AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Focusrite USB Audio Interfaces 2026
The top pick is Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen USB Audio Interface ($715). Focusrite Vocaster One USB Audio Interface gives you the most for the money at $50. Focusrite ISA C8X USB-C Audio Interface leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 21 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 14, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen USB Audio Interface
Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen · Focusrite
54 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
- Weight3.304 kg
The 18i20 4th Gen is a seriously capable interface for bands and project studios. It nails the balance between channel count, clean preamps, and a user-friendly software suite. If you’re tracking multiple sources simultaneously, this is a fantastic, premium-priced solution that won't leave you wanting for I/O.
Pros
- Excellent preamps deliver clean, detailed sound with Focusrite's signature warmth.
- The comprehensive I/O count simplifies complex recording setups considerably.
- Air mode subtly enhances vocals and instruments with pleasing harmonic richness.
Cons
- The USB 2.0 connection feels dated; USB 3.0 would offer more headroom.
- The 19” rackmount format limits desktop use; requires rack space or adapter.
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Focusrite Scarlett 16i16 4th Gen USB Audio Interface
Scarlett 16i16 4th Gen · Focusrite
63 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight1.25 kg
This Scarlett 16i16 4th Gen is a seriously capable interface for mid-sized studios or bands needing lots of ins and outs. The preamps are decent, and the routing options are fantastic for multi-mic'd drums or recording a full band. It's a solid workhorse that won’t break the bank, especially for those needing a reliable, flexible solution.
Pros
- Solid build quality with a robust metal chassis, feels very professional.
- The 'Air' mode genuinely adds a pleasing, subtle high-end sparkle.
- 18x18 routing flexibility handles complex recording setups easily.
Cons
- USB 2.0 connection limits bandwidth; USB-C is a nice touch, but speed is a constraint.
- Limited gain on preamps might struggle with very low-output dynamic mics.
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- Size19"
- Weight5.56 kg
This interface packs eight classic preamps with Lundahl transformers, giving you that warm analog sound pros love. The high gain and remote controls let you handle tricky mics without losing quality. It is a powerful tool for serious studios, though its weight makes it hard to move around.
Pros
- Two classic preamps with Lundahl transformers for warm analog tone.
- High gain and switchable impedance options for difficult microphones.
- 24-bit 192 kHz conversion offers plenty of headroom for recording.
Cons
- Very heavy at over five and a half kilograms to move.
- No dedicated headphone output listed in the specific connection details.
71AudioFu
Index↓ 6.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$2,236 · Aug 17$2,091 now$2,091€1,869 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Focusrite Scarlett 18i16 4th Gen USB Audio Interface
Scarlett 18i16 4th Gen · Focusrite
52 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight1.494 kg
The 18i16 4th Gen is a serious step up for mid-level studios and bands needing a good number of inputs. It's got the clean preamps, the routing options, and a solid build that’ll last. If you're recording drums, multiple vocalists, or a full band, this is a really smart choice.
Pros
- Excellent dynamic range (122dB) minimizes noise floor for clean recordings.
- The 'Air' mode genuinely adds a pleasant, subtle high-end sparkle.
- Robust build quality; the metal chassis feels significantly more premium than previous generations.
Cons
- USB 2.0 connection limits bandwidth; potential for latency with demanding projects.
- The included software bundle, while decent, is fairly standard fare.
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Focusrite Clarett+ 4Pre USB-C Audio Interface
Clarett+ 4Pre · Focusrite
39 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight1.61 kg
The Clarett+ 4Pre is a solid workhorse interface for project studios and serious hobbyists. Those Focusrite preamps, especially with the Air mode engaged, offer a really nice, polished sound—great for vocals and instruments needing a bit of vintage vibe. It’s a well-rounded package with a good feature set for the price.
Pros
- Excellent Clarett preamps deliver clean, punchy, and detailed recordings.
- The 'Air' mode convincingly emulates the classic ISA110 preamp's character.
- Flexible I/O options (ADAT, S/PDIF) expand recording possibilities significantly.
Cons
- USB 2.0 interface limits bandwidth compared to newer Thunderbolt options.
- Limited expandability beyond the existing I/O – no room for future upgrades.
