Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording
Status: Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen USB Audio…: Unavailable on Amazon as of . SpecPicks has no in-stock listing with matching specs on file; the search below lists current offers. eBay sellers may still list this model new or used.
Bottom line: The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording: Air mode adds ISA-style brightness to vocals and acoustic guitar; main trade-off: only two inputs, so full drum kits or bands need a bigger interface.
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Currently unavailable on Amazon. Not the same product — 2 in-stock alternatives:
Similar: Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio… — $159.99 on Amazon as of 2026-10-21 12:20 UTC (price may vary).
Similar: Focusrite Scarlett Solo Studio 3rd Gen USB Audio… — $449.99 on Amazon as of 2026-10-20 16:18 UTC (price may vary).
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Air mode adds ISA-style brightness to vocals and acoustic guitar
- ✓ 24-bit/192kHz converters for full-resolution tracking and mixdown
- ✓ Two high-headroom instrument inputs take guitar or bass direct
- ✓ Gain Halos show clipping visually before it hits the recording
- ✓ Three-year Focusrite warranty on manufacturing faults, worldwide
Cons
- ✗ Only two inputs, so full drum kits or bands need a bigger interface
- ✗ No MIDI in/out ports for hardware synths or controllers
- ✗ Balanced outputs are 1/4-inch TRS, not XLR for studio monitors
- ✗ Single headphone jack limits tracking two people at once
Manufacturer description
Two third-generation Scarlett mic preamps handle vocals and acoustic sources, and the switchable Air mode borrows the brighter, more open voicing of Focusrite's original ISA preamp when you want a track to sit forward in a mix. Two high-headroom instrument inputs take guitar or bass directly, while Gain Halos ring green-to-red so you can set levels without guessing where clipping starts. Conversion runs at up to 24-bit/192kHz, so tracking, overdubs, and mixdowns keep their detail through the whole chain. Two low-noise balanced outputs feed your monitors, and the independent headphone output…
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the streaming gear category. Focusrite's streaming gear lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.
Common buyer scenarios for streaming gear of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I record vocals and guitar at the same time?
Yes. The 2i2 has two mic/line/instrument inputs and records both channels simultaneously, so a vocal mic and a direct guitar can track together on separate channels.
What is Air mode and when should I use it?
Air is a switchable setting on the third-gen preamps that reproduces the brighter, more open voicing of Focusrite's original ISA preamp. Focusrite positions it for vocals and acoustic instruments that need extra clarity.
What sample rate and bit depth does it support?
Up to 24-bit/192kHz through its high-performance AD-DA converters, which is above the 24-bit/48kHz most podcast and streaming workflows use.
Does it come with a warranty?
Focusrite includes a three-year warranty covering repair or replacement of hardware with a manufacturing fault, valid wherever you are in the world.
Is it hard to set up if I have never used an interface?
Focusrite provides an online tool called Easy Start that walks you through recording and playback setup. Bundled partner software and sound content are included so you can start recording immediately.
Key Features
- Pro performance with great pre-amps - Achieve a brighter recording thanks to the high performing mic pre-amps of the Scarlett 3rd Gen. A switchable Air mode will add extra clarity to your acoustic instruments when recording with your 2i2 3rd Gen
- Get the perfect guitar and vocal take with - With two high-headroom instrument inputs to plug in your guitar or bass so that they shine through. Capture your voice and instruments without any unwanted clipping or distortion thanks to our Gain Halos
- Low-noise for crystal clear listening - 2 low-noise balanced outputs provide clean audio playback with 3rd Gen. Hear all the nuances of your tracks or music from Spotify, Apple & Amazon Music. Plug-in headphones for private listening in high-fidelity
- Studio quality recording for your music & podcasts - Achieve pro sounding recordings with Scarlett 3rd Gen’s high-performance converters enabling you to record and mix at up to 24-bit/192kHz. Your recordings will retain all of their sonic qualities
- Easy Start - It’s easier than ever to get up and running with your Scarlett 3rd Gen with our online tool, Easy Start. Whether you’re looking to record or playback audio, we will help you get started
- With Scarlett 3rd Gen, you have all the tools you need to start recording right, now - We’ve partnered with our favorite industry partners to provide you with plenty of sound content and software so that you can create and record music right away
Full Specifications
| Brand | Focusrite |
|---|---|
| Unit Count | 1 Count |
| Audio Input | XLR, Instrument |
| Connectivity | USB |
| Model Number | AMS-SCARLETT-2I2-3G |
| Item Type Name | USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools | First |
| Compatible Devices | Microphone, Instrument, Personal Computer, Tablet, Headphones, Smartphone, Studio Monitors |
| Frequency Response | 20 KHz |
| Number of Channels | 2 |
| Supported Software | All audio recording software |
| Included Components | Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen, USB-C to A Cable |
| Maximum Sample Rate | 192 KHz |
| Warranty Description | 2 year warranty. |
| Connectivity Technology | USB |
| Manufacturer Part Number | MOSC0025 |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 3.88"D x 6.88"W x 1.88"H |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00815301005162 |
| Full listing title | Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording, Songwriting, Streaming and Podcasting — High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record |
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