
Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface Price comparison
Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface Price History
Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface Description
Discover the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface
If you’re serious about audio production, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface is an essential tool for achieving professional sound quality. Designed for musicians, podcasters, and audio engineers, this interface delivers excellent performance, versatility, and ease of use. With its superior audio fidelity and impressive connectivity options, you can elevate your recordings to the next level.
Key Features and Benefits of the Scarlett 18i8
- High-Quality Audio: Experience 24-bit/192kHz audio resolution that captures your sound with remarkable clarity.
- Multiple Inputs and Outputs: Featuring 4 combo inputs, you can easily connect microphones and instruments simultaneously. The ability to interface with studio monitors ensures seamless playback.
- User-Friendly Design: The device is compact yet robust, measuring just 6.28 x 9.49 x 2.4 inches and weighing only 3.45 pounds. Ideal for both studio and mobile use.
- USB-C Connectivity: The latest USB-C technology ensures high-speed data transfer and compatibility with a wide range of devices, including personal computers, tablets, and smartphones.
- Compatible with All Software: The Scarlett 18i8 works effortlessly with all major audio recording software platforms, providing you with flexibility and creativity in your projects.
- Included Software Bundle: Get access to a suite of creative tools and software to kickstart your audio production journey right away.
Price Comparison Across Suppliers
When it comes to pricing, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface offers excellent value for the features it provides. As of now, prices can vary significantly across different retailers. You can expect ranges from $199 to $249 depending on promotions and availability. Comparing prices is crucial to ensure you get the best deal available. We update our price comparison regularly, helping you to save money while investing in quality equipment.
Notable Trends from the 6-Month Price History
Analyzing the 6-month price history chart, it’s evident that the price of the Scarlett 18i8 tends to fluctuate during major sale events and holidays. Over the past six months, the interface’s price peaked at $249 during the holiday season but also had periodic drops to around $199 during clearance sales. Keeping an eye on these trends can help you determine the best time to make your purchase.
Customer Reviews Summary: Pros and Cons
Overall, customers rave about the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface, consistently praising its sound quality and build. Happy users have noted:
- Exceptional Sound: Many users highlight the clarity and depth of audio captured, making it a favorite for both vocal and instrumental recordings.
- Versatile Functionality: The multiple input channels make it great for recording bands or podcasts, accommodating various setups easily.
- Ease of Use: First-time users have reported finding the interface straightforward and simple to set up with their systems.
However, some customers have pointed out a couple of drawbacks:
- Limited Outputs: A few users mentioned that while it excels in inputs, they found the outputs somewhat limited for more extensive setups.
- Driver Issues: A minor number of users experienced difficulties with drivers on certain operating systems. Most have resolved this with updates from the manufacturer.
Related Unboxing and Review Videos
To further explore the capabilities of the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface, check out some well-produced unboxing and review videos on YouTube. These provide firsthand insights from experienced users showcasing not only its aesthetics and build quality but also real-time performance tests. Watching these guides can significantly help you understand what to expect when you make your purchase.
Final Thoughts
The Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface is a robust solution for those seeking high-quality audio inputs and outputs. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, this interface provides the reliability and versatility needed in today’s dynamic audio landscape. Don’t miss your chance to elevate your sound—compare prices now!
Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface Specification
Specification: Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface
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Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface Reviews (9)
9 reviews for Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface
Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.
William Albino –
This is great hardware. I use to do my production hobby work on a desktop that died prematurely. My previous incarnation I ran a R-Bus into my Roland VM-3100 and additionally ran a SoundBlaster Emulator X. Unfortunately running those on an outdated laptop was not an option.
I recently purchased a HP Laptop and tried running FL Studio. The audio out was lacking so I decided to look into audio interfaces and their software bundles. I already own an outdated version of Reason, Cubase, and Ableton. So I wanted to see what could I beef up my arsenal with. After seeing what Focusrite had I was thoroughly impressed. My next need was midi i/o. Again I had outboard gear in the form of two MidiSport 8×8. This filled in that gap with it being MIDI capable. My next option was multiple audio inputs and outputs. This more than covered my needs. I just needed a headphones out and it has two. I also needed something to connect my monitors and this was covered. I can chain my MIDI and use my patch bay if needed to route audio in. This device covered more than I needed which is perfect!
Setup was pretty much straightforward but a tiny bit awkward. Everything on the Focusrite side is in perfect condition. Downloading everything is simple due to a lack of a DVD drive.
