
Focusrite
Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface Bundle
★★★★★
XLR
Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen bundle pairs versatile 8-input recording with stands and cables included.
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Overview
Key Features
High-performance converters operate at up to 24-bit / 192 kHz resolution
Four XLR-1/4" combo inputs with upgraded third-generation Scarlett mic preamps
Switchable Air setting reproduces the Air effect of Focusrite's original ISA mic preamp for vocal recordings with enhanced brightness and openness
Two high-impedance, high-headroom 1/4" instrument inputs enable distortion-free recording of your guitar and bass
Front-panel 1/4" inputs 1-2 may be switched to accept unbalanced instrument level or balanced line level, while front-panel 1/4" inputs 3-4 accept line level
Specifications
Brand
Focusrite
Model
Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen
Type
USB Audio Interface
Inputs
8 total (4 Mic/Line Combo, 2 Instrument, 4 Line)
Outputs
8
Mic Preamps
4 x Scarlett 3rd Gen with Air Mode
Max Resolution
24-bit / 192 kHz
Front Inputs 1-2
Switchable Instrument / Line Level
Front Inputs 3-4
Line Level
Bundle Includes
2x On Stage MS7701B Boom Stands, 4x Knox Gear 25ft XLR Cables
Pros & Cons
👍 Pros
- Bundle includes stands and cables, so you can start recording immediately without additional purchases.
- Four upgraded third-generation Scarlett mic preamps allow multi-microphone recording for drums, bands, or podcasts.
- Switchable Air mode adds ISA-style brightness to vocal tracks without external processing.
- High-impedance instrument inputs on the front panel handle guitar and bass without a separate DI box.
- Supports up to 24-bit/192 kHz resolution for professional-grade audio quality.
👎 Cons
- The bundle's boom stands and cables are third-party accessories that may not match the build quality of the interface itself.
- Eight total inputs may be more than solo artists or podcasters need, adding unused bulk.
- Requires USB connection to a computer, with no standalone recording capability.
- The 3rd Gen model has since been succeeded by newer Scarlett generations, meaning software support may eventually wind down.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in this Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 bundle?
The bundle includes the Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB audio interface, two On Stage MS7701B Euro boom microphone stands, and four Knox Gear 25-foot XLR cables.
What does the Air mode do on the Scarlett 18i8?
The switchable Air setting digitally emulates the sonic character of Focusrite's classic ISA transformer-based mic preamp, adding brightness and openness to vocal and acoustic recordings.
Can I record guitar and bass directly into the Scarlett 18i8?
Yes. The front-panel inputs 1 and 2 include high-impedance, high-headroom instrument inputs specifically designed for distortion-free direct recording of guitar and bass.
What is the maximum recording resolution of the Scarlett 18i8?
The interface supports recording at up to 24-bit / 192 kHz resolution.
How many microphones can I record simultaneously with this interface?
You can record up to four microphones at once using the four XLR-1/4" combo inputs, each with its own Scarlett mic preamp.