An audio interface like the Scarlett Focusrite 6i6 is hardware that connects to your computer via USB connections. It includes inputs for microphones, studio monitors, and other instruments.
In this gear review, we will look into the history of the award-winning audio interface and why the Scarlett 6i6 would be a good option for your music needs.
Let’s get into everything you need to know about the Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 audio interface.
Who Is Focusrite?
Focusrite is an English music and audio products group that develops and markets proprietary hardware and software products. They are based in High Wycombe, England, and the company was founded in 1985.
Focusrite products are used by audio professionals and amateur musicians alike. With a reputation for facilitating high-quality production of recorded and live sound, the company has won numerous awards for trade, innovation, and accolades. Including multiple Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, most recently in 2021.
What Is The Focusrite Scarlett 6i6?
The Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 is a USB audio interface with a USB 2.0 connection for efficiency. The Scarlett 6i6 operates at 24-bit and has a sample rate of up to 96kHz.
The outputs can be connected to amplifiers, speakers, headphones, powered monitors, a sound mixer or any other analogue or digital audio equipment.
Although all inputs and outputs on the Scarlett 6i6 are routed directly to and from your DAW for recording and playback, you can configure the routing within your DAW according to your own need.
The Focusrite Scarlett is available worldwide. With a distribution network covering approximately 160 territories.
Features Of The Focusrite Scarlett 6i6
In this section, we’re going to break down some of the fantastic features the Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 has. Starting with super-low latency.
Super-Low Latency
The super-low latency audio interface features two award-winning Focusrite mic preamps and a stereo line input.
The Scarlett 6i6 is great for recording vocals, guitar, and other musical instruments simultaneously.
Great Mid-Range Audio Interface
The Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 audio interface is ideal for singers, multi-instrumentalists, music producers, and even a small band or a DJ.
You can take the Focusrite 6i6 anywhere and easily connect your instruments via the various inputs. Powered by USB via a USB cord and an adapter, you can get started quite easily in the studio or on the road.
Connection & Setting Up
The Scarlett 6i6 is quite simple with respect to its connectivity. With two pre-amp equipped front-panel mic/ line/instrument inputs, and two rear-mounted balanced TRS line-level inputs, the audio interface is quite easy to use and is straightforward.
There is a supplied USB cable that connects to the computer and the Focusrite. Including an AC adapter that connects to the wall and the rear of the Focusrite.
Specifications Of The Focusrite Scarlett 6i6
Weighing 2.58 pounds and a dimension of 1.89 x 8.23 x 7.48 inches, the Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 also has a high-quality analogue preamp design.
Here are the specifications of the Focusrite Scarlett 6i6:
- A/D Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
- Outputs: 4 x 1/4″, 2 x 1/4″ Headphones, 1 x S/PDIF
- Inputs: 2 x XLR/TRS Combo, 2 x 1/4″, 1 x SP/PDIF
- Computer Connectivity: USB 2.0
- 2 x Focusrite preamps
- Phantom Power: +48V
- Zero-latency monitoring
Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 Compatibility
The Scarlett 6i6 audio interface is compatible with both Windows PC and Mac and iPad via USB 2. Including the Apple Camera Connection Kit.
The power comes from a supplied power adapter. Therefore, you don’t need to purchase any extras in order to use it.
A slot on the rear panel gives the ability to easily fix the security kit.
Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 Price
The Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 is considered the mid-range unit. It sits above the Scarlett Solo and 2i2.
We outline the prices below:
- 6i6 – $249.99
- 2i2 – $149.99
- Solo – $119.99
Pros Of The Focusrite Scarlett 6i6
To help decide if the Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 is the right audio interface for you, let’s go over the pros.
Simple & Efficient
Firstly, we’re all about simplicity and efficiency. Therefore the Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 represents the cool and efficient audio interface that works well in a setup.
Depending on your studio setup and how many programs you have running, once in a while, the sound from the Scarlett 6i6 might become inaudible. But a quick fix is to turn off the on and off switch located in the rear for a few seconds and the issue is solved.
Speaking of simplicity, musicians and artists like to spend less time setting up and operating new gear. Therefore they would feel at ease with the Focusrite 6i6. In addition to the free bundles from Ableton and Softube, the 6i6 audio interface is quite a deal.
