Focusrite Scarlett 18i16 USB Audio Interface (Generation 4) 18-in/16-out

Product Information

The versatile Scarlett

Introducing Scarlett 18i16, the industry-leading USB audio interface for producers, with converters taken from Focusrite’s flagship RedNet range. 18i16 features 18 inputs and 16 outputs, including four microphone preamps, Hi-Z and line inputs, ADAT, SPDIF, and MIDI connectivity.

Capture everything

The 4th Generation preamps offer an impressive 69dB of gain, allowing you to capture dynamic performances with clarity, whatever microphones you use. With a total of eight analogue inputs including two Hi-Z instrument ins, 18i16 provides ample connectivity for all your outboard. Powerful outputs ensure clean, ultra-low distortion playback; plus, two brand new custom-designed headphone amps to drive high-impedance headphones.

Studio-grade audio quality

Completely redesigned audio circuitry now includes the same professional-grade 24-bit, 192kHz converters as Focusrite’s flagship RedNet range — the choice of multi-million dollar recording studios and broadcast facilities — and boasts an impressive 122dB of dynamic range to capture everything from a whisper to a jet engine.

Air: That big console sound

Re-engineered Air mode takes your sound’s unique character and brings it to the front of the mix, adding musical presence or rich harmonic drive to vocals and acoustic instruments; replicating the sound of driving a classic studio console. 

Auto Gain: Work faster

Designed to assist engineers of all levels, Auto Gain sets the optimal recording levels for any inputs in just a few seconds, getting you ready to record in moments. It’s especially useful in complex recording sessions with multiple microphones.

Clip Safe: Never lose a take

As you record, Clip Safe checks your levels up to 96,000 times a second, automatically tweakingthe gain to avoid clipping, so you avoid introducing any unwanted artefacts from hard limiting. Never miss a crucial take, especially in high-pressure recording environments like live shows and location recordings.

Easy control with desktop and mobile app

Use the software, Focusrite Control 2, to manage routing and levels, monitor mixes, and control other features of Scarlett 18i16. The desktop software, plus apps for iOS and Android, enable engineers and performers to adjust mixes and mic pre-gains remotely — especially useful in live rooms.

Includes industry-standard production software

The 4th Generation Scarlett 18i16 includes a wealth of studio tools for writing, recording, mixing, and mastering. There’s Ableton Live Lite, a three-month subscription to Pro Tools Artist, three months of Splice Sounds, and a comprehensive selection of software instruments, processors, and effects from industry-leading names:

• Antares® Auto-Tune® Access  
• Softube® Marshall® Silver Jubilee 2555   
• Native Instruments® MASSIVE    
• Sonnox VoxDoubler   
• Landr Studio, plus five free masters   
• Brainworx® bx_console Focusrite SC  
• Focusrite Red 2 & 3 Plug-in Suite  
• XLN Audio® Addictive Keys  
• XLN Audio® Addictive Drums 2: Studio Rock  
• Relab’s LX480 Essentials  
• FAST Balancer 

Easy set up

Focusrite’s Easy Start web tool will get 18i16 up and running with zero effort, helping you locate the drivers, take you through the installation process, and direct you towards the included software. 

Key Features:

• 18 inputs and 16 outputs; including two mic preamps, line, instrument, and MIDI I/O:Fully equipped for demanding project studios with ADAT and SPDIF I/O 
• 4th Gen pre-amps with 69dB of gain:The legendary preamps now have even more gain and are remote controllable  
• Auto Gain and Clip Safe modes:18i16 can automatically manage levels so engineers can focus on capturing the performance  
• Re-engineered Air mode with Presence and Harmonic Drive:Analogue circuitry and onboard DSP emulate the sound of studio consoles and the classic ISA  
• Low latency monitoring:Direct routing and six internal mixers to send audio wherever you need to in super-low latency 
• 24-bit, 192 kHz conversion with 122dB of dynamic range: The same AD/DA converters as Focusrite’s flagship RedNet range  
• Focusrite Control 2 software and mobile app:Instantly set up mixes and manage levels on your computer, or remotely from a mobile device  
• Two powerful custom-designed headphone amps:Engineer and artist can independently monitor with high-quality playback on any headphones  
• A/B speaker switching:Essential for serious project studios with multiple monitor rigs and control rooms
• Dynamic metering for input and outputs: Get instant visual indication of your input and output levels from the hardware   
• Included production software: Comes with Pro Tools Artist, Ableton Live Lite and a suite of instruments, processors, and effects  
• Easy Start tool: Get up and running immediately with Focusrite’s driver installation and getting started tool