One preamp or two
Do you ever need to record two sources at the same time?
Same converters, same Air mode, same software bundle, same generation. One question separates them, and it is not about sound quality.
| Compared on | Scarlett Solo (4th Gen) | Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Microphone preamps | One | Two |
| Simultaneous inputs | 2 in / 2 out | 2 in / 2 out, both mic-capable |
| Converter dynamic range | 120 dB | 120 dB |
| Air mode | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Gain | Not stated | Yes |
| Clip Safe | Not stated | Yes |
| Connection | USB-C | USB-C |
| Listed on amazon.com | Yes | Yes |
A tick marks the better answer on that line only. Counting ticks does not decide the page — the two verdicts below do, because these products answer different questions.
Take the Solo if you record one thing at a time — a voice, then a guitar, then a second voice. It is the cheaper half of an otherwise identical pair, and nothing about its sound is a compromise.
Take the 2i2 if two sources will ever be live at once: a singer who plays, two people talking, a stereo pair on an acoustic. Auto Gain and Clip Safe are useful on top, but the second preamp is the reason.
Not on two tracks. It has one microphone preamp, so the voice and the guitar have to be captured by one microphone together, or recorded one after the other. Two separate tracks needs two preamps.
No. Focusrite quotes the same 120 dB converters on both, and Air mode is on both. The 2i2 adds inputs and two beginner-focused features, not better sound.
2 in / 2 out · 120 dB dynamic range · Air mode
One microphone preamp and one instrument input, with the same 120 dB converters Focusrite puts in its larger interfaces, an Air mode for presence, and a software bundle that is a large part of the value.
Best for: A songwriter recording one part at a time who wants room to grow.
≈ $130
Two preamps · Auto Gain · Clip Safe · 120 dB
Two microphone preamps rather than one, plus Auto Gain to set levels and Clip Safe to stop a take being destroyed by a loud moment. The interface most home studios settle on and stop replacing.
Best for: Anyone who will ever record two things at the same time.
≈ $220
