Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 (Gen 3) Review
USB Recording Interface
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Introduction
In this article, we delve into a detailed analysis of 457,661 user reviews from various languages worldwide to examine the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 (Gen 3). This analysis is performed by the RR artificial intelligence and updated daily with newly submitted reviews. The RR AI utilizes a complex algorithm to first scrutinize user reviews for credibility, filtering out unreliable ones. It then proceeds to dissect and evaluate the valuable insights within these reviews, providing users with ratings regarding the features of this product. Based on these assessments, users can make informed decisions about whether this product is suitable for them or not.
Ratings Based on Features
These results are a summary of user reviews of the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 (Gen 3). For example, 91% of 272,708 users who have commented on the Sound quality of the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 (Gen 3) have given positive feedback.
Highlighted Customer Reviews
Showing 1 to 20 of 73 Reviews
4i4 requires an additional preamp for dynamic mics
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 USB Audio Interface (Gen 3)
Reviewed by EFS on Guitar Center
Overall the 4i4 is okay. Lots of ports. Clear sound. Low latency, which is nice, but what interface doesn't offer that these days? I selected this option because I wanted MIDI inputs and at least 2 separate XLR inputs to record into separate channels at the same time. The problem was that none of my dynamic mics seemed to work with it. The mics were fine with any of my other equipment, so the fault had to be with the 4i4 or its software. I reached out to Focusrite's support team (who were very nice, and easy to work with), and they disclosed that when using dynamic mics you'll need an additional preamp. The 4i4 simply cannot manage to pull decent signal from a dynamic mic without it. That means you'll be spending an additional $200+ to achieve what this thing was supposed to do right out of the box. I am returning mine, because if I'm stuck spending $400 or more there are plenty of more robust options. I also have to mention that the XLR ports are awkwardly tight. You have to really grip the cable and the 4i4 to pry them apart. Then, of course, you end up inadvertently turning knobs, or engaging the 48v phantom power, or otherwise just clumsily knocking stuff around on your table. ... More
Better than reviewed
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4x4 USB Audio/MIDI Interface (3rd Generation)
Reviewed by Max on B&H Photo Video
I read some reviews on here that kind of scared me but I decided to try it anyway. There are some reviews where people were talking about software issues and said that it was really hard to install or that drivers didn't allow for long recording times I've tried it out and I have to say it's pretty awesome! I have a Mac so maybe the software issues were only on windows. I use Mac OS Mojave and have found the 4i4 works great with Logic The installation was a little unusual, but it was pretty simple. Just go to the website listed on the printed page and you'll be downloading all your bonus software really quickly. It also has some helpful video guides The included software and extras are great, although I was extremely disappointed by the version of Pro Tools. It has such crazy limitations as not being able to save on your computer (you have to save to the cloud) and other weird stuff like that. When I found out, I didn't even bother with it. The other software is very good. It even came with some free plugins to download I've tested long recordings. The first time, it cut out after 2 and a half hours because my computer said the CPU was overloaded. The second time, it stopped recording after 5 and a half hours without any warnings. It's not great that it cut out, but I can't imagine a situation where I'm recording one long 5 hour jam, so I'm not too concerned about it I'm very happy with the sound quality. It really sounds awesome ... More
Great Product... Not For Me
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 USB Audio Interface (Gen 3)
Reviewed by Oswaldo, M on Guitar Center
I've been using Focusrite Scarlett Interfaces since their 2i4 (Second Generation) first came out, and I have to say that the 2i4 was an AMAZING Interface. Unfortunately, the headphone jack broke, and with the Pro Coverage I was able to buy this 4i4. I was very excited to get it since I had to buy it right when the pandemic hit, meaning I had to wait a few months to receive it because of back ordering. My first day using it, I was very disappointed only with the Pre-Amps. Everything else was perfectly fine: Software is Easy to Use, Minimalistic, Simplistic. When plugging in my bass or guitar in any of the front pre-amps, it sounded VERY distorted, almost to the point where I couldn't record or even play along with music properly. I sent it to get it fixed by Pro Coverage, they sent it back saying that it was fixed, only to find out that it sounded the same. I also considered anything else that could've affected the sound: Cable, Earphones, etc. Even by changing those things, nothing worked. I sent it back, they gave me my money back, and I am currently now using a new interface from a different company. The only reason I put three stars was because I may be one of the few that received a defective one. It has the potential of being an AMAZING interface, but my experience with this hasn't been great. Maybe it'll be good for someone else, but not for me this time. ... More
