Remastering an original

Focusrite has announced the launch of Scarlett 4th Gen featuring the Solo, 2i2, 4i4, Solo Studio and 2i2 Studio. Said to provide better specs than any previous generation of Scarlett, features include Auto Gain, Clip Safe and a re-engineered Air mode.

The Scarlett Solo has been designed for singer-songwriters. With one mic preamp, one Hi-Z instrument/line input and a new custom-designed headphone amp, Solo has a compact design and features the re-engineered Air mode with Presence and Harmonic Drive, said to breathe life into vocals and acoustic instruments.

For the aspiring artist, the Scarlett 2i2 offers two remote-controlled mic preamps and two Hi-Z instrument/line inputs for guitars, keys and groove boxes. The two-in/two-out interface “delivers professional studio quality in a portable package”. With new features like Clip Safe, Auto Gain and Air mode, the 2i2 is said to give artists the freedom to make release-ready recordings anywhere.

Scarlett 4i4

For the multi-instrumentalist, the Scarlett 4i4 provides two remote-controlled mic preamps, switchable line or Hi-Z instrument inputs, two fixed line inputs and four balanced outputs for the flexibility to record mics, guitars, synths and more. According to the manufacturer, MIDI I/O makes it easy to bring in synths and grooveboxes to sync with recording sessions. The 4i4 also includes new features like Clip Safe, Auto Gain and the re-engineered Air mode.

The Scarlett Solo Studio and Scarlett 2i2 Studio packs are said to provide an all-in-one solution for high-quality recording, and include either a Solo or 2i2 interface, CM25 MkIII studio condenser mic and closed-back SH-450 headphones.

Scarlett 4th Gen uses converters from the manufacturer’s RedNet range to deliver a 120dB dynamic range. The 2i2 and 4i4 feature remote-controlled preamps with 69dB, while a custom-designed headphone amp reportedly drives high-impedance headphones louder and clearer than any previous Scarlett. In addition, all models now have independent controls for headphones and monitors.

With Auto Gain, users can play or sing for 10s and Auto Gain will set the best level for recording. Clip Safe monitors levels up to 96,000 times per second and automatically adjusts the gain to prevent clipping, allowing users to fully immerse in performing and not have to worry about their levels. The re-engineered Air mode takes a sound's unique character and brings it to the front of the mix. Air mode also includes the original all-analogue Presence mode, plus a new DSP-based Harmonic Drive mode.