Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen Best Price
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen is the latest iteration of Focusrite’s best-selling Scarlett 2i2 USB audio interface.
Launched in 2011, the Scarlett range pioneered the concept of an easy-to-use, high quality audio interface aimed at home studio owners, musicians, podcasters and streamers.
With each new generation, Focusrite has refined and improved the Scarlett 2i2 formula. But is the 3rd Gen worth an upgrade for existing Scarlett 2i2 users?
And how does it stack up against competing models for those looking to buy their first audio interface?
In this review we will provide a detailed look at the features, performance and value proposition of the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen.
Key Features
The Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen retains the same core 2 input/2 output configuration as previous versions. However, a host of upgrades under the hood aim to deliver improved sound quality, lower latency and greater versatility. Here are some of the key features that set the 3rd Gen model apart:
- Next generation Scarlett microphone preamps – Redesigned from the ground up to deliver even lower noise and richer, more detailed sound quality. Up to 60dB of gain is available to amplify weak microphone signals.
- High performance AD/DA converters – New converters provide 119dB dynamic range on inputs and outputs, surpassing many interfaces costing twice as much. This allows more detail to be captured from subtle sounds and room ambience.
- Ultra-low roundtrip latency – As low as 2.74ms makes monitoring and software instrument playback feel super tight and responsive. Vital for musicians recording and producing music.
- Air mode – Engages analog modeling on the mic preamp to add warmth and character to recordings. Especially useful for vocals and acoustic instruments.
- High speed USB-C connectivity – USB 2.0 has been replaced by USB-C 3.0 for lightning fast data transfer speeds. Makes the interface fully bus-powered for minimal desktop clutter.
- Loopback functionality – Hidden menu allows the 2i2 to receive input from both physical and software sources at once. Useful for live streaming, podcasting and audio routing.
On paper, the Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen represents a significant step up in audio quality, versatility and future-proofing. But specs only tell half the story. The real test is how the 2i2 performs in actual use cases.
- Pro performance with great pre-amps - Achieve a brighter recording thanks to the high performing mic pre-amps of the Scarlett 3rd Gen. A switchable Air mode will add extra clarity to your acoustic instruments when recording with your 2i2 3rd Gen.
- Get the perfect guitar and vocal take with - With two high-headroom instrument inputs to plug in your guitar or bass so that they shine through. Capture your voice and instruments without any unwanted clipping or distortion thanks to our Gain Halos.
- Low-noise for crystal clear listening - 2 low-noise balanced outputs provide clean audio playback with 3rd Gen. Hear all the nuances of your tracks or music from Spotify, Apple & Amazon Music. Plug-in headphones for private listening in high-fidelity.
- Studio quality recording for your music & podcasts - Achieve pro sounding recordings with Scarlett 3rd Gen’s high-performance converters enabling you to record and mix at up to 24-bit/192kHz. Your recordings will retain all of their sonic qualities.
- Easy Start - It’s easier than ever to get up and running with your Scarlett 3rd Gen with our online tool, Easy Start. Whether you’re looking to record or playback audio, we will help you get started.
Build Quality & Design
Opening the box, you immediately notice the Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen has a refreshed aesthetic compared to older generations. The rounded red corners and engraved logo give the unit a more premium, stylish look. Build quality feels robust thanks to the rugged metal construction. Rubber pads on the bottom provide grip and isolation. At just 12 x 3 x 5 inches and weighing 1.1 lbs, the 2i2 maintains a conveniently compact footprint for crowding desktops.
The front panel keeps things simple, with just two combo XLR/TRS inputs, gain control knobs, 48v phantom power buttons, headphone volume knob and direct monitor mix control. Each input has a ring of halo-style LED metering to visually monitor signal levels going into the interface.
Around the back, you’ll find the main outputs on standard TRS jacks, along with USB-C and Kensington lock slots. The USB-C port not only provides charging power to the unit, but also handles all audio data transfer to and from the computer. This allows the 2i2 to function as a true standalone interface with no extra power connections required.
