Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 (4e Génération)
The industry-standard audio interface, reviewed and improved.
Our verdict
The best entry point for a home studio: reliable, well documented and expandable enough for one or two microphones. If you need to plug in three or more, this is not the right model — inputs 3 and 4 will not power them.
What the community says
The Scarlett 4i4 is the interface forums recommend by default to beginners: it is the model that turns up most in home-studio setups, across all brands. The fourth generation added two safety features, automatic gain calibration and clipping protection, widely praised as its real contribution. The most frequently reported trap is not technical: inputs 3 and 4 are line level, with no preamp, and many people only find out after buying.
DL« The default choice that earns its reputation, provided you count your microphone inputs before buying. »
Quick specs
Strengths
- Fourth-generation preamps with Air mode: this is the interface communities recommend by default to beginners, and the reputation holds over time.
- Automatic gain calibration and clipping protection: two features that prevent ruined takes and form this generation's real contribution.
- Built-in MIDI inputs and loopback: a controller keyboard plugs in with no extra interface.
Limitations
- Inputs 3 and 4 are line level, with no preamp: a microphone will not work there, and that surprise comes up regularly in purchase feedback.
- The unit runs noticeably warm over long sessions — often mentioned, without reliability being called into question.
Who it's for
- +Two-person podcasts
- +Beatmakers and solo musicians
Skip it if
- -Large bands (not enough inputs)
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