Unfortunately I hit a brick wall with the software bundle. Some of the instructions are lacking. After finding a way to download most of the software I found myself at a crossroads. ProTools decided to discontinue their support of PT First. So that DAW isn’t an option for use. You’ll have to rely on Ableton’s Live in order to get any production work done.
My other issue is with a bundled reverb. It crashes my DAW of choice every single time. I have a support ticket open for it so who knows if there’s a fix or if it’s just a problem with my configuration. There’s a lot of people with the same issue and different DAWs…???
Overall I love my new system. It’s been able to resurrect my love of production.
BTorto –
The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 is a very solid piece of hardware. I had a hard time wrapping my head around the Focusrite Control software layout. Fortunately my experience of the Focusrite customer service is/was ( AJ Im talkin about you!) absolutely stellar. I highly recommend this device.
Alejandro Apc –
Muito boa interface de áudio. Recomendo.
paulo rezende –
Focusright very powerful interface 6 channel 8i6
Live performance rich sound
BTorto –
GREAT quality. Exactly what I expect from Focusrite.
Always works, very low latency, so much better than presonus or any other offerings in its price range!
Alejandro Apc –
Exatamente a qualidade que estava pensando. Produto fantástico, preço acessÃvel e entrega rapidÃssima.
Joaquin –
***If you are looking for an industry professional or musician’s take, read another review. I am neither.***
I write this review with utter sadness, because I bought this after returning the Apollo Solo. That Apollo Solo was so beautiful. Sounded so fantastic. Had features I could only dream about. Sadly, my setup just could not handle it. One day, I will upgrade my hardware that includes a Thunderbolt 3 header. Then I can buy the X4 variant. Then the API and Maag EQ will be waiting for me in my UA account.
With that obituary out of the way, let’s talk about the Focusrite 8i6.
I wanted something I could rackmount, but I did not need 8 mic preamps. I am just one person, and I am not recording a band, or having guests on a podcast or radio show. I am simply messing with “music”, even though I am not a musician or audio engineer. I might just put this on a 1u rack shelf, because my space is limited. I encourage Focusrite to make something to make the smaller units rackmountable, even if I have to buy it separately. Thank you in advance.
*Features*
The features are straightforward. 4 line ins, MIDI, coax, 4 outs, 2 pres, 2 headphone jacks, and maybe some other things I forgot. That leaves plenty of flexibility for my personal setup. The one feature I am really loving is the Focusrite Control software. Very easy to use, and has a loopback feature. That is very nice, because I do not have to resort to Voicemeeter Banana. My setup hates Voicemeeter Banana. So anytime I can avoid that, I am one happy guy. The old 2i2 does not have the loopback feature. So now I can stream without having to use the native Windows drivers to stream.
*Price*
It’s not UA level price, but it is not exactly cheap, either. If you do not need that many inputs or features, you might be better off getting something smaller. However, if you want loop back, etc., make sure you double check what the software offers you! Do not be afraid to look and ask around.
*Included software*
I am sure some will find the bundled software useful and good. I am sure it is wonderful. However, I have Ableton Live 11 Standard and Studio One 5 Pro. The included Control panel is really nice.
*Would I recommend it?*
Yes. If it suits your needs. There’s lots of interfaces to choose from. The only advice I have for you is, do not fall for the shills or the gear snobs. They are not paying your bills. Always, always get what serves you best, and what is in your budget. The point is to have fun and be productive. Not show the size of your lollipop.
Robert P. Grant –
I was using an old basic USB audio interface combined with a compact analog mixer to try and route all the inputs and outputs I wanted to use. The result was an ugly nest of wires and constant fiddling with knobs to ensure I didn’t blow out my speakers when I switched from headphones to monitors.
I recently upgraded my work area to a dedicated music desk with built in racks and that encouraged me to look for a rack based solution. I stumbled upon this product and after reading the manual realized that it would be the perfect solution. It had separate headphone and monitor outs and enough inputs that I wouldn’t have to juggle things ever again. Audio quality is fantastic of course, but the physical usability is what makes me love it.
Absolutely perfect for my needs.
Matt –
Es excelente para un músico compositor (que graba ocasionalmente instrumentos y voces). También para músicos de sesión. Incluso para podcast. Cumple con todo lo que promete. SerÃa grandioso que incluyera un USB
-C a USB-C ya que he tenido que usar un adaptador para Mac. Fuera de ello, todo bien.