Scarlett 18i16 is the ideal interface for artists to record and create. It has pro-grade converters taken directly from Focusrite’s RedNet range and two 4th Gen mic preamps with an impressive 69dB of gain, capable of capturing the most dynamic performances. Auto Gain and Clip Safe modes take care of levels so you can focus on the take. Scarlett 18i16 is the perfect hub to integrate your DAW and hardware with enough analogue and digital I/O to connect external instruments, processors, and effects, and manage complex routing with incredible ease via Focusrite Control 2 software.

Features:

-Pro-grade converters taken directly from Focusrite’s RedNet range

-Four 4th Gen mic preamps with 69dB of gain

-Auto Gain and Clip Safe modes take care of levels

-Easily manage complex routing via Focusrite Control 2 software

-Hi-Z instrument and line inputs

-ADAT, SPDIF, and MIDI capabilities

-Clean, ultra-low distortion playback

-Unparalleled clarity with 120dB of dynamic range

-Re-engineered Air mode replicates the sound of driving a classic studio console

-iOS and Android Focusrite Control 2 apps can adjust monitor mixes and mic pre-gains without having to return to the computer

-Comes with access to top-tier production software

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 120dB 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

With Clip Safe actively monitoring levels up to 96,000 times per second, Scarlett 18i16 automatically adjusts gain to prevent clipping so you avoid introducing any unwanted artefacts from hard limiting. Never miss a crucial take, especially in high-pressure recording environments such as 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 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.

Unlock a wealth of studio tools for writing, recording, mixing, and mastering:

-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

Effortlessly set up your Scarlett   

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.

Specifications

Number of Microphone Preamps: 4

Phantom Power: Yes (Independent)

Instrument Inputs: 2

Line Inputs: 8

Air Mode: Yes

Auto Gain: Yes

Clip Safe: Yes

Line Outputs: 4

Headphone Outputs: 2

ADAT Inputs: 1

ADAT Outputs: 1

SPDIF Input: 1

SPDIF Output: 1

MIDI Input: 1

MIDI Output: 1

Loopback: Yes

Connectivity: USB Type-C

Protocol: USB 2.0

Form Factor: Desktop

Simultaneous I/O: 20 x 18 (including Loopback)

A/D Resolution: 24-bit/192 kHz

Bus Powered: Yes 3A

Software Compatibility: Scarlett 18i16 is class compliant so will work with Mac, Windows PC, Chromebook, USB-C iPad, and iPhone.

Power Requirements: USB-3.0 Bus power 5V @3A 15W

External power supply: 5V @ 3A (included)