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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.
- Pro performance with eight of the finest mic preamps – Sound better than ever with 18i20’s eight mic preamps. Achieve a brighter and a more open recording thanks to the best performing mic preamps the Scarlett range has ever seen. A switchable Air mode will add extra clarity to your acoustic instruments when recording with your Scarlett 18i20, replicating the revered Focusrite console.
- All the inputs and outputs you’ll ever need – Record multiple instruments at once directly through the eight available line inputs, allowing you to multi-track and capture the live performance. Enough inputs to make any space into a fully fledged recording studio. With super low latency and class-leading drivers, you will have no problems capturing audio in the moment that is well-polished and true to the original source.
- Crystal clear playback in studio quality – Get professional sounding recordings with Scarlett’s high-performance converters which enable you to record and mix at up to 24-bit/192kHz. Your recordings will retain all of their sonic qualities so that you can hear all the details in your track on playback.
- Get the perfect guitar take – There’s no need to sacrifice your tone with two high-headroom instrument inputs to plug in your guitar or bass. Capture your sound with clarity and have your audio stand out in all its glory without any unwanted clipping or distortion thanks to our Gain Halos.
- All the tools you need to start recording right, now – In the form of Hitmaker Expansion, we’ve partnered with our favourite industry partners to provide you with plenty of sound content and software so that you can create and record music right away. Create powerful guitars, luscious keys and huge drums. Get studio quality vocals with the aid of Antares Auto-Tune Access that allows natural sounding, near-real-time pitch adjustment for getting the best vocal takes.
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.
- Pro performance with eight of the finest mic preamps – Sound better than ever with 18i20’s eight mic preamps. Achieve a brighter and a more open recording thanks to the best performing mic preamps the Scarlett range has ever seen. A switchable Air mode will add extra clarity to your acoustic instruments when recording with your Scarlett 18i20, replicating the revered Focusrite console.
- All the inputs and outputs you’ll ever need – Record multiple instruments at once directly through the eight available line inputs, allowing you to multi-track and capture the live performance. Enough inputs to make any space into a fully fledged recording studio. With super low latency and class-leading drivers, you will have no problems capturing audio in the moment that is well-polished and true to the original source.
- Crystal clear playback in studio quality – Get professional sounding recordings with Scarlett’s high-performance converters which enable you to record and mix at up to 24-bit/192kHz. Your recordings will retain all of their sonic qualities so that you can hear all the details in your track on playback.
- Get the perfect guitar take – There’s no need to sacrifice your tone with two high-headroom instrument inputs to plug in your guitar or bass. Capture your sound with clarity and have your audio stand out in all its glory without any unwanted clipping or distortion thanks to our Gain Halos.
- All the tools you need to start recording right, now – In the form of Hitmaker Expansion, we’ve partnered with our favourite industry partners to provide you with plenty of sound content and software so that you can create and record music right away. Create powerful guitars, luscious keys and huge drums. Get studio quality vocals with the aid of Antares Auto-Tune Access that allows natural sounding, near-real-time pitch adjustment for getting the best vocal takes.
- IN THE BOX: (1) 6-foot-long (1.8 meters) high-speed multi-shielded USB 2.0 A-Male to B-Male cable
- EASY CONNECTION: Connects mice, keyboards, and speed-critical devices, such as external hard drives, printers, and cameras to your computer
- GOLD-PLATED CONNECTORS: Constructed with corrosion-resistant, gold-plated connectors for optimal signal clarity and shielding to minimize interference
- ULTRA FAST SPEED: Full 2.0 USB capability/480 Mbps transfer speed
- FRUSTRATION-FREE PACKAGING: Ships in Certified Frustration-Free Packaging for easy access to batteries
- Pro performance with the finest pre-amps - Achieve a brighter and a more open recording thanks to the best performing mic pre-amps the Scarlett range has ever seen. A switchable Air mode will add extra clarity to your vocals when recording with your Scarlett Solo.
- Get the perfect guitar take - There’s no need to sacrifice your tone with the high headroom instrument input when recording your guitar and basses. Capture your instruments in all their glory without any unwanted clipping or distortion thanks to our Gain Halos.
- Studio quality recordings for your music and podcasts - You can achieve professional sounding recordings with Scarlett’s high-performance converters which enable you to record and mix at up to 24-bit/192kHz. Your recordings will retain all of their sonic qualities so that you can sound like the artists you admire.
- Low-noise for crystal clear listening - Two low-noise balanced outputs provide clean audio playback. Hear all the details and nuances of your own track or music from Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon Music. Plug-in your own headphones via the output for private listening in high-fidelity.
- Easy Start - It’s easier than ever to get up and running with your Scarlett with our online tool, Easy Start. Whether you’re looking to record or playback audio, we will help you get started.
