Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen)
The enthusiast-tier 2-in/2-out USB-C interface that's a home-studio standard, with two mic preamps, loopback, and phantom power. It's the default pick for tracking a vocal plus a guitar or a two-source podcast. The only real limit is channel count: multi-mic drum sessions need a bigger interface with more preamps.
Scores
BreakdownHideOverall70±6Caliber-forward blend — tier caliber + within-tier price rank 30%, value 25%, confidence 20%, compatibility 15%, upgrade path 10% — renormalized over applicable dimensions; excluded here: compatibility (no ecosystem dimension).
Scores
BreakdownHideCaliber-forward blend — tier caliber + within-tier price rank 30%, value 25%, confidence 20%, compatibility 15%, upgrade path 10% — renormalized over applicable dimensions; excluded here: compatibility (no ecosystem dimension).
The ± band on the overall score reflects sourcing confidence — wider when fewer specs are verified.
How each score is computed: our scoring methodology.
Specifications
| Spec | Value | Verification |
|---|---|---|
| connection | USB-CSourced | Sourced |
| mic inputs | 2Sourced | Sourced |
| outputs | 2Sourced | Sourced |
| phantom power | yesSourced | Sourced |
| loopback | yesSourced | Sourced |
5/5 detail specs sourced. Amber rows are flagged for verification — we show them as reported, not confirmed.
Verdict
Best for
- The best-selling 2-in/2-out home-studio standard
Who should skip this
- Multi-mic drum sessions
Where to buy
List price $180
Prices are a guide and can change — confirm the current price on the retailer's site before buying.
Prices last checked Jun 13, 2026 — retailer prices change often, so click through for the current price.
Some links may be affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you; rankings are never influenced by it.
Platform support
Compatibility
No platform-specific compatibility requirements — this works in any standard music production setup.
Upgrade path
Outgrow it and the Arturia MiniFuse 4 is the natural next step up in audio interfaces. See it →