Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen Best Price
The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen is a powerful and versatile 18-input, 20-output USB audio interface aimed at professional home studios and musicians. This third generation model builds on the success of the popular Scarlett range with improved converters, lower latency, and new Focusrite MixControl software.
In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the features, sound quality, software bundle, and overall performance of the 18i20 to see how it stacks up against competitors and if it’s worth the investment for home studio owners and gigging musicians.
Key Features
- 18 inputs and 20 outputs
- 24-bit/192kHz conversion
- 4 newly designed mic preamps with Air mode
- 2 independant headphone outputs
- 8 analog outputs
- 8 line inputs
- 2 instrument inputs
- MIDI I/O
- Monitor mixing and FX software included
- USB-C connectivity
Sound Quality and Conversion
The Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen utilizes the latest high performanceFocusrite converters to deliver pristine audio quality with 119dB dynamic range on the inputs and 121dB on the outputs. This puts it right up there with some of the best interfaces in its class like the Presonus Quantum and RME Babyface Pro.
The mic preamps have also been redesigned and now feature Air mode which emulates Focusrite’s classic ISA preamp sound. This adds a subtle sheen and warmth to vocals and acoustic instruments, making them sound more professional. The instrument inputs also sound clear and responsive, translating guitar and bass tones accurately.
- Sound better than ever with Air on 18i20’s eight mic pres
- Plug in and produce with eight line inputs and eight line outputs
- Record and play back in studio quality – 24-bit/192 kHz converters
- Super low latency, class-leading drivers
- Two hi-Z instrument input to preserve your guitar tone
For monitoring, the 18i20 provides two independent headphone outputs with separate mix controls so two performers can dial in their own cue mixes. The main outputs feed speakers confidently even when pushing high volumes without any distortion or harshness. Overall, the sound quality lives up to Focusrite’s excellent reputation.
Connectivity and Software
The Scarlett 18i20 utilizes a USB-C connection to hook up to your computer. It’s compatible with USB 3 ports and also works with Thunderbolt 3 computers for plug-and-play connectivity. There are also optical ADAT inputs and outputs for expanding the I/O capabilities by connecting external mic pres or ADAT compatible gear.
Bundled software includes Focusrite Control for routing and low-latency monitoring, and the Focusrite Red Plug-in Suite of effects and amp sims. However, the most exciting inclusion is a Pro Tools | First Focusrite Creative Pack license for getting started with Avid’s industry standard DAW.
Ease of Use
Despite the abundance of inputs and outputs, the 18i20 maintains a clean, logical layout on the rear panel which makes it easy to hook up. The front panel provides instant access to headphone and line input monitoring levels.
The Focusrite Control software provides matrix-style routing between all the inputs and outputs as well as monitor mix controls. It offers full customization for your workflow but may require some learning curve for new users. Fortunately, the 18i20 comes with printed documentation walking you through the basics of setting up your interface.
Who is it for?
With its robust I/O count, great converters, and pedigree mic preamps, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen is ideal for home studio owners who need to record drums, guitars, vocals, and other instruments simultaneously. Musicians with bigger rigs and those collaborating with multiple performers will benefit.
While it’s full-featured for professionals, the intuitive software and layout also make this a great step-up model for beginner and intermediate producers ready to upgrade from entry-level interfaces.
Comparison to Other Models
The 18i20 sits above Focusrite’s Scarlett Solo, 2i2, and 8i6 interfaces, offering more I/O and headroom for larger recording sessions. It compares well to competitors like the PreSonus 1824c but adds nicer preamps and ADAT expandability.
The Clarett OctoPre gives you 8 mic pres for a bit less, but no additional line inputs or MIDI. Moving up, the RME Babyface Pro FS provides pristine conversion in a portable interface but fewer physical inputs. Overall, the 18i20 hits a nice sweet spot of value in the crowded prosumer interface market.