- The reviews speak for themselves!.Waterproof : No
- The only true studio monitor for multimedia, gaming, watching movies, or producing your next hit.
- Now comes included with Studio One Prime and Studio Magic plug-in suite, over $1000 USD worth of music production software.
- 3.5-inch woven composite drivers produce a more powerful bass response with a more accurate overall sound.
- 1" ultra-low-mass silk-dome tweeters eliminate harshness and provide balanced high-frequency sound.
- 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.
- 2-channel USB Audio Interface with 1 XENYX Preamp
- Instrument Input
- Phantom Power
- 48kHz
- ALL IN ONE and EASY TO USE: Works as an audio interface plus mixing 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 or live to stream 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 interface 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 interface mixer, 1* Charging cable, 2* 3.5mm TRRS Audio Cable, 1* User manual. We provide a 12-Month warranty. For a better user experience, please download more instructions below and read 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.
- Podcast, Record, Live Stream, This Portable Audio Interface Covers it All – USB sound card for Mac or PC delivers 48 kHz audio resolution for pristine recording every time
- Be ready for anything with this versatile M-Audio interface - Record guitar, vocals or line input signals with two combo XLR / Line / Instrument Inputs with phantom power
- Everything you Demand from an Audio Interface for Fuss-Free Monitoring – 1/4” headphone output and stereo 1/4” outputs for total monitoring flexibility; USB/Direct switch for zero latency monitoring
- Get the best out of your Microphones - M-Track Duo’s transparent Crystal Preamps guarantee optimal sound from all your microphones including condenser mics
- The MPC Production Experience - Includes MPC Beats Software complete with the essential production tools from Akai Professional
- TRUE STUDIO MONITOR – Based on the highly reviewed Edifier bookshelf speakers, professionally fine-tuned to a near-flat responsive curve for artists and music creators.
- STUDIO QUALITY SOUND – 1-inch silk dome tweeters and 4-inch composite woofers produce a clear, smooth, and overall sound. MDF wooden structure helps to reduce resonance and reveal the true sound.
- FLEXIBLE CONNECTIONS – 1/4-inch balanced TRS input, an unbalanced RCA input, an unbalanced AUX input, and a front headphone output are equipped to connect to devices, such as mixers, computers, tablets, etc.
- THOUGHTFUL DUAL MODE DESIGN – Freely switches between monitor mode – to listen to true audio for music production and music mode – to enjoy daily music for relaxation according to your needs.
- EASY-TO-USE CONTROLS – Equipped with two knobs to adjust high- and low-frequency controls separately, and a convenient front-panel knob to set volume and sound modes.
- Blue Yeti USB Gaming Microphone: Take your gaming to the ultimate level with this Blue Yeti bundle—featuring the iconic mic that has powered top gamers for years
- Exclusive Streamlabs Themes: Give your game stream a custom look with three exclusive downloadable Streamlabs themes; unlock code included with this streaming kit for gaming
- Blue VO.CE Effects: Yeti USB condenser microphone improves your sound and stream with fun vocal effects, HD samples, and studio tools like EQ, limiter and Noise Removal, powered by NVIDIA Broadcast
- Custom Blue Yeti Pop Filter: Keep your stream clean with the included custom Blue Yeti microphone pop filter
- Advanced Voice Modulation: From Electrobeast to Helium Chipmunk, the podcasting microphone can alter, morph and transform your voice to excite and entertain your stream audience
- ♫【All-In-One Podcast Equipment Bundle】The Podcast Equipment Bundle is Equiped with a BM-800 condenser microphone, Double-Layer Pop Filter, an adjustable suspension scissor arm stand, Shock mount, Anti-wind foam Cap, earphone, Power cable, Live sound card.Prefer for you to conduct podcasts, live broadcasts, stream media, and record music and short videos.
- ♫【Excellent Sound Quality】The condenser microphone uses advanced intelligent noise reduction technology and cardioid pickup technology to pick up your voice in all directions. The double-layer POP filter and windproof foam cap further reduce noise, and then it is processed by the professional DSP chip of the sound card to ensure clear and complete sound.
- ♫【Multifunctional Sound Card】The classic V8 sound card can adjust four sound modes to meet your blog's needs, and can also adjust four sound variants (female, male, child, and monster) with 10 special sound effects, adding more fun to your live broadcast.
- ♫【 Powerful Compatibility 】 The Audio interface has strong compatibility, supporting smartphones, PCs, PlayStations (PS4, Xbox...), and more. It can be compatible with Windows, iOS, Android, Mac OS, Chrome OS, and more. This podcast device kit meets the needs of most scenarios. Free drive, plug and play.
- ♫【USB Plug and Play Connection】Easy as Plug and play, just use the cables, earphones, to connect with the sound card and the equipment you want, and it works automatically with your Mac or Windows desktop laptop computer - no phantom power required, plz use it as fully charged. (a software will download automatically)
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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