70AudioFu
Index↓ 6.5%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$621 · Aug 14$581 now$581€519 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre USB-C Audio Interface
Clarett+ 8Pre · Focusrite
37 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
- Weight4.08 kg
The Clarett+ 8Pre is a serious contender for project studios and smaller professional environments. Those Clarett preamps are genuinely excellent, and the Air mode gives you a touch of vintage Focusrite magic without the expense. It's a workhorse interface that’ll serve a wide range of recording needs really well.
Pros
- Excellent Clarett preamps deliver clean, punchy, and detailed recordings.
- ISA1170 'Air' mode adds a pleasing warmth and character to vocals.
- Comprehensive connectivity including ADAT and S/PDIF expands routing options.
Cons
- USB 2.0 limits bandwidth; USB-C would be a welcome upgrade.
- Limited expandability compared to some higher-end interfaces.
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Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface Studio Bundle
Scarlett Solo Studio 4th Gen. · Focusrite
55 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight0.382 kg
This Scarlett Solo Studio 4th Gen is a fantastic entry point for singer-songwriters and podcasters. The included mic and headphones are a noticeable step up from the absolute bottom tier, and the preamps are clean and versatile enough for a wide range of instruments. It’s a well-rounded package that gets you recording quickly and easily.
Pros
- Rednet series converters deliver remarkably clean, low-noise audio performance.
- CM25 MkIII mic offers a surprisingly detailed and balanced vocal capture.
- Dynamic Gain Halos provide intuitive, visual feedback for quick level setting.
Cons
- Limited to two inputs restricts recording complex multi-instrument setups.
- Headphones, while decent, lack the isolation needed for critical tracking.
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Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Audio Interface Studio Bundle
Scarlett 2i2 Studio 4th Gen. · Focusrite
67 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight0.57 kg
This Scarlett 2i2 Studio 4th Gen is a solid entry point for singer-songwriters and hobbyists looking for a complete, affordable recording solution. The preamps are genuinely impressive for the price, and the bundled mic and headphones get you started right out of the box. It's a great way to get into home recording without a huge investment.
Pros
- Excellent preamps deliver clean, detailed recordings with low noise.
- The CM25 MkIII offers surprisingly good transient response for its class.
- Dynamic Gain Halos provide intuitive visual feedback during recording.
Cons
- The included headphones are decent but lack true isolation for critical listening.
- Limited I/O compared to higher-end interfaces restricts advanced routing options.
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Focusrite Clarett+ 2Pre USB-C Audio Interface
Clarett+ 2Pre · Focusrite
54 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight1.11 kg
The Clarett+ 2Pre is a solid choice for singer-songwriters, smaller bands, and home recording enthusiasts. Its preamps are genuinely excellent, and the Air mode adds a welcome touch of vintage character. It's a great all-around interface that provides a professional sound without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Excellent Clarett preamps offer a warm, clean, and detailed sonic signature.
- The 'Air' mode convincingly emulates the classic ISA110 preamp character.
- Compact desktop design is robust and feels well-built for studio use.
Cons
- USB-C power dependency limits portability; requires a powered USB port.
- Limited I/O compared to higher-end interfaces for complex setups.
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Focusrite Vocaster One USB Audio Interface
Vocaster One · Focusrite
54 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The Vocaster One is a clever little interface, clearly aimed at podcasters and beginner streamers. The auto-gain and Enhance features are a real time-saver, and the build feels solid enough for the price point. It's a great entry point for someone wanting a simple, functional recording solution.
Pros
- Excellent preamps deliver clean gain, surprisingly quiet for the price.
- Auto Gain is genuinely useful for quick podcast setups.
- Camera output simplifies streaming workflows; a thoughtful addition.
Cons
- Limited I/O compared to more versatile interfaces.
- USB-C power dependency can be inconvenient for some setups.
