- Description
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Details
Built to deliver top-shelf sound in a desk-friendly and easy-to-use format for panel podcasters, producers, and small bands who need mix-minus functionality when taking calls, the third-generation Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface, High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording lets artists and content creators score pro-level tone with no learning curve.
Equally capable of tracking vocals and instruments, the four improved Scarlett microphone preamps feature switchable phantom power for condenser mics, pads to prevent distortion on loud input signals, and a selectable-per-channel Air circuit, which adds clarity-enhancing brightness based on Focusrite's legendary ISA preamplifier.
The first two XLR-1/4" combo inputs are software-switchable to allow them to accept signal directly from electric instruments such as guitar and bass or from line-level sources such as stereo mixer outputs, while combo inputs 3-4 can handle signal from mic or line sources. The rear panel sports four additional fixed-level 1/4" inputs to accommodate more line-level sources such as the outputs of external mic preamps.
Unlocking the ability to record at standard CD quality or high-fidelity resolutions, the 24-bit / 192 kHz AD/DA converters ensure that signals are captured and reproduced with detail and accuracy. With four balanced 1/4" monitor outputs, dual 1/4" stereo headphone jacks, and independent volume control of the two headphone outputs and the main/alt speaker outs, the Scarlett 18i8 can simultaneously feed multiple monitoring systems or outboard effects processors.
The virtual loopback function on the Scarlett 18i8 empowers podcasters with an easy mix-minus setup for taking calls without the caller being distracted by a delayed audio return signal. Also, traditional 5-pin MIDI I/O is provided for seamless integration of MIDI equipment such as a keyboard or sound module. S/PDIF stereo digital I/O jacks are also present, should you need to hook up outboard AD/DA converters or other digital gear. Route an external A/D converter into the ADAT optical input to record up to eight more channels of audio. You can even utilize your iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch to wirelessly control the Scarlett 18i8.
With its AC powering for stable power in the studio, space-saving USB Type-C connection, and extensive software bundle including elementary versions of Ableton Live and Avid Pro Tools music production workstations, virtual instruments, plug-in effects, loops, and more, the Scarlett 18i8 gives you plenty of powerful tools to kick-start your inspiration. Just connect the the Scarlett 18i8 to an AC power source via the supplied AC adapter, plug into your Mac/Windows computer via USB, fire up your preferred audio recording software, and let the creativity flow.
Optimized third-generation technology
The 3rd-generation Focusrite Scarlett 18i8's exterior has undergone a sleek makeover. Under the hood, though, it's been tweaked and upgraded to deliver better sonics, lower latency, and enhanced ease of use. With sample rates up to 192kHz, you've got the studio-grade sound you can take anywhere. Focusrite has added their renowned Air circuit to their already-amazing Scarlett mic preamps. The instrument inputs have also been re-engineered to handle the hottest active pickups. Lastly, Focusrite has wired analog protection circuitry across the Scarlett 18i8's inputs and outputs, safeguarding your interface from damaging power surges.
Super-low latency for better performances
You know you perform better when you've got a great-sounding monitor mix with everything you need to hear to be inspired — for example, reverb and delay on a guitar solo. The Scarlett 18i8's super-low latency lets you monitor with native plug-in effects in real-time, so you can hear your parts as you envision them and record better performances. At Sweetwater, we know you can't put a price on that. But if you prefer the simplicity and convenience of monitoring your input directly with guaranteed low latency, simply engage the Direct Monitor circuit. A duo of virtual loopback inputs allows you to capture a stereo feed of any combination of hardware input and software playback channels, making podcasting, live streaming, and sampling tasks a cinch.
