Focusrite Scarlett 2nd Generation now available at last
Red hot updates for this popular audio interface
The Focusrite Scarlett 2nd Generation audio interfaces available now · Source: https://uk.focusrite.com/products
The second generation of Focusrite’s Scarlett audio interfaces was announced earlier this year. Now the Scarlett 6i6, Scarlett 18i8 and Scarlett 18i20 have been released. Each model has new ‘enhanced’ features compared to their predecessors.
Super Low Latency
Each product in the new updated range has lower latency compared to its predecessor.
Here’s a quote from Focusrite:
Super-low roundtrip latency was measured at 2.74ms, working at 96kHz with a 32 samples buffer on Logic Pro X, running on a Mac Pro and OS 10.11
They haven’t given any more data to back up the ‘Super-low latency’ claim, however, which is a pity, as Focusrite have not really led the way with low latency audio drivers in the past. They obviously know this and are trying to rectify the issue with this new ‘updated’ range. I would have preferred a little more data incorporating different systems, both Mac and PC, and show set ups using different DAWs to really back up this claim.
Scarlett 6i6, Scarlett 18i8 & Scarlett 18i20
Each of the three new interfaces has had updates to the design, with Focusrite adding new metal volume knobs and giving the metal cases a facelift and making them sleeker. More importantly, the recording rate has been upped to 192kHz and can, of course, run at 24-bit.
Preamps
I cannot deny that I like Focusrite preamps, and they state that they have been upgraded with a new, more accurate gain control. This should mean that they will be smooth and offer an even taper. Hopefully, there will ve no sudden jumps in volume on that gain dial that’ll deafen you and make you jump out of your seat!
Inputs
Each of the inputs has been re-designed to handle hotter guitar pickups (ceramic, active etc.). The previous Scarlett range would overdrive far too easily and so this is a welcome addition. Each of the new Scarlett second generation range comes bundled with free software versions of both Pro Tools | First and Focusrite Creative Pack. Personally, I’m not sure if anyone ever uses this stuff, but its handy to have, just in case you might be tempted.
Full specification for the new Scarlett Second Generation series can be found here
UK Pricing is as follows:
Scarlett 2i4: GBP £159.99
Scarlett 6i6: GBP £199.99
Scarlett 18i8: GBP £279.99
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