What is the dynamic range of the Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen?

The Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen features studio-grade converters that provide a 120dB dynamic range. This allows for high-headroom recording and professional-level audio fidelity.

How many inputs does the Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen have?

It features a total of four inputs. This includes two ultra-low-noise microphone preamplifier inputs and four high-quality line inputs for various instruments.

What software comes with the interface?

The package includes the Hitmaker Expansion bundle, which contains Pro Tools Intro, Ableton Live Lite, Auto-Tune Access, Softube Marshall Silver Jubilee 2555, and Native Instruments MASSIVE.

Is the Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen suitable for guitarists?

Yes, it is highly suitable for guitarists. It includes high-quality inputs for DI recording and comes bundled with the Softube Marshall Silver Jubilee 2555 plugin for amp emulation.

Can I record a small group with this interface?

Yes, the 4i4 is designed for recording groups and multiple people at once. Its four-input configuration allows for multiple microphones or instruments to be tracked simultaneously.

What is the typical price for the Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen?

The typical retail price for this interface is approximately £268. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current promotions.

Does it support high-resolution audio?

Yes, the interface supports standard professional resolutions up to 24-bit/192kHz. This ensures that recordings meet modern production standards.

How does the 4i4 compare to the Scarlett 2i2?

The 4i4 offers more inputs and outputs compared to the 2i2. While both feature the 4th Gen preamps and converters, the 4i4 is better suited for users needing to connect extra line-level gear or record more sources.

Is a power supply required for the 4i4 4th Gen?

The device is generally bus-powered via USB. However, for certain high-power setups or when used with specific devices, external power may be beneficial.

What vocal processing tools are included?

The interface comes with Antares Auto-Tune Access. This is a widely used industry-standard tool for pitch correction and vocal enhancement.

What type of preamps are used in the 4th Gen?

Focusrite uses redesigned ultra-low-noise mic preamps in the 4th Gen series. These are designed to provide clean gain for a wide variety of microphones.

What are the competitors to the Scarlett 4i4?

Key competitors include the Blackstar Polar 4, Tascam US-2x2HR, and M-Audio AIR 192 6. It also competes with entry-level units like the Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD, though the Focusrite offers higher specifications.

Gear article

Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen

The Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen is a compact USB audio interface designed for songwriters and small groups, featuring four inputs and four outputs. It incorporates upgraded 24-bit/192kHz converters with a 120dB dynamic range and ultra-low-noise microphone preamplifiers.

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Background and Design

The Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen represents a significant technical update to Focusrite's popular mid-tier interface line. Positioned above the entry-level Solo and 2i2 models, the 4i4 provides additional I/O flexibility for users who need to connect more than two sources simultaneously. The 4th Generation hardware features a redesigned chassis and upgraded internal circuitry to meet modern studio standards.

Hardware and Connectivity

The interface is equipped with two microphone preamplifiers and four high-quality line inputs, making it suitable for recording small groups or multi-instrument setups. It utilizes studio-grade converters that offer a 120dB dynamic range, ensuring high-fidelity signal capture. The unit is powered via USB, facilitating portable recording setups without the immediate need for external power supplies in most standard configurations.

Included Software Suite

Focusrite includes a comprehensive 'Hitmaker Expansion' software bundle with the 4i4. This toolkit provides essential Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) and plugins, including:

Pro Tools Intro and Ableton Live Lite.
Antares Auto-Tune Access for vocal processing.
Softube Marshall Silver Jubilee 2555 guitar amplifier emulation.
Native Instruments MASSIVE synthesiser.
Additional mixing and mastering tools from the Hitmaker Expansion.

Target Audience and Application

The Scarlett 4i4 is primarily aimed at songwriters, podcasters, and small bands. The inclusion of four inputs allows for more complex scenarios than standard two-channel interfaces, such as miking a vocal, an acoustic guitar, and a stereo keyboard at the same time. Its high dynamic range and low-noise floor also make it a viable choice for home producers seeking professional-grade conversion at a sub-£300 price point.

Market Comparison

Within the Focusrite range, the 4i4 sits as a more versatile alternative to the Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen for those requiring more inputs. In the wider market, it competes with the Tascam US-2x2HR and the M-Audio AIR 192 6. While entry-level options like the M-Audio M-Track Solo or Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD offer lower price points, the 4i4 distinguishes itself through its higher 120dB dynamic range and more extensive software bundle. For users needing even higher channel counts, the MOTU 10Pre serves as a higher-end alternative.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the dynamic range of the Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen?: The Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen features studio-grade converters that provide a 120dB dynamic range. This allows for high-headroom recording and professional-level audio fidelity.
How many inputs does the Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen have?: It features a total of four inputs. This includes two ultra-low-noise microphone preamplifier inputs and four high-quality line inputs for various instruments.
What software comes with the interface?: The package includes the Hitmaker Expansion bundle, which contains Pro Tools Intro, Ableton Live Lite, Auto-Tune Access, Softube Marshall Silver Jubilee 2555, and Native Instruments MASSIVE.
Is the Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen suitable for guitarists?: Yes, it is highly suitable for guitarists. It includes high-quality inputs for DI recording and comes bundled with the Softube Marshall Silver Jubilee 2555 plugin for amp emulation.
Can I record a small group with this interface?: Yes, the 4i4 is designed for recording groups and multiple people at once. Its four-input configuration allows for multiple microphones or instruments to be tracked simultaneously.
What is the typical price for the Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen?: The typical retail price for this interface is approximately £268. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current promotions.
Does it support high-resolution audio?: Yes, the interface supports standard professional resolutions up to 24-bit/192kHz. This ensures that recordings meet modern production standards.
How does the 4i4 compare to the Scarlett 2i2?: The 4i4 offers more inputs and outputs compared to the 2i2. While both feature the 4th Gen preamps and converters, the 4i4 is better suited for users needing to connect extra line-level gear or record more sources.
Is a power supply required for the 4i4 4th Gen?: The device is generally bus-powered via USB. However, for certain high-power setups or when used with specific devices, external power may be beneficial.
What vocal processing tools are included?: The interface comes with Antares Auto-Tune Access. This is a widely used industry-standard tool for pitch correction and vocal enhancement.
What type of preamps are used in the 4th Gen?: Focusrite uses redesigned ultra-low-noise mic preamps in the 4th Gen series. These are designed to provide clean gain for a wide variety of microphones.
What are the competitors to the Scarlett 4i4?: Key competitors include the Blackstar Polar 4, Tascam US-2x2HR, and M-Audio AIR 192 6. It also competes with entry-level units like the Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD, though the Focusrite offers higher specifications.