While the 2i2 lacks digital connectivity options like AES3 or S/PDIF, the simple analog I/O arrangement covers the core needs of most home studio owners at this price point. Operation is made intuitive by the hands-on control knobs for key functions like gain staging. Overall, the Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen is a well-built, thoughtfully designed interface for desktop use.
Setup & Compatibility
Getting up and running with the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen is refreshingly easy thanks to the plug and play USB-C connectivity. Simply download the free Focusrite Control software for your Mac or Windows computer, connect the included USB-C cable between the 2i2 and computer, and you’re good to go. No external power supply or extra cables required.
The latest Control software automatically detects the 2i2 model and configures optimized low latency driver settings. Focusrite Control also unlocks access to “hidden” settings like Air mode, mono sum andDirect monitor dim. Custom headphone mixes between input signals and DAW playback can be dialed in for zero-latency overdubbing.
Compatibility is excellent with all major DAWs like Pro Tools, Logic, Ableton and more. On Windows, ASIO drivers provide tight integration, while Macs use the native Core Audio interface. iOS compatibility allows using the 2i2 with Apple iPads via the Camera Connection Kit. The only slight drawback is lack of native Linux support currently. But for most users on macOS or Windows machines, the 2i2 will work flawlessly out the box.
Sound Quality
This is where the Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen really shines. The upgraded mic preamps and converters deliver a level of transparency, detail and depth that rivals or exceeds interfaces costing twice as much.
Focusrite’s Air mode is actually modeled on the classic ISA preamp – engaging it adds a subtle layer of analog warmth that flatters vocals, acoustic guitars and other instruments. 44.1 to 192kHz sampling rates are supported, covering everything from podcasts to high resolution recordings.
Monitoring latency as low as 2.74ms pairs perfectly with soft synth plugins like Native Instruments Komplete for incredible playability. Phantom power makes it easy to use professional condenser mics. There’s very clean gain available through the mic pres before clipping kicks in.
Overall, it’s hard to fault the pristine audio quality Focusrite has packed into this diminutive desktop interface. The round trip latency is equally impressive for software monitoring. Considering the affordable price point, the Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen punches well above its weight in terms of sound and versatility.
Value Proposition
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen carries an MSRP of $159, which represents a modest $10 price increase over the previous 2nd Gen model. However for that extra investment, you’re getting a heap of additional functionality and performance.
Chief competitors in this space include the PreSonus Studio 24c, which can be regularly found discounted to $149. The SSL 2+ is another alternative at around $169. All three units have broadly similar I/O arrangements, but the Focusrite edges ahead on sound quality while retaining competitive pricing.
Given the major upgrades under the hood like the Air mode, USB-C connectivity and class-leading mic preamps, the Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen feels almost like a cut-price Clarett interface. It’s impressive just how much pristine sound Focusrite has packed into a sub-$200 product.
For musicians, podcasters and streamers seeking premium quality on a budget, the Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen is quite simply one of the best value propositions on the market right now. It outperforms rivals at a similar price point, giving home studio owners more flexibility to capture professional results.
Who Is It For?
Thanks to the versatile feature set and high build quality, the Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen serves a wide range of users:
- Home studio musicians – The great sounding preamps, low latency performance and compact footprint make the 2i2 a perfect interface for home studios. Allows pro-quality recording and mixing capabilities on a budget.
- Podcasters – Loopback functionality plus ultra low latency monitoring are ideal for podcast workflows. The 2i2 provides studio-grade quality for voice recording in a simple plug and play interface.
- Streamers – With the ability to pull in audio software and hardware sources, the 2i2 is primed for computer streaming. Dial in custom headphone mixes for game, chat and music audio.
- Mobile users – Compatibility with iOS devices like iPads and iPhones via the Camera Connection Kit turns the Scarlett 2i2 into a portable recording interface.
- Students – An affordable way for students to access broadcast standard audio tools for music, media and podcast production from their laptop. Great educational investment.
The unit’s small footprint and bus-powered operation also makes it easy to transport for mobile recording use. Overall, the 2i2 3rd Gen is versatile enough to appeal to a wide spectrum of musicians, content creators and audio professionals.
