Focusrite 's Scarlett 8i6 USB audio interface is the third in a series of improvements to every aspect of the interface. For musicians and producers looking to expand their setups and need a few extra connections, this interface provides a reassuringly simple recording process and, thanks to powerful AD-DA converters ( 24-bit/192kHz), offers professional sound quality that's worth listening to. The combo jacks (XLR/jack) provide plenty of resistance and headroom and are ideal for recording guitars, basses, vocals and more without overdriving or distorting, while the gain halos make it easy to see the input level. The four balanced outputs are hum-free when connected to balanced studio monitor inputs, ensuring perfect audio reproduction. But what exactly is the difference between the third and the previous generation?
In general, all users of the Scarlett series benefit from improved audio performance. The 3rd generation Scarlett microphone preamps are currently the Scarlett preamps with the best sound. They deliver not only high gain but also low noise levels for stereo recording at high demands. Also, the industry-leading 24-bit/192 kHz AD-DA converters take performance to a new
The revamped mic preamps can emulate the Air effect of Focusrite's original ISA mic preamp at Bedadrf, giving your vocal and acoustic recordings a more transparent sound.
On board is a so-called QuickStart tool from Focusrite, which guides the customer through the registration and setup of software and drivers.
Latency is one of the most common problems when recording, so the USB drivers have been reworked once again. Now songs can be recorded and played back in real time, while at the same time even more plug-ins can be switched on than before.
As with previous generations, every Scarlett product comes with a software package to get you started. This time the following goodies are included:
Focusrite introduces a new partnership with Splice, giving 3rd generation customers 3 months free access to countless royalty-free, high-quality samples,
A Splice Sounds subscription includes:
⦁ 100 credits per month - they serve as "currency" and can be "spent" on sounds, sound generators, presets and midi files
⦁ a clearly arranged library, sortable by genre, instrument, key, tempo and more
⦁ releases by well-known producers, sound designers and artists
⦁ inspiration by the active global Splice community
Additional scope of delivery:
Purchased a Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 3rd gen on the recommendation of a friend to replace my EMU 1820. DV247 delivered as promised. Unit had a problem, but one support ticket to Focusrite and a short time spent on Livechat with the excellent Jay T = One new driver download and all working superbly - can't fault the product or their support.
Great product, perfect for a modern studio setup running minimal outboard but recording instruments like vocals, guitars & synths
I was happy with my old Focusrite Saffire Pro 24 DSP VRM but after experiencing a few Windows issues, I realised it was no longer being supported so decided to update it, and about time too! I absolutely love the 3rd gen Scarlett 8i6, it's easy to use and for me is the perfect replacement. Well worth the price tag and I would recommend to anyone.
Upgraded to this from the 2i2 to get the dual headphone sockets and MIDI DIN input. My only complaint would be that the 'inst' and 'air' buttons have been removed and now have to be controlled from the computer interface. That aside, it's relatively easy to use and sounds great.
Pretty amazing - setup is really clear, but still hard to get your head around as I’m new to interfaces. Within a weekend I got to grips with versatility of this product, and it’s incredibly well made - on par with Apple Products. Looking forward to using more in lockdown 2021, now or never!