Great for Project Studios and Expanded Home Setups
With its desk-friendly size, USB Type-C connectivity, and AC powering (via the included AC adapter), the Scarlett 18i8 is well suited for home and project studios that need some extra I/O without sacrificing a bunch of table space.Pristine, High-Resolution Conversion
Thanks to its high-performance 24-bit / 192 kHz AD/DA converters, the Scarlett 18i8 is equipped to capture any source from vocals to acoustic and electric instruments clearly and accurately, so you never have to worry about the interface clouding your sound.Scarlett Mic Preamps with Customizable Tone
The four upgraded third-generation Scarlett mic preamps feature switchable 48V phantom power to accommodate your favorite condenser mics, and a selectable-per-channel Air setting, which reproduces the Air effect of Focusrite's original ISA mic preamp to impart enhanced brightness and openness on your vocal recordings. Use the selectable input pads to prevent distortion when tracking high-level sources such as acoustic drums or electric guitars equipped with active pickups.Instrument/Line Switching
Thanks to software-switchable instrument/line settings, the first two XLR-1/4" combo inputs on the Scarlett 18i8's front panel allow distortion-free recording of instruments such as electric guitar and bass, synthesizers, or drum machines with no need for DI boxes or amplifiers, or in Line mode they can be used for line-level sources like a mixer's stereo output or the line outs from guitar and bass amps. Combo inputs 3-4 are able to handle mic- or line-level sources.Rear-Panel Line Inputs
With four balanced 1/4" line inputs on the back of the Scarlett 18i8, you can patch inline-level sources such as external mic preamps, an outboard mixer, or synthesizer sound modules while leaving the front-panel inputs free for direct connection of mics, instruments, or other line-level sources.Straightforward Controls and Level Indication
The Scarlett 18i8's independent gain knobs and multicolor gain halo meters mean that you'll have no trouble getting set up and dialing in the perfect levels.Dual Independent Headphone and Main/Alt Monitor Outputs
The four balanced 1/4" TRS monitor outputs on the rear panel enable hum-free connectivity with two pairs of balanced studio monitors, and their anti-thump technology protects your speakers if the interface is powered on while the speakers are on. To allow critical listening through headphones for two people, there are two front-panel 1/4" headphone jacks, each with its own dedicated volume knob. The large knob on the Scarlett 18i8 is allocated for controlling the volume of the main monitor outputs (1-2) or the alt monitor outputs (3-4).Virtual Loopback for Mix-Minus and More
The Scarlett 18i8 features one pair of virtual loopback inputs, allowing you to capture a stereo feed of any combination of hardware input and software playback channels, making podcasting, live streaming, and sampling tasks much easier.MIDI I/O
Spin the Scarlett 18i8 around and you'll find traditional 5-pin MIDI I/O ports, perfect for hooking up a MIDI keyboard controller, a synthesizer/workstation, or a sound module for MIDI recording, editing, and sequencing.Stereo Digital I/O
In addition to having flexible analog I/O, the Scarlett 18i8 offers S/PDIF stereo digital input and output ports via coaxial jacks. Use the S/PDIF input to record the output of a digital DJ mixer or an external mic preamp outfitted with an A/D converter and S/PDIF output. Run Scarlett's S/PDIF output to a high-end D/A converter for extra processing or mastering with analog gear.8-Channel ADAT Optical Input
The inclusion of an ADAT optical input port on the Scarlett 18i8 means that you can record up to eight more channels of audio, a perfect way to pipe in an external 8-channel mic preamp with an onboard A/D converter.Powerful Software Control
