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- High speed USB-C connectivity – USB 2.0 has been replaced by USB-C 3.0 for lightning fast data transfer speeds.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 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 acoustic instruments when recording with your Scarlett 2i2.
- Get the perfect guitar and vocal take - There’s no need to sacrifice your tone with two high-headroom instrument inputs to plug in your guitar or bass so that they shine through. Capture your voice with clarity and your instruments in all their glory without any unwanted clipping or distortion thanks to our Gain Halos.
- 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.
- Studio quality recording 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.
- 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.
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 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 acoustic instruments when recording with your Scarlett 2i2.
- Get the perfect guitar and vocal take - There’s no need to sacrifice your tone with two high-headroom instrument inputs to plug in your guitar or bass so that they shine through. Capture your voice with clarity and your instruments in all their glory without any unwanted clipping or distortion thanks to our Gain Halos.
- 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.
- Studio quality recording 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.
- 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 NUBWO computer headset features an enhanced Digital Signal sound card in the control box for clear, natural, and rich audio. Enjoy clear sound whether you're on a video call or listening to music in a busy workspace.
- The adjustable boom mic minimizes background noise for clear communication on popular platforms like MS Teams, Skype, Zoom, and more.
- At just 60 grams, the headset has a lightweight design that makes it comfortable for all-day use and long calls. Intuitive inline controls let you adjust volume and mute the microphone with ease. An indicator light shows you when the microphone is muted.
- Compatible with both smartphones and computers, the headset has a 3.5mm connection for direct plug-in to your phone or tablet. The detachable USB inline controls also allow for easy control of PC and Mac calls.
- Choose from three convenient packaging options for the NUBWO HW02: 1 pack, 5 pack (individually packaged), or 10 pack (packed in a bag).
- 🎧 Exceptional Sound & Communication: Enjoy superior audio with the HROEENOI USB Wired Headset, featuring noise-canceling technology for crystal-clear calls and high-definition audio. Ideal for Zoom meetings, Skype calls, online teaching, and gaming. 🎵🔇
- 🎮 Unmatched Comfort & Flexibility: Designed for all-day wear with soft sponge earmuffs, an adjustable headband, and a 270° rotatable microphone. Perfect for both right and left-side use, ensuring maximum comfort for work, school, or play. 🧑💻💼
- 💻 Easy Controls & Universal Compatibility: Simplify your experience with user-friendly in-line controls and plug-and-play connectivity. Compatible with Windows, Mac OS, laptops, and PCs. No additional drivers required for a seamless connection. 🌐🚀
- 🛡️ Durable & Versatile Application: Built to last with high-quality materials and intelligent noise reduction technology. Ideal for call centers, conference calls, virtual teaching, and more. A great gift idea for those who value clear and effective communication. 🌍🎁
- ✅ 5-Year Warranty & Hassle-Free Replacement: We stand by our products with a 5-year warranty. If you face any quality issues or connection difficulties, we'll replace the product swiftly without needing you to return the faulty unit. Your satisfaction is our priority! 🛠️💪
- 【Multi-Platform Compatible】The gaming headset is suitable for all 3.5mm interface devices, including computers, laptops, tablets, mobile phones, PSP, iPad, PlayStation 4, PS Vita, Xbox One / One S, Nintendo Switch, Windows PC, Mac OS PC, etc. (devices other than 3.5 mm mm require additional adapters)
- 【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 Omni-directional microphone can transmit high-quality communication with its premium noise-canceling 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. The long flexible mic design makes it very convenient to adjust the angle of the microphone.
- 【Great Humanized Design】Superior comfortable and good air permeability protein over-ear pads, muti-points head beam, accord with human body engineering specification can reduce hearing impairment and heat sweat. Skin-friendly leather material for a more extended period of wearing. Glaring LED lights are designed on the earcups to highlight the game atmosphere.
- 【Effortlessly Volume Control】High tensile strength, anti-winding braided USB cable with a rotary volume controller and key microphone mute effectively prevents the long cable from twining and allows you to easily control the volume mute the mic as an effortless volume control with one key mute.
- 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.
- [Immersive Sound] Thanks to virtual 7.1 surround sound from the PC game headset, you have the edge on game players. Gaming you was able to hear steps or gunshot to early react, and even know your opponents are walking on land or water. PS4 headset gives you spatial bass sound hearing. The wired over-ear headphones immerse yourself into game world.
- [In-Line Control] Three EQ modes give you presence in different scenes. Putting on Fifine AmpliGame headset, you can experience phenomenal sound for gaming, vivid listening for music concerts or immersive side for occasional movie watching. Volume button controller and mic quick mute with icon on the PC headset, you would not lose yourself when adjust the chat or game audio.
- [Smooth Communication] Talking with teammates while online game, gaming headset with microphone helps your team further to win. Omni-directional mic delivers crisp voice and full sound quality without stuttering. The gaming headphones with microphone makes you sound like gaming in the room with your teammates. It is also easily to pull off the detachable mic when you have some snacks.
