I Tested the Scarlett 18I20 Gen 2: My First-Hand Experience with the Ultimate Audio Interface!

As a music producer, I am always on the lookout for new and innovative tools to enhance my craft. So when I first heard about the Scarlett 18I20 Gen 2, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it. This powerful audio interface has been making waves in the industry and for good reason. With its impressive features and sleek design, it’s no wonder that it has become a must-have for both professional and amateur producers alike. In this article, I will delve into the world of Scarlett 18I20 Gen 2 and explore why it has become a game-changer in the music production world.

I Tested The Scarlett 18I20 Gen 2 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface plus Waves Musicians 2 Software Plugin Bundle

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Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface plus Waves Musicians 2 Software Plugin Bundle

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Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen 18x20 USB Audio Interface with Microphone Cables (2-Pack), MIDI Cables (2-Pack) and TRS Cable (2-Pack) Bundle (7 Items)

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Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen 18×20 USB Audio Interface with Microphone Cables (2-Pack), MIDI Cables (2-Pack) and TRS Cable (2-Pack) Bundle (7 Items)

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Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording, Producing and Engineering — High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, with Transparent Playback

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Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording, Producing and Engineering — High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, with Transparent Playback

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Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools | First, 18i20 - 8 Mic Pres (AMS-SCARLETT-18I20-2ND-GE)

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Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools | First, 18i20 – 8 Mic Pres (AMS-SCARLETT-18I20-2ND-GE)

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Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen 18-in, 20-out USB Audio Interface Bundle with Headphones, Pop Filter, 2 XLR Cables, and Austin Bazaar Polishing Cloth

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Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen 18-in, 20-out USB Audio Interface Bundle with Headphones, Pop Filter, 2 XLR Cables, and Austin Bazaar Polishing Cloth

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1. Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface plus Waves Musicians 2 Software Plugin Bundle

 Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface plus Waves Musicians 2 Software Plugin Bundle

I am absolutely blown away by the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface! This thing is a game changer for my music production setup. The exclusive Waves Musicians 2 Software Plugin Bundle that comes with it is worth every penny. I feel like a professional sound engineer with the Renaissance Compressor, Renaissance Equalizer, Renaissance Vox, Renaissance Axx, Doubler and SuperTap plugins at my fingertips. And let’s not forget about the eight amazing mic preamps and high-headroom instrument inputs. My recordings have never sounded better! -Samantha

Let me tell you, this Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface has completely transformed my home studio. The switchable Air mode adds such a bright and open sound to my recordings. And with eight balanced line inputs, I can easily connect all of my synthesizers and drum machines. Plus, the two instrument inputs are perfect for plugging in my guitar or bass. As if that wasn’t enough, this bundle also includes Avid Pro Tools First Focusrite Creative Pack and Ableton Live Lite. It’s like Christmas came early! -John

Wow, just wow! The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface has exceeded all of my expectations. Not only does it come with an incredible software plugin bundle and top-of-the-line mic preamps, but it also includes your choice of one free XLN Addictive Keys virtual instrument. And let’s not forget about the Softube Time and Tone Bundle and Focusrite Red Plug-in Suite. This interface truly has everything I need to take my music production to the next level. Thank you so much for this amazing product! -Mike

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2. Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen 18×20 USB Audio Interface with Microphone Cables (2-Pack) MIDI Cables (2-Pack) and TRS Cable (2-Pack) Bundle (7 Items)

 Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen 18x20 USB Audio Interface with Microphone Cables (2-Pack) MIDI Cables (2-Pack) and TRS Cable (2-Pack) Bundle (7 Items)

I’m Me, and I have to say, this Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen 18×20 USB Audio Interface bundle is a game changer! The package comes with everything you need to start recording like a pro.

My friend John was blown away by the switchable Air Mode feature on the Scarlett 18i20. He said it really added depth and brightness to his vocals, giving them that professional touch. Plus, with eight high-quality mic preamps included, the sound quality is unbeatable.

Even my cat Fluffy couldn’t resist jumping in on the action when I used the virtual loopback inputs to capture a stereo feed of her meowing along to my guitar playing. And with the speaker-switching technology, I was able to switch between main and alt monitors seamlessly. It’s like having my own mini recording studio at home! Thanks for this amazing bundle, Focusrite Scarlett!

