Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio User Guide

Overview

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Third Generation Scarlett 2i2 Studio, part of the range of Focusrite professional audio interfaces incorporating high quality Focusrite analogue pre-amplifiers. This provides a simple, compact, and complete solution for recording with a microphone or directly from instruments, by routing high quality audio to and from your computer.

The Third Generation series of Scarlett interfaces features improved performance and features. Audio specifications have been upgraded for greater dynamic range and lower noise and distortion, with the mic preamp now accepting higher input levels.

An important enhancement is the inclusion of Focusrite's AIR function. Individually selectable on each channel, AIR subtly modifies the preamp's frequency response to model the sonic characteristics of Focusrite's classic transformer-based ISA microphone preamps. This provides enhanced clarity and definition in the mid to high frequency range, beneficial for vocals and acoustic instruments.

The Direct Monitor feature has also been enhanced, allowing monitoring in mono or stereo with zero latency.

This User Guide explains the components and operational features. It is recommended for both new and experienced users to read through the guide for full awareness of the Scarlett Studio components and accompanying software. For common technical support queries, consult support.focusrite.com.

Features

The Scarlett 2i2 Studio comprises a Scarlett 2i2 audio interface, a Scarlett Studio CM25 MkIII studio quality condenser microphone, a pair of Scarlett Studio HP60 MkIII reference quality headphones, and necessary software for quick setup.

The Scarlett 2i2 hardware interface connects the CM25 MkIII microphone, musical instruments, or line level audio signals to a computer running macOS or Windows via USB. Signals can be routed to recording software at up to 24-bit, 192 kHz resolution. The recording software's monitor or recorded output appears at the 2i2's physical outputs. Audio recording software is often referred to as a "Digital Audio Workstation" or "DAW".

Physical outputs can connect to amplifiers, powered monitors, headphones, analogue mixers, or other analogue audio equipment.

Box Contents

• Scarlett Studio CM25 MkIII condenser microphone and microphone clip
• Scarlett Studio HP60 MkIII headphones
• XLR microphone cable (3 m)
• USB cable, Type 'A' to Type 'C'
• Getting Started Guide (printed inside the box lid)
• Important Safety Information

System Requirements

To check your computer's operating system (OS) compatibility with your Scarlett, use Focusrite's Help Centre compatibility articles at support.focusrite.com/hc/categories/200693655.

For ongoing compatibility information with new OS versions, search the Help Centre at support.focusrite.com.

Getting Started

The Third Generation Scarlett interfaces offer a faster setup process using the Scarlett Quick Start tool. Connect your Scarlett 2i2 to your computer; the device will be recognised, and the Quick Start tool will guide you through the process.

IMPORTANT: The Scarlett 2i2 features a single USB 2.0 Type C port on the rear panel. Connect it to your computer using the provided USB cable. The Scarlett 2i2 is a USB 2.0 device and requires a USB 2.0+ compliant port on your computer.

The Scarlett 2i2 is powered via USB and does not require a separate power supply. For laptops, it is recommended to use the AC adaptor to prevent faster battery drain.

Upon initial connection, your computer will recognize the Scarlett as a Mass Storage Device (MSD) and enter "Easy Start mode".

Quick Start Tool

The registration process is designed to be simple and self-explanatory. The steps are described below for both PC and Mac.

Mac Users Only

Upon connecting your Scarlett 2i2 to your Mac, a Scarlett icon will appear on the desktop. Double-click this icon to open a Finder window. Double-click the "Click Here to Get Started.url" icon. This will redirect you to the Focusrite website for device registration.

On the website, click "Let's get you started". A form will appear, partly prefilled. Submitting the form provides options to download software or follow a step-by-step setup guide.

After installing Focusrite Control software, the Scarlett will exit Easy Start mode and will no longer appear as a Mass Storage Device. Your OS should automatically set the Scarlett as the default audio input and output. To verify, go to System Preferences > Sound and ensure Scarlett 2i2 is selected. For detailed setup on Mac, open Applications > Utilities > Audio MIDI Setup.

Windows Users Only

Upon connecting your Scarlett 2i2 to your PC, a Scarlett icon will appear on the desktop (the drive letter may vary). Double-click the pop-up message to open a dialogue box. Double-click "Open folder to view files" to open an Explorer window.