Good Sound Quality
With an attractive, yet robust styling, the sleek 6i6 audio interface also produces good sound quality. Regardless of expensive or inexpensive your headphones or microphone is, the sound quality is still crystal clear.
It’s impressive how reviews of the Scarlett 6i6 are consistently positive years after it was first released. And up to today, people are still praising it for its pristine sound quality and the details that it captures.
Lastly, with a simple interface, stylish and beautiful red Teflon body, including enough ports for guitar, microphone, monitor and other instruments, the Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 is an ideal audio interface for producers of all experience levels.
Cons Of The Focusrite Scarlett 6i6
To help decide if the Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 is the right audio interface for you, let’s go over the cons.
Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 Driver Issues
Although there have been several complaints about 6i6 driver issues with a few Cubase users, including intermittent line spikes, the Scarlett 6i6 works usually fine with any FL Studio setup.
However, the complaints are definitely something that should be kept in mind.
Short Cables
The Focusrite 6i6 uses shorter cables than some of its competitors. And the headphone port on the interface is for a ¼ inch jack.
There are easy solutions, however. Such as purchasing a pair of ¼ inch jack adapters to use with regular headphones.
Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 Alternatives
If you are only looking to record a solo instrument such as a guitar, the Scarlett Solo would be a great option or starting point. Thousands of guitar players use the Solo to capture studio-quality sound every day.
But, in this price range, many alternative interfaces are available from companies such as Presonus Audiobox iTwo, Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD, and the Audient iD4. Let’s go into a bit more detail.
PreSonus AudioBox iTwo
PreSonus AudioBox iTwo is a great entry-level audio interface. It doesn’t have an audio track limit and it comes with a wide range of plug-ins. The PreSonus also comes with an amp simulator and stomp-box effects. As well as including other effect modulators.
The AudioBox iTwo is also known for its mobile interface. Built quite sturdy it can also take a serious pounding, yet still reliable and working.
As a bonus, PreSonus AudioBox iTwo comes with a FREE plug-in suite. Including 7 popular plug-ins from top studio gear manufacturers such as Lexicon, Maag Studio, Arturia, and more!
The AudioBox i Two is a decent audio interface that is well-built and quite efficient in the studio. You can bring it basically wherever you go!
Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD
The Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD is known for its MIDAS preamplifier technology. The MIDAS technology is famous for its pristine and ultrasonically clear sound. It is well built and has an impact-resistant metal chassis to withstand the test of time.
The U-Phoria UMC404HD is designed for professional-level recordings that have connectivity for a guitar, microphone, keyboard, and bass. The audio interface features 24-bit/192kHz resolution. With 4x studio-grade MIDAS mic preamps.
The U-Phoria audio interface also comes with free audio recording, editing, and podcasting software. Including 150+ instruments/effects plug-ins that are downloadable.
The Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD is a great alternate audio interface for your professional studio needs.
Audient iD4
Finally, another great audio interface alternative is the Audient iD4. It features a compact desktop chassis with Class A console mic preamps, conversion technology, two headphone jacks, and console-style monitoring control.
The iD4 has capabilities that let you tweak your DAW and other plug-in parameters. Including the ability to scroll your iTunes library! The audio interface is also well-built for on-the-road usage.
Moreover, the Audient iD4 also has a monitor pan function that allows you to create a stereo mix of the input signals. There is also a cool feature where you can press the iD4 button and it lets you turn the volume encoder into a mouse scroll wheel.
The sleek and top-notch technology of the iD4 gives you a state-of-the-art experience whether you’re in the studio or on the road!
Our Final Thoughts On The Focusrite Scarlett 6i6
That was our Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 audio interface review!
The Scarlett 6i6 has a traditional combined excellent sound sonically and audio flexibility at an affordable price. The 6i6 is quite efficient with a simple interface. Simple and easy to use, it is also well-built with a beautiful red metal chassis.
In addition, it has a superb audio interface solution with enough connectivity. Therefore you can keep all your hardware plugged in while you record your vocals.
Lastly, if you do not need a ton of inputs, the Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 would be the right audio interface for you. With a great pair of studio monitors, microphones and headphones, you are good to go!
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