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Focusrite SCARLETT 18i8 USB Audio Interface 1st Gen — main product image
Focusrite

Focusrite SCARLETT 18i8 USB Audio Interface 1st Gen

★★★★★4.1 (132 reviews)

Pro-Grade Audio Interface for Studio and StageThe Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (1st Gen) is a USB 2.0 audio interface designed for musicians, producers, and engineers. Featuring four Focusrite mic preamps and versatile I/O options, this interface offers high-quality recording and monitoring capabiliti...

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Overview

Pro-Grade Audio Interface for Studio and Stage

The Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (1st Gen) is a USB 2.0 audio interface designed for musicians, producers, and engineers. Featuring four Focusrite mic preamps and versatile I/O options, this interface offers high-quality recording and monitoring capabilities.

  • Inputs: 18
  • Outputs: 8
  • Mic Preamps: 4 Focusrite mic preamps
  • Interface Type: USB 2.0
  • Sampling Rate: 24-bit, 96KHz

Key Features

Four award-winning Focusrite mic pres with 18 inputs and 8 outputs

Two independent headphone outputs each with a level control

Rugged metal unibody chassis

High quality 24bit 96KHz audio interface for Mac, PC and iPad

Includes an authorization code for Ableton Live Lite, Scarlett Plug-in Suite (RTAS/AU/VST), Red 2 & Red 3 Plug-in Suite (AAX/AU/VST), the Softube Time and Tone Bundle, Novation Bass Station, and 1GB of Loopmasters samples

Specifications

Mic Preamps
4 (Focusrite award-winning)
Inputs
18
Outputs
8
Headphone Outputs
2 (independent with level control)
Chassis Material
Rugged metal unibody
Audio Quality
24bit 96KHz
Compatibility
Mac, PC, iPad
Included Software
Ableton Live Lite, Scarlett Plug-in Suite, Red 2 & Red 3 Plug-in Suite, Softube Time and Tone Bundle, Novation Bass Station, Loopmasters samples

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Equipped with four award-winning Focusrite mic pres for high-quality audio capture.
  • Offers versatile connectivity with a total of 18 inputs and 8 outputs for complex recording setups.
  • Features two independent headphone outputs, each with its own level control, ideal for collaborative monitoring.
  • Built with a rugged metal unibody chassis, ensuring durability for studio and on-the-go use.
  • Delivers high-quality 24bit 96KHz audio, suitable for professional-grade recording on Mac, PC, and iPad.
  • Includes a comprehensive software bundle with Ableton Live Lite and various plug-in suites, adding significant value.

👎 Cons

  • As a 1st Gen model, it may lack some of the advanced features or connectivity options found in newer versions.
  • The inclusion of Ableton Live Lite is a basic version and may require an upgrade for full functionality.
  • Users need to manage authorization codes for the included software, which can sometimes be a complex process.
  • The high number of inputs and outputs might be excessive for users with simpler recording needs.
  • Compatibility with future operating system updates might be a consideration, given it is a first-generation device.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Focusrite SCARLETT 18i8 features four award-winning Focusrite microphone preamplifiers, allowing for simultaneous connection of four microphones.
Yes, this audio interface supports high-quality 24bit 96KHz audio, suitable for professional recording standards on various platforms.
The Focusrite SCARLETT 18i8 USB Audio Interface is designed to be compatible with Mac, PC, and iPad devices, offering versatile use.
Yes, it includes two independent headphone outputs, each equipped with its own level control, which is beneficial for multiple listeners.
The interface includes an authorization code for Ableton Live Lite, Scarlett Plug-in Suite, Red 2 & Red 3 Plug-in Suite, the Softube Time and Tone Bundle, Novation Bass Station, and 1GB of Loopmasters samples.

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