Focusrite provides additional software programs for the buyer to be even more flexible.
The Focusrite Clarett+ 4 Pre offers excellent sound paired with solid build quality and intuitive design. Because of Focusrite's high quality standards, each of the Clarett+ audio interfaces doesn't have to hide from competitors twice as expensive. Whether the 2 Pre, 4 Pre, or 8 Pre, the Clarett+ family scores with extremely low noise (-129 dBu), ultra-linear design, and very low distortion. The clear, open and transparent sound that accurately captures every sonic detail of the original signal is clearly in the foreground. The dynamic range of up to 124 dB at the output is equally impressive and can of course be enjoyed on both Mac and PC via USB 2.0 connection - or better. Decades of experience in the development of analog circuits and a 24Bit / 192 kHz A/D and D/A conversion result in an outstanding signal path.
The middle of the three audio interfaces in the Clarett+ series has 18 inputs and 8 outputs that can be used for a wide variety of applications. The four mic/line/instrument inputs allow the user to record anything from a condenser mic to a loud pickup without worrying about distortion. Illuminated level meters help set the correct input level, while the rear-panel ADAT connection provides an additional 8 inputs - allowing the Clarett+ to be combined with Focusrite's Clarett OctoPre multi-channel mic preamp, for example. The two analog monitor outputs are equipped with anti-thump technology, plus two headphone outputs with level control, two line outputs as well as a MIDI in and output and SPDIF I/O.
The four low-noise, low-distortion Clarett mic preamps with high headroom and all-analog air circuitry with impedance selection and relay control capture vocals, drums, and acoustic instruments with impressive clarity. Two JFET instrument inputs allow you to connect appropriate devices directly and get the natural sound of your guitar - just like connecting to a real amplifier. Connection to your computer is via USB and USB Type-C cables - both included - so there's nothing to stop you from recording directly. This results in another plus point: the extremely low latency allows the use of amp simulations and plug-in effects in real time. Add to this the user-friendly control software for Mac, PC, iPad, iPhone or iPod touch, which is perfect for configuring routing and monitor mixes.
This is build solid as a tank, you can immediately hear a difference when you plug it in, making it a big step up from other types of interfaces (like the scarlett line and other brands).
If you don't want to spend tons of money but still want a lot of I/O, the possibility to have inputs with pre's but also with the possibility to connect devices while bypassing it this is the product to go for.