Focusrite

Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface Bundle

4.0 (8 reviews)
XLR

Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen bundle pairs versatile 8-input recording with stands and cables included.

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Overview

The Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface Bundle is designed for musicians, podcasters, and producers who need multi-channel recording capability right out of the box. The interface itself features four XLR-1/4" combo inputs with Focusrite's upgraded third-generation Scarlett mic preamps, two dedicated high-impedance instrument inputs, and additional line-level inputs for a total of eight inputs. With 24-bit/192 kHz converters, it captures audio at a resolution that meets professional studio standards. The switchable Air mode on the mic preamps is a distinctive feature that adds harmonic brightness reminiscent of Focusrite's ISA transformer-based preamps, particularly useful for vocal and acoustic instrument recording.

What makes this listing particularly appealing is the bundle packaging. Alongside the Scarlett 18i8, you receive two On Stage MS7701B Euro boom microphone stands and four Knox Gear 25-foot XLR cables, covering the essential accessories needed to get a multi-mic session running. The front-panel inputs 1-2 can be switched between instrument and line level, while inputs 3-4 accept line level, giving you flexibility to accommodate different source types. On the output side, you get eight outputs for flexible monitor mixing and routing, making this bundle a solid foundation for small studios recording bands, multi-host podcasts, or multi-mic acoustic sessions.

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

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.
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.
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.
The interface supports recording at up to 24-bit / 192 kHz resolution.
You can record up to four microphones at once using the four XLR-1/4" combo inputs, each with its own Scarlett mic preamp.