Pros
- Excellent sound quality with professional grade converters
- Versatile high headroom mic preamps with Air mode
- Plenty of I/O for complex recording sessions
- Independent headphone mixes for performers
- Bundled software adds value including Pro Tools First
- Rugged metal construction
Cons
- Focusrite Control has some learning curve
- No dedicated power switch
- Small screen for mixer view
Conclusion
With upgraded converters and mic preamps, seamless USB-C connectivity, and well-designed software control, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 continues to be one of the best prosumer interfaces available. It provides an exceptional value for home studio owners who need plenty of I/O, great mic pres, and excellent sound. Despite some interface software quirks, the 18i20 gets the fundamentals right and will provide many years of high-quality service.
FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen:
What computer connectivity does it use?
The 18i20 uses USB-C connectivity which is compatible with USB 3 ports or Thunderbolt 3 computers.
How many mics can you record at once?
With 4 mic preamps plus 8 line inputs, you can record up to 12 mono sources simultaneously.
Does it come with any software?
Yes, it includes Focusrite Control software plus Ableton Live Lite and Softube Time & Tone bundle plugins. It also has a Pro Tools First license.
Is Thunderbolt better than USB?
Thunderbolt has lower latency and can transmit more bandwidth. However, for the 18i20 USB provides plenty of speed and stability. Thunderbolt compatibility is convenient if you own a new Mac.
Can you expand the number of inputs?
Yes, using the ADAT optical in and out you can add up to 8 channels of additional I/O from external mic pres or ADAT compatible gear.
Are there any compatible accessories?
Focusrite offers the Red 8Pre expander and the RedNet series for adding more I/O. The 18i20 is also compatible with the Clarett Thunderbolt interfaces.
What are the dimensions?
The 18i20 is 12.6 x 8.58 x 1.73 inches (320 x 218 x 44 mm).
Comparison Table
| Feature | Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 | PreSonus Studio 1824c | MOTU M4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $599 | $599 | $219 |
| Mic preamps | 4 | 4 | 1 |
| Line inputs | 8 | 6 | 2 |
| Instrument inputs | 2 | 2 | 1 |
| Max sampling rate | 192 kHz | 96 kHz | 96 kHz |
| ADAT I/O | Yes | No | No |
| MIDI I/O | Yes | No | No |
| Included software | Pro Tools First, Ableton Live Lite | Studio One Artist | MOTU Performer Lite |
Conclusion
The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen interface provides professional quality audio conversion in a feature-packed unit with plenty of I/O for studio recording and live performance. It’s a versatile option for home studio owners who need great mic preamps and flexible routing options to capture high-quality tracks. Musicians with more complex setups will appreciate the abundance of inputs and outputs combined with exceptional sound. Despite a few minor drawbacks, the 18i20 delivers outstanding performance and value for a mid-range interface.
- Sound better than ever with Air on 18i20’s eight mic pres
- Plug in and produce with eight line inputs and eight line outputs
- Record and play back in studio quality – 24-bit/192 kHz converters
- Super low latency, class-leading drivers
- Two hi-Z instrument input to preserve your guitar tone
- Materials and Design: The adapter is made with anti-interference zinc alloy metallic housing and minimalist design with anti-slippery embossments
- Connectors: Engineered for enhanced durability, the male USB C and female USB3 connectors are designed to be plugged and unplugged up to 10000 times
- Compatibility: This USB C to USB 3.0 adapter is compatible with iPhone 16/16 Plus/16 Pro/16 Pro Max and MacBook Pro after 2016 and MacBook Air after 2018 and most of the laptops, tablets and smartphones with a USB Type C port
- USB 3.0 Speed in Two: Came in two fast speed adapters in data transfer and charging with premium materials. A foam container is also included for storage and travel
- Compact and Easy to Use: Plug and play, no driver required; Simple structure, lightweight and portability; Also, you can sync or charge your phone with this USB C to USB adapter
- Bass Sound: Enjoy clear sound and superior comfort with the OneOdio Studio Monitor Headphones. Equipped with large 50mm speaker drivers and neodymium magnets, pro-10 deliver powerful bass, clear vocals, and crisp highs for a balanced stereo sound.