Pros & Cons
Here’s a quick rundown of some of the biggest pros and cons based on our hands-on testing:
Pros
- Rich, detailed sound quality from upgraded mic pres and converters
- Air mode adds character and body to recordings
- Latency as low as 2.74ms
- USB-C powered operation
- Rugged metal construction
- Affordable pricing
Cons
- No digital connectivity like AES3
- Limited to just 2 inputs and 2 outputs
- No official Linux support
- Headphones have to share volume control with main outputs
For the price, compromises have to be made somewhere and core I/O limitations are to be expected. However, the 2i2 nails the fundamentals of great sound, low latency and easy operation.
Conclusion
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 has been a benchmark USB interface for home studios and musicians for over a decade. With each generation, Focusrite finds ways to incrementally improve on the already solid 2i2 formula. This 3rd Gen model represents the biggest evolutionary leap yet, with a redesigned preamp, premium converters and future-proofed USB-C connectivity.
Sonically it delivers professional quality recordings with surprising transparency and depth, aided by the Air analog modeling. Impressively low latency cements its usefulness for tracking and monitoring. Despite the upgrades, pricing stays very reasonable for an interface punching far above its class.
For home studio owners ready to step up their recording game, the Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen is a thoughtfully refined iteration on a classic interface design. It brings broadcast-ready audio quality down to the desktop in a compact plug and play unit. For users wanting premium I/O expandability, Focusrite’s Clarett series may be worth considering instead.
But overall, as an affordable workhorse interface for musicians, podcasters and streamers, the Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen earns top marks and an enthusiastic recommendation. The sound quality and versatility on offer are difficult to beat at this price point. Focusrite has succeeded in making a great interface even better for the 3rd generation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the 2i2 3rd Gen compare to the popular Solo model?
The 2i2 simply adds a second input and output over the Solo. So it allows recording a microphone and instrument simultaneously. The core sound quality and features are otherwise pretty much identical. Go with the Solo if you only need one input.
Can the headphone output power headphones up to 250ohms or more?
Yes, the headphone amp has plenty of power to drive even high impedance headphones up to 300ohms nicely. The tone shaping from the monitor mix knob helps dial in a good listening level.
Does the Scarlett 2i2 work with an iPad/iPhone?
Yes, using a Lightning to USB Camera Adapter you can connect and use the Scarlett 2i2 as either a headphone amp or stereo interface with an iOS device. The iPad will see the 2i2 as a class compliant audio device.
What sample rates and bit depths are supported?
The 2i2 can handle sample rates from 44.1kHz up to 192kHz at a bit depth of 24-bit on both inputs and outputs. So it covers everything from standard definition to high resolution audio.
Can the Air mode be applied independently to each mic preamp?
No, unfortunately the Air effect has to be enabled globally and can’t be switched on per input. You’ll need a 4i4 or higher model for independent Air per mic pre.
Is there a headphone volume control separate from the main output?
No, the front panel monitor volume knob adjusts both headphone and main output volume together. You can balance the mix between input and DAW playback though.
Does the 2i2 work well for live streaming applications?
Yes, the loopback functionality allows you to pipe audio from streaming software and microphone/instruments into your broadcast. Plus ultra low latency makes monitoring easy.
What is the typical roundtrip latency on Windows and Mac?
Latency can be as low as 2.74ms making software instruments very playable. On Mac expect around 3-5ms, and Windows 5-8ms for typical performance depending on PC specs.
What is the maximum gain available on the mic preamps?
You get up to 60dB of clean gain before the mic pres start to clip or distort. This allows quiet mics and instruments to be amplified well. Engaging the Air mode adds even more gain if needed.
Conclusion
In summary, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen USB audio interface offers outstanding quality and performance in a compact, bus-powered unit. It represents excellent value for money and is a great choice for home studio musicians, podcasters, streamers and other content creators looking to elevate their productions to the next level. While not without some limitations, the upgraded preamps, converters and thoughtful design make the 2i2 a benchmark product in its class.
