

Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen Audio Interface Review
Scarlett’s range of audio interfaces has received some major updates, including responsive design, upgraded A/D converters, and more. Let’s take a look at what’s new in our hands on review of the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 audio interface.
Focusrite’s Scarlett audio interfaces are the best-selling audio interfaces, massively popular especially among bedroom music producers and engineers. While Focusrite achieved this milestone through its intuitive functionality and competitive pricing, the 4th generation aims to improve audio quality and conversion. With a complete redesign of the outboard and internal circuits, it positions itself well alongside some high-end audio interfaces in the current market.
Box Content and Build Quality
The Scarlett 18i20 comes with all the cables and converters required to get it up and running. The box content includes
- Scarlett 18i20
- USB-C to C cable
- USB-A (male) to C (female) adaptor
- Country-specific IEC cable
- Attachable 19″ rack ears
In terms of design, the interface has received significant upgrades. While the 3rd-generation interface relied heavily on encoders, the 4th generation features 4 endless encoders in addition to mode-switching buttons. The knobs now have dynamic LED level indicators, which are quite useful for monitoring and visually more appealing than the previous generation. Instead of having separate knobs for each of the 8 inputs, they have replaced them with input-switching buttons. While this design may not be ideal in all cases, it looks better from a design perspective but removes the ability to adjust multiple input levels simultaneously.
As far as build quality is concerned, it is pretty much in line with the previous generation.
Features and Audio Quality
Beginning with the preamp input gains, Focusrite has replaced knobs with buttons for each input. While this looks better, it eliminates the functionality of changing multiple input levels at once, which was previously convenient. The dynamic range has slightly improved, with microphone inputs now providing 116 dB of dynamic range compared to 111 dB in the 3rd generation. The metering still shows readings from -42 dBFS to 0 dBFS. All inputs are preamp-equipped, allowing you to switch between microphone and line signals for each input. The first 2 inputs are duplicated on the front panel, similar to the 3rd generation and other interfaces in this range. Thanks to the RedNet interface converters, the interface delivers ultra-low-noise mic preamps.
The addition of the Link feature is quite useful, allowing you to link 2 input channels at once. However, the current functionality is limited: you can only link adjacent preamps with the left channel set as odd-numbered input channels (e.g., you can link inputs 1 and 2, or 3 and 4, but not 2 and 3). The preamp settings are inherited from the currently selected preamp. For instance, if preamp 1 is selected, preamp 2 inherits its Air, Safe, and Inst settings. Already linked channels can be easily unlinked using the link button. At the moment, linking more than 2 channels simultaneously is not supported.
The 48V phantom power button is also present, along with the option to switch between line and instrument inputs.
Another thoughtful addition is the Auto Gain feature, which automatically adjusts input levels for optimal recording. You can also enable multi-channel auto gain, which is particularly helpful when recording multiple instruments simultaneously. A clip safe button ensures recordings don’t distort or exceed maximum input levels. Note that Clip Safe is only available up to 96 kHz and cannot be used at quad-band sample rates (176.4 kHz and 192 kHz).
Air Mode, which debuted in the 3rd-generation interfaces, has received a functionality upgrade. There are now two operational modes. The Air Presence mode processes the input signal through an analog circuit, providing an audio presence boost. The newly added Air Presence and Harmonic Drive mode also introduces harmonics. While the Air mode is similar to that in Clarett and RedNet interfaces, those interfaces also lower input impedance through analog circuitry. The new Air Presence and Harmonic Drive mode particularly excels in vocal and guitar recordings.
The Alt (switching between two speakers), Dim (reducing input levels), Mute (silencing the outputs), and Talkback (dimming other inputs while speaking) features remain the same as in the 3rd generation.
Regarding audio quality, the Focusrite 4th-generation interfaces use the same converters as the RedNet line of interfaces. Having recently examined the RedNet interfaces in a Dolby Atmos Studio, I could clearly discern the converters’ impact on audio quality. The difference is notably significant compared to the 3rd generation, with improved dynamic range resulting from the new converters.
You also have the option to expand and sync your setup using ADAT, S/PDIF, and Word Clock connections located on the rear panel.
Software control and Included Plugins
The Focusrite Control 2 app allows seamless interface control from desktop and mobile platforms. All interface functionalities can be controlled remotely. Focusrite is known for providing an impressive plugin bundle (the HitMaker Bundle) with each interface. The plugin list has been carefully curated to complement the interface, featuring top-quality tools.
DAW
- Ableton Live Lite
- 3 months of Pro Tools Artist
- 6 of FL Studio Producer Edition
Plugins
- Antares Auto-Tune Access
- Relab’s LX480 Reverb
- Sonnox VoxDoubler
- Softube Marshall’s Silver Jubilee 2555
- XLN Audio Addictive Keys Studio Grand,
- Native Instruments Massive
- XLN’s Addictive Drums 2
- Bx_console Focusrite SC
- Red 2 & 3 Plug-in Suite
- Klevgrand Essentials Bundle
- 2 month subscription to Landr Studio
Price and Verdict
The Scarlett 4th-generation audio interface range is priced slightly higher than the 3rd generation, debuting at $749.99 compared to $689.99 for the previous generation.
Available on
Rating
Pros
- Borrows convertors from the high-end RedNet interfaces
- Improved Dynamic Range
- Sleek layout and impressive design
- Added new Air Mode
- Auto Gain and Clip safe mode allow for quick and seamless recording sessions
- Completely controllable from the Focusrite Control 2 app
- Incredible worth of music-making software included
Cons
- Individual knobs for inputs switched to buttons which may not be ideal in all use cases
- Slightly higher price point than Gen 3 interfaces
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W.A. Production’s Babylon 2: A Deep Dive Into the Enhanced Wavetable Synthesizer [Review]
Novation Launchkey MK4: Our New Favorite MIDI Controller [Review]
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