Focusrite
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen)
XLR interface · USB-C · 2
8.6
$240Nov 9
Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen)
A one-mic USB-C interface for beginners, with proven preamp quality but no Auto Gain or Clip Safe.
- XLR interface
- USB-C
- 1
- 192 kHz
PCPR score
8.0
Great
Best price we’ve seen
$170Nov 9
Checked recently. Confirm at the retailer.
R1
The short version
The Scarlett Solo is Focusrite's entry-level USB-C interface, with one XLR mic input, one Hi-Z instrument input, Air mode and 24-bit/192 kHz conversion. SoundGuys recommends it as an easy, affordable starting point with a quality mic preamp, while noting it has no Auto Gain, Clip Safe or output meter. Sound On Sound notes the Solo does not get the new preamp circuit used in larger models. It suits singer-songwriters and podcasters who only record one microphone at a time.
Pros
- USB-C power and connection, plus a Hi-Z instrument input
- Quality mic preamp and easy operation, per SoundGuys
- Independent headphone and monitor controls
Cons
- No Auto Gain or Clip Safe, SoundGuys notes
- No output metering
- Air mode only works on the XLR input
Best for
- Solo recording of one mic or instrument
- Beginners on a budget
J3
Full specifications
Core
- Type
- XLR interface
Connectivity
- Connection
- USB-C
Ports & I/O
- XLR inputs
- 1
- 48V phantom
- 1
Performance
- Max sample rate
- 192 kHz
- Bit depth
- 24 bit
Compatibility notes
- USB Type-C (USB 2.0 protocol), bus powered at 900 mA per Focusrite.
- One XLR mic input with phantom power; one instrument input.
P1
Where to buy
Official store
Seen Nov 9, 2026
$169.99
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AV1
Video reviews
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AV2
What reviewers and owners say
SoundGuys
PositiveSees it as an easy first interface for one-input recording with a good preamp, while listing the missing Auto Gain and Clip Safe features and the lack of an output meter as weaknesses.
2025-09-04
Read the sourceSound On Sound
MixedPraises the fourth-generation range for value but points out that the entry-level Solo does not get the new preamp circuit used in the larger Scarletts.
Review
Read the source
Summaries are written in our words. Follow the links for each source’s own review.
R9
Common questions
Can I record two microphones with the Scarlett Solo?
No. It has one XLR mic input, so look at the 2i2 if you need two microphones at once.
Does the Solo have Auto Gain?
No. SoundGuys notes Auto Gain and Clip Safe are missing, and those features are reserved for the larger Scarlett models.
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