Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen

The best-selling starter interface just keeps getting better

Best for: Solo podcasters or vocalists who need one XLR mic input, solid preamp quality, and zero driver headaches

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The Scarlett Solo 4th Gen is a 2-in/2-out USB-C audio interface with one XLR mic input, one front-panel Hi-Z instrument input, and updated 24-bit/192 kHz converters. The 4th generation adds a switchable Air mode that brings a high-frequency lift reminiscent of Focusrite's classic ISA transformer-based consoles. It's the definition of plug-and-play.

Key features

  • 1 XLR mic input with 48V phantom power
  • 1 Hi-Z instrument input (front panel)
  • USB-C bus powered
  • 24-bit / 192 kHz converters
  • Switchable Air mode for high-frequency presence boost
  • 2 x 1/4" TRS monitor outputs

Our take

The Scarlett Solo remains the interface millions of beginners start with - and for good reason. The preamp is clean, the Air mode adds useful presence on vocal-heavy content, and USB-C bus power means one cable handles everything. The hard limit is exactly that: one XLR. If you ever want to record two mics at once - for a co-host or a guest - you're buying a different device. Solo podcasters are perfectly served here; anyone with even an occasional second mic should step up to the 2i2.

Pros

  • Best-in-class preamp quality at this price point
  • Air mode adds instant presence without EQ plugins
  • USB-C - compatible with modern laptops without dongles
  • Compact, bus-powered - takes zero desk space

Cons

  • Only one XLR input - no co-host capability
  • No MIDI I/O
  • No direct monitoring blend knob (monitor mix is software-controlled)

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