- [Soft to Wear] Comfortable and lightweight headband and auricular earmuffs cushion pressure on your head and ears, also for noise canceling. Enjoy game sessions with the PC headset for computer, no much pain feeling, even if a glasses wearer. You can stretch the headband to adjust fitness. The PC headphones wired would not pinch your ears or hair.
- [RGB Headset] Featured with flowing colorful RGB, the black gaming PS5 headset for PC complements your desktop setup accessories design. The RGB headset shows vivid and brilliant lights in dim aura, which completes your LED RGB fantasy. The moderate lighting, stylish and appealing, is a cool addition when video recording and live streaming scenes.
- Note : If the size of the earbud tips does not match the size of your ear canals or the headset is not worn properly in your ears, you may not obtain the correct sound qualities or call performance. Change the earbud tips to ones that fit more snugly in your ear
- Fancy Gaming Atmosphere-The lovely and sweet pink gaming mic is the icing on the cake for your pink game space. The gentle RGB lights changing itself looks more lively under the pink atmosphere. The pink mic for gaming adds infinite gaming fun, for you who are pink fans.
- Intuitive Use-It is undoubtedly a boon for gamer to mute or control gain without software setting. Easily turn up/down volume to make your teammates more comfortable to hear when Discord or Twitch, and the touch-mute button increases your sense of use. Super easy to use with no ticking.
- Gentle and Mild Voice-Your voice can be picked up centrally by the condenser mic capsule with cardioid pattern. The pink mic gaming separates the main source from the noise to present gentle sound quality. The fresh pink streaming screen picture matches your delicate voice to create more interaction with your audience.
- Quick Access-The plug&play USB PC microphone is compatible with desktop/laptop, PS4/5. Connect the RGB mic directly into your computer, and you can quickly start game chat. No more waiting time, you just fully enjoy the game time. It is also convenient for beginner who are not familiar with software operation.
- Useful Accessories-A sturdy metal tripod stand with pink pop filter and shock mount completes the podcast microphone outstanding look. Plosives can be effectively blocked by pop filter during recording, and accidental vibrations will be reduced by shock mount, further filtering for your clear audio.
- 🎬【Video Capture】Capture resolutions of capture card nintendo switch up to 1080p at 60fps for video source with hardware accelerated up-scaling/down-scaling.The recorded video resolution of capture card switch depends on the original video, which is not changeable by capture. Automatically detect the input video format, and automatically adjust to the set output size and frame rate. The capture card for streaming suitable for high definition acquisition, live broadcasts, video recording, etc.
- 🎬【Equipped with Cable, Convenience】The capture card switch equipped with 1pc USB3.0 male-to-male cable and 1pc HDMI cable, more convenience. 1-way HDMI signal loop out function of capture card for streaming can be connected to display devices such as large screens and TVs, allowing you to preview live HD images in real time. You can enjoy the fun with your friends while capturing video.
- 🎬【Easy to Use, Plug and Play】: This HDMI video capture card was created with high-end design in mind and does not need to install a driver, easy to use. You can take advantage of the functions built into the current software to get a seamless experience. No need to install any driver of capture card switch, you can use any third party software to capture or stream your HD game, or other HD video source. The capture card nintendo switch works great for recording gameplay.
- 🎬【Combining A Wide Range of Systems and Software】The capture card nintendo switch compatible with a variety of operating systems, the capture box can work in Windows, LINUX, Max, OSX, Android and other systems. The capture card switch compatible with mainstream streaming media software and live platform like OBS, VLC, twitch, Youtube Live, Facebook Live. The capture card for streaming stream and Record your Finest Gaming moments, Enjoy Your Wonderful Time!
- 🎬【Built-in 3.5mm Microphone】Capture card features built-in 3.5mm Microphone and Audio Input/Output Port, which enables you plug 3.5mm headset or microphone, so that you can stream your voice and record your voice by the ports easily. Capture card switch automatically detect the input audio format and convert it to 48KHz PCM audio. Use the capture card for streaming to add external commentary when playing a game, but it doesn't record party chat.
- A SENNHEISER STANDOUT REVAMPED Based on Sennheiser’s top-tier gaming headsets our Sennheiser PC37X features the same exceptional audio and microphone quality with some key tweaks to make these headphones even better.Note : If the size of the earbud tips does not match the size of your ear canals or the headset is not worn properly in your ears, you may not obtain the correct sound qualities or call performance. Change the earbud tips to ones that fit more snugly in your ear.Specific uses for product : Gaming,Multimedia,Personal
- ANGLED DRIVERS Made with drivers that are positioned at an angle which is typically seen in much more expensive headsets the PC37X maximizes natural sound reproduction resulting in more clarity in your games and tunes
- LOCATIONAL ACCURACY A COMPETITIVE EDGE The PC37X helps you hear enemies and sense your surrounds more clearly Thanks to the angled drivers and open-back design it offers better stereo imaging and locational accuracy
- AUDIOPHILE DRIVERS The drivers come from the same family as the Sennheiser HD598 and HD600 headphonestwo audiophile favorites in the Sennheiser collection
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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