Route your audio, cue mix, loopback, and monitor mixes from your Mac or Windows computer via the Focusrite Control desktop software. Tap into even more convenience by using the Focusrite Control iOS app on your iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch to remotely control your Scarlett when connected to Focusrite Control Desktop.Extensive Software Bundle
The Scarlett 18i8 comes with a powerful bundle of music-making software from industry-leading brands. From recording to final mixdown, this bundle features tools that will help you get the sound you imagined.Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface, High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording Key Features:
- Producers and Small Bands
- USB Type-C Connectivity
- 4 Scarlett Mic Preamps, 4 Line In
- 2 Headphone Outs, 4 Line Outputs
- 24-Bit / 192 kHz Converters
- AC Powered / Mac and Windows
- Phantom Power, Pads, MIDI, S/PDIF, ADAT
- Mic Air Mode, Multicolor Gain Halos
- Virtual Loopback for Mix-Minus Setup
- DAWs, VIs, Loops, and Samples
What's In the Box
- Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 18x8 USB Audio/MIDI Interface (3rd Generation)
- USB Type-C to USB Type-A Cable
- Power Supply
- Limited 3-Year Warranty
Specifications:
Brand Focusrite Manufacture SKU MOSC0028 UPC 815301005209 Form Factor Tabletop Display None Channels of I/O Analog:
8 Input / 6 Output at 192 kHz
Digital:
10 Input / 2 OutputMaximum Sampling Rate 192 kHz / 24-Bit Number of Microphone Preamps 4 Preamps Input Level Adjustment 4 x Knob Expansion Slots None Signal Processing
Pad Mic/Line/Hi-Z:
-10 dB (Switchable per Channel)Gain/Trim Range Mic/Line/Hi-Z Inputs:
Up to +56 dBHigh-Pass Filter None Solo/Mute None Connectivity
Analog Audio I/O 2 x Combo XLR-1/4" TRS Balanced/Unbalanced Mic/Line/Hi-Z Input (Front Panel)
2 x Combo XLR-1/4" TRS Balanced Mic/Line Input (Front Panel)
4 x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Input
4 x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Output
2 x 1/4" TRS Unbalanced Headphone Output (Front Panel)Phantom Power 48 V, Selectable On/Off (on 4 Channels) Digital Audio I/O 1 x RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Input
1 x RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Output
1 x TOSLINK Optical ADAT InputHost Connection / USB 1 x USB Type-C (USB 2.0) MIDI I/O 1 x DIN 5-Pin Input
1 x DIN 5-Pin OutputWireless Connectivity None Performance
Frequency Response 20 Hz to 20 kHz ±0.1 dB Maximum Input Level Mic Inputs:
+9 dBu (Min Gain)
Hi-Z Inputs:
+12.5 dBu (Min Gain)
Line Inputs:
+22 dBu (Min Gain)Maximum Output Level Line Outputs:
+15.5 dBu at 0 dBFS (Balanced)
Headphone Outputs:
+7 dBuImpedance Mic Inputs:
3 Kilohms
Hi-Z Inputs:
1.5 Megohms
Line Inputs:
60 Kilohms
Line Outputs:
430 Ohms
Headphone Outputs:
< 1 OhmDynamic Range Mic Inputs:
111 dBA
Hi-Z Inputs:
110 dBA
Line Inputs:
110.5 dBA
Line Outputs:
108 dBA
Headphone Outputs:
104 dBATHD+N Mic Inputs:
< 0.0012%
Hi-Z Inputs:
< 0.03%
Line Inputs:
< 0.002%
Line Outputs:
< 0.002%
Headphone Outputs:
< 0.002%EIN Mic Inputs:
-128 dB A-WeightedDigital Audio
Sample Rates Up to 192 kHz (AD/DA Conversion) Sample Rate Conversion None Bit Depths Up to 24-Bit (AD/DA Conversion) Sync Sources ADAT, Internal, S/PDIF Audio Storage & Playback
Memory Card Slot None Compatibility
OS Compatibility macOS 10.12 or Later
Windows 7 or Later
*As of November, 2021: check with manufacturer for the most up-to-date compatibilityIncluded Software Ableton Live Lite
Pro Tools FirstCompatible Software (Not Included) Any Core Audio (Mac) Compliant Software Mobile Device Compatibility None Required Hardware Available USB 2.0 Port
USB Cable (Included)Internet Connection Required for Software/Driver Download Power
Power Requirements AC/DC Power Adapter (Included) AC/DC Power Adapter 12 VDC at 1 A, Center-Positive (Included) Physical
Anti-Theft Features Kensington Security Slot Dimensions 9.49 x 6.28 x 2.4" / 24.1 x 15.95 x 6.1 cm