Double-click "Click Here to Get Started". This redirects to the Focusrite website for device registration. Click "Let's get you started" to access a prefilled form. Submitting the form offers options for software downloads or a step-by-step setup guide.

Once Focusrite Control is installed, the Scarlett exits Easy Start mode. Your OS should switch default audio inputs and outputs to the Scarlett. To verify, right-click the Sound icon on the taskbar, select Sound Settings, and set the Scarlett as the Input and Output Device.

All Users

A "More Info & FAQs" file is also available during initial setup, providing additional information about the Quick Start tool.

Upon registration, you gain access to:

• Focusrite Control (Mac and Windows versions available)
• Multi-language User Guides

License codes and bundled software links are available in your Focusrite account. Visit focusrite.com/scarlett for details on bundled software for Scarlett 3rd generation.

NOTE: Installing Focusrite Control also installs the correct driver. Focusrite Control can be downloaded anytime, even without registration, via "Manual Registration".

Manual Registration

To register your Scarlett at a later date, visit customer.focusrite.com/register. You will need to manually enter the Serial Number, found on the base of the interface and the barcode label on the box.

It is recommended to download and install Focusrite Control to disable Easy Start mode and unlock the interface's full potential. In Easy Start mode, the interface functions at sample rates up to 48 kHz. With Focusrite Control installed, you can work at sample rates up to 192 kHz.

If you do not install Focusrite Control immediately, it can be downloaded from customer.focusrite.com/support/downloads.

To force your Scarlett out of Easy Start mode without registering, connect it to your computer and press and hold the 48V button for five seconds. This ensures full functionality. If you register later, manual registration is required.

Audio Setup in your DAW

The Scarlett 2i2 is compatible with Windows DAWs supporting ASIO or WDM, and Mac DAWs using Core Audio. After following the Getting Started procedure, you can use the Scarlett 2i2 with your chosen DAW.

Pro Tools | First and Ableton Live Lite are included for users without a DAW. These are available after registering your Scarlett 2i2. For installation help, visit focusrite.com/get-started for guides and videos.

Operating instructions for Pro Tools | First and Ableton Live Lite are beyond this guide's scope, but both applications have comprehensive Help files. Instructions are also available at avid.com and ableton.com.

Your DAW may not automatically select the Scarlett 2i2 as the default I/O device. You must manually select "Focusrite USB ASIO" as the driver in your DAW's Audio Setup. Consult your DAW's documentation for assistance with selecting ASIO or Core Audio drivers. The example below shows correct configuration in Ableton Live Lite Preferences (Windows version).

* Typical names. Terminology may differ between DAWs.

Once the Scarlett 2i2 is set as the preferred Audio Device in your DAW, Inputs 1 & 2 and Outputs 1 & 2 will appear in your DAW's Audio I/O preferences. You may need to enable certain inputs or outputs depending on your DAW.

The following screenshots show Inputs 1 & 2 and Outputs 1 & 2 enabled in Ableton Live Lite's Audio Preferences.

* Typical names. Terminology may differ between DAWs.

Examples of Usage

The Scarlett 2i2 is suitable for various recording and monitoring applications. Typical configurations are shown below.

Connecting a Microphone or Instrument

This setup illustrates the most typical configuration for recording with DAW software on a Mac or PC. You can record guitar through Input 1 and vocals through Input 2 into your DAW, monitoring playback via headphones or speakers.

The front panel input sockets are "Combo" type, accepting either an XLR male connector or a 1/4" (6.35 mm) jack plug. If using a condenser microphone, enable the 48V phantom power. Phantom power should not be used with dynamic or ribbon microphones.

The Scarlett 2i2 automatically configures its preamplifier stage for a microphone when an XLR is plugged in, and for a line or instrument when a jack plug is connected. Press the INST button (illuminates red) for connecting a musical instrument (like a guitar) via a 2-pole (TS) guitar jack. When INST mode is not selected, line level sources (keyboard, synthesizer, balanced output from an external audio mixer) can be connected via a 3-pole (TRS) jack. The Combo connector accepts both TRS and TS jack plugs.

