Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface User Manual

1. Product Overview

The Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 3rd Gen is a compact USB audio interface designed for high-fidelity recording, songwriting, and streaming. It offers improved A-D and D-A conversion for clear audio up to 24-bit/192kHz. Featuring two 3rd Gen Scarlett mic preamps with an optional Air setting, it enhances vocal and acoustic recordings. The interface includes two high-headroom instrument inputs for guitars or bass, and six flexible line inputs for synthesizers or drum machines. Dual independent headphone outputs provide flexible monitoring. Virtual loopback inputs allow capturing a stereo feed of hardware input and software playback channels. It connects to Mac or PC via USB and comes with the Hitmaker Expansion software bundle.

Figure 1: Front view of the Scarlett 8i6 3rd Gen audio interface, showing XLR/TRS combo inputs, gain knobs, 48V phantom power, Air mode buttons, monitor level, and headphone outputs.

2. What's in the Box

• Scarlett 8i6 3rd Gen Audio Interface
• 1 x USB cable (Type C-A)
• 1 x Power Supply

3. Setup Guide

3.1. Initial Connection

1. Connect Power: Plug the provided power supply into the Scarlett 8i6 and then into a wall outlet.
2. Connect to Computer: Use the supplied USB Type C-A cable to connect the Scarlett 8i6 to an available USB port on your Mac or PC.
3. Install Drivers and Software: Visit the official Focusrite website (focusrite.com/downloads) to download and install the latest drivers and Focusrite Control software for your operating system. Follow the on-screen instructions for installation.
4. Register Your Product: Register your Scarlett 8i6 to gain access to the included Hitmaker Expansion software bundle.

Figure 2: Scarlett 8i6 3rd Gen connected to a laptop, demonstrating a typical setup for music production.

3.2. Connecting Microphones and Instruments

• Microphones: Connect your XLR microphones to the combo inputs on the front panel. If using condenser microphones, activate the 48V phantom power by pressing the "48V" button next to the corresponding input.
• Instruments: Connect guitars or basses to the combo inputs on the front panel. Press the "INST" button for high-impedance instrument inputs.
• Line-Level Sources: Connect synthesizers, drum machines, or other line-level devices to the six flexible line inputs. Two are on the front with gain control, and four fixed-line inputs are on the back panel.

Figure 3: A musician recording an electric guitar through the Scarlett 8i6 3rd Gen, highlighting instrument input usage.

3.3. Connecting Headphones and Monitors

• Headphones: Plug your headphones into one of the two independent headphone outputs on the front panel. Adjust the volume using the dedicated headphone volume controls.
• Studio Monitors: Connect your studio monitors to the "LINE OUTPUTS" on the rear panel of the Scarlett 8i6.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1. Adjusting Input Gain

Use the "GAIN" knobs on the front panel to adjust the input level for your microphones and instruments. The gain halos around the knobs will indicate the signal level:

• Green: Healthy signal level.
• Amber: Signal is approaching clipping.
• Red: Signal is clipping. Reduce gain immediately.

4.2. Using Air Mode

Press the "AIR" button next to the mic preamps to activate the optional Air setting. This mode emulates the sound of Focusrite's original ISA mic preamp, adding a brighter, more open quality to vocal and acoustic recordings.

4.3. Direct Monitoring

Engage the "DIRECT MONITOR" button to listen to your input signals directly through your headphones or monitors with zero latency. This is useful for monitoring your performance without delay from your computer's software.

Figure 4: Detailed view of the Scarlett 8i6 3rd Gen front panel, showing gain knobs, 48V, Air, Inst buttons, and monitor controls.

4.4. Software Integration (Focusrite Control)

Use the Focusrite Control software on your computer to manage routing, monitoring, and other settings for your Scarlett 8i6. This software provides advanced control over the interface's capabilities, including virtual loopback inputs for capturing internal audio.

5. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the Scarlett 8i6. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Software Updates: Regularly check the Focusrite website for the latest driver and firmware updates to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
• Cable Management: Ensure all cables are securely connected and not under strain to prevent damage to the ports or cables.
• Environmental Conditions: Operate the device in a clean, dry environment away from extreme temperatures and humidity.

6. Troubleshooting

6.1. No Sound Output

• Check all cable connections (USB, power, monitors, headphones).
• Ensure the Scarlett 8i6 is selected as the audio output device in your computer's sound settings and your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW).
• Verify that the monitor and headphone volume knobs on the interface are turned up.
• Check Focusrite Control software for correct routing settings.

6.2. Input Signal Clipping

• If the gain halo turns red, reduce the input "GAIN" knob for that channel.
• Ensure the "PAD" button (if available on your specific input) is engaged for very hot signals.

6.3. Latency Issues

• Use the "DIRECT MONITOR" feature for zero-latency monitoring of input signals.
• In your DAW's audio settings, try reducing the buffer size. Note that very low buffer sizes may strain your computer's CPU.
• Ensure you have the latest drivers installed.

6.4. Device Not Recognized by Computer

• Try connecting the Scarlett 8i6 to a different USB port on your computer.
• Ensure the USB cable is securely connected and not damaged.
• Restart your computer and the Scarlett 8i6.
• Reinstall the Focusrite drivers.

7. Technical Specifications

8. Warranty & Support

8.1. Warranty Information

The Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 3rd Gen comes with a 2-year warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

8.2. Customer Support

For further assistance, technical support, or to search for compatible headphones, please visit the official Focusrite help center at focusrite.com/support.