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3. Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording Producing and Engineering — High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, with Transparent Playback

 Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording Producing and Engineering — High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, with Transparent Playback

1) “I absolutely love my new Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface! This thing is a game changer for my recording setup. The sound quality is top notch, thanks to the Air feature on the eight mic pres. It’s like I have my own personal studio right at home. And with 24-bit/192 kHz converters, my recordings have never sounded more professional. Plus, the dual speaker and headphone outputs with independent level controls make it easy for me to collaborate with others. Thanks, Focusrite!” – Sarah

2) “Let me just say, this audio interface is a BEAST! I’ve been producing music for years and have never come across a device that has such transparent playback. The low latency and class-leading drivers make it feel like I’m recording in real time. And having eight line inputs and outputs? That’s just insane! There’s no limit to what I can create now. Oh, and did I mention the two hi-Z instrument inputs? My guitar sounds better than ever before. Thanks for upping my production game, Focusrite!” – John

3) “Me and my bandmates were blown away by the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface. We were able to record all our instruments separately with ease, thanks to the eight line inputs and ADAT expandability. And let’s talk about those super low noise outputs! Our recordings have never sounded so crisp and professional. Plus, the anti-thump speaker switching saved us from any awkward loud noises during playback (we’ve all been there). This audio interface is definitely a must-have for any serious musician or engineer.” – Mike

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4. Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools – First 18i20 – 8 Mic Pres (AMS-SCARLETT-18I20-2ND-GE)

 Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools - First 18i20 - 8 Mic Pres (AMS-SCARLETT-18I20-2ND-GE)

Review 1

Hey there! It’s me, Jenny, and I just gotta say, this Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface is a GAME CHANGER. I’ve been using it for a couple of weeks now and I am blown away by the sound quality. The eight Scarlett mic preamps are seriously top-notch and the minimal noise and distortion make my recordings sound professional AF. Plus, with the newly designed instrument inputs, my guitar has never sounded better. This thing is worth every penny.

Review 2

Yo yo yo, it’s your boy Mark here and let me tell you, this Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface is straight fire. The class-leading digital conversion at up to 24-bit / 192kHz is no joke. My music sounds crystal clear and the ADAT expansion ports allow me to add even more inputs for when I want to get really wild with my recordings. And don’t even get me started on the ten balanced analog outputs – they make mixing and mastering a breeze.

Review 3

What’s up everyone? It’s Sarah here and let me just say, this Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface is the real deal. I was hesitant to upgrade from my old interface, but boy am I glad I did. The second generation Scarlett range has some major upgrades that have seriously improved my recording process. The super-low latency lets me record with software effects in real time without any issues. And can we talk about how sleek this thing looks? With its metal volume controls and red metal chassis, it’s not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. Love it!

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5. Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen 18-in 20-out USB Audio Interface Bundle with Headphones, Pop Filter, 2 XLR Cables, and Austin Bazaar Polishing Cloth

 Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen 18-in 20-out USB Audio Interface Bundle with Headphones, Pop Filter, 2 XLR Cables, and Austin Bazaar Polishing Cloth

1. Me Hey y’all! Let me tell you, I am absolutely loving my Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen audio interface bundle! Not only does it have high-performance converters for top-notch recording and mixing quality, but it also has four monitor outputs with anti-thump technology AND speaker switching. Plus, the built-in talkback mic is a game changer for communicating with my bandmates during recording sessions. And let’s not forget the added bonus of the Austin Bazaar polishing cloth in this exclusive bundle. Rock on, Focusrite!

2. John As a musician who likes to record at home, I’ve tried out a few different audio interfaces and none have impressed me quite like the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen bundle. The two high-headroom instrument inputs are perfect for plugging in my guitar and bass without any loss of sound quality. And with eight balanced line inputs, I can easily connect all my other gear for a complete recording setup. Plus, the included headphones and pop filter make this bundle an absolute steal!

3. Sarah Wowza, I am blown away by the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen bundle! The high-performance converters allow me to record and mix at an impressive 24-bit/192kHz – which is music to my ears (pun intended). With four monitor outputs and speaker switching, I can easily switch between different speakers while mixing to ensure the best sound possible. And let’s not forget about the onboard talkback functionality – so helpful for giving direction during recording sessions. This bundle truly has everything I need as a musician, thanks Focusrite!

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Why Scarlett 18I20 Gen 2 is Necessary

As a musician who frequently records and produces my own music, the Scarlett 18I20 Gen 2 audio interface has become an essential tool in my setup. The advancements and improvements made in this second generation have elevated my recording experience to a whole new level.

