Focusrite Premiers Scarlett 2i2 Audio Interface
Focusrite has premiered the Scarlett 2i2 audio interface, featuring solid audio quality, simplicity and modern design. The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a 2-in/2-out USB 2.0 audio interface that contains mic/instrument preamps, 24-bit/96kHz digital conversion and monitor control, and sports a new unibody industrial design, but no MIDI connectivity.
Features:
» Focusrite mic preamps
» Anodised aluminium unibody chassis
» Unique LED-halo signal indicators
» 24-bit/96kHz digital conversion
D» irect Monitor function for zero-latency tracking
» Powered by USB connection
» Comes with Focusrite Scarlett plug-in suite & Ableton Live Lite
At the heart of the Scarlett 2i2, two Focusrite microphone preamplifiers provide a claimed clean signal path for mic-, instrument- or line-level sources, and supply phantom power to condenser mics. Quality digital converters capture audio for professional-sounding results, and a new unibody chassis — a single piece of red anodised aluminium — surrounds the 2i2’s internal “organs.”
Other features on the Scarlett 2i2 include the innovative LED-halo signal indicators, which encircle each of the gain controls. These glow green when an input signal is detected and turn red if clipping occurs, to provide a quick and easy way of ensuring that an appropriate signal level is achieved.
The Scarlett 2i2 has a pair of quarter-inch TRS jack outputs for feeding powered studio monitors or an external audio device, such as a mixer. A large knob provides accurate control of the output level, and direct monitoring allows for zero-latency tracking. There’s also a quarter-inch headphones output with dedicated level control. Since the interface is bus powered, an additional power supply is not needed, meaning the interface is truly portable. What’s more, it’s bundled with the Focusrite Scarlett Plug-in Suite as well as Ableton Live Lite. Unfortunately, MIDI connectivity is not included, which would have made the 2i2 truly a standout at this price point.
The Focusrite 2i2 will be available worldwide sometime during October 2011 for $199.99 / £119.99 / €159.
