Focusrite Scarlett vs Clarett interfaces – which is best for you?
So, you’ve got your heart set on one of Focusrite’s awesome audio interfaces. But, you want to know what best fits your requirements between the Scarlett vs Clarett ranges. Either way you’re onto a winner but as with everything, you want to make sure that your money is going on the right bit of kit. Let Dawsons help you out.
Scarlett interfaces
Focusrite’s Scarlett interfaces are the bestselling USB audio interfaces in the world. Boasting exceptional specs and superb build quality, they adhere to three core tenets. The Scarlett design focuses on achieving the best sound at the fastest speed with the greatest of ease.
From the diminuitive Scarlett Solo to the studio-ready Scarlett 18i20, and not forgetting further expansion coming in the form of the OctoPre and OctoPre Dynamic, there is a Scarlett interface to meet any and every recording need you might have.
Clarett interfaces
Focusrite’s Clarett interfaces followed the Scarlett range, and benefit from superior appointments. Taking inspiration from Focusrite’s coveted ISA mic preamp, the Clarett’s Air-enabled mic preamps deliver exceptional performance that goes beyond the Scarlett’s capabilities.
Clarett interfaces are available with either USB or Thunderbolt connectivity. The Clarett 2Pre, Clarett 4Pre, and Clarett 8Pre come in either format, where the Clarett 8PreX is only available as a Thunderbolt device.
Where they differ
Putting the Scarlett and Clarett interfaces side by side, they feature similar deep red panels paired with tactile controls that respond superbly. However, the Clarett interfaces are endowed with: lower input noise, increased dynamic range, improved Analogue to Digital conversion (and vice versa) and the ability to select a Thunderbolt option.
The instrument inputs on the Clarett feature extra headroom that can handle the loudest of pickups. Reduced latency means that you can incorporate amp sims and guitar effects plugins in real-time.
Conclusion
In short, you should always aim to get the best interface that your budget will allow. If it allows, then a Clarett is the way forward. If you’d prefer to utilise the Thunderbolt port on your computer, freeing up any USB ports for other devices, then the Clarett is a must. However, that doesn’t mean to say that the Scarletts are old hat, they are the bestselling USB interfaces in the world for very good reason. Scarlett interfaces offer exceptional recording capabilities at affordable prices and cater to everyone from soloist to ensemble.
As ever, if you need any help or advice then our Customer Service Team are more than happy to help over the phone on 01925 582420. Our in-store specialists will guide you through the wonderful world of guitar effects, just pop into your nearest Dawsons store.
