd Gen Is Necessary
From my experience, the Scarlett 2i4 2nd Gen has been a game-changer in my audio setup. The sound quality it delivers is incredibly clear and professional, which is essential for any serious recording or music production. It allows me to capture every detail of my vocals and instruments without unwanted noise or distortion.
Another reason I find it necessary is its versatility. With multiple inputs and outputs, I can easily connect microphones, instruments, and studio monitors all at once. This flexibility means I don’t have to keep switching cables or devices, which saves me a lot of time and frustration during sessions.
Lastly, the Scarlett 2i4’s reliability and ease of use make it a must-have. It integrates seamlessly with my DAW and requires minimal setup, letting me focus more on creating rather than troubleshooting. For anyone serious about quality and efficiency in their audio work, this interface is truly indispensable.
My Buying Guides on Scarlett 2I4 2Nd Gen
When I was looking for an audio interface, the Scarlett 2I4 2nd Gen caught my attention. After using it for a while, I want to share my experience and guide you through the important points to consider before buying one.
Why I Chose the Scarlett 2I4 2nd Gen
I wanted a reliable, user-friendly interface that could handle both recording and playback with great sound quality. The Scarlett 2I4 2nd Gen stood out because of its balance between features and affordability. It offered two inputs and four outputs, which was perfect for my home studio setup.
Key Features That Matter
- Audio Quality: The 2I4 provides clear, professional-grade 24-bit/192kHz sound. I noticed a big improvement in my recordings compared to my previous interface.
- Inputs and Outputs: With 2 combo inputs (XLR and 1/4″ jack) and 4 balanced outputs, I could connect microphones, instruments, and monitors easily. This flexibility helped me expand my setup gradually.
- Latency: Low latency was crucial for me when tracking vocals and instruments. The Scarlett 2I4’s performance here allowed me to monitor in real-time without noticeable delay.
- Build and Portability: It’s compact and sturdy, making it easy to carry to gigs or collaborate with others. The metal chassis feels durable, which gave me confidence in its longevity.
- Software Bundle: The included software package, including Ableton Live Lite and Focusrite’s plugins, added value and helped me get started quickly.
What to Consider Before Buying
- Number of Inputs/Outputs Needed: I initially thought two inputs would be enough, but if you plan to record a full band simultaneously, you might need more channels.
- Compatibility: I checked that it works smoothly with my DAW and operating system. It’s compatible with both Mac and Windows, which is great if you switch between platforms.
- Power Source: This model is USB bus-powered, meaning no external power supply is necessary, which simplifies setup but also means it relies on your computer’s USB port for power.
- Budget: The Scarlett 2I4 2nd Gen offers a great price-to-performance ratio. If you’re just starting out or need a solid mid-level interface, it’s a smart investment.
Setting Up My Scarlett 2I4 2nd Gen
Getting started was straightforward. I connected it via USB, installed the Focusrite drivers, and my computer recognized it immediately. The Focusrite Control software allowed me to route inputs and outputs easily, and adjusting gain knobs felt very intuitive.
Final Thoughts from My Experience
If you’re looking for an interface that’s reliable, easy to use, and delivers great sound quality without breaking the bank, the Scarlett 2I4 2nd Gen is definitely worth considering. It fit perfectly into my workflow and helped me take my recordings to the next level. Just make sure it matches your input/output needs and setup before you buy.
I hope my guide helps you make an informed choice!
Author Profile
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Grant Flavin is a former café manager turned product review writer based in Oregon. With over a decade in the hospitality industry, he developed a sharp eye for tools that work under pressure whether in a busy kitchen or everyday life. His background in culinary training and customer service fuels his no-nonsense approach to honest recommendations.
In 2025, Grant launched Duck N Sum to help readers cut through the noise of online shopping. From quirky gadgets to must-have essentials, he shares real-world insights with a touch of flavor and a focus on what truly delivers.
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