- Pro performance with great pre-amps - Achieve a brighter recording thanks to the high performing mic pre-amps of the Scarlett 3rd Gen. A switchable Air mode will add extra clarity to your acoustic instruments when recording with your 2i2 3rd Gen.
- Get the perfect guitar and vocal take with - With two high-headroom instrument inputs to plug in your guitar or bass so that they shine through. Capture your voice and instruments without any unwanted clipping or distortion thanks to our Gain Halos.
- Low-noise for crystal clear listening - 2 low-noise balanced outputs provide clean audio playback with 3rd Gen. Hear all the nuances of your tracks or music from Spotify, Apple & Amazon Music. Plug-in headphones for private listening in high-fidelity.
- Studio quality recording for your music & podcasts - Achieve pro sounding recordings with Scarlett 3rd Gen’s high-performance converters enabling you to record and mix at up to 24-bit/192kHz. Your recordings will retain all of their sonic qualities.
- Easy Start - It’s easier than ever to get up and running with your Scarlett 3rd Gen with our online tool, Easy Start. Whether you’re looking to record or playback audio, we will help you get started.
- 【Multi-platform Compatible】 Gaming headset with microphone for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One Series X/S (older version requires adapter), Nintendo 3DS, Switch, Laptop, PSP, Tablet, iPad, Computer, Mobile Phone, 3.5mm jack device.
- 【Surrounding Stereo Subwoofer】 Gaming headset with high power 50mm neodymium magnet drivers, greatly enhance the expressiveness and sense of depth of voice playback details, powerful sound quality provide you immersive gaming experience.
- 【Noise Isolating Microphone】Headset integrated onmi-directional microphone can transmit high quality communication with its premium noise isolating function, which enables you to clearly deliver or receive messages while you are in a gamer.
- 【Humanised Design】 Soft and skin-friendly ear cushions, flexible headband with thickening pads, headset weight is only 0.77lb, lightweight and comfortable design provides you with a long-lasting excellent gaming experience.
- 【Professional Gaming Headset】Gaming headphones with 6.5ft high tensile strength, anti-tangle braided cable, rotary volume control and button microphone mute.
- Get the professional edge with head-tracking enhanced JBL QuantumSPHERE 360
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- Next-gen ergonomic design: The lightweight headband and ventilating, premium leather-wrapped, memory foam ear cushions are designed for even the longest gaming sessions.
- Designed for gaming environments, the Active Noise Cancelling* system eliminates unwanted background sounds so you can stay fully engaged in combat without distractions. *ANC feature works only via USB dongle, only compatible with PC, PlayStation and Mac.
- Optimized for PC, compatible with multiple platforms: The JBL Quantum ONE headset is designed for PC use via USB but is also compatible via 3.5mm audio jack
- Wide Compatibility: Our wireless gaming headphones are equipped with both Bluetooth and 2.4G dual modes: ①. Allowing for wireless connection to Xbox controllers (Please note that the X1 Receiver only support the Official Controllers instead of the 3rd parties, and you need an extra Microsoft Adapter (Not Included) when connecting with an old version Xbox One controller) ②. as well as seamless compatibility with PC, PS5, laptops via a 2.4GHz receiver. ③. Mac and Switch supported by Bluetooth mode. Just plug and play for instant gaming immersion.
- Superior Sound Quality: Immerse yourself in the game with our 50mm speakers and 3D surround sound technology. Hear every detail and experience realistic game sound effects. The noise-canceling microphone ensures clear communication with your teammates, enhancing teamwork during intense gaming sessions.
- Extended Battery Life and Low Latency: Enjoy uninterrupted gaming with up to 40 hours of continuous playtime on a single charge, fully charge only need 2 hrs. Our wireless headphones feature low latency technology(＜20ms ), providing instant audio feedback without any noticeable delays, allowing for faster reactions and better gameplay.
- Ergonomic and Comfortable Design: Designed for long gaming sessions, our headphones prioritize comfort and hommization. The adjustable headband and memory foam ear cushions provide a customized fit, ensuring hours of comfortable gameplay. The humanized construction ensures longevity, making these headphones a reliable companion for avid gamers.