- Built for Comfort: The soft, padded ear cushions are designed to provide long-lasting comfort and effective noise isolation. The adjustable, stretchable headband allows you to easily find the perfect fit and angle for your listening pleasure.
- Single-side Monitoring: The 90° swiveling ear cups allow for single-ear monitoring, making it ideal for DJing or mixing. The self-adjusting and flexible headband ensures a fatigue-free listening experience, even during extended sessions, making these headphones perfect for mastering and mixing.
- Compatibility: Pro-10 wired headphones work exclusively in wired mode and are compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, desktop computers, audio interfaces, DJ mixers, amplifiers, and any device that features either a 3.5mm or 6.35mm audio jack.
- Share Audio Port: With a shared audio port, easily connect another pair to share music or videos—no splitters or special cables needed.
- Pro performance with great pre-amps - Achieve a brighter recording thanks to the high performing mic pre-amps of the Scarlett solo 3rd Gen. A switchable Air mode will add extra clarity to your acoustic instruments when recording with your Solo 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.
- Studio quality recording for your music & podcasts - Achieve pro sounding recordings with Scarlett solo 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.
- 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.
- Easy Start - It’s easier than ever to get up and running with your Scarlett solo 3rd Gen with our online tool, Easy Start. Whether you’re looking to record or playback audio, we will help you get started.
- Professional Audio Quality: Our XLR microphone cable is expertly crafted for use with professional microphones and recording equipment. Featuring high-quality 3-pin XLR connectors, it ensures exceptional sound quality, making it ideal for studio and live recording environments
- Convenient 2-Pack Bundle: This value pack includes two xlr to xlr cables, offering spare or replacement options for different audio setups. Whether for studio microphones or various audio systems, these cables provide the flexibility and convenience you need
- Enhanced Sound Clarity: Constructed with oxygen-free copper (OFC) conductors, our mic cable delivers pristine sound. The balanced design, combined with a soft PVC jacket, ensures minimal interference and maximum audio fidelity
- Superior Shielding & Durability: The cables feature copper braided shielding for maximum noise cancellation, and heavy-duty metal connectors with molded strain relief for increased durability. The robust construction ensures long-lasting performance and reliability
- Versatile Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of professional audio equipment, these cables are suitable for connecting shotguns microphones, mixing boards, preamps, speaker systems, and stage lighting with 3-pin XLR connectors, making them a versatile choice for various audio applications
- Custom three-capsule array: This professional USB mic produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for YouTube videos, Twitch game streaming, podcasting, Zoom meetings, music recording and more
- Blue VOICE software: Elevate your streamings and recordings with clear broadcast vocal sound and entertain your audience with enhanced effects, advanced modulation and HD audio samples
- Four pickup patterns: Flexible cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo pickup patterns allow you to record in ways that would normally require multiple mics, for vocals, instruments and podcasts
- Onboard audio controls: Headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and mic gain put you in charge of every level of the audio recording and streaming process
- Positionable design: Pivot the mic in relation to the sound source to optimize your sound quality thanks to the adjustable desktop stand and track your voice in real time with no-latency monitoring
- 【Outstanding Sound Absorption】 - Distinct pyramid 3D acoustic design, these panels increases the contact area with sound. Therefore, they does an excellent job in absorbing flutter echoes, reverberation and standing waves. Compared with 1 inches panels, this 2 inches panels make much more difference in acoustic treatment.
- 【Improve Sound Quality & Clarity】These high dense panels can reduce unwanted echoes, reflections. Sound listens less harsh and much clearer after these panels installed on wall or ceiling. Perfectly good for video, audio recording, interview, meeting, podcast, live, music, and gaming romm.
