Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 2nd Gen USB Audio Interface Explained: A UK Buyer's Guide

Short answer: the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 2nd Gen is an excellent two-in, two-out USB interface for solo recording and demos, but a gigging band with no sound engineer will run out of inputs and monitor sends fast. That is the point where a compact digital mixer, controlled from an iPad, earns its place in the van.

Plenty of function and wedding bands start with a Scarlett 2i2 for demos at home. On stage, though, the story changes: with no monitor engineer the players cannot hear themselves, and quality comes down to luck. This guide covers what the 2i2 2nd Gen does well, where it stops, and what to move up to.

What the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 2nd Gen does well

The 2i2 2nd Gen earns its reputation. It has two combined XLR and jack inputs that take microphones, line signals or instruments, and it records at up to 24-bit/192kHz — more than enough resolution for demos, vocals and acoustic guitar. It is bus-powered, so a single cable carries both power and audio, and it is small enough to live in a laptop bag. For a solo artist tracking ideas, or a podcaster with one or two mics, it is hard to beat.

Connectivity: USB 2.0 Type-B

The 2nd Gen uses a USB 2.0 Type-B port and ships with a USB-B to USB-A cable. If your laptop only has USB-C sockets, a USB-B-to-USB-C cable that is USB 2.0 compatible connects it without any loss of performance. This is the same connector story as many mixers, including the Behringer X AIR X18.

Where the 2i2 hits its limit for a band

The 2i2 is a recording interface, not a live tool. Two inputs mean you cannot even mic a drum kit, let alone a five-piece line-up, and there are no aux outputs to build separate monitor mixes. On the classic analogue set-up that many bands try next, aux sends are still scarce — five players end up sharing two monitor mixes — and there is no monitor engineer to ride them during the set. For a band relying on weekend gigs, that is a real risk to the quality of the show.

When to step up to a digital mixer

The upgrade that solves this is a compact digital mixer with plenty of inputs and several aux sends. Each player can then manage their own in-ear monitor mix — often from their own phone — instead of shouting across the stage. Just as important for a weekend band, one 1U-friendly unit can replace the mixing desk, the stagebox and the outboard effects rack, so set-up at a venue with only half an hour of get-in time means far fewer cables. For the studio angle, our digital mixer for home studio guide and our Behringer X AIR X18 review go further, and the USB mixer audio interface guide covers multitrack recording.

Stepping up from the 2i2: the Behmix X AIR X18

When two inputs are no longer enough, the Behmix X AIR X18 steps in: 18 channels, 16 Midas-designed preamps, six aux sends for separate in-ear monitor mixes, and an 18-in/18-out USB interface, all mixed wirelessly from an iPad. The whole rig lives in one compact, rack-friendly unit that connects over USB Type-B. It is £771.45 inc. VAT (£642.88 ex. VAT), rated 4.9 out of 5 from 474 reviews, with free UK delivery, a 12-month warranty and 30-day returns.

Frequently asked questions

Does the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 2nd Gen use USB-C?

No. The 2nd Gen uses a USB 2.0 Type-B port and ships with a USB-B to USB-A cable. You can connect it to a USB-C laptop with a USB-B-to-USB-C cable that is USB 2.0 compatible.

What can you record with a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 2nd Gen?

It has two combined microphone, line and instrument inputs and records at up to 24-bit/192kHz, so it suits a solo vocal and guitar, a podcast with one or two mics, or tracking demos at home.

Is the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 enough for a live band?

Not for a full band. With only two inputs and no separate monitor sends, it cannot mix several musicians or feed individual in-ear mixes. A gigging band without a sound engineer is better served by a compact digital mixer.

What should a gigging band upgrade to from a 2i2?

A compact digital mixer with enough inputs and several aux sends for in-ear monitors. The Behringer X AIR X18 offers 18 channels and six aux sends in one unit you control from an iPad, so each player can manage their own monitor mix.