- Convenient Controls: Take control of your gaming experience with easy-to-reach buttons on our headphones. Adjust the volume, mute the microphone, or control other settings directly from the headset, allowing for a seamless and effortless gaming experience.
- MULTI-PLATFORM COMPATIBILITY - Pacrate gaming headset with microphone is compatible with PS4, PS5, PS4 Pro/Slim, PSP, Xbox One, Xbox One X/S, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, PC, Laptop, iPad and most other devices with 3.5mm audio jack. Note that the original Xbox One, Xbox 360, iPad Pro,and other devices without 3.5mm audio jack need additional Microsoft adapter to support.(outside the scope of delivery) The USB interface is solely used for powering the LED light.
- STEREO SURROUND SOUND QUALITY - Pacrate xbox headset are equipped with 40mm high density dual neodymium audio drivers, providing stunning audio performance. With enhanced bass, you can enjoy an immersive gaming experience. Great gaming headphones is perfect for a variety of games such as shooters, racing games, football matches and more.
- ADJUSTABLE NOISE CANCELING MICROPHONE - Pacrate ps4 headset have a highly sensitive, adjustable microphone with noise-canceling techniques for efficient and stable communication. It filters out most of the ambient noise in your area and enables real-time conversations without delay. The 120° adjustable mic can be positioned just as you like.
- OPTIMIZED FOR CONVENIENT COMFORT - An adjustable steel slider and good breathable protein ear cushions provide comfort for those long nights of gaming. After hours of intensive use tests, the xbox one headset stay comfortably in place, even after long periods of wear or wearing glasses. PC headset’s closed-cup design will help block out distractions.
- Fascinating LED gaming headset create a cool game atmosphere to enhance the excitement of the game. Bring out your LED fantasies with vibrant, eye-catching lights in a dim halo. Is a cool addition in video recording and live broadcasting scenarios. BEST CHRISTMAS AND BIRTHDAYS GIFT for gamer boyfriends, girls and family.
- Headset Wireless Range Up to 40ft.Headphones fit type:On-Ear.Headphone Sensitivity 111dB (plus/minus3dB)
- Adjustable ear cups fitted with plush memory foam provide exceptional comfort for hours of gameplay.
- High-quality, custom-tuned 50mm neodymium Audio drivers deliver superb sound quality with the range to hear everything you need to on the battlefield.
- An omnidirectional microphone picks up your voice with exceptional clarity, with a flip-up mute function and a built-in LED mute indicator. Headphone Frequency Response:20Hz - 20 kHz,Impedance: 32 Ohms at 1 kHz
- Connect wirelessly to your PC or PS4 using low-latency 2. 4Ghz wireless via the included USB adapter.
- MIC FOR GAMING - Cardioid Mic designed for gaming, broadcasting, and podcasting, level up your stream with Alias Pro and free audio software
- PRO XLR MIC - Pro-grade XLR connection upgrades your audio to broadcast-quality
- 3X BIGGER CAPSULE - Capture a wide range of vocals with a capsule up to three times bigger than other mics
- XLR STREAM MIXER - An XLR amp with customizable controls and RGB, allows monitoring audio levels at a glance
- EZ DUAL PC - Simply plug in one or two PCs via USB-C for an easy and powerful way to stream
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- 【Professional Gaming Headphones】with 50mm drivers that deliver superior audio performance, our PS4 headset can generate a virtual surround sound experience to create distance and depth that enhances any gaming, movie or music experience.
- 【Built For Comfort】 The lightweight design Xbox One headset comes with breathable protein memory foam ear pads, retractable headbeam, and flexible headband to make sure every player can enjoy optimal wearing comfort in a long-time fierce game.
- 【Noise Cancelling Microphone】The microphone features noise cancellation eliminates the background noise to make sure that only you're in the spotlight. Factor in a noise-canceling microphone, you could create a great stream or simply communicate clearly with your team.
- 【Multi-Platforms Headset】This gaming headset with a 3.5mm audio jack is compatible with PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox series S, Xbox Series X controller(For Xbox One controller 1537, an adapter will be required to use this headset), Laptop, Mac, Tablet, Phone, etc.
