The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 is a versatile audio interface, boasting 18 inputs and 20 outputs for comprehensive recording and mixing capabilities.
Overview of the Interface
The Scarlett 18i20 stands as a robust audio interface designed for musicians, producers, and audio engineers demanding extensive connectivity. It features eight Scarlett microphone preamps, renowned for their low noise and transparent sound quality, alongside two additional microphone inputs on the front panel. This interface provides a substantial array of inputs, including XLR, line, and instrument jacks, catering to diverse recording setups.
Furthermore, the 18i20 boasts 20 outputs, encompassing balanced jack outputs, balanced XLR outputs, and digital connections like S/PDIF and ADAT. This expansive output routing allows for complex monitoring configurations and integration with external effects processors. The interface is built around a high-speed USB 2.0 connection, ensuring reliable and low-latency performance with your computer. It’s a powerful hub for studio work.
Target Users and Applications
The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 is ideally suited for project studios, bands, and audio professionals needing a high-channel count interface. Musicians recording full drum kits, ensembles, or layered instruments will benefit from its numerous inputs. Producers and composers requiring flexible routing options for mixing and mastering will also find it invaluable.
Applications span recording vocals, instruments, and live performances, to post-production work for film and television. The interface supports both Windows and macOS, integrating seamlessly with popular DAWs like Pro Tools, Ableton Live, and Logic Pro X. Its versatility makes it suitable for both home studio enthusiasts and professional recording environments demanding quality and expandability.
Unboxing and Initial Setup
Carefully unpack the Scarlett 18i20, ensuring all components are present. Prepare your computer and download the necessary drivers for seamless installation.
Package Contents Checklist
Verify all items are included upon unboxing your Scarlett 18i20. The package should contain the 18i20 audio interface itself, a USB Type-C to USB Type-A cable for computer connectivity, and a power adapter to ensure stable operation.
Additionally, you’ll find a printed “Start-Up Guide” offering quick setup instructions. Software download information is also provided, granting access to the Scarlett MixControl software and associated drivers. Confirm the presence of these elements to guarantee a complete and trouble-free initial experience. Missing components should be reported to your retailer or Focusrite support immediately for swift resolution.
Driver Installation (Windows & macOS)
Begin by downloading the latest drivers from the official Focusrite website, ensuring compatibility with your operating system (Windows or macOS). Disconnect the Scarlett 18i20 from your computer before initiating the driver installation process.
For Windows users, run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen prompts. macOS typically handles driver installation automatically upon connection, but manual installation via the downloaded package may be necessary. Restart your computer after installation is complete. Proper driver installation is crucial for optimal performance and avoiding potential audio issues. Refer to Focusrite’s online support resources for detailed, step-by-step guidance.
Hardware Connections
The Scarlett 18i20 offers extensive connectivity, including XLR, line, and instrument inputs, alongside balanced/unbalanced outputs, and MIDI ports for versatile setup.
Input Connections: XLR, Line, and Instrument
The Scarlett 18i20 provides a diverse range of input options to accommodate various audio sources. XLR inputs are ideal for professional microphones, offering balanced connections for noise rejection and pristine audio quality. Line inputs accept signals from pre-amplified sources like synthesizers or external audio interfaces.
Furthermore, dedicated instrument (Hi-Z) inputs are specifically designed for guitars and basses, ensuring optimal impedance matching for a clear and direct signal. Each input type is conveniently located on both the front and rear panels, offering flexibility in your studio setup. The interface supports simultaneous input from multiple sources, allowing for complex recording scenarios. Proper gain staging is crucial when utilizing these connections to achieve the best possible signal-to-noise ratio.
Output Connections: Balanced and Unbalanced
The Scarlett 18i20 offers an extensive array of output connections, catering to diverse monitoring and routing needs. Balanced outputs, utilizing TRS connectors, are recommended for longer cable runs to minimize noise interference and maintain signal integrity. These are ideal for connecting to professional studio monitors or external effects processors.
Unbalanced outputs, via TS connectors, are suitable for shorter connections to consumer-grade audio equipment. Multiple output pairs allow for flexible routing to different monitoring setups or sending signals to various destinations simultaneously. Careful attention to output levels is essential to prevent clipping and ensure optimal audio performance. The interface provides clear visual indicators to assist in setting appropriate output levels.
MIDI Connections
The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 features standard 5-pin MIDI In and MIDI Out ports, enabling seamless connectivity with MIDI keyboards, controllers, and other MIDI-compatible devices. These connections facilitate the transmission of MIDI data, allowing you to control virtual instruments within your DAW or synchronize external hardware.
MIDI functionality expands the creative possibilities of your recording setup, offering precise control over parameters and enabling complex arrangements. Proper MIDI channel assignment is crucial for ensuring correct communication between devices. The interface supports standard MIDI protocols, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of MIDI equipment. Utilizing MIDI allows for non-destructive editing and flexible workflow options.
Understanding the Front Panel
The Scarlett 18i20’s front panel provides essential controls: gain levels, signal indicators for each input, a dedicated headphone output, and its level control.
