Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen Firmware Update: New Features for the 16i16, 18i16, and 18i20
The latest firmware for the 4th Generation Scarlett Audio Interfaces.
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Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen Firmware Update: New Features for the 16i16, 18i16, and 18i20 · Source: Focusrite
The complete Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen Range. · Source: Focusrite
3 New Models Added to the Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen Range · Source: Focusrite
Scarlett 16i16 4th Gen · Source: Focusrite
16i16 Rear panel. · Source: Focusrite
Scarlett 18i16 4th Gen · Source: Focusrite
Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen · Source: Focusrite
18i20 Rear panel. · Source: Focusrite
Meet the Focusrite Scarlett 4th Generation audio interfaces · Source: Focusrite
Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen · Source: Focusrite
Scarlett Solo 4th Gen · Source: Focusrite
Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen · Source: Focusrite
Scarlett 2i2 Studio pack · Source: Focusrite
[24 March 2025] The latest Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen firmware update offers users a range of new multichannel features for recording and monitoring.
All about the Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen:
The world’s most popular range of audio interfaces just got even more exciting. Now, you can expand your 18i20 interface with 16 channels of ADAT I/O. This gives you a total of eight additional inputs and outputs at up to 48 kHz.
Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen Firmware Update
Meanwhile, the update also adds a useful monitor groups function for the 16i16, 18i16, and 18i20 interfaces. Now, multichannel speaker systems are easy to configure, and you can switch between different systems in a flash.
Another new feature for 18i20 users is the remote multichannel auto gain function. With the Focusrite Control 2 app, you can setup your input gain on each channel remotely without moving back and forth between your workstation and recording position.
This allows you to tackle drum recording on your own, in a very straightforward way so you can get stuck into nailing the performance without having a tech meltdown when you can’t get your levels right.
Overall, the new update adds even more value for home recording, making your Scarlett audio interface a more worthwhile acquisition than ever. To update to the latest firmware, simply download the latest version of Focusrite Control 2 and connect your Scarlett interface.
[26 September 2024]
3 New Models Added to the Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen Range
The popular Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen family of audio interfaces gets three new members in the form of the 16i16, the 18i16, and the 18i20.
As Focusrite introduced the initial models within the Scarlett 4th Gen series almost a year ago, it’s about time we saw the update to the widely used range of audio interfaces.
Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen: 16i16, 18i16, and 18i20
Today, we bid farewell to the 8i6 and 18i8 models from the 3rd Generation and welcome the 16i16 and 18i16 as their replacements. Meanwhile, the flagship 18i20 also receives an update.
Focusrite’s RedNet converters are implemented across all the Scarlett 4th Gen interfaces with a massive 122dB dynamic range. At the same time, the mic preamps are remote-controlled, with up to 69 dB of gain and Auto Gain and Clip Safe functionality.
By pairing the Focusrite Control 2 desktop interface with its new mobile app, you can control your input levels wirelessly. Also, there is a new Presence feature within Air mode, and the built-in headphone amps have been upgraded.
- Browse the new Scarlett 4th Gen Interfaces on Thomann
Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen 16i16
For those who only need a pair of preamp inputs, the 16i16 is a great solution for home recording studios. On the analogue side, there is a total of 6 inputs with two XLR combo mic preamps and 4 TRS outputs.
In addition, digital I/O includes S/PDIF, ADAT, and MIDI, and you have quick access to an alternate set of studio monitors from the front panel.
Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen 18i16
The new Scarlett 18i16 shares the same desktop form factor as the 16i16, with four mic preamps, and the circular dynamic gain halos surrounding the gain controls have been upgraded.
Digital connectivity includes S/PDIF and ADAT, so you can always expand your front end with more mic pres. Also, the 18i16 allows you to manage its routing via the Focusrite Control 2 app for desktop and mobile.
Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen 18i20
The flagship rack-mountable 18i20 is equipped with a total of 18 inputs and 20 outputs with eight preamp channels. Most notably, the front panel has been completely redesigned for an enhanced recording workflow.
The metering section has been improved, with a more streamlined feel, and it now offers metering for your master output too. In addition, the row of input gain knobs has been replaced by a more sophisticated channel configuration section.
*All pricing MSRP.
[August 31, 2023] The world’s most popular series of audio interfaces has been updated! Let’s take a look at the Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen range.
For years, we’ve used these little red boxes for our recording projects, preferred for their ease of use and compact size. The Scarlett series has always brought quality at an affordable price.
The Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen Range
The Solo, 2i2, and 4i4 are the 3 newly redesigned interfaces with a range of useful upgrades and a few extra features that add even more overall value.
Using the RedNet converters, the Scarlett Gen 4 series offers 120 dB of dynamic range. In addition, Air mode has been overhauled, and you now have a Presence function along with Harmonic Drive on your input channels.
The internal headphones preamp has been upgraded, giving you a higher dynamic signal than before and allowing you to drive a wider range of headphones.
Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen Solo
The Solo’s layout has been flipped slightly, so the XLR input is now on the rear panel with the instrument input on the front. As per usual you have access to your main output and headphones levels, as well as the direct monitoring function.
Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen 2i2
The new 2i2 features remote-controlled preamps with 69dB of gain, as well as smart recording features like Auto Gain to quickly set your levels, and Clip Safe to prevent clipping the inputs.
All these new features are quickly accessible via the front panel, with the XLR ports moved to the rear. Also, the 2i2 now has a 5V DC input alongside the USB-C port, which allows it to be powered externally.
Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen 4i4
The 4i4 has a slightly chunkier form factor with XLR combo inputs on the front panel. The function buttons are laid out vertically as opposed to horizontally and the additional 2 TRS inputs are found on the rear panel.
All features are identical to the 2i2, save for the inclusion of 5-pin MIDI I/O which is a rather astonishing addition for a 2023 audio interface.
Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen Studio Packs
The Scarlett Studio packs provide a complete one-box recording solution, with a choice of either the Solo or the 2i2 audio interface. These include the CM25 MkIII condenser mic and the SH-450 closed-back headphones.
More about the Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen Range:
- Official Product Page
- More News from Focusrite
- All about Audio Interfaces
*Note: This article about the Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen contains affiliate links that help us fund our site. Don’t worry: the price for you always stays the same! If you buy something through these links, we will receive a small commission. Thank you for your support!
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One response to “Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen Firmware Update: New Features for the 16i16, 18i16, and 18i20”
Why is 5-din midi an astonishing addition? I belive we still lack strong alternative and it should be included by default. TRS Midi is pain stuff with two different protocols, you still need adapters to the regular 5-din. I feel that 5-din won’t leave any time soon?