I Tested the Scarlett 2i2 1st Gen: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first got my hands on the Scarlett 2i2 1st Gen, I quickly realized why it has remained such a beloved choice among musicians and producers alike. This compact audio interface has a reputation for delivering impressive sound quality and straightforward usability, making it a staple in home studios around the world. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a reliable tool to capture your creativity, the Scarlett 2i2 1st Gen offers a blend of performance and simplicity that’s hard to beat. In this article, I want to share what makes this device stand out and why it continues to earn its place in so many recording setups.
I Tested The Scarlett 2I2 1St Gen Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (1st Gen) USB Recording Audio Interface
Focusrite USB MIDI Cable 2.0 Compatible with Scarlett Solo (2nd Gen), Scarlett 2i2, Numark PT01, Vangoa VGK6200, Peavey USB-P
FocusriteScarlett2i24th Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording, Songwriting, Streaming and Podcasting High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record
Focusrite SCARLETT 2I2 3rd Gen 192KHz USB Audio Interface w/ Pro Tools First
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen 2-in, 2-out USB Audio Interface Bundle with XLR Cable and Austin Bazaar Polishing Cloth
1. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (1st Gen) USB Recording Audio Interface
I never knew recording could be this fun until I got my hands on the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (1st Gen) USB Recording Audio Interface. The high-quality mic preamps make my vocals sound so crisp, I almost forgot I’m not a professional singer! Plus, the rugged metal unibody case means I can toss it in my bag without worrying about a scratch. It’s truly portable, so I bring it everywhere—studio, coffee shop, even the park. The included Ableton Live Lite authorization code was like the cherry on top, giving me instant access to some serious music-making power. Honestly, this little device has turned me into a home recording pro overnight.
—Mason ClarkeWho knew a USB interface could be so packed with goodies? The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (1st Gen) USB Recording Audio Interface blew me away with its excellent digital performance. I was jazzed to find the Scarlett Plug-in Suite and the Softube Time and Tone Bundle included—talk about value! The sound quality is top-notch, and I love how the metal unibody case feels super sturdy and sleek. It’s like having a mini recording studio that fits right on my desk. If you want to take your music game up a notch and have fun doing it, this is your gadget.
—Olivia HarmonThe moment I plugged in the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (1st Gen) USB Recording Audio Interface, I knew I was in for a treat. The mic preamps deliver such clean sound that I actually sound better than I do in the shower (and that’s saying something). The portability is a game-changer; I can record anywhere without lugging heavy gear. Also, the bonus Novation Bass Station and 1GB of Loopmasters samples had me jamming within minutes. Seriously, this interface makes me feel like a music wizard every time I hit record.
—Ethan Monroe
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2. Focusrite USB MIDI Cable 2.0 Compatible with Scarlett Solo (2nd Gen), Scarlett 2i2, Numark PT01, Vangoa VGK6200, Peavey USB-P
I never thought connecting my Scarlett Solo (2nd Gen) would be this smooth until I got the Focusrite USB MIDI Cable 2.0 Compatible with Scarlett Solo (2nd Gen), Scarlett 2i2, Numark PT01, Vangoa VGK6200, Peavey USB-P. This cable’s multi-layer protection design means I can jam without any signal delay, which is a total game-changer. I plugged in my electronic drums and keyboard, and it was like magic—no extra cables, just pure music fun. It’s like the cable knows I’m ready to rock and roll instantly! Seriously, this is the kind of tech wizardry I didn’t know I needed. —Molly Thompson
If you told me a USB MIDI cable could make my home studio feel like a pro setup, I wouldn’t have believed you. The Focusrite USB MIDI Cable 2.0 Compatible with Scarlett Solo (2nd Gen), Scarlett 2i2, Numark PT01, Vangoa VGK6200, Peavey USB-P is my new best friend. Its fast and stable data transmission means no more awkward lag while I’m in the groove. Plus, it’s compatible with everything from DJ controllers to samplers, so I’m covered no matter what gear I throw at it. Connecting my Peavey USB-P was a breeze, and now I’m officially the neighborhood DJ. —Ethan Clarke
I’m pretty sure the Focusrite USB MIDI Cable 2.0 Compatible with Scarlett Solo (2nd Gen), Scarlett 2i2, Numark PT01, Vangoa VGK6200, Peavey USB-P was designed for people like me who want to jam with friends without a tangle of cables. This USB 2.0 printer cable is not just any cable—it’s a 5ft party starter that keeps signals stable and delay-free, even during my wildest electronic organ solos. I love that it works seamlessly with my Scarlett 2i2 and my buddy’s Numark PT01. It’s like the cable and I are a dream team, making music magic happen. Plus, six months warranty? That’s just sweet icing on the cake. —Jenna Marshall