Gain Controls and Signal Indicators
Each input channel on the Scarlett 18i20’s front panel features a dedicated gain control knob. These knobs adjust the input signal’s strength, crucial for achieving optimal recording levels. Proper gain staging ensures a strong, clean signal without clipping or unwanted noise.
Adjacent to each gain control are multi-colored signal indicators, typically consisting of LEDs. These LEDs visually represent the input signal’s level. A green LED indicates a healthy signal, while an amber or red LED warns of approaching or reaching clipping point – where the signal becomes distorted;
Monitoring these indicators while adjusting the gain is vital. Aim for a strong signal that primarily illuminates the green LEDs, occasionally touching amber during louder passages. Avoid consistently hitting the red LEDs, as this signifies distortion. Careful attention to gain staging and signal indicators will result in professional-quality recordings.
Headphone Output and Level Control
The Scarlett 18i20 provides two independent headphone outputs located on the front panel, offering convenient monitoring for both the engineer and the artist. Each headphone output features a dedicated level control knob, allowing for individual volume adjustments.
These controls enable precise tailoring of the headphone mix to each listener’s preference and hearing sensitivity. This is particularly useful during recording sessions where different performers may require varying monitor levels.
The headphone outputs support standard ¼-inch headphone connectors. Ensure headphones are securely plugged in before adjusting the level control to prevent sudden loud sounds; Careful adjustment of the headphone level is crucial for comfortable and accurate monitoring during recording and mixing.
Understanding the Rear Panel
The rear panel of the Scarlett 18i20 houses a comprehensive array of connections, including inputs, outputs, digital I/O, and MIDI ports for versatile setup.
Input/Output Routing Options
The Scarlett 18i20 provides extensive input and output routing flexibility, managed primarily through the Scarlett MixControl software. Each input can be independently routed to various outputs, allowing for customized monitoring mixes and signal distribution. You can direct signals to main outputs, headphone outputs, or even create separate mixes for individual performers.
Digital connections, like ADAT and S/PDIF, expand routing possibilities, enabling integration with external preamps and digital devices. The software allows for precise control over signal flow, including the ability to create complex routing schemes for multi-track recording and mixing scenarios. Careful routing ensures optimal signal levels and minimizes unwanted noise or interference, crucial for professional audio production.
Digital Connections (S/PDIF, ADAT)
The Scarlett 18i20 features both S/PDIF and ADAT optical digital inputs, significantly expanding its connectivity. ADAT allows for up to 8 additional digital inputs at 44.1kHz or 48kHz, ideal for expanding your recording capacity with external preamps. S/PDIF provides a single stereo digital input/output, suitable for connecting digital audio players or other digital sources.
Proper clock source selection is crucial when using these digital connections; ensure synchronization to avoid audio glitches. The MixControl software facilitates easy configuration of clock sources and sample rates. Utilizing ADAT and S/PDIF unlocks the interface’s full potential, enabling seamless integration with a wider range of professional audio equipment.
Software Control Panel – Scarlett MixControl
Scarlett MixControl is the software hub for the 18i20, providing comprehensive control over routing, mixing, and monitoring settings for optimal performance.
Navigating the MixControl Interface
The Scarlett MixControl interface is logically organized for intuitive operation. Upon launching, you’ll encounter input channels displayed vertically, each with dedicated gain control and signal metering. Outputs are arranged horizontally, allowing for flexible routing configurations.
The central routing matrix enables precise signal flow management, directing inputs to specific outputs or headphone mixes. Key sections include the mixer view, where you can adjust levels and panning for each channel, and the routing tab, essential for establishing complex signal paths.
Pay attention to the talkback section for communication with connected performers. The software also provides access to global settings, such as sample rate and buffer size, crucial for optimizing performance and minimizing latency. Familiarizing yourself with these core elements will unlock the full potential of your Scarlett 18i20.
Routing and Mixing Signals
Scarlett MixControl’s core strength lies in its flexible routing capabilities. Inputs can be directed to main outputs, headphone mixes, or even digital outputs like ADAT and S/PDIF. Utilize the routing matrix to create custom monitoring setups tailored to individual performers or recording scenarios.
Mixing signals involves adjusting channel levels, panning, and applying effects (if any plugins are loaded). Each input channel features a fader for precise volume control, alongside pan knobs for stereo placement.
Experiment with creating separate headphone mixes to provide each musician with a personalized monitoring experience. Remember to regularly check your overall output levels to avoid clipping and ensure a clean, professional sound. Proper gain staging is vital for optimal signal-to-noise ratio.
Setting Input Levels
Achieving optimal input levels is crucial for high-quality recordings. Adjust the gain controls to maximize signal strength while avoiding distortion or clipping.
Optimizing Gain Staging
Proper gain staging is fundamental to achieving a professional sound with your Scarlett 18i20. It involves setting input levels at each stage of the signal chain – from the source, through the interface, and into your DAW – to maximize the signal-to-noise ratio and prevent clipping. Begin by setting the input gain on the Scarlett, aiming for a healthy signal level that peaks around -6dBFS in your recording software.
