Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide

This guide provides comprehensive information for the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack, designed for musicians and creators.

Introduction

Welcome to the Scarlett Solo 4th generation, the complete songwriter's studio. This interface is designed for artists who continuously create, offering studio-quality sound with the latest generation of Scarlett technology. Key features include:

What's in the Box?

Your Scarlett Solo Studio Pack includes:

System Requirements

To ensure compatibility with your Scarlett Solo, please check the Focusrite Help Centre for the latest operating system compatibility articles. New OS versions are frequently supported, so regular checks are recommended at support.focusrite.com.

Software System Requirements

For Focusrite Control 2 compatibility with your operating system (OS), consult the Focusrite Help Centre's compatibility articles. Updates for Focusrite Control 2 and OS versions are regularly posted at support.focusrite.com.

Getting Started

Powering On your Scarlett

Connect your Scarlett Solo to your computer using the provided USB cable. The USB icon will light up green after a brief start-up procedure. If the USB icon lights white, it indicates a connection without recognition. Ensure Focusrite Control 2 is installed, test a different USB port, or try a different USB cable if this occurs.

For standalone operation without a computer, refer to the 'Standalone Mode' section.

Easy Start

Easy Start is a step-by-step guide that helps you set up your Scarlett, provides personalized tutorials, and guides you through device registration and software bundle access. Upon connecting your Scarlett to a computer, it appears as a Mass Storage Device. Open this drive and run 'Click Here To Get Started.url' to launch Easy Start in your web browser. Follow the on-screen instructions for installation and setup. During this process, Focusrite Control 2 will be installed, and you'll be prompted to update your Scarlett Solo. After the update, your computer should automatically set the Scarlett as the default audio input and output device.

Windows

After connecting, a 'Scarlett Solo 4th Gen' device appears in File Explorer. Open it and double-click 'Click Here to Get Started.url' to access Easy Start. Register your device and follow the setup guide.

Mac

A Scarlett icon may appear on your desktop, or a Chrome pop-up will appear. Double-click the icon or click the pop-up to proceed to Easy Start. Follow the on-screen instructions for setup and registration.

All Users

The 'More Info and FAQs' file is also available for additional setup assistance. Upon registration, you gain access to Focusrite Control 2 (Mac/Windows), multi-language User Guides, and license codes for bundled software.

What is Focusrite Control 2?

Focusrite Control 2 is the software application used to control your Scarlett interface. It allows for firmware updates and control of various Scarlett features from your computer. It is compatible with most major screen reader software.

Installing Focusrite Control 2

Focusrite Control 2 can be installed on both Windows and Mac. Download it from focusrite.com/downloads. Locate your Scarlett on the Downloads website, download the appropriate version for your OS, and run the installer. Connect your Scarlett and open Focusrite Control 2; it should detect your Scarlett automatically. On Windows, the driver is installed with Focusrite Control 2. On macOS, only Focusrite Control 2 installation is required.

Manual Registration

You can register your Scarlett at customer.focusrite.com/register using the serial number found on the interface's base or giftbox label. Installing and opening Focusrite Control 2 disables Easy Start and unlocks the full feature set, including sample rates up to 192 kHz.

Disabling Easy Start

To disable Easy Start mode if it remains active or if Focusrite Control 2 was not installed: power off the Scarlett Solo, press and hold the 48V button, then power it back on while holding the 48V button. Release the button once the front panel lights up, then restart the Scarlett Solo.

Hardware Features

Front Panel

  1. Input 1 (Line Level/Instrument) Gain Control and Gain Halo: Adjusts input level for the 6.35mm (1/4") jack socket. The Gain Halo indicates signal level (green: good, amber: pre-clip, red: clip).
  2. Input 1 Line Level/Instrument 6.35mm (1/4") Jack Socket: Accepts mono (TS) and stereo/balanced (TRS) jack cables.
  3. Inst Switch: Toggles Input 1 between line and instrument level. Green indicates instrument level is active.
  4. Input 2 (Microphone) Gain Control and Gain Halo: Adjusts input level for the XLR microphone connector. The Gain Halo provides visual feedback on the signal level.
  5. 48V Button: Activates 48V phantom power for the XLR mic input, required for condenser microphones.
  6. Air Button: Engages AIR mode for enhanced preamp sound (Presence or Presence and Harmonic Drive).
  7. Speaker Output level Control: Adjusts the output level for speaker connections (Outputs R and L).
  8. USB LED: Indicates connection status (green: recognized, white: connected but not recognized, off: not connected).
  9. Direct Monitor Switch: Toggles direct monitoring on and off for latency-free listening.
  10. Headphone Level Control: Adjusts the volume for the headphone output.
  11. Headphone Output Socket: Connect headphones using a TRS 6.35mm (1/4") jack connector.

