Built to deliver top-shelf sound in a desk-friendly and easy-to-use format for podcasters who need mix-minus functionality when taking calls and for multi-instrumentalists and producers, the third-generation Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 USB Audio/MIDI Interface 3rd Gen8x6 USB audio/MIDI interface lets artists and content creators score pro-level tone with no learning curve.

Equally capable for tracking vocals and instruments, the two improved Scarlett microphone preamps feature switchable phantom power for condenser mics, pads to prevent distortion on loud input signals, and a selectable-per-channel Air circuit, which adds clarity-enhancing brightness based on Focusrite's legendary ISA preamplifier.

The two XLR-1/4" combo inputs are outfitted with switches that allow them to accept signal directly from electric instruments such as guitar and bass, from line-level sources such as stereo mixer outputs, or from a hot feed from a drum machine. The rear panel sports four additional fixed-level 1/4" inputs to accommodate more line-level sources such as the outputs of external mic preamps.

Unlocking the ability to record at standard CD quality or high-fidelity resolutions, the 24-bit / 192 kHz AD/DA converters ensure that signals are captured and reproduced with detail and accuracy. With four balanced 1/4" line outputs, dual 1/4" stereo headphone jacks, and independent volume control of the two headphone outputs and the main speaker outs, the Scarlett 8i6 can simultaneously feed multiple monitoring systems or outboard effects processors.

The virtual loopback function on the Scarlett 8i6 empowers podcasters with an easy mix-minus setup for taking calls without the caller being distracted by a delayed audio return signal. Also, traditional 5-pin MIDI I/O is provided for seamless integration of MIDI equipment such as a keyboard or sound module. S/PDIF stereo digital I/O jacks are also present, should you need to hook up outboard AD/DA converters or other digital gear. You can even utilize your iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch to wirelessly control the Scarlett 8i6.

With its AC powering for stable power in the studio, space-saving USB-C connection, and extensive software bundle including elementary versions of Ableton Live and Avid Pro Tools music production workstations, virtual instruments, plug-in effects, loops, and more, the Scarlett 8i6 gives you plenty of powerful tools to kick-start your inspiration. Just connect the the Scarlett 8i6 to an AC power source via the supplied AC adapter, plug into your Mac/Windows computer via USB, fire up your preferred audio recording software, and let the creativity flow.

Multi-Instrumentalists & Producers    USB-C Connectivity    2 Mic/Line/Instrument Preamps, 4 Line In    2 Headphone Outs, 4 Line Outputs    24-Bit / 192 kHz Converters    AC Powered / Mac and Windows    Phantom Power, Pads, MIDI & S/PDIF I/O    Mic Air Mode, Multicolor Gain Halos    Virtual Loopback for Mix-Minus Setup    DAWs, VIs, Loops, and Samples

With its desk-friendly size, USB-C connectivity, and AC powering (via the included AC adapter), the Scarlett 8i6 is well suited for home and project studios that need some extra I/O without sacrificing a bunch of table space.

Thanks to its high-performance 24-bit / 192 kHz AD/DA converters, the Scarlett 8i6 is equipped to capture any source from vocals to acoustic and electric instruments clearly and accurately, so you never have to worry about the interface clouding your sound.

The two upgraded third-generation Scarlett mic preamps feature switchable 48V phantom power to accommodate your favorite condenser mic, and a selectable-per-channel Air setting, which reproduces the Air effect of Focusrite's original ISA mic preamp to impart enhanced brightness and openness on your vocal recordings. Use the selectable input pads to prevent distortion when tracking high-level sources such as acoustic drums or electric guitars equipped with active pickups.

The XLR-1/4" combo inputs on the Scarlett 8i6's front panel allow distortion-free recording of instruments such as electric guitar and bass, synthesizers, or drum machines, and there's no need for a DI box or amplifiers. At the press of a button, each 1/4" input can be used for line-level sources like a mixer's stereo output or the line outs from guitar and bass amps.

With four balanced 1/4" line inputs on the back of the Scarlett 8i6, you can patch in line-level sources such as external mic preamps, an outboard mixer, or synthesizer sound modules while leaving the front-panel inputs free for direct connection of mics, instruments, or other line-level sources.

The Scarlett 8i6's independent gain knobs and multicolor gain halo meters mean that you'll have no trouble getting set up and dialing in the perfect levels. Plus, there are no menus or complicated controls to slow you down.

The four balanced 1/4" TRS monitor outputs on the rear panel enable hum-free connectivity with two pairs of balanced studio monitors or line-level inputs on headphone amps or external mixers. To allow critical listening through headphones for two people, there are two front-panel 1/4" headphone jacks. Separate knobs are provided for quick and independent adjustment of the monitor and headphone volumes.

The Scarlett 8i6 features one pair of virtual loopback inputs, allowing you to capture a stereo feed of any combination of hardware input and software playback channels, making podcasting, live streaming, and sampling tasks much easier.

Spin the Scarlett 8i6 around, and you'll find traditional 5-pin MIDI I/O ports, perfect for hooking up a MIDI keyboard controller, a synthesizer/workstation, or a sound module, for MIDI recording, editing, and sequencing.

In addition to having flexible analog I/O, the Scarlett 8i6 offers S/PDIF stereo digital input and output ports via coaxial jacks. Use the S/PDIF input to record the output of digital DJ mixer or an external mic preamp outfitted with an A/D converter and S/PDIF output. Run the Scarlett's S/PDIF output to a high-end D/A converter for extra processing or mastering with analog gear.

Route your audio, cue mix, loopback, and monitor mixes from your Mac or Windows computer via the Focusrite Control desktop software. Tap into even more convenience by using the Focusrite Control iOS app on your iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch to remotely control your Scarlett when connected to Focusrite Control Desktop.

The Scarlett line of interfaces comes with some of the best loved software tools in the business. Click here to see the complete list!

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. No reason it won't work with Adobe Audition... right?

A: The Focusrite Scarlett series interfaces work seamlessly with most DAW software. Adobe Audition should have no issues as well.

Q: 2. will this work with protools 10?

A: Yes

Q: 3. Does it have a TRS phone insert?

A: This unit does not have a TRS insert.

Q: 4. On Windows 8.1, do the different channels appear in separate devices or do they show up as separate channels on a single device?

A: Tim, These use a focusright scarlett software as a controller that displays all the channels in a single mixer style software consol. Regards,Rob

Q: 5. Can I use this to monitor 5.1 on a mac Premiere Pro editing station?

A: As long as you can define which channels you are using from Premiere Pro, you should be able to use the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface (3rd Generation) for a 5.1 surround setup.

Q: 6. Might be a dumb question but can I use this with an older ( 2012 )MacBook that uses the larger USB ports with just an adapter cable?

A: Yes this will work with your Macbook no problem The Focusrite scarlett 18i20 comes with the USB cable which is type A that will plug into your mac.

Q: 7. Could someone explain how they get 18 Inputs? At best I see 15, and 4 of those can only be used by 1-type of input or another on the front panel.

A: The optical input is ADAT. That counts as 8 inputs alone.

Q: 8. Bus power

A: If you are asking Does the 18i8 use USB buss power? , the answer is no, it uses a separate AC power supply.

Q: 9. Will this work with vMix?

A: Some users have reported Vmix working with the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20, but there is no official driver support.

Q: 10. Can i connect Bluetooth headphones to it ?

A: No. This interface has no bluetooth capibilities. Wired connections only.