Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 2nd Gen Review (April 2024)
$388.00
Description
In this review post we’re going to be discussing the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 2nd Gen USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools, including an overview of its unique features.
Product Description
Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 is ideal for musicians, producers, and small bands who want to record audio from a wide range of sources such as drums, guitars, keyboards, and vocals simultaneously on your computer. Four natural-sounding combination inputs Scarlett mic preamps, super-low latency* and class-leading sound quality and digital conversion are complemented by a host of additional inputs and outputs; four extra line inputs, digital I/O, two main monitor outputs, and two entirely discrete headphone outputs. An ADAT input allows you to expand with eight additional mic preamps for larger recording sessions.
Focusrite is the perfect partner for Pro Tools. To that end, Focusrite and Avid will continue to work together to ensure all Scarlett interfaces are thoroughly tested with the latest version of Pro Tools. Scarlett 18i8 is also compatible with all other major DAWs, on Mac and PC. Download the free Focusrite iOS Control app and adjust cue mixes created with the Focusrite Control desktop app remotely from an iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch. * Super-low roundtrip latency was measured at 2.74ms, working at 96kHz with a 32 samples buffer on Logic Pro X, running on a Mac Pro and OS 10.11.
Product Features
- Eight analog inputs, including four Scarlett mic preamps with plenty of even gains
- Two newly-designed instrument inputs, now with increased headroom
- Class-leading digital conversion at up to 24-bit / 192kHz
- Super-low latency* lets you perform and produce using effects in real-time, with no need for DSP
- Two independent balanced analog outputs for connecting studio monitors
- Two discrete headphone outputs with dedicated volume controls
- Expand up to eight additional analog inputs via ADAT
- Focusrite Control software to easily configure your monitoring and routing setups
- Remote control from iPhone or iPad – Download the free Focusrite iOS Control app
- Three Month Avid® Pro Tools® subscription
- All the additional software and loops you need to record
- Use it with all major DAWs on Mac and PC
- MIDI I/O connectivity, ideal for sending/receiving MIDI
- Stereo S/PDIF In and Out for connecting other digital devices
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Strong build
- Very trusted
- Worth the investment
- Excellent sound quality
- Great sound
- Impressive I/O flexibility
- Positive consumer review testimonials
Cons
- Quite Pricey
- Some customers may be dissatisfied with a single main stereo analog output
Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools | First Demo
Our Verdict
The second-generation 18i8 offers improved preamp performance, sampling rate compatibility, and general sound quality. The 18i8 is relatively simple to use, especially when combined with the Focusrite Control software. More importantly, for such a small gadget, there is a surprising amount of potential connectivity.
The recording quality is excellent, with the integrated preamps providing a clean, open ‘Focusrite grade sound. The Scarlett’s front four channels are simply set thanks to each having its very own gain dial, and the ability to add an additional eight channels of audio input through digital I/O means that it can easily fit into larger rigs for more demanding customers. In a nutshell, there’s a lot to like here.
Where to Buy
The best place to buy this product has to be Amazon, due to their competitive pricing and fantastic customer service.
Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools | First
Pricing History
Price History for Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools | First
Statistics
| Current Price | $648.63 | April 16, 2024 |
| Highest Price | $648.63 | November 16, 2023 |
| Lowest Price | $299.99 | August 16, 2023 |
Last price changes
| $648.63 | November 16, 2023 |
| $603.89 | November 12, 2023 |
| $299.99 | October 15, 2023 |
| $419.95 | October 10, 2023 |
| $299.99 | August 16, 2023 |
Buyers Guides This Product Is Featured In
Best 4 Channel Audio Interfaces (2022)
Best Audio Interfaces For iPad
Best Audio Interfaces Under $500
Additional information
| Item Weight | 3.73 pounds |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 7.4 x 9.02 x 2.48 inches |
| Item model number | AMS-SCARLETT-18I8-2ND-GEN |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Date First Available | June 1, 2016 |
| Color Name | 18i8 – 4 Mic Pres |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| Hardware Interface | USB 2.0 |
| Size | 18i8 – 4 Mic Pres |
| Voltage | 240 Volts |
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