Back Panel

  1. Kensington Lock: Security slot to deter theft.
  2. USB: USB-C connector for connecting to a computer.
  3. Speaker Outputs R and L: 6.35mm (1/4") jack sockets for connecting to speakers or amplifiers. Balanced TRS jack cables are recommended.
  4. XLR Input 2: 3-pin XLR connector for microphones.

Front Panel In Depth

Setting Preamp Input Gain

Properly setting the preamp input gain is crucial for optimal recording quality. Too low a gain results in a quiet signal that may introduce noise when amplified later. Too high a gain can cause clipping and distortion.

The Scarlett Solo features two analog gain controls for Preamp 1 (Line/Inst) and Preamp 2 (Microphone). Turn the gain control clockwise to increase the level and counter-clockwise to decrease it.

The Gain Halo on the front panel provides visual feedback:

The meters in Focusrite Control 2 offer similar visual feedback. The Peak Level Meter shows the highest signal level since monitoring began. Hovering over it allows you to reset the value. Clipping is indicated by the meter turning red.

48V Button (Phantom Power)

The 48V button enables phantom power (+48V) at the XLR microphone input. This is essential for powering condenser microphones and may be required for other devices like inline preamps or active DI boxes. Connect your device via XLR, turn down the gain, and press the 48V button. The 48V LED will illuminate green when enabled. Note that 48V is only sent to the XLR input, not the 6.35mm jack input.

Software Control: The +48V button in Focusrite Control 2 performs the same function as the hardware button.

Caution: While most modern dynamic and ribbon microphones are not damaged by phantom power, some older models might be. Always check your microphone's user guide if unsure.

Inst (Instrument) Button and Line Level Inputs

The Inst button modifies the 6.35mm (1/4") line input for the selected channel, switching it from line level to instrument level. Pressing the button toggles this function; a green light indicates instrument mode is active.

When 'Inst' is enabled (green), the input is suitable for instrument-level sources like electric guitars, basses, and acoustic instruments with pickups. When 'Inst' is disabled (white), the input accepts line-level devices such as synthesizers, keyboards, and drum machines.

Software Control: The 'Inst' button in Focusrite Control 2 allows for the same switching functionality.

Air Modes

The Air feature enhances the Scarlett's preamp sound with two modes: Air Presence and Air Presence and Harmonic Drive. Air is exclusively available for the microphone input.

Pressing the Air button cycles through the modes: Air Presence, Air Presence and Harmonic Drive, and Off. The Air LED changes color to indicate the selected mode (White for Off, Green for Air Presence, Amber for Air Presence and Harmonic Drive).

Software Control: The Air button in Focusrite Control 2 activates the last selected Air mode. A dropdown menu allows switching between Presence and Presence and Drive modes. Note that Air Presence & Drive is not available at sample rates of 176.4kHz and 192kHz.

Output Control

The Output control adjusts the signal level sent to the main speaker outputs (Outputs R and L). Turning the control clockwise increases the level, and counter-clockwise decreases it.

Speaker Output Calibration: To ensure proper monitor levels, turn down the interface's Output control and monitor volume. Set the interface's Output control to maximum (or just below). Play audio and increase monitor volume until the desired level is reached. This prevents sound leakage when the interface's Output control is at its minimum and provides a wider usable range.

Direct Monitor Button

Direct Monitor allows you to hear input signals directly, bypassing the computer for zero-latency monitoring. This is useful for avoiding latency or hearing the raw input signal without software effects.

Pressing the Direct Monitor button toggles the feature on/off. The Direct icon lights green when active and white when off.

Direct Monitor Adjustment: In Focusrite Control 2, navigate to the 'Direct' tab to enable and adjust the Direct Monitor mix. Use the mixer channels (faders, mute, solo) to balance input signals (Analogue 1, Analogue 2) with playback from your software (Playback 1-2). The final meter shows the combined output level.

Using the Mixer Channels

Each mixer channel in Focusrite Control 2 offers:

Headphone Output

The headphone output is a 6.35mm (1/4") TRS jack. For headphones with a 3.5mm jack, use a suitable adapter. The control above the socket adjusts the headphone volume. For optimal performance, use headphones with an impedance up to 300 Ohms. Ensure headphones and adapters use TRS jack connectors for proper functionality; TS or TRRS connectors may cause issues.