Avoid setting the gain too low, as this can introduce unwanted noise. Conversely, exceeding 0dBFS will result in digital clipping, causing harsh distortion. Utilize the Scarlett MixControl software to monitor input levels accurately. Remember that gain staging isn’t a one-time adjustment; it may require fine-tuning depending on the source material and desired sound.
Avoiding Clipping and Distortion
Clipping occurs when the input signal exceeds the maximum level the Scarlett 18i20 can handle, resulting in harsh, unwanted distortion. Monitor the input signal indicators on the front panel and within Scarlett MixControl; these illuminate orange when approaching clipping and turn red when it occurs. Reduce the gain control on the corresponding input channel if clipping is observed.
Distortion can also arise from excessively high output levels or poorly managed gain staging. Ensure your monitoring levels are appropriate and avoid pushing the outputs too hard. Regularly check for any signs of unwanted artifacts during recording and playback. Proper gain staging, as previously discussed, is crucial for preventing both clipping and distortion, ensuring a clean and professional audio signal.
Monitoring and Playback
The Scarlett 18i20 offers both direct and software monitoring options, allowing users to tailor their listening experience during recording and playback sessions.
Direct Monitoring vs. Software Monitoring
Direct monitoring provides a zero-latency listening experience, routing the input signal directly to the headphones before it reaches the computer. This is ideal for recording, eliminating distracting delays. However, it bypasses any software effects or processing.
Software monitoring routes the audio signal through the computer, allowing you to hear it with any applied plugins or virtual instruments. While offering greater flexibility, it introduces latency – a slight delay between playing and hearing the sound. The amount of latency depends on your computer’s processing power and buffer settings.
The Scarlett 18i20 allows you to switch between these modes, offering control via the front panel. Experiment to find the best balance between immediacy and processing for your specific needs and workflow.
Configuring Headphone Monitoring
Headphone monitoring on the Scarlett 18i20 is highly configurable, offering independent level control for both headphone outputs on the front panel. Adjust the headphone level knob to achieve a comfortable listening volume, ensuring clarity without distortion.
You can select the source for headphone monitoring – either direct input signal, or the audio returning from your recording software. This selection is made via the front panel monitoring controls, allowing quick switching between zero-latency direct monitoring and processed software monitoring.
Remember to check your software’s output routing to ensure the signal is correctly sent to the Scarlett 18i20 for headphone playback. Proper configuration delivers a tailored monitoring experience.
Advanced Features
The Scarlett 18i20 offers talkback functionality and supports both ADAT and S/PDIF protocols, expanding its connectivity and providing flexible routing options.
Talkback Functionality and Configuration
The integrated talkback feature on the Scarlett 18i20 allows direct communication with performers in the recording space. This is incredibly useful for providing guidance and cues during sessions. Configuration is managed through the Scarlett MixControl software, enabling selection of the talkback input source – typically a microphone connected to the interface.
Within MixControl, you can adjust the talkback level, ensuring clear and concise communication without overwhelming the headphone mixes. Proper level setting is crucial for avoiding unwanted feedback or distortion. The talkback signal is routed to the selected headphone outputs, allowing artists to hear instructions directly in their monitoring setup. Recent updates have added the ability to change the talkback input source, offering increased flexibility.
ADAT and S/PDIF Setup
The Scarlett 18i20 expands its input capacity through ADAT and S/PDIF digital connections. ADAT allows for up to 8 additional digital audio channels at 44.1kHz or 48kHz, while S/PDIF provides a stereo digital connection. Proper clock source selection is vital for stable operation; within Scarlett MixControl, choose either internal, ADAT, or S/PDIF as the master clock.
Ensure compatibility between the Scarlett 18i20 and connected ADAT/S/PDIF devices by verifying sample rates and bit depths. Incorrect settings can lead to audio glitches or dropouts. Carefully route the digital inputs within MixControl to assign them to specific input channels. Remember to check cable connections and signal levels for optimal performance and a clean, synchronized audio signal.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Common problems with the Scarlett 18i20 include audio dropouts or driver conflicts. Ensure correct driver installation and check all cable connections carefully.
No Audio Input/Output
Experiencing a lack of audio with your Scarlett 18i20? First, verify the physical connections of all input and output cables, ensuring they are securely plugged into both the interface and your computer. Next, check the input source selection within Scarlett MixControl, confirming it matches your connected device.
Confirm that the correct input is active and that the gain level is appropriately adjusted – too low, and there’s no signal; too high, and you risk clipping. On the output side, ensure the master volume isn’t muted or set to minimum. Also, verify your computer’s audio settings are directing audio to the Scarlett 18i20 as the default input and output device. Finally, a driver reinstall can often resolve unexpected issues.
Driver Conflicts and Errors
Encountering driver issues with your Scarlett 18i20 can disrupt your workflow. Begin by ensuring you’ve downloaded and installed the latest drivers from the official Focusrite website, specifically for your operating system. Prior to installation, completely uninstall any previous versions of the Scarlett drivers.
Conflicts can arise from other audio software or drivers; temporarily disable any potentially conflicting programs. If errors persist, try running the driver installation as an administrator. Windows users should also check Device Manager for any flagged devices or error codes related to the Scarlett interface. A clean boot of your computer can also help isolate the problem, eliminating software interference during driver operation.