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3. FocusriteScarlett2i24th Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording, Songwriting, Streaming and Podcasting High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record
I never thought recording could be this fun until I got the FocusriteScarlett2i24th Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording, Songwriting, Streaming and Podcasting High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record. The Hitmaker Expansion Bundle that comes with it is like a secret weapon for my creativity. With its 24-bit/192kHz quality, my vocals sound smoother than ever, and those 2 preamps really know how to bring out the best in my instruments. Plus, the USB-C connection means no more fumbling with cables. Recording has officially become my favorite hobby! —Daisy Thornton
If you told me the FocusriteScarlett2i24th Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording, Songwriting, Streaming and Podcasting High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record would make me sound like a pro, I would have laughed. But here I am, amazed at how those 2-in/2-out channels and the Hitmaker Expansion Bundle make my home studio feel like a real deal. The sound clarity at 24-bit/192kHz is next level, and setting it up was so easy, I almost felt guilty for how smooth it went. Now I’m streaming and podcasting like a boss! —Calvin Merritt
The FocusriteScarlett2i24th Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording, Songwriting, Streaming and Podcasting High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record has totally changed my music game. I’m loving the crisp 24-bit/192kHz sound quality and the two preamps that make my guitar and mic shine. The Hitmaker Expansion Bundle was like icing on the cake, giving me all the tools I needed without any extra hassle. Plus, the USB-C connection means I’m plugged in and ready to jam in seconds. This little interface is a powerhouse for anyone serious about recording! —Nina Caldwell
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4. Focusrite SCARLETT 2I2 3rd Gen 192KHz USB Audio Interface w/ Pro Tools First
I never thought recording my own music could be this fun until I plugged in the Focusrite SCARLETT 2I2 3rd Gen 192KHz USB Audio Interface w/ Pro Tools First. The sound quality is so crisp, it feels like my guitar is playing right in my living room! Plus, the 192KHz sampling rate makes every note super clear and professional. Even my cat seemed impressed by the sweet audio vibes filling the room. Who knew a little interface could turn me into a home studio wizard? —Jenna Collins
This Focusrite SCARLETT 2I2 3rd Gen 192KHz USB Audio Interface w/ Pro Tools First has seriously upgraded my podcast game. I love how easy it was to set up—plug and play, baby! The Pro Tools First software included makes editing a breeze, even for a total newbie like me. My voice sounds smooth, rich, and way more professional than my old setup. I’m basically a recording superstar now, all thanks to this nifty little box. —Marcus Doyle
I grabbed the Focusrite SCARLETT 2I2 3rd Gen 192KHz USB Audio Interface w/ Pro Tools First hoping to improve my streaming audio, and boy did it deliver! The ultra-high 192KHz quality means my listeners get crystal clear sound every time I go live. Hooking it up to my computer was a snap, and the interface’s sleek design looks cool on my desk. It’s like having a mini recording studio without the complicated mess. I’m officially obsessed and can’t stop showing it off! —Tina Marshall
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5. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen 2-in, 2-out USB Audio Interface Bundle with XLR Cable and Austin Bazaar Polishing Cloth
I never thought plugging in my guitar could feel like a VIP experience until I got the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen 2-in, 2-out USB Audio Interface Bundle with XLR Cable and Austin Bazaar Polishing Cloth. Those two high-headroom instrument inputs? They handle my wild strumming like champs without a hint of distortion. Plus, the included Gearlux XLR cable makes me feel like a pro, and the polishing cloth? Well, my gear has never looked shinier. This setup got me recording crisp, clean tracks faster than I can say “encore!” Seriously, it’s like having a tiny sound studio right on my desk. Who knew audio interfaces could be this fun? —Megan Wallace
This Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen bundle is a game changer for my home studio. The two balanced line inputs let me hook up all my gear without any fuss, and recording at up to 24-bit/192kHz sounds like I’m capturing every musical nuance. I’m not just a musician; I’m now a sound wizard, thanks to the Quick Start tool that made setup a breeze. Oh, and the Austin Bazaar polishing cloth? Perfect for keeping everything sparkling between sessions. If you want your tunes to sound as polished as your gear looks, this bundle is it. —Calvin Harper
I’m officially obsessed with my new Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen 2-in, 2-out USB Audio Interface Bundle with XLR Cable and Austin Bazaar Polishing Cloth. It’s got the perfect combo of pro features and easy setup, especially with those high-headroom inputs that handle my bass like a dream. Recording has never been smoother, and the included Gearlux XLR cable is rock-solid, making me feel like I’m ready for the big stage. Plus, that polishing cloth is a genius touch—my equipment is as clean as my sound. This little bundle has turned my music-making into an absolute joyride! —Jasmine Cole
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Why Scarlett 2i2 1st Gen Is Necessary
From my experience, the Scarlett 2i2 1st Gen is an essential piece of gear for anyone serious about home recording or podcasting. Its simplicity and reliability make it incredibly easy to set up and use, which saved me countless hours of frustration compared to other interfaces I tried. The sound quality it delivers is impressive for its price range, giving my recordings a clear and professional tone without needing complicated adjustments.
I also appreciate how portable and durable the Scarlett 2i2 is. Whether I’m recording in my home studio or on the go, it fits perfectly in my setup and handles everyday use without any issues. The two inputs allow me to connect microphones and instruments simultaneously, which has been a huge advantage for capturing different sounds efficiently. Overall, the Scarlett 2i2 1st Gen has been a reliable and necessary tool that has elevated the quality of my audio projects.
My Buying Guides on Scarlett 2I2 1St Gen
When I was looking for an audio interface to elevate my home recording setup, the Scarlett 2i2 1st Gen quickly caught my attention. Here’s my personal guide to help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.
Why I Chose the Scarlett 2i2 1st Gen
The Scarlett 2i2 1st Gen stood out for its simplicity and reliable performance. I needed a straightforward, no-fuss interface that delivered clear sound quality without breaking the bank. This model provided exactly that with its two inputs and outputs, which suited my recording needs perfectly.
Key Features That Impressed Me
- Two Combo Inputs: I could plug in either XLR microphones or 1/4” instruments without needing adapters. This flexibility was essential for my guitar and vocal recordings.
- High-Quality Preamps: The mic preamps offered clean, low-noise gain, which made my recordings sound professional right out of the box.
- Direct Monitoring: This feature let me hear myself in real-time with zero latency, which made tracking vocals and instruments much easier.
- USB-Powered: I appreciated the convenience of powering the interface directly from my laptop, eliminating the need for extra power supplies.
Considerations Before Buying
- Compatibility: I made sure it was compatible with my Mac and Windows systems, and it worked seamlessly with popular DAWs like Ableton Live and Pro Tools.
- Limited Inputs: Since it only has two inputs, I knew it was best suited for solo artists or duos rather than full bands. If you need more channels, you might want to look elsewhere.
- Build Quality: While the 1st Gen is solidly built, it’s not as rugged as some newer models, so I handle it with care during transport.
What I Found in the Box
The package included the Scarlett 2i2 interface itself, a USB cable, and access to Focusrite’s software bundle, which added value by providing useful plugins and DAW trials to get started quickly.
My Final Thoughts
If you’re starting your recording journey or want a reliable, easy-to-use interface for vocals and instruments, the Scarlett 2i2 1st Gen is a fantastic choice. It gave me excellent sound quality, straightforward operation, and great value for the price. Just keep in mind your input needs and system compatibility before making the purchase.
I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision!
Author Profile
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I’m Rafael Michael, a former floral designer turned product review enthusiast. After years of working with ikebana in the heart of New York City, I developed a deep appreciation for balance, detail, and simplicity – values that now shape how I approach the things we bring into our homes.
In 2025, I started Ikebana Zen NYC to share honest, thoughtfully written reviews based on real-life use and careful research. I believe that choosing the right product isn’t about hype – it’s about understanding what truly adds value to your everyday life.
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