All 21 USB audio interfaces
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Focusrite Vocaster Two USB Audio InterfaceVocaster Two · Focusrite58Stable$77€69$77€69Check ↗
- 12
Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 3rd Gen USB Audio InterfaceScarlett 8i6 3rd Gen · Focusrite52Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 13
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd GenFocusrite46Stable$100€89$100€89Check ↗
- 14
Focusrite ISA C8X Sonnox ISA EssentialFocusrite · 2 finishes46↓ 5.7%$2,427€2,169$2,427€2,169Check ↗
- 15
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen. Mic BundFocusrite45Stable$290€259$290€259Check ↗
- 16
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th GenFocusrite44↑ 3.1%$149€133$149€133Check ↗
- 17
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th GenerationFocusrite43↑ 5.6%$211€189$211€189Check ↗
- 18
Focusrite Vocaster One StudioFocusrite38Stable$77€69$77€69Check ↗
- 19
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th GenerationFocusrite31↑ 20.3%$319€285$319€285Check ↗
- 20
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd NT1 A BundleFocusrite27Stable$279€249$279€249Check ↗
- 21
Focusrite Vocaster Two Headphone BundleFocusrite24↓ 5.9%$90€80$90€80Check ↗
USB Audio Interfaces by the numbers
Measured across all 238 models we track, not a sample.
Median $319 — half of all USB audio interfaces here cost less.
median of 130 models · 0.32 kg–5 kg
median of 33 models · 4.3"–19"
How to choose the best USB audio interfaces
Preamp Character
Focusrite preamps have a distinct flavor - a warmth and slight compression that can be incredibly flattering on vocals and acoustic instruments. It's not a sterile, clinical sound; there's a subtle 'glue' that can make your recordings feel more cohesive. Older models (especially the 2nd Gen Scarretts) have a bit more of that character than the newer ones, which are a bit cleaner.
Dynamic Range & Headroom
This is critical for avoiding clipping and preserving detail. While Focusrite interfaces generally offer decent headroom, pushing them too hard can introduce noise. The higher-end models, like the Clarett range, offer noticeably better dynamic range and lower noise floors, which is vital for critical tracking.
Build Quality & I/O
The Scarlett line's build quality is generally solid for the price, but don't expect tank-like durability. The Clarett and Forté interfaces are a step up, with more robust construction and better I/O options - things like optical inputs/outputs for ADAT devices are a huge bonus for expanding your rig.
Latency Performance
USB interfaces are notorious for latency, but Focusrite has consistently done well here. ASIO drivers are generally reliable, but USB 2.0 interfaces can still be a bottleneck for demanding applications. Newer interfaces with USB-C offer significantly improved latency and bandwidth.
Software & Bundles
Focusrite's 'Fast Track' software and included plugins (like the EQ and compressor) are decent starting points, but don't expect them to replace your favorite plugins. The included software is more of a bonus than a core selling point, though the bundled versions of Ableton Live are a nice touch on some models.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're in the market for a Focusrite USB interface? Smart move. They've been a staple in studios and on stages for decades, and for good reason - that Scarlett line especially has become synonymous with 'reliable' for a reason. But with so many models, figuring out which one's right for you can be a headache. Let's cut through the noise and find the best Focusrite for your needs.
Don't get caught up in the I/O count alone. A four-input interface is useless if the preamps sound harsh or the latency is crippling. Consider your workflow: are you tracking a full band, or just recording vocals and acoustic guitar?
Spend a little more for better preamps if you're tracking critical sources. And remember, a good interface is an investment - it's the first point of contact for your audio signal.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 22 USB audio interfaces from the Thomann catalogue (of 238 in the category). Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
Are Focusrite Scarlett interfaces good for vocals?
Absolutely. Their preamp character tends to be forgiving and flattering on vocals, but experiment with EQ and compression to find what works best for your voice. The 3rd Gen Scarretts are a bit more neutral, which can be a plus or minus depending on your taste.
What's the difference between Scarlett, Clarett, and Forté?
Scarlett is the entry-level line, Clarett offers improved preamps, more I/O, and better build quality, and Forté is the professional-grade option with even more features and performance. Clarett's 'Air' mode is a subtle but useful EQ boost that mimics their classic ISA preamps.
Do I need to buy a separate microphone if I have a Focusrite interface?
Yes, the interface provides the preamps and connections, but you still need a microphone to capture the sound. Microphone choice is highly dependent on the source material and your desired tone.
What are ASIO drivers and why are they important?
ASIO drivers are essential for low-latency audio performance on Windows. Without them, you'll experience noticeable delays between playing an instrument and hearing the sound - a major buzzkill for tracking.
Can I use a Focusrite interface with my iPad?
Many newer Focusrite interfaces are class-compliant and work well with iPads via USB-C. Check the specific model's specifications to confirm compatibility.