Back Panel In Depth

USB Connection

The USB Type-C port connects your Scarlett Solo to your computer, providing power, audio communication, and a link to Focusrite Control 2. If the USB icon flashes red, it indicates insufficient power. Ensure you are using the original USB cable, connect directly to the computer (not via a hub), and verify your USB ports provide at least 900mA.

Speaker Outputs

Outputs L and R are balanced 1/4" TRS jack outputs for connecting to amplifiers or active monitors. They can be used with either unbalanced TS or balanced TRS jack cables. The front panel Output dial controls the level sent to these outputs.

Microphone Input

The 3-pin XLR connector is for microphone-level signals. Use the front panel gain control to adjust the microphone level. 48V phantom power can be enabled via the front panel 48V button for condenser microphones.

Studio Pack Accessories

CM25 MkIII Microphone

The CM25 MkIII is a condenser microphone included in the Scarlett Studio pack, ideal for recording vocals and acoustic instruments with its bright, clear, and detailed sound character. A windscreen is provided to reduce plosives and wind noise.

To use the CM25 MkIII:

  1. Turn the input gain to minimum and disable 48V.
  2. Connect the microphone to an XLR input using the included XLR cable.
  3. Press the 48V button to enable phantom power.
  4. Set the input gain as described in the 'Setting Preamp Input Gain' section.

A clever microphone stand is ingeniously integrated into the Scarlett Studio packaging, allowing you to set up and start recording immediately.

SH-450 Headphones

The SH-450 headphones, bundled with the Scarlett Solo Studio Pack, offer professional-quality sound for recording, mixing, and monitoring. They feature a durable, comfortable frame and a closed-back design to minimize external noise, allowing for focused work.

DAW (Recording Software) Setup

The Scarlett is compatible with any ASIO-supported DAW on Windows and Core Audio-supported DAW on macOS. Setup guides for common DAWs are provided. The Scarlett bundle includes Ableton Live Lite and a version of Pro Tools, accessible via Easy Start or your Focusrite account.

Tip: What is a DAW?

DAW stands for 'Digital Audio Workstation,' referring to software used for recording, arranging, and producing music.

Ableton Live

Windows Setup:

  1. Open Ableton Live.
  2. Go to Options > Preferences... > Audio.
  3. Set Driver Type to ASIO and Audio Device to Focusrite USB ASIO.
  4. Click Input Config and highlight all Mono and Stereo Inputs to make them selectable in Live.
  5. Click OK. Configure Output Config if using multiple outputs.
  6. Close the Preferences window.

Mac Setup:

  1. Open Ableton Live.
  2. Go to Live > Settings > Audio.
  3. Set Audio Input Device and Audio Output Device to Scarlett Solo 4th Gen.
  4. Click Input Config and highlight all Mono and Stereo Inputs.
  5. Click OK. Configure Output Config if using multiple outputs.
  6. Close the Preferences window.

Getting sound into Ableton:

  1. Select an Audio Track in Live.
  2. Set Audio From to 'Ext. In' and choose the appropriate interface input (e.g., 1).
  3. Set Monitor to 'Auto' to hear the input signal.
  4. Arm the track for recording (record arm button lights red).
  5. Send a signal to the Scarlett's input; the meter in Ableton should move.
  6. Press the record button in Ableton's transport bar to begin recording.

Logic and GarageBand

Setup:

  1. Open Logic Pro or GarageBand.
  2. Select Audio in the track type window.
  3. Set the Audio Input to Input 1. If inputs are not visible, ensure the Device is set to Scarlett Solo.
  4. In Preferences/Settings > Audio, set the Output Device and Input Device to Scarlett Solo 4th Gen.
  5. Click Apply (Logic Pro) and close the window.
  6. Logic Pro: Tick Input Monitoring and Record Enable. GarageBand: Tick 'I want to hear my instrument as I play and record'.
  7. Click Create.
  8. Click the record button in Logic/GarageBand to start recording.

Reaper

Windows Setup:

  1. Open Reaper.
  2. If prompted, select your audio device driver. Otherwise, go to Options > Preferences > Device.
  3. Set Audio system to ASIO and ASIO Driver to Focusrite USB ASIO.
  4. Click OK.
  5. Insert a new track (Track > Insert New Track).
  6. Arm the track for recording (red record-armed button).
  7. Select your Scarlett input in the Input 1 box.
  8. Click the record button in Reaper's transport to start recording.