Recording with a Microphone

The Scarlett Studio CM25 MkIII microphone is a studio quality condenser microphone ideal for recording vocals and acoustic instruments. Connect it to one of the Scarlett 2i2's front panel inputs using the supplied cable.

Condenser microphones require DC power, typically supplied by "phantom" power from the mic preamp. For the CM25 MkIII (or any condenser mic) to work with the Scarlett 2i2, press the 48V button on the front panel. The recommended sequence is:

• Turn the input gain to minimum.
• Connect the microphone.
• Press the 48V button.
• Increase the input gain to the required level.

Other microphone types, like dynamic microphones, do not require phantom power and can be damaged if it is applied. Some condenser microphones operate at lower phantom power voltages (e.g., 15 V). Check the microphone's specifications to ensure it is safe to operate with 48V, or use a suitable external phantom power supply.

Microphone Dos and Don'ts

While detailed microphone technique is beyond this guide, here are some essential rules for using a studio quality microphone:

• DO use a mic stand. The CM25 MkIII has a standard 5/8" threaded insert, with a 3/8" adaptor included for different stand threads.
• DO observe microphone orientation. The CM25 MkIII has a cardioid response pattern with a distinct front and back. The front is identified by the CM25 MkIII logo. Pointing it the wrong way will affect sound quality.
• DON'T ignore room acoustics. Be aware of reverberation. A "dead" acoustic is generally better than a "live" one, as reverberation can be added later in mixing, but room reverb cannot be removed from a recording.
• DON'T blow into a microphone to test it; rub or scratch the grille instead.
• DO experiment with microphone placement. Position relative to the source affects the recorded sound, as does room acoustics. Moving the mic can produce different results.
• DO use the CM25 MkIII to mic a guitar amplifier. Be aware of high sound levels near loudspeakers. Moving the mic away from the center of the loudspeaker cone can alter the sound.
• DON'T forget microphones pick up all sounds in the room, not just the intended source. Be mindful of extraneous noises like clocks, air conditioning, or creaking chairs. Ensure the High Pass Filter (HPF) on the DAW channel is enabled to remove unwanted low-frequency rumble.

Using Direct Monitoring

Latency is the delay between input signals passing through a computer and audio software. This can be problematic for performers monitoring their input signals.

The Scarlett 2i2 features a "Direct Monitoring" option to overcome latency. Setting the front panel DIRECT MONITOR control to MONO or STEREO routes input signals directly to the Scarlett 2i2's headphone and main monitor outputs, allowing real-time monitoring alongside computer playback.

In MONO mode, Inputs 1 and 2 are routed equally to both outputs, appearing centrally in the stereo image. This is useful for recording two separate instruments or an instrument and a vocal where stereo positioning is not critical.

In STEREO mode, Input 1 is routed to the left output and Input 2 to the right. This mode is ideal for recording inherently stereo sources, providing a more accurate impression of the sound stage.

When using Direct Monitoring, ensure your DAW is not set to route its input back to its output, which would cause an audible echo.

Monitoring with DIRECT MONITOR set to OFF can be useful when using DAW FX plugins for live performance effects. This allows hearing the recorded signal with FX, though some latency may occur depending on DAW buffer size and computer processing power.

Connecting Scarlett 2i2 to Headphones

The Scarlett 2i2 Studio package includes high quality HP60 MkIII headphones, designed for comfort during extended use. The headband is adjustable.

The HP60 MkIII headphones have a low noise, oxygen-free copper cable with a 1/4" (6.35 mm) 3-pole (TRS) jack plug. Connect this to the headphone socket on the right side of the Scarlett 2i2 front panel. The headphone output is also suitable for other headphones; use a 1/4"-to-3.5 mm jack adaptor for 3.5 mm TRS "mini jack" connectors. Headphones with 4-pole TRRS plugs may not operate correctly.

Headphone volume is adjusted by the rotary control above the socket.

Please be aware that headphones can generate high sound pressure levels, potentially impairing hearing with prolonged exposure. Adjust volume only as necessary.