- 【Wide Application】 Support PlayStation 4, Xbox One S, PC, Nintendo 3DS, Laptop, PSP, PS2, Sega Dreamcast, Tablet, iMac, Computer, Mobile Phone. Please note that you need an extra Microsoft Adapter (Not Included) when connecting with an old version Xbox One controller.
- 【Surrounding Stereo Subwoofer】Clear sound operating strong brass, splendid ambient noise isolation and high precision 50mm magnetic neodymium driver, acoustic positioning precision enhance the sensitivity of the speaker unit, bringing you vivid sound field, sound clarity, shock feeling sound. Perfect for various games like Halo 5 Guardians, Metal Gear Solid, Call of Duty, Star Wars Battlefront, Overwatch, World of Warcraft Legion, etc.
- 【Noise Isolating Microphone】Headset integrated onmi-directional microphone can transmits high quality communication with its premium noise-concellng feature, can pick up sounds with great sensitivity and remove the noise, which enables you clearly deliver or receive messages while you are in a game. Long flexible mic design very convenient to adjust angle of the microphone.
- 【Great Humanized Design】Superior comfortable and good air permeability protein over-ear pads, muti-points headbeam, acord with human body engineering specification can reduce hearing impairment and heat sweat.Skin friendly leather material for a longer period of wearing. Glaring LED lights desigend on the earcups to highlight game atmosphere.
- 【Effortlessly Volume Control】High tensile strength, anti-winding braided USB cable with rotary volume controller and key microphone mute effectively prevents the 49-inches long cable from twining and allows you to control the volume easily and mute the mic as effortless volume control one key mute.
- Game Communication-Better Bass and Accuracy -- The headphones with 50mm speakers and ENC noise cancelling Mic that lets you hear every critical step, reload, or vocal in Remnant 2, Call of Duty, The Legend of Zelda and BG3, gamers will never miss a scene or footage during the gameplay.
- Amazing Stable Connection-Quick Access to Games -- Achieve＜30ms ultra-low latency wireless connection to game audio with our Ps4 headset 2.4GHz USB connector. You'll enjoy a smoother interface and gaming experience and stay ahead of the competition
- Flexible and Convenient Design-Effortless in Game -- The button layout on the PC gaming headset is intuitive, allowing for instant volume up or down and mute, rapid call answering, song cutting, light switching and more. Always with user-focused passion and priority
- Less plug, More Play-Dual Input From 2.4GHz & Bluetooth -- OW810 Ps5 wireless gaming headset with high performance dual-interface 2.4GHz and Bluetooth 5.3 mode for wider adaptability, faster connection speed and not easy to disconnect. It is a good partner for game enthusiasts.
- Wide Compatibility with Gaming Devices -- Bluetooth headset 2.4GHz connector connects seamlessly to Ps5, Ps4, PC, Mac, Laptop, Switch. Bluetooth mode is only available for mobile phone, laptop and switch (Mic function is not supported). 3.5mm wired mode (music and calls only).
Review
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen is a highly acclaimed USB audio interface designed for musicians, producers, and content creators seeking professional-quality audio recording and playback capabilities. This compact and user-friendly device boasts two high-performance microphone preamps with switchable Air mode, which adds brightness and clarity to vocal recordings. Additionally, the 2i2 features two instrument inputs that cater to guitarists and bassists, enabling them to directly connect their instruments without the need for external DI boxes. With its 24-bit/192kHz audio resolution, the Scarlett 2i2 ensures pristine and detailed audio capture, while its low-latency USB connectivity ensures seamless monitoring and recording. It also comes bundled with a comprehensive software package, including the Focusrite Control application, various plugins, and recording software, making it an excellent choice for both entry-level users and experienced professionals in need of a versatile and reliable audio interface. Whether in a home studio or on the go, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen provides a solid foundation for high-quality audio recording and production.
Review Breakdown
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Audio Quality
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Versatility
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Portability
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Features
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Ease of Use
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Value for money
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen Best Price
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$149.99
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