Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Audio Interface vs Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface
Side-by-side comparison of two audio interfaces options. Tap either name to open the full product page.
✦ Editor's verdict
The Scarlett Solo is the right choice for solo creators who record one source at a time. The Scarlett 2i2 is worth the $50 premium if you ever need to record two sources simultaneously, have a low-output microphone like the Shure SM7B, or want the reassurance of more preamp headroom.
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Audio Interface ($190) and Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface ($130) are both popular choices in their category. The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface offers better value at $130, while the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface has a higher rating (0.0/5). The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface has more customer reviews (0), suggesting stronger market validation.
Quick verdict
- Cheaper: Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface at $130 (saves $60)
- Same star rating on both.
Feature-by-feature comparison
| Feature | Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Audio Interface | Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $190 | $130 |
| Rating | 0.0 | 0.0 |
| Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Value score | 0.0 | 0.0 |
| Recent purchases | ||
| Key specs | USB | USB |
| Ideal use | Vocal recording | Vocal recording |
Value score = (rating x log(reviews)) / price. Higher is better.
In depth
Both interfaces use Focusrite's 4th generation preamps with the same core audio quality. The practical differences are input count and maximum gain. The Solo has one XLR/Line combo input plus one Hi-Z instrument input — great for a vocalist with one microphone. The 2i2 has two XLR/Line combo inputs — necessary for recording two people, or vocals plus acoustic guitar simultaneously.
The SM7B question comes up constantly: the Scarlett Solo's 50 dB maximum gain can drive the SM7B, but only barely — at maximum gain, you may notice a slightly elevated noise floor. The Scarlett 2i2's 56 dB maximum gain gives you more comfortable headroom. If the SM7B is your microphone, the 2i2 is worth the extra $50.
Pick this if…
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Audio Interface
- ✓You want two XLR inputs for recording two people or two instruments simultaneously
- ✓You use a low-sensitivity dynamic mic like the Shure SM7B (needs more gain headroom)
- ✓You are willing to spend $50 more for future flexibility
- ✓You run a two-person podcast or interview show
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface
- ✓You record solo — one microphone, one voice, one instrument at a time
- ✓You use a condenser mic like the AT2020 or Rode NT1 (does not need extra gain)
- ✓Budget is tight and the $50 difference matters
- ✓You are a beginner who wants the simplest interface that gets the job done
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Audio Interface and Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface?
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Audio Interface is priced at $190 with a 0.0/5 rating from 0 reviews. The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface is priced at $130 with a 0.0/5 rating from 0 reviews. Key specs: Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Audio Interface — USB. Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface — USB.
Which is cheaper, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Audio Interface or the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface?
The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface is cheaper at $130, compared to $190 for the other model. The price difference is $60.
Which has better reviews, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Audio Interface or the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface?
Both models share the same 0.0/5 rating.
Which audio interfaces should I buy — the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Audio Interface or the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface?
It depends on your use case. The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Audio Interface is ideal for: Vocal recording. The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface is ideal for: Vocal recording. If budget is the deciding factor, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface is the more affordable option.
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