- 【Specifications】 - Every package comes with 24 pack set black pyramid shaped acoustic panels which covers 24 sq ft in total. The dimension is 12 x 12 inches of 2 inches(from bottom to its peak)for each tile. High density (25kg/m3), flame retardant, and made of non-toxic polyurethane foam, we are committed to providing an affordable and healthy sound panel for acoustic treatment.
- 【Rapid Expansion】 - What makes our acoustic panels unique is that they puff up to full shape and size rapidly. Usually it takes less than 24 hours to expand, but may take longer sometimes. Just separate the panels from interlocking status and let them sit in a well ventilated place, they will quickly be what you want. You won’t see any worry for the package of vacuum sealed.
- 【Easy to Install】These Soundproof wall panels are made of 100% polyurethane sponge, no health risk. Upgraded flame retardant acoustic foam panels, in case of fire caught, they will come to an end on their own within 1 minute. 1 adhesive sticker or spray adhesive to each corner and 1 to the middle is all it takes to install these panels to the wall or ceiling. Our sound foam panels can be easily cut to smaller size to fit different surface.
- [XLR Mic Input] One XLR microphone input interface is set on the gaming audio mixer, which is great to up your audio quality with your XLR setup. The XLR mixer is a stepping stone to upgrade your live streaming. Audio mixer offered built-in 48V phantom power which opens up more choices for mics. Directly use it with your condenser microphone but do not solve added peripherals. (NOT available for USB mic)
- [Individual Channel Control] Gaming audio mixer for one mic recording with smooth volume slider fader take your streaming recording to a whole new level with full pleasure. Four independent channels set on the DJ mixer give audio volume of the MICROPHONE, LINE IN, HEADPHONE, and LINE OUT channels individual control. Configurable on the PC audio mixer instead of just operating on your game or streaming software.
- [Mute and Monitor] The front mute and monitor buttons but not at the back, make it easier to get the audio interface use. Ability to mute audio, the audio mixer for streaming prevents background noise from damaging your live broadcast. Real-time feedback between speaking and hearing will not distract your attention, which encourage you to speak more confidently. The sturdy-built control button allow you to operate freely and easily during live streaming.
- [Sound Effects] The computer sound mixer supports four pre-recorded customized button that can be recorded and activated at the press of button to post production. 6 kinds of voice changing modes change your output style. 12 auto tune changes the tone of your voice. The podcast mixer being able to add different and fun effects is a huge bonus for your streaming or game voice.
- [Controllable Vibrant RGB] RGB button on the audio mixer DJ meets different live streaming themes. Lights on the video mixer is vibrant but not harsh on your eyes. Flowing or frozen RGB color rotation in a decent pace presents a greatly strong impression as a "light show" to your audience. Even a streaming equipment accessory will not be dull looking when video production.
- 【SMALL HIFI BOOKSHELF SPEAKERS】Small bookshelf speakers with HiFi sound quality. SW208 adopts standard bookshelf speaker system design, i.e. direct/reflective speaker system. Can be placed at will, can easily create a rich stereo sense and strong sound pressure. Well-designed premium finish wood structure and surface, elegant appearance and fashionable.
- 【30Wx2 CARBON FIBER SEPAKER UNIT】The speaker unit is designed with carbon fiber material and multi-layer voice coil technology, which is proprietary by Sanyun Company. It has excellent sound performance, warm and thick medium frequency, deep and powerful low frequency, clear and bright high frequency sound characteristics. And the speaker unit has a super durability and stability, can work steadily in any environment.
- 【24bit DAC USB CONNECTION AND BLUETOOTH 5.0】Bluetooth 5.0 connection, stable transmission. When connecting with USB cable, the built-in 24bit DAC can obtain the digital audio signal from the device directly, reducing the loss of the signal from digital to analog, maximizing the restoration of the audio source itself, and providing the best sound Performance.