Mac Setup:

  1. Open Reaper.
  2. If prompted, select your audio device driver. Otherwise, go to Options > Settings > Device.
  3. Choose Scarlett Solo in the Audio Device dropdown menu.
  4. Click OK.
  5. Insert a new track (Track > Insert New Track).
  6. Arm the track for recording (red record-armed button).
  7. Select your Scarlett input in the Input 1 box.
  8. Click the record button in Reaper's transport to start recording.

Cubase

Windows Setup:

  1. Open Cubase.
  2. Go to Studio > Studio Setup... > Audio System.
  3. Set the ASIO Driver to Focusrite USB ASIO.
  4. Click OK.
  5. Right-click in the MixConsole and select Add Audio Track.
  6. Configure the track as Audio, setting the Audio Input to your Scarlett's input channel.
  7. Click Add Track.
  8. Enable Record Enable and Monitor buttons on the Cubase channel.
  9. Click Transport Record to start recording.

Mac Setup:

  1. Open Cubase.
  2. Go to Studio > Studio Setup...
  3. Change the ASIO Driver to Scarlett Solo 4th Gen.
  4. Click Switch.
  5. Click OK.
  6. Right-click in the MixConsole and select Add Track.
  7. Configure the track as Audio, setting the Audio Input to your Scarlett's input channel.
  8. Click Add Track.
  9. Enable Record Enable and Monitor buttons on the Cubase channel.
  10. Click Transport Record to start recording.

Pro Tools

Mac and Windows Setup:

  1. Open Pro Tools.
  2. Go to Setup > Playback Engine.
  3. Select Focusrite USB ASIO (Windows) or Scarlett Solo 4th Gen in the Playback Engine dropdown.
  4. Go to Track > New.
  5. Set the number of tracks and type to Audio Track.
  6. Click Create.
  7. Arm the track for recording and enable input monitoring.
  8. Click the main Record Enable button at the top of the Pro Tools window.
  9. Click the Play button to begin recording.

FL Studio

Setup:

  1. Open FL Studio.
  2. Go to Options > Audio Settings.
  3. Set the Device to Scarlett Solo 4th Gen (or Focusrite USB ASIO on Windows) in the Input / output section.
  4. Close the Settings window.
  5. In the Mixer, select the insert you wish to record into.
  6. Set the external input dropdown to the appropriate interface input (e.g., Input 1 for mono, Input 1 - Input 2 for stereo).
  7. Click the main record button in the transport section.
  8. Choose an option in the 'What would you like to record?' window.
  9. Press the play button in the transport section to start recording.

Focusrite Control 2

Focusrite Control 2 Settings

Access the Settings page by clicking the ellipsis (...) in the top-right corner of Focusrite Control 2. Available options include:

Examples of Use

Connecting Inputs and Outputs

The Scarlett Solo facilitates various connections:

Connecting a Line-Level Device

Connect line-level devices like synthesizers or keyboards to Input 1 using a 6.35mm TRS jack cable. Ensure the 'Inst' button is disengaged (white). Note that this input is mono.

Loopback

Loopback allows you to capture computer audio and record it alongside your live inputs on separate channels. Select input channels 3-4 in your DAW. This feature loops back audio outputs from your computer to virtual input channels within the Scarlett. Important: Mute the Loopback channels in your recording software to prevent feedback loops.

Standalone Mode

The Scarlett Solo can operate in standalone mode, passing audio without a computer connection. This is useful for expanding the preamps of another interface or using your studio setup without a computer powered on. To enable standalone mode:

  1. Connect the Scarlett's power socket to mains power (e.g., a USB wall adapter).
  2. Connect inputs and outputs as usual.
  3. Turn on Direct Monitor to ensure input signals are routed to outputs.

Updating

Updating Focusrite Control 2

Keep Focusrite Control 2 updated for new features and improvements. You can update via the updater within Focusrite Control 2 (a dialogue window appears if an update is available, or check manually via the ellipsis menu) or by downloading the latest version from focusrite.com/downloads.

Updating your Scarlett

Firmware updates for your Scarlett Solo provide new features and improvements. These updates are applied through Focusrite Control 2. Open Focusrite Control 2; it will notify you if an update is available. Click 'Update Scarlett Solo' and do not disconnect the Scarlett during the process. Click 'Continue' once the update is complete.