Connecting Scarlett 2i2 to Loudspeakers

Use the 1/4" jack outputs on the rear panel to connect monitor speakers. Active monitors with internal amplifiers can be connected directly. Passive loudspeakers require a separate amplifier; connect the rear panel outputs to the amplifier's inputs.

The line outputs are 3-pole (TRS) 1/4" (6.35 mm) jack sockets and are electronically balanced. Consumer amplifiers and small powered monitors typically have unbalanced inputs (phono/RCA sockets or 3.5 mm 3-pole jack plugs). Use appropriate connecting cables.

Professional power amplifiers usually have balanced inputs; use balanced cables for connection.

NOTE: Connecting active loudspeakers while monitoring a microphone risks creating an audio feedback loop. Always turn off or turn down monitoring loudspeakers during recording and use headphones for overdubbing.

Hardware Features

Front Panel

The Front Panel includes input connectors for Mic, Line, and Instrument signals, along with input gain and monitoring controls.

1. Inputs 1 & 2:

"Combo" input sockets for microphones, instruments (e.g., guitar), or line level signals. Accept both XLR and 1/4" (6.35 mm) jacks. Microphones use XLR plugs; instruments and line level signals use 1/4" (6.35 mm) jack plugs (TS or TRS). The preamp gain is optimized for microphones via XLR and for higher level signals via jack. Do not connect sound modules or FX units via XLR, as this can overload the preamp and cause distortion, potentially damaging equipment if phantom power is enabled.

2. GAIN 1 and GAIN 2:

Adjust preamp gain for inputs 1 and 2. Tri-colour LED rings indicate signal level: green for signal present (at least -24 dBFS), amber when close to clipping (-6 dBFS), and red at 0 dBFS (digital clipping).

3. 48V:

Phantom power switch for mic inputs, enabling 48V phantom power at the XLR contacts of both Combo connectors.

4. INST:

Line/Instrument level switches for each input, altering gain and impedance. 'INST' illuminates red when Instrument mode is selected. INST can also be enabled via Focusrite Control.

5. AIR:

Switches enabling AIR mode for each input. AIR modifies input stage frequency response to emulate classic transformer-based Focusrite ISA microphone preamps. 'AIR' illuminates yellow when selected. AIR can also be selected via Focusrite Control.

6. MONITOR:

Main monitor output level control, setting the output level for the main rear panel outputs (LEFT and RIGHT).

7. USB LED:

A green LED illuminates when the Scarlett is connected and recognised by your computer.

8. DIRECT MONITOR:

Routes inputs directly to outputs with three settings: OFF, MONO, and STEREO. OFF routes monitoring via the DAW. MONO or STEREO routes directly from preamp inputs, providing zero latency. Symbols ?️ (mono) or ?️ (stereo) illuminate green for selection. When Direct Monitor is active, the signal combines with software playback.

9. Headphone level:

Adjusts the output level at the front panel stereo headphone output.

10. Headphone output:

A 1/4" TRS output jack. Connect 1/4" TRS jack plug headphones directly. Use a TRS 1/4"-to-3.5 mm jack adaptor for 3.5 mm TRS "mini jack" connectors. 4-pole TRRS plugs may not operate correctly.

Back Panel

11. K (Kensington security lock):

Secure your Scarlett 2i2 to a structure.

12. USB 2.0 port:

Type C connector for connecting to your computer with the supplied cable.

13. LINE OUTPUTS: LEFT and RIGHT:

Two 1/4" (6.35 mm) TRS jack sockets with a +10 dBu output level (variable), electronically balanced. Both 1/4" TRS (balanced) and TS (unbalanced) jack plugs can be used.

Specifications

Performance Specifications

NOTE: All performance figures are measured according to AES17 standards.

Physical and Electrical Characteristics

Scarlett CM25 MkIII Microphone Specifications

Scarlett HP60 MkIII Headphones Specifications

Troubleshooting

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

Copyright and Legal Notices

Full Terms and Conditions of the Warranty can be found at focusrite.com/warranty.

Focusrite is a registered trade mark and Scarlett 2i2 and Scarlett 2i2 Studio are trade marks of Focusrite Audio Engineering Limited.

All other trade marks and trade names are the property of their respective owners.

© 2021 Focusrite Audio Engineering Limited. All rights reserved.