- 【TREBLE AND BASS ADJUSTMENT】To achieve true HiFi sound quality, set the total volume, treble and bass adjustment knobs on the side of main speaker. Please adjust the most suitable sound according to your preferences, or adjust the best sound effect according to different sound types.
- 【QUIET STANDBY and ENERGY SAVING】Built in noise elimination system. Built-in chip, intelligent filter input audio, automatic filter to remove noise, keep the speakers absolutely quiet while standby. The design standard conforms to EU ER2 standard, saving energy. A good speaker, not only can provide good sound performance, when not in use, can quietly let you forget its existence.
- Bass Sound: Enjoy the clear sound and supreme comfort with the OneOdio FUSION headphones. Neodymium magnets drivers deliver powerful bass and clear details, great for playing musical instrument like guitar, e-drum, and listening music etc.
- Built to Stay Comfortable: The soft padded ear cushions are specifically designed for monitor headphones comfort and noise isolation. The headband is adjustable and stretchable for you to find the desired angle you like to fit in.
- No More Adapter: A long-style 6.6-9.8 ft coiled cord easily reaches from the TV or stereo to your chair. A standard-sized 6.35mm plug and a 3.5mm plug are included. They both are completely detachable, you can plug in the mixer you want to use.
- Single-sided Monitoring: 90° swiveling earcups for single-ear monitoring anytime; self-adjustable and flexible headband delivers a fatigue-free listening experience that can last for hours, perfect for monitering and mixing.
- Works with: All devices have 3.5 or 6.35mm audio jack. Bass sound, durability, and comfort. These are the headphones you've been looking for.
- ALL IN ONE and EASY TO USE: Works as an audio mixer station. Integrating audio mixing equipment into 1 comprehensive solution. It delivers superb sound quality and offers intuitive and full control to optimize vocal and sound effects. The S1 podcast equipment bundle comes with a condenser microphone that lets you start podcasting, live streaming,dj easily in no time. Start recording when you plug into the smartphone or PC
- SPECIAL EFFECTS: Four user recordable, eight Built-in special audio effects, and various adjustments available for your creation. Fixed audio effects like APPLAUSE, LAUGHTER, CHEERING...Note please record your own audio effects you like to audio mixer according to the instructions
- BORN FOR LIVE STREAMING: MAONO podcast equipment soundboard supports up to 2 people, 4 devices, and 4 platforms to stream simultaneously. Highlights of this set, you can change your voice to the male, female, or girlish, robot. With two mic inputs, One Accompaniment input, and real-time monitoring, good noise reduction effect after pressing the DENOISE button. It is compatible with IOS and Android systems
- START YOUR OWN CONCERT: 10-step reverb & 12-step electronic music & 3 modifiable tones (Treble, mid-range, bass) make this audio interface more entertaining and meet more live recording needs
- PACKAGE LIST: 1* MIC, 1* Mic Cable, 1* Mic tripod, 1* windscreen muff, 1* Audio mixer, 1* Charging cable, 2* 3.5mm TRRS Audio Cable, 1* User manual. For a better user experience, please download more instructions below and read the user manual before setting up. Maonocaster Lite AM200 only supports 3.5mm microphone input and does not support phantom power. The included microphone is forbidden to be used with phantom power
Review
Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen
The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen is a highly versatile and professional-grade USB audio interface designed for musicians, producers, and audio engineers. With its third-generation technology, the 18i20 offers exceptional audio quality, low latency, and a wide range of input and output options. It features 18 inputs and 20 outputs, including eight high-quality Scarlett microphone preamps with switchable Air mode, allowing users to achieve clear and transparent recordings or add a subtle analog warmth to their sound. The interface also includes ADAT and S/PDIF digital connectivity, making it expandable to accommodate additional gear. Additionally, the Scarlett 18i20 comes with Focusrite's innovative Control software, enabling intuitive and flexible monitoring and routing capabilities.
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 18i20 3rd Gen Best Price
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$599.99
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