Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 1st Gen USB Audio Interface
- 2 channels of input
- XLR and instrument inputs
- 96 KHz max sample rate
- USB connection to a personal computer
- Ableton Live Lite and Focusrite Studio software listed
- 2 pounds listed weight
- 2-year warranty
Last refreshed Sep 7, 2026 · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.
A simple USB interface for recording a voice and an instrument into a computer at home. Outputs, bit depth and phantom power are not listed, so confirm those against your microphone and monitors.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. ProductDome earns a commission when you buy through links on this page.
ASIN: B005OZE9SAModel: 2i2Category: Audio Interfaces
Overview
A home studio desk or bedroom recording corner is where the Scarlett 2i2 earns its space. This USB audio interface takes a microphone over XLR and a guitar or bass through an instrument input, then sends both to a personal computer running the listed Ableton Live Lite.
A microphone input and an instrument input on one USB box cover the common home setup of singing over a guitar. Focusrite's listing leaves out bit depth, output types and whether condenser microphones get phantom power, all of which matter when matching gear.
Who it's for
Solo musicians and podcasters capturing a voice and an instrument on a laptop or desktop get a compact USB box for the job. Groups tracking several microphones at once, or anyone needing confirmed phantom power, should look past it.
Pros and cons
- XLR input for microphones
- Instrument input for guitar or bass
- Ableton Live Lite listed as software
- USB connection to a computer
- Phantom power, bit depth and outputs not listed
- Only enough inputs for a duo
- Older first generation model
Performance notes
Recording quality depends on preamp gain and the converter sample rate, and the converter tops out at the listed maximum. Monitoring latency depends on the USB driver and the computer's buffer settings as much as the box itself. A condenser microphone needs phantom power, which the listing does not confirm.
Specifications
| Brand | Focusrite |
|---|---|
| Model | 2i2 |
| Dimensions & fit | |
| Item weight | 2 pounds |
| Compatibility & installation | |
| Connectivity Technology | USB |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| Warranty & support | |
| Supported Software | Ableton Live Lite, Focusrite Studio |
| Warranty Description | 2 years |
| Other details | |
| Number of Channels | 2 |
| Audio Input | XLR, Instrument |
| Maximum Sample Rate | 96 KHz |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 a mixer?
No. It is a USB recording interface that sends its XLR and instrument inputs to a computer. Mixing happens in software such as the listed Ableton Live Lite.