What is included in the Scarlett 2i2 Studio 4th Gen Recording Pack?

The pack includes the Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB audio interface, a CM25 MK2 condenser microphone, a pair of SH-450 closed-back headphones, and an XLR microphone cable.

How many instruments can I record at once with the Scarlett 2i2?

The 2i2 features two microphone preamps and two Hi-Z instrument inputs, allowing you to record up to two sources simultaneously, such as two vocals or a vocal and a guitar.

What is the benefit of the CM25 MK2's cardioid polar pattern?

The cardioid pattern is most sensitive to sound coming from the front, which helps to eliminate unwanted background noise and room reflections from the sides and back during recording.

Are the SH-450 headphones suitable for mixing?

Yes, the SH-450 headphones are designed for precision monitoring and isolation, making them suitable for both tracking and making critical mixing decisions without outside interference.

Does this interface require an external power supply?

The Scarlett 2i2 is typically powered via the USB connection to your computer, though it can also be used with a standard USB power brick if your device does not supply enough bus power.

Can I use the Scarlett 2i2 with a Mac or a PC?

Yes, the interface is compatible with both Windows and macOS systems, providing a versatile solution for different types of computer setups.

What kind of software comes with the bundle?

The bundle includes a complete songwriters recording pack, which typically features a variety of digital audio workstation (DAW) software and plugin tools to get started immediately.

Is the microphone included in the pack a condenser or dynamic mic?

The CM25 MK2 included in the pack is a condenser microphone, which requires 48V phantom power (provided by the 2i2 interface) to operate.

How does the 4th Gen differ from previous Scarlett generations?

The 4th Generation features updated preamps and converters, alongside refined hardware controls, to provide better dynamic range and lower noise floor compared to previous iterations.

What does 'Hi-Z' mean on the instrument inputs?

Hi-Z stands for High Impedance, which is necessary for properly capturing the signal from electric guitars and basses without losing high-frequency detail or clarity.

Can I use this pack for podcasting?

Yes, the two-input design is ideal for podcasts involving two people, and the included condenser mic provides the clarity required for professional voice work.

Gear article

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio 4th Gen Recording Pack

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio 4th Gen Recording Pack is a comprehensive studio bundle designed for songwriters and podcasters, featuring a 2i2 USB audio interface, a CM25 MK2 condenser microphone, and SH-450 closed-back headphones. It provides a complete signal chain for recording high-quality vocals and instruments simultaneously, serving as a popular entry point for home studio production.

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Overview

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio 4th Gen Recording Pack is a curated equipment bundle that centralises the 4th generation of Focusrite's widely used 2-in, 2-out audio interface. The package is intended to offer a 'studio in a box' solution, removing the need to source individual components for vocal and instrument tracking. It includes the Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen interface, a CM25 MK2 condenser microphone, SH-450 closed-back headphones, and a professional-grade XLR cable. The hardware is further supplemented by a software suite designed for songwriters, facilitating a complete production workflow from initial capture to final mix.

Key Features and Hardware

The core of the bundle is the 2i2 interface, which features two updated microphone preamps and two dedicated Hi-Z instrument inputs, allowing for the concurrent recording of two different sources, such as a vocalist and a guitarist. The CM25 MK2 microphone uses a cardioid polar pattern, a design choice specifically intended to focus on the sound source directly in front of the capsule while rejecting ambient noise from the sides and rear. For monitoring, the SH-450 headphones employ a closed-back design to provide acoustic isolation, which prevents audio leakage from the headphones into the microphone during recording sessions.

Performance and Sound Character

The 4th Gen preamps are designed to provide a transparent and rich sound quality suitable for a wide range of musical genres. The CM25 MK2 condenser microphone is voiced for detailed sound reproduction, capturing the nuances of vocal performances and acoustic instruments. The SH-450 headphones are engineered for precision monitoring, offering a flat enough response to allow users to make informed mixing decisions. The interface itself maintains the signature Focusrite emphasis on low-noise circuitry and high-dynamic range conversion.

Target Audience and Artist Association

This recording pack is primarily suited for solo artists, songwriters, and content creators who require a portable yet professional-grade setup. Because it handles two inputs simultaneously, it is also highly effective for two-person podcasts or interviews. The Scarlett range has seen wide adoption across the music industry, with notable artists such as Stine Bramsen utilising Focusrite hardware for their recording needs. Its ease of use makes it accessible for beginners, while the technical specifications meet the requirements of more experienced producers.

Market Comparison

Within the competitive landscape of desktop audio interfaces, the Scarlett 2i2 Studio 4th Gen competes with other all-in-one solutions and standalone units. Alternatives include the Tascam US-2x2HR and the Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD, both of which offer similar two-input configurations. For users seeking higher-tier preamps, the MOTU 10Pre or M-Audio AIR 192 6 offer different feature sets, while the Blackstar Polar 4 provides an alternative for those prioritising guitar-centric inputs. The Trumix TM-10 and M-Audio M-Track Solo represent more budget-oriented options for users who may not require the full recording bundle.

Artists who play it

Stine Bramsen
Singer

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Frequently asked questions

What is included in the Scarlett 2i2 Studio 4th Gen Recording Pack?: The pack includes the Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB audio interface, a CM25 MK2 condenser microphone, a pair of SH-450 closed-back headphones, and an XLR microphone cable.
How many instruments can I record at once with the Scarlett 2i2?: The 2i2 features two microphone preamps and two Hi-Z instrument inputs, allowing you to record up to two sources simultaneously, such as two vocals or a vocal and a guitar.
What is the benefit of the CM25 MK2's cardioid polar pattern?: The cardioid pattern is most sensitive to sound coming from the front, which helps to eliminate unwanted background noise and room reflections from the sides and back during recording.
Are the SH-450 headphones suitable for mixing?: Yes, the SH-450 headphones are designed for precision monitoring and isolation, making them suitable for both tracking and making critical mixing decisions without outside interference.
Does this interface require an external power supply?: The Scarlett 2i2 is typically powered via the USB connection to your computer, though it can also be used with a standard USB power brick if your device does not supply enough bus power.
Can I use the Scarlett 2i2 with a Mac or a PC?: Yes, the interface is compatible with both Windows and macOS systems, providing a versatile solution for different types of computer setups.
What kind of software comes with the bundle?: The bundle includes a complete songwriters recording pack, which typically features a variety of digital audio workstation (DAW) software and plugin tools to get started immediately.
Is the microphone included in the pack a condenser or dynamic mic?: The CM25 MK2 included in the pack is a condenser microphone, which requires 48V phantom power (provided by the 2i2 interface) to operate.
How does the 4th Gen differ from previous Scarlett generations?: The 4th Generation features updated preamps and converters, alongside refined hardware controls, to provide better dynamic range and lower noise floor compared to previous iterations.
What does 'Hi-Z' mean on the instrument inputs?: Hi-Z stands for High Impedance, which is necessary for properly capturing the signal from electric guitars and basses without losing high-frequency detail or clarity.
Can I use this pack for podcasting?: Yes, the two-input design is ideal for podcasts involving two people, and the included condenser mic provides the clarity required for professional voice work.
What is the typical retail price for this bundle?: The typical retail price for the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio 4th Gen Recording Pack is approximately GBP 277.