Specifications

Performance Specifications

Measurements are performed following AES17 where possible.

Microphone Inputs

Line Inputs

Instrument Inputs

Line Outputs 1 and 2 (balanced)

Headphone Outputs

Physical and Electrical Characteristics

Solo Channel Order

Input ChannelsOutput Channels
Input 1Output Left (Headphones Left)
Input 2Output Right (Headphones Right)
Loopback 1
Loopback 2

Weight and Dimensions

Environmental

CM25 Mk III Microphone Specifications

Capsule

Performance and Electrical Characteristics

Frequency Response Chart

Microphone frequency response charts illustrate how a microphone captures different frequencies. A flat chart indicates uniform capture across frequencies, while peaks or dips signify sensitivity variations. The CM25 MkIII is designed as an all-around microphone, performing exceptionally well for vocals and acoustic instruments.

Polar Pattern Chart

Microphone polar pattern charts depict sound pickup directionality across frequencies. The CM25 MkIII features a cardioid pattern, a heart-shaped pattern that primarily captures sound from the front (0°) while rejecting sound from the sides (270° and 90°) and rear (180°). This is beneficial for minimizing background noise during recording.

Dimensions

Mounting

SH-450 Headphones Specifications

Specifications

Notices

Troubleshooting

For troubleshooting assistance, please visit the Focusrite Help Centre at support.focusrite.com.

Copyright & Legal Notices

Focusrite is a registered trademark and Scarlett is a trademark of Focusrite Group PLC. All other trademarks and trade names are the property of their respective owners. © 2023 Focusrite Audio Engineering Limited. All rights reserved.

Credits

Focusrite acknowledges the contributions of the Scarlett 4th Gen team members: Aarron Beveridge, Adam Watson, Adrian Dyer, Adrien Fauconnet, Alex Middleton-Dalby, Alice Rizzo, Alistair Smith, Andy Normington, Andy Poole, Andy West, Arne Gdeke, Bailey Dayson, Bamber Haworth, Bash Ahmed, Ben Bates, Ben Cochrane, Ben Dandy, Benjamin Dunn, Bran Searle, Callum Denton, Carey Chen, Cerys Williams, Chris Graves, Dan Clarke, Dan Stephens, Dan Weston, Daniel Hughley, Daniel Johnson, Danny Nugent, Dave Curtis, David Marston, Derek Orr, Ed Fry, Ed Reason, Eddie Judd, Ellen Dawes, Emma Davies, Flavia Ferreira, Greg Westall, Greg Zielinski, Guillem Allepuz, Hannah Williams, Harry Morley, Ian Hadaway, Isaac Harding, Jack Cole, Jake Wignall, James Hallowell, James Otter, Jason Cheung, Jed Fulwell, Jerome Noel, Jesse Mancia, Joe Crook, Joe Deller, Josh Wilkinson, Joe Munday, Joe Noel, Jon Jannaway, Julia Laeger, Kai Van Dongen, Keith Burton, Kiara Holm, Kieran Rigby, Krischa Tobias, Lars Henning, Laurence Clarke, Loz Jackson, Luke Piotrak, Luke Mason, Marc Smith, Mark Greenwood, Martin Dewhirst, Martin Haynes, Mary Browning, Massimo Bottaro, Matt Morton, Matt Richardson, Max Bailey, Michalis Fragkiadakis, Mick Gilbert, Mike Richardson, Nicholas Howlett, Nick Lyon, Nick Thomson, Oliver Tapley, Olly Stephenson, Paul Chana, Paul Shufflebotham, Pete Carss, Pierre Ruiz, Richard Carvalho, Richard Walters, Robert Blaauboer, Robert Mitsakov, Ross Chisholm, Sam Lewis, Samuel Price, Sandor Zsuga, Sebastian Heinz, Simon Burges, Stefan Archer, Stefan Elmes, Steve Bush, Stratis Sofianos, Taavi Bonny, Taren Gopinathan, Tom Carter, Tom Haines, Tony Pow, Valeria Cirillo, Will Hoult, Will Munn, Will Thomas, Vidur Dahiya, Wade Dawson, Zih-Syuan Yang. Authored by Ed Fry.

Models: Sarlett Solo Studio 4th Gen USB Audio Interface Bundle, Sarlett, Solo Studio 4th Gen USB Audio Interface Bundle, USB Audio Interface Bundle, Interface Bundle

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