Connections Galore

On the back of the unit are another eight ¹/₄” XLR combo inputs, ten ¹/₄” TRS outputs, 5-pin MIDI I/O, two pairs of ADAT optical I/O, BNC Word Clock out, and phono-based SPDIF digital I/O. Finally, there is a 3-prong IEC socket for power.

It’s worth mentioning that, unlike many audio interfaces that dedicate certain audio inputs to a specific task, each audio input on the 18i20 4th Gen can be set to mic, line or Hi-Z instrument level.

Mic Preamps and Air Mode

The mic preamps on this unit are excellent, with 69dB of gain designed to handle a wide range of sources and microphones. Whether recording vocals, instruments or drums, everything is clear and detailed.

The Air mode is a standout feature. While implemented differently than the company’s Clarett and Red offerings, Air Mode is modeled after the circuitry and sound of the classic Focusrite ISA 110 preamp.

When engaged, it adds a subtle high-end presence and harmonic texture that adds enhanced color and character to the signal with zero added latency. Air Mode was something I turned on and rarely turned off—it’s that nice.

Input Options

Guitarists and hardware synth enthusiasts will appreciate the generous number of hi-Z/instrument level inputs. Like the preamps, they’re incredibly present and responsive. If you are a keyboard or synth freak, this unit is a handy way to have all of your synths hooked up and ready to mix, monitor and record.

The added ADAT I/O also makes the 18i20 expandable from its 10 physical inputs and 12 physical out to 18 in and 20 out (hence the name), and since you get dual ADAT I/O, you can use higher sample rates of 96 and 192 kHz.

As a drummer who is typically accustomed to a 16-channel setup, the extra I/O and expandability felt like a generous upgrade!

Crystal-Clear Conversion

The AD/DA conversion on the Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen is outstanding, seriously. Borrowing technology from the renowned Focusrite RedNet series, it offers a dynamic range of 122dB with incredible detail and depth. As a long-time Scarlett user, this is a big leap forward in conversion compared to older Scarlett models.

Smart Leveling with Auto Gain and Clip Safe

The Auto Gain feature is intuitive and saves a ton of time when setting up levels. You hit the button, play your source, and it senses and sets your levels—it’s that easy. A Clip Safe setting ensures that even if you push levels too hard, it adjusts them automatically to avoid clipping input.

Being a session drummer who both engineers and records by myself, dealing with the quick, sharp transients of drums can be a pain to get right—not to mention having to run back and forth from the drums to my recording setup multiple times while trying to set levels and get a take. It has happened more than once where I listened back to an otherwise great take, and then, oops!  That snare hit is clipping.

With Auto Gain set and Clip Safe engaged, I was impressed by how well the Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen kept up with the varied dynamics of my playing, maintaining a strong, appropriate and, best of all, safe level the whole time.

I also have to make special mention of the front-panel metering, which offers a clear visual representation of input and output levels.

Headphone Amp and Monitoring

The custom-designed headphone amp is loud, clear and highly accurate, with independent level controls that make it easy to adjust for personal preferences when both tracking and mixing. The built-in talkback mic is another appreciated feature.

Easy Start

When setting up any 4th Gen Scarlett device, Focusrite includes an Easy Start tool that walks you through the setup process step-by-step and even provides tips for recording. The device also makes use of the Focusrite Control 2 software. This lets you take even deeper control of the device from your computer or iOS device.

Loopback Functionality

Loopback has become one of my favorite features on this interface (no more third-party options). It lets you route stereo audio from any app directly into your DAW. This is handy both for podcasting and video streaming, as well as using obscure online audio and video sources for sampling and sound design.

Versatile Outputs

Like the generous complement of inputs, the Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen includes enough outputs to support two sets of studio monitors, and it also has the flexibility to connect to outboard rack processors and more to support hybrid analog/digital workflows.

Included Software Bundle

Once again, Focusrite includes a comprehensive software package of both Focusrite favorites and third-party options. You get a three-month subscription to both Pro Tools Artist and Splice Sounds, as well as Ableton Live Lite. Additionally, the Hitmaker Expansion is packed with useful tools, including Auto-Tune Access, Addictive Keys, Addictive Drums 2, and more.

In Conclusion

The Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen offers everything you could ask for in an audio interface at this level. The upgraded preamps and conversion sound fantastic, and the smart features like Auto Gain and Clip Safe simply make the Scarlett 18i20  4th Gen a pleasure to use.

Whether you’re just starting or you’ve been recording for years, this interface delivers professional quality at an incredible value. It can easily become a cornerstone of any studio setup.

Price: $649.99

More From: focusrite.com

Reviews