Scarlett 4i4 4th Generation Focusrite

The Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Generation is a powerful and versatile USB audio interface designed for musicians and producers who need more inputs and outputs than the more common 2-in/2-out interfaces. It's a significant upgrade to the previous generation, featuring major improvements in sound quality, functionality, and ease of use.

Here is a detailed breakdown of its key features:

Core Concept & Design

• 4-in/4-out Interface: The "4i4" in the name stands for 4 inputs and 4 outputs. This is a crucial feature that allows for more complex recording setups. You can connect and record up to four signals at once, such as a vocal microphone, a guitar, a synthesizer, and a drum machine.

• 4th-Generation Preamps: This generation features Focusrite's clearest and most detailed preamps to date, with an impressive 69dB of gain. This makes it easy to get a strong, clean signal from any microphone, including low-output dynamic and ribbon mics.

• High-Fidelity Converters: The 4th generation uses the same high-quality A/D and D/A converters found in Focusrite's flagship RedNet interfaces, which results in a massive 120dB dynamic range. This ensures your recordings are captured with pristine clarity and detail.

• Flexible I/O: The 4i4 has a variety of inputs to accommodate different instruments and gear:

  • 2 XLR/1/4" combo jacks on the front for microphones and instruments.

  • 2 additional 1/4" line inputs on the back for synths, grooveboxes, or other line-level devices.

• MIDI I/O: A welcome feature for producers, the 4i4 includes dedicated MIDI In and Out ports, allowing you to connect and control MIDI keyboards, controllers, and synthesizers.

New & Notable Features

• Auto Gain: This is a game-changing feature for beginners. The interface will listen to your signal and automatically set the perfect recording level, so you never have to worry about clipping.

• Clip Safe: A safety net for your recordings. This feature automatically adjusts the gain if you are at risk of clipping (overloading the signal and causing distortion), ensuring that you never lose a take.

• Re-engineered Air Mode: The original Air mode on previous generations emulated the sound of a classic console. The 4th generation takes this a step further with two different modes: Presence (adds high-end clarity) and Harmonic Drive (adds a touch of saturation and warmth).

• Hi-Z Instrument Inputs: The instrument inputs are designed to feel just like plugging into a guitar amp, which makes for a more natural and inspiring recording experience.

• Loopback: A convenient feature for podcasters and streamers, Loopback allows you to route audio from your computer (like a Zoom call or a YouTube video) back into your recording software.

• Improved Headphone Output: The headphone output has been redesigned for a clearer, more powerful, and more detailed sound.

Included Software

The Scarlett 4i4 comes with a comprehensive software bundle to get you started, including:

• Ableton Live Lite and Avid Pro Tools Intro+ (DAWs for recording)

• Hitmaker Expansion Bundle with a variety of plugins for mixing and mastering, including Antares Auto-Tune Access, Softube Marshall Silver Jubilee 2555, and Native Instruments MASSIVE.

Overall Impression

The Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Generation is a fantastic choice for:

• Multi-instrumentalists: Its expanded I/O allows you to record multiple instruments and vocals simultaneously, making it a great centerpiece for a home studio.

• Producers: The additional line inputs and MIDI I/O make it easy to integrate hardware synthesizers, drum machines, and outboard gear into your setup.

• Anyone needing a reliable, high-quality interface: The significant improvements in preamp quality, converters, and feature set make it a top contender in its class.