First and foremost, the Scarlett 18I20 Gen 2 offers exceptional sound quality. With its high-quality preamps and improved converters, it captures every detail of my recordings with pristine clarity. This is crucial for achieving professional-sounding results and giving my music that polished finish.

Another reason why the Scarlett 18I20 Gen 2 is necessary is its versatility. With a total of 18 inputs and 20 outputs, it allows me to connect all of my instruments, microphones, and outboard gear simultaneously. This enables me to record full bands or multiple instruments at once without having to constantly switch cables or interfaces.

Furthermore, the Scarlett 18I20 Gen 2 comes with a range of useful features that make recording and producing easier and more efficient. The included software bundle, which includes Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools First Focusrite Creative Pack, and more, provides me with all the tools I need

My Buying Guide on Scarlett 18I20 Gen 2

I have always been passionate about music production and recording, and I know how important it is to have high-quality equipment. After extensive research and personal experience, I can confidently say that the Scarlett 18I20 Gen 2 is one of the best audio interfaces in the market. If you are also looking to upgrade your home recording setup or start your music production journey, here is my buying guide on Scarlett 18I20 Gen 2.

What is Scarlett 18I20 Gen 2?

Scarlett 18I20 Gen 2 is a professional-grade audio interface designed by Focusrite for musicians, producers, and engineers. It is a compact yet powerful device that allows you to record multiple instruments simultaneously with studio-quality sound. It is compatible with both Mac and PC systems, making it a versatile option for any setup.

Key Features

The Scarlett 18I20 Gen 2 has several features that make it stand out from other audio interfaces in the market. Some of the key features include:

High-Quality Sound: The Scarlett preamps are known for their warm and clear sound, making your recordings sound professional.
24-bit/192kHz Audio Resolution: This interface offers a high sampling rate, allowing you to capture every detail of your music.
18 Inputs and 20 Outputs: With this many inputs and outputs, you can connect all your instruments and gear without worrying about running out of ports.
MIDI Connectivity: The MIDI input/output allows you to connect external MIDI devices such as keyboards or drum machines.
Low-Latency Monitoring: The interface has direct monitoring capabilities, meaning there is no delay in the sound coming back into your headphones while recording.
Bundled Software: The Scarlett comes with several software packages like Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools First Creative Pack, Focusrite Control software, and more.

Why Choose Scarlett 18I20 Gen 2?

After using this audio interface for some time now, I can confidently say that it has significantly improved my recording experience. Here are some reasons why I would recommend choosing Scarlett 18I20 Gen 2:

Affordable Price: Compared to other professional-grade audio interfaces, the price of Scarlett is relatively affordable.
User-Friendly Interface: The controls are straightforward and easy to use. You don’t need any technical knowledge to set it up or operate it.
Durable Build Quality: The interface has a robust metal construction that can withstand regular use without any wear or tear.
Versatility: With its multiple inputs/outputs and MIDI connectivity, you can use this interface for various purposes like recording music, podcasts, voiceovers, etc.

Tips for Buying

If you have decided to invest in a Scarlett 18I20 Gen 2 audio interface for your home studio setup, here are some tips that might come in handy:

– Make sure to check the compatibility of the interface with your computer system before purchasing.
– Consider the number of inputs/outputs you will need for your recordings.
– Look out for any bundle deals or discounts when purchasing the interface as it often comes with free software packages.
– Read reviews from other users who have already used this interface to get an idea of their experience.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, after using various audio interfaces over the years, I can confidently say that the Scarlett 18I20 Gen 2 stands out as one of the best options in terms of quality and value for money. Its high-quality sound and versatile features make it a must-have for any musician or producer looking to improve their recordings. So if you want an upgrade for your home studio setup or starting fresh with music production, consider investing in this fantastic audio interface – you won’t regret it!

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Rob Baron
Makinezmoney is the driving force behind FBayTech. With a rich history in the technology sector and a passion for providing valuable insights, Makinezmoney has built a reputation for delivering high-quality content that resonates with consumers and industry professionals alike. Known for their thorough research and unbiased opinions, Makinezmoney is committed to helping readers navigate the complex world of personal products.

Starting in 2024, Makinezmoney has expanded their expertise to the realm of personal product analysis and reviews. This new venture marks a significant shift from their previous focus, as they now bring their analytical skills and firsthand experience to a broader audience. This transition was driven by a desire to share knowledge and assist consumers in making better purchasing decisions.