Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen Review

Are you ready to take your recordings to the next level?

The Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen audio interface is the perfect tool for any musician looking to make professional-grade music.

With 18 inputs, upgraded specs from the previous generation, and a monstrously clean sound, this audio interface will give you the power you need to make the music of your dreams.

Plus, Focusrite’s iconic Air mode and an included software bundle make it easy to record in the studio or on the go.

Get ready to take your music to the next level with the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen.

Key Takeaways

  • The Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen offers 18 inputs, including mic/instrument combo inputs, line inputs, S/PDIF inputs, and ADAT inputs.
  • It supports sample rates from 44.1 kHz to 192 kHz and has a dynamic range of up to 110 dB (line inputs) or 111 dB (mic inputs), ensuring high-quality recording.
  • The interface features Focusrite’s iconic Air mode, which boosts mids and highs for added life and brightness, and has a gain range of 56 dB.
  • It is well-suited for both studio and mobile recording, with added input capabilities through optical I/O and a lightweight and compact design perfect for traveling musicians.

I/O and Controls

You have a total of 18 inputs with the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen. There are four mic/instrument combo inputs, four line inputs, two S/PDIF inputs, and eight ADAT inputs.

You also have four balanced outputs, four monitor-outs, and rotary dials with LED halo for each input. For added convenience, you can toggle on/off the phantom power switch for inputs one & two and three & four.

The upgraded specs from the previous generation make this interface monstrously clean-sounding, supporting sample rates from 44.1 kHz to 192 kHz with a dynamic range of up to 110 dB (line inputs) or 111 dB (mic inputs).

Moreover, the iconic Air mode boosts mids and highs for added life and brightness.

Recording Quality

The recording quality of the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen is second to none. Its monstrously clean sound is supported by sample rates from 44.1 kHz to 192 kHz and a dynamic range of up to 110 dB (line inputs) or 111 dB (mic inputs).

Plus, it includes Focusrite’s iconic Air mode, which boosts mids and highs for added life and brightness. You can toggle it on or off for any input using Focusrite Control.

It also features a gain range of 56 dB for crystal clear recordings.

All in all, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen is a great choice for intermediate and professional producers alike.

Preamps

Continuing on from the impressive recording quality, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen also boasts custom-made preamps designed by Rupert Neve for George Martin.

It features Focusrite’s iconic Air mode, which boosts mids and highs for added life and brightness, and can be toggled on or off for any input with Focusrite Control.

With a gain range of 56 dB and a dynamic range of up to 111 dB (mic inputs), this interface offers preamp quality that can stand up to comparison.

It’s suitable for those who need ample connectivity without sacrificing sound quality.

Whether you’re in the studio or on the go, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen is ready to perform.

Studio and Mobile Recording

Whether you’re looking for a studio-ready interface or a mobile recording setup, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen is an excellent choice. It’s well adapted for gear-hungry producers, with added input capabilities through optical I/O. This flexibility allows for any size and nature of setup.

It’s lightweight and compact, perfect for traveling musicians. The Scarlett 18i8 is hassle-free portability, a great option for on-the-go music-making. It’s also very robust and reliable, with a durable construction and high-quality build materials.

Plus, it comes with a great software bundle, including Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools First Focusrite Creative Pack, and a free 3-month subscription to Splice.

The Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen is a great choice for any intermediate to professional producer.

Build Quality and Software Bundle

You’ll be impressed with the robust and solid build of the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen audio interface. There’s no question about its durability and reliability with its high-quality build materials and sturdy design. It can easily withstand any accidents, making it perfect for recording in the studio or on the go.

Aside from its solid build, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 also offers great value and benefits with its software bundle. It comes with Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools First Focusrite Creative Pack, and access to the Focusrite Red 2 & Red 3 Plug-in Suite. It also includes the Softube Time and Tone Bundle and a free 3-month subscription to Splice.

Last but not least, the Focusrite Control software allows for easy internal routing and control.

Conclusion

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better audio interface than the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen.

With 18 inputs, upgraded specs, and pristine sound quality, it’s perfect for studio and mobile recording.

Its preamps, Air mode, and build quality make it a great choice for even the most demanding producers.

Plus, the included software bundle ensures you’re getting the most out of this powerful and reliable audio interface.

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