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Focusrite is back at it, expanding its wildly popular Scarlett range with three new audio interfaces: the Scarlett 16i16, 18i16, and 18i20. These additions bring the kind of pro-level connectivity and features modern project studios crave. Focusrite just took its already solid lineup and cranked it up a few notches.
With the 4th Gen Scarlett models, Focusrite introduced major upgrades—think next-level audio quality, enhanced creative controls, and workflow tools that actually make your life easier. The latest trio steps it up even more. Now, there’s a Scarlett to handle any studio setup, from home production spaces to full-blown project studios.
What’s New in the Scarlett 16i16, 18i16, and 18i20?
Focusrite didn’t hold back with these new models. They’re packed with features designed to take the stress out of recording and give you the sound you need right out of the box. Here’s a breakdown of what these new Scarlett interfaces are bringing to the table:
- Massive 122dB dynamic range: Using the same converters found in Focusrite’s flagship RedNet range, these interfaces can handle the loudest and quietest signals with ease.
- Remote-controlled preamps: You get up to 69dB of gain on these new preamps, making it easy to dial in studio-quality sound for any mic—right from your computer or mobile device.
- Focusrite Control 2 app: Forget being tied to your desk. The new Control 2 app lets you adjust inputs and monitor mixes wirelessly, whether you’re across the room or tracking in another space.
- Re-engineered Air mode and Harmonic Drive: Need more character in your recordings? The updated Air mode adds presence, while the all-new Harmonic Drive brings warmth and depth, emulating vintage gear.
- Auto Gain and Clip Safe: Getting the right levels is a breeze. Auto Gain sets the level after analyzing 10 seconds of audio, and Clip Safe steps in to prevent unwanted distortion.
- Upgraded headphone amp: Focusrite threw in a new headphone amp that delivers clearer, louder playback than any previous Scarlett model.
- Dynamic Gain Halos: These handy metering lights are now available on both inputs and outputs, making it easier to manage your levels at a glance.
- Pro features for project studios: Things like A/B speaker switching, built-in talkback mic (on the 18i20), and expanded I/O options make these Scarlett interfaces fit for serious studio setups.
- MIDI, S/PDIF, and ADAT connectivity: Tons of I/O options let you hook up all your gear, from MIDI controllers to external effects processors.
With these updates, Focusrite has made it clear that Scarlett is the go-to interface range for project studios, delivering a ton of versatility without sacrificing sound quality or ease of use.
Meet the New Scarlett Models
So, what’s the difference between the 16i16, 18i16, and 18i20? It all comes down to how much I/O you need and what kind of workflow you’re rocking. Let’s take a look.
Scarlett 18i20: The Studio Powerhouse
The Scarlett 18i20 is the flagship of the bunch, designed for larger studios and demanding setups. This rack-mountable beast offers 18 inputs and 20 outputs, including eight 4th Gen preamps and a talkback mic. Perfect for multi-mic recordings or mixing sessions, it’s also got A/B speaker switching, eight LED bar meters, and loads of digital I/O to integrate with whatever you’re running in your studio. Whether you’re tracking a full band or managing complex routing, this thing can handle it. Price: $649.99 USD.
Scarlett 18i16: Desktop-Friendly, but Ready to Go Big
Need a lot of I/O but don’t want to rack-mount it? The Scarlett 18i16 is for you. This desktop-format interface delivers 18 inputs and 16 outputs, including four preamps. It’s a versatile solution for producers or engineers looking to connect a bunch of gear without taking up rack space. It’s also got all the Scarlett perks, like Focusrite Control 2 software and wireless control via mobile. Price: $499.99 USD.
Scarlett 16i16: Compact and Mighty
The smallest of the new trio, the Scarlett 16i16 still brings plenty of firepower. With 16 inputs and 16 outputs, including two preamps, it’s perfect for smaller studios or those who need fewer connections. It’s portable, compact, and still includes all the 4th Gen goodies like Air mode and Clip Safe. Price: $369.99 USD.
Scarlett 4th Gen: Raising the Bar in 2023
When Focusrite dropped the Scarlett 4th Gen line in 2023, it was clear they were taking things to a new level. The first models—the Solo, 2i2, and 4i4—set the tone, offering 122dB dynamic range, re-engineered preamps, and the new Air and Harmonic Drive modes.
Every 4th Gen Scarlett comes with Auto Gain and Clip Safe, two tools that automatically adjust your levels to prevent distortion and make sure every take sounds great. Whether you’re recording vocals, instruments, or podcasts, these features take the guesswork out of setup. The custom headphone amps also deliver louder and clearer sound than any Scarlett before, making monitoring more accurate.
One of the big wins with the 4th Gen lineup is Focusrite Control 2, the software that manages all your routing, levels, and monitoring mixes. You can use it on your desktop, but what really sets it apart is the mobile app. Now, engineers and performers can tweak preamp gains and monitor mixes wirelessly, making the studio experience smoother than ever.
And don’t forget about Focusrite’s Easy Start tool, which gets you up and running fast. From the moment you plug in your Scarlett, Easy Start guides you through the setup, so you’re ready to record in no time.
Bundled Software and Plugins
Every Scarlett interface comes with a solid bundle of software to help you make music from day one. You’ll get Ableton Live Lite, three months of Pro Tools Artist, and six months of FL Studio Producer Edition. On top of that, Focusrite throws in a bunch of plugins and virtual instruments from brands like Antares (Auto Tune), Softube, Native Instruments, and Marshall.
And if that’s not enough, you also get five free masters through Landr and a two-month subscription to Landr Studio. That means you can distribute your tracks to all the major platforms—Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, TikTok—without missing a beat.
Pricing and Availability
Here’s the breakdown of pricing for the new Scarlett interfaces:
- Scarlett 18i20: $649.99 USD / £629.99 GBP / €613.44 EUR
- Scarlett 18i16: $499.99 USD / £489.99 GBP / €470.58 EUR
- Scarlett 16i16: $369.99 USD / £349.99 GBP / €336.13 EUR
These new interfaces will be available starting mid-October 2024.
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