FOCUSRITE Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen
FOCUSRITE Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen
The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20, 4th Generation is a USB-C audio interface with 18 input and 20 output channels, representing the top model in the Scarlett range. The analogue section consists of 10 combination inputs for microphone, line or instrument signals. A gain range of 69dB provides all the necessary headroom to achieve the best results, even on the most demanding multitrack recordings. In addition, you can conveniently control the preamp levels from anywhere in your studio using the Focusrite Control 2 app. The analogue output section includes 10 channels, including connections for two pairs of studio monitors with the option to switch between them using the Alt button. Also available are a pair of headphone outputs with individual volume controls, a full MIDI interface, and a built-in microphone for the TalkBack function. You can distribute signals in up to 96kHz quality via the ADAT I/O optical interface, split into connectors 1/2 (up to 48kHz, only the first connector can be used for 8 channels), expanding the existing number of inputs and outputs. The Word Clock interface ensures perfect synchronisation. SPDIF connectors are used for digital stereo connection.
Key features of the FOCUSRITE Scarlett 18i20, 4th Gen external sound card
- Studio audio interface with an extensive number of inputs and outputs
- 8 ultra-low-noise microphone/line preamps
- 2 front-panel microphone/line and instrument inputs
- Up to 69dB of gain for demanding dynamic or ribbon microphones
- Two Air modes to simulate the sound of classic studio consoles
- Clip Safe and Auto Gain for optimal level setting
- Dynamic Halo visual indication
- Remote control via the Focusrite Control 2 mobile app
- RedNet-topology converters
- 122dB dynamic range
- 10 line outputs
- Alt Speaker Switching function
- Up to 16 channels of digital ADAT interface
- S/PDIF, MIDI and Word Clock connectivity
- Compatible with Windows and macOS
- Includes Hitmaker Expansion software bundle and a DAW software licence
Professional conversion and maximum detail
RedNet-topology converters bring top-class 24-bit conversion to the Scarlett series, with support for the highest sample rate of 192kHz, achieving a dynamic range of 120dB. The headphone output has also been upgraded and has never sounded better on a Scarlett. The updated microphone preamps provide up to 69dB of clean gain, so you can properly drive even the most demanding dynamic or ribbon microphones without needing an external preamp. The popular Air function brings a touch of the iconic Studio Console sound with its Presence mode, which boosts the high frequencies of your signal – ideal for creating intimate vocal recordings, capturing every tiny detail of an acoustic guitar, and shimmering drum overheads. The new Harmonic Drive circuit, on the other hand, aims to enhance mid-range harmonic frequencies, which is great for electric guitars.
Auto Gain, Clip Safe and a complete studio setup
The Auto Gain, Clip Safe and Dynamic Halo features help you set the preamp correctly. Dynamic Halo is a simple solution to indicate signal clipping. If the backlight is red, reduce the gain until the colour is green. You can use the Auto button for automatic gain adjustment; just sing a few phrases or play your instrument, and you're ready to record. Combined with the Safe function activated, you can't clip the input recording. There is also the Focusrite Control 2 virtual mixing console, which lets you set the gain directly from your computer or use the handy Loopback function. With every Scarlett audio interface, you get Ableton Live Lite DAW and a three-month subscription to Avid Pro Tools Artist and the Avid Complete Plugin Bundle, plus Auto-Tune Access, Softube Marshall Silver Jubilee 2555, Addictive Drums, Relab Reverb, and of course, a selection of quality plugins directly from Focusrite.
Package contents:
Scarlett 18i20 audio interface, rack ears, USB-C to USB-C cable (1.5m), USB-C to USB-A adapter, IEC power cable
Technical specification:
Connectivity: USB Type-C
Protocol: USB 2.0
Form factor: desktop/rack-mount (1U)
Simultaneous I/O: 26×26
A/D resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
Supported sample rates: 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz
Microphone inputs:
Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz ± 0.06dB
Dynamic range: 116dB (A-weighted)
THD+N: -100dB @ 8dB gain
Equivalent input noise (EIN): -127dBu (A-weighted)
Maximum input level: 16dBu
Gain range: 69dB
Impedance: 3kΩ
Variable line inputs:
Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz ± 0.05dB
Dynamic range: 115.5dB (A-weighted)
THD+N: -100dB @ 8dB gain
Maximum input level: 22dBu
Gain range: 69dB
Impedance: 24kΩ
Instrument inputs:
Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz ± 0.05dB
Dynamic range: 113dB (A-weighted)
THD+N: -80dB @ 8dB gain
Maximum input level: 12dBu
Gain range: 62dB
Impedance: 1MΩ
Line outputs (balanced):
Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz ± 0.02dB
Dynamic range: 122dB (A-weighted)
THD+N: -112dB
Maximum output level: 16dBu
Impedance: 200Ω
Headphone outputs:
Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz ± 0.1dB @ 33Ω / 300Ω
Dynamic range: 112dB @ 33Ω / 116dB @ 300Ω
THD+N: -100dB @ 33Ω (minimum) / -110dB @ 300Ω (minimum)
Maximum output level: 5dBu into 33Ω / 11dBu into 300Ω
Maximum output power: 57mW into 33Ω / 27mW into 300Ω
Impedance: 11Ω
A/D converter:
THD+N: -110dB
Dynamic range: 120dB
D/A converter:
THD+N: -115dB
Dynamic range: 130dB (A-weighted)
Power:
Source: external
Consumption: 30W
Specifications
Type
Analog inputs
Digital inputs
Analog outputs
Digital outputs
Features and functions
Dimensions and weight
Packaging
This product is not an independently functional unit and may require professional installation.
Specifications can be changed without notice. Images are for illustrative purposes only.
