Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Review: The Podcaster’s #1 Audio Interface
🟢 Summary
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is the most popular USB audio interface amongst podcasters. You can use it to plug one or two XLR mics and run them into your computer. It’s ideal for recording solo or locally co-hosted chats and can be paired with an online call recording tool to capture remote conversations, too. Depending on the Generation, you can pick one up brand new for around $140-$200.
Pros
- Legendary and quality interface
- Gain range of 69dB (4th Gen)
- Record into your computer with any XLR mic
Cons
- Not designed specifically for podcasters
- Requires additional gear
Our Rating: 4.8/5
In this Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 review, I’ll cover one of my favourite (and most popular!) pieces of podcasting kit.
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is what’s known as an audio interface. But what does that actually mean, and why would you use one?
Let’s start there, before delving into the 2i2 itself.
What is an Audio Interface, & Why Might I Need One?
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An audio interface is a piece of hardware that can give you greater control over your recording setup. This one—the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2—plugs into your computer or laptop via the USB port and allows you to record with two separate microphones.
This might be a good option for you if you:
- Want to improve your audio quality
- Want to record locally with a co-host
- Want to record professional-sounding interviews or podcasts on location
I’ve owned a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 for about 14 years and have recorded the vast majority of my audio with it in that time. Many other podcasters feel the same way, with the 2i2 coming in as the most popular interface in our 2024 Gear Survey.
It’s not just podcasters who swear by the 2i2, either – it’s arguably the most popular audio interface on the planet!
Focusrite Vocaster: Voice Presets, Auto-Gain, & Call Recording
Read article called: Focusrite Vocaster: Voice Presets, Auto-Gain, & Call RecordingWhat Else Will I Need to Run the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2?
Podcasting with a USB mic is a great way to get your show off the ground, but after a while, you might start to think about building out a more ‘studio quality’ setup. This is where a move towards buying an interface like the Scarlett 2i2 is worth considering.
In order to use the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 you will need:
- An XLR cable, or two if you have a co-host or are conducting interviews.
- An XLR microphone, or two if you have a co-host or are conducting interviews.
An XLR cable (or microphone cable) is the standard type of cable used by musicians and other live performers. It simply connects at one end to your 2i2 and at the other end to your microphone.
If you’re looking for a quality mic to pair with your 2i2, see our best podcast microphones roundup. Obviously, your choice of mic has a big impact on your sound, though your environment and technique are equally as important, too!
I’ve run all manner of mics into the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2, from the Shure SM57 and Samson Q2U to the Electro-Voice RE20 and the Neumann U87.
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen Vs Original
At a glance, a 2011 Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 might not look so different than a 2023 2i2 4th Gen model. But quite a lot of improvements and iterations have been made. Here are the most notable:
- The sample Rate limit has jumped from 96kHz to 192kHz
- It has a more precise Frequency Response
- Dynamic Range has increased from 105dB to 116dB
- Gain Range has increased from 46dB to 69dB
- The Headphone outputs have improved
Physically, the 2i2 4th Gen has a USB-C connection, whereas Gens 1 and 2 were USB-B. New features have also been added to help inexperienced (or rushed!) podcasters get optimal sound with minimal effort. These are:
- Auto Gain – the 2i2 can listen to a sample of your audio and set the gain for you
- Clip Safe – automatically adjusts gain if you’re at risk of clipping
- AIR Mode – enhances your audio with some EQ presets
You can toggle these on and off, so veteran audio pros have the option to retain full manual control over their sound. The beauty of the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is that it has always catered to creators of all experience levels, and these additional features only go towards strengthening that claim.
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2: Pricing
The 4th Gen is the easiest to find and buy brand new. It’s obviously the most expensive, but not by an outrageous amount. If you have yours as long as I’ve owned mine, a brand new 4th Gen will cost you less than $15 a year:
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen (around $200)
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen (around $180)
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 2nd Gen (around $140)
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 1st Gen (around $50-100)
If you’re certain you’ll only ever use one XLR input, you might opt for the Focusrite Scarlett Solo instead. Depending on its generation, one of these will usually cost between $100 and $140.
Does the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Have Phantom Power?
Yes! All models of the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 contain that mythical superhero known as Phantom Power. This enables you to use any XLR condenser mic with the device (along with any XLR dynamic mic) by simply hitting the 48v button on the front.
How Does the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Sound?
These sound samples were recorded with a Rode Procaster, Shure SM58, and a Samson Q2U. No post-processing has been applied. They were recorded on my 1st Gen 2i2, and, although I think they still sound good, the preamps and general audio specs have improved a lot since then, too!
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2: Portability
The Scarlett 2i2’s small, light nature means that you can basically pack a mobile studio into an average-sized shoulder bag. For example, you might be attending an event or conference and want to do some interviews, or you may even want to record a podcast episode there and then.
You could easily pack the Focusrite along with a laptop, headphones, USB cable, two XLR cables, and two microphones and still have room in your bag to spare. Sure, it isn’t as small and handy a setup as the Rode Wireless Pro, but it’s a lot more portable than the horse-drawn Rodecaster Pro.
Should I Buy a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2?
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is an excellent little piece of kit for podcasting or any creative audio endeavour. But do you need one?
If you’re already happy enough with the sound and workflow of your existing recording setup, then probably not. Just stick with it, and keep doing what you’re doing.
But if you’re looking to upgrade from a USB mic setup to using XLR mics (and still record into your computer), then the 2i2 is one of the best options on the market.
Our Rating: 4.8/5
There are other quality USB audio interfaces out there; however, if you’d still like to shop around, check out our roundup. You might also fancy a look at the Focusrite Vocaster, which is essentially a 2i2 reimagined with podcasters in mind.
Need More Help Choosing Podcasting Equipment?
If you need some more tailored advice for your own setup or want help with any other aspect of podcasting, then be sure to check out the Podcraft Academy. That’s where we run our weekly live Q&A sessions, and you’ll have access to all of our video courses, tutorials, ebooks, and other downloadable resources!