The third - generation Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 is a remarkable 1U rack - mountable audio interface. It offers extensive simultaneous I/O with eight top - notch mic preamps, 18 inputs, and 20 outputs. This interface can take your studio to new heights with its excellent sound quality, talkback feature, and onboard speaker switching. The improved A - D and D - A conversion ensures crystal - clear recordings and playback up to 24 - bit/192kHz, which is crucial for perfecting your mix. It comes with eight of Focusrite's best - ever third - generation Scarlett mic preamps. You can use the optional Air setting to get a brighter and more open sound like the original ISA mic preamp. Each mic preamp has a pad to handle high - level signals without clipping. The two front - panel high - headroom instrument inputs let you record guitars and basses without distortion. The speaker - switching technology allows you to switch between main and alt monitors for a fresh view of your mix. The built - in talkback mic makes it easy to communicate with your recording artist. A pair of virtual loopback inputs simplifies podcasting, live streaming, and sampling. It's designed for road use and connects directly to your Mac or PC via USB. It includes essential software tools such as Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools First Focusrite Creative Pack, Softube’s Time and Tone Bundle, Focusrite’s Red Plug - in Suite, and a choice of one of four XLN Audio’s Addictive Keys. Focusrite has also partnered with Splice to offer a free 3 - month Splice Sounds subscription for new accounts. You'll also enjoy membership of the Plug - in Collective, a two - year warranty, and award - winning customer support. Key features include eight high - performance mic preamps with switchable Air mode, high - performance converters for 24 - bit/192kHz recording, two high - headroom instrument inputs, four monitor outputs with anti - thump technology and speaker switching, and onboard talkback with a front - panel mic. Technical specs cover USB Type - C connectivity, USB 2.0 protocol, 1U rack - mount form factor, 18 x 20 simultaneous I/O, and more.
Using the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 is a breeze. First, connect it to your Mac or PC using the provided USB cable. Make sure to plug in the power cable for proper operation. When recording vocals or acoustic instruments, you can use the eight mic preamps. Turn on the Air setting for a brighter and more open sound. If you're recording guitars or basses, use the two high - headroom instrument inputs on the front panel. To get different perspectives on your mix, use the speaker - switching technology to switch between main and alt monitors. The built - in talkback mic on the front panel is handy for communicating with the recording artist. For podcasting, live streaming, or sampling, use the virtual loopback inputs. When it comes to software, install the included Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools First Focusrite Creative Pack, and other software tools. Remember to set up your new Splice account to get the free 3 - month Splice Sounds subscription. As for maintenance, keep the interface in a clean and dry place. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or humidity. If you need to clean it, use a soft, dry cloth. If you encounter any issues, refer to the user manual or contact Focusrite's award - winning customer support.
