29th May 2020 @ 16:40 | Jon Whittaker
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.
Focusrite's Scarlett interfaces are the bestselling USB audio interfaces in the world, and with good reason. 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.
Focusrite's Clarett interfaces followed the Scarlett range and boast very impressive appointments in their own right. Taking inspiration from Focusrite's coveted ISA mic preamp, the Clarett's Air-enabled mic preamps provide exceptional performance. Initiating Air-Mode switches in an analogue rendition of the legendary transformer-based Focusrite ISA mic pre, injecting air and clarity into performances for superior recording quality.
There are options to suit a range of connectivity needs and requirements too from the 4Pre, which offers a whopping 18-In/8-Out interface, the 8Pre with a generous 8 XLR & 1/4-inch line inputs and the OctoPre to expand your connection options even further.
However, the recently released Scarlett 3rd Generation of interfaces go some way toward bridging the divide between the ranges in terms of performance.
Following the release of the 3rd Generation, both Clarett and Scarlett series interfaces feature ultra-low latency USB Type-C connectivity, Air-Mode is enabled for improved acoustic instrument and vocal recordings.
Putting the Scarlett and Clarett interfaces side by side, they feature similar deep red panels paired with tactile controls that respond superbly. However, when compared with Scarlett interfaces, the Clarett’s are endowed with:
In short, you should always aim to get the best interface that your budget will allow. If it allows, then a Clarett edges things over the Scarlett. 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.