No MIDI on Linux
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by Brian S. on Reverb
I exclusively use Linux PC's in my studio. I know, I'm nuts. I love my 2nd gen scarlett 6i6 and so I thought I would also love the 4i4. However, the 3rd gen scarletts DO NOT have a class compliant MIDI interface :( You have to install a driver to get MIDI and focusrite only provides the driver for mac and windows Audio did seem to be working when I plugged it into my Linux PC though
Not Sure If I Would Buy Again
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 USB Audio Interface (Gen 3)
Reviewed by muysitcmusic on Guitar Center
Due to the fact I heard such rave reviews about Focusrite, I decided to buy the 4i4 and immediately was not disappointed. I really liked the low latency and clarity when recording. However, 5 months into recording in my home studio, it just quit working. I am so glad I purchased a warranty protection as I was told by Asurion (the gear protection company) the product could not be repaired. Yes, I did get money back in an e-gift card to use at Guitar Center. Was this just a lemon? I do not really know. Should I try a Focusrite audio interface again; I am still debating. ... More
Ads
Okay for beginners
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by Chris R. on Reverb
My Scarlett was noisy to the point of being unusable. In spite of trouble shooting and contacting Focusrite, I couldn't get any solutions and was forced to return. I think at this price range the SSL 2 + is a much better option. That said, if you need something quick and cheap these are great. Obviously I wouldn't recommend this to anyone who is or is working towards being an audio professional. In spite of my gripes I would say if this is the only unit you can afford, go for it! It's a great "cheap" product - just don't expect the audio coming in to sound super high end. With processing and perseverance you can make all things work! ... More
Focusrite Scarlett + Rogue Amoeba Loopback = Audio Sorcery!
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4x4 USB Audio/MIDI Interface (3rd Generation)
Reviewed by Jeff on B&H Photo Video
Most people may use this for musical production, and I'm sure it's great for that. But my use case is a little different. I'm on Mac and I use this in conjunction with Rogue Amoeba's equally-capable software, like Loopback as a way to exercise complete control over live streaming audio. The Scarlett and Loopback are very well paired, because Loopback can see and use all of the Scarlett's inputs and outputs independently, in any combination. You can generate an audio stream from multiple software sources in Loopback, route it to the Scarlett, send that out to an external effects processor, bring it back in, add mic(s) on top of it, send the mix back to Loopback to feed the stream, and send the mix-minus to the studio monitor. This is pure audio sorcery, fully accessible to a hedge wizard like me. The only thing that could be better than this Scarlett would be a bigger Scarlett. ... More
Worked for about a month, then....
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 USB Audio Interface (Gen 3)
Reviewed by BV on Guitar Center
.. the headphone output right side audio is complete dead.
Simple to setup and use, terrific audio quality
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4x4 USB Audio/MIDI Interface (3rd Generation)
Reviewed by James on B&H Photo Video
I wanted a simple audio I/F to use with online music collaboration applications like JamKazam and Jamulus, and the reviews pointed me to Focusrite. I was not disappointed. The Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 was truly plug and play. Moreover, being able to run a guitar, mic plus a stereo drum machine during online jam sessions was a joy (I'd tried to bootstrap my gear with older equipment and had issues). And the audio quality is so studio-like, it's actually improved my singing because I can really hear myself distinctly in the mix with others. I'm enthusiastic to also try my MIDI keyboard with the Focusrite 4i4, but that's another review ;-). Two thumbs up!! ... More
Disappointing
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 USB Audio Interface (Gen 3)
Reviewed by Td on Guitar Center
Have used a Scarlett Solo 2nd Gen for years without a hitch. Intuitive, reliable, good sound quality, overall very pleased. Upgraded to the Gen 3 4i4 and and it's been a huge waste of time and money. Crashes in Abelton constantly. I get error messages 'no hardware attached' then into recognizes it, then the error message, then it recognizes it again, then error message...all within a matter of seconds. Needless to say I am reluctant to spend any amount of time recording anything on something so totally unstable. Look at other options. This is useless to me.
so far so good...but...
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 USB Audio Interface (Gen 3)
Reviewed by Jimi on Guitar Center
First one had a dead headphone amp I've had high end Focusrite products so I was kinda hoping at least quality control would be good. The made in China label is so hard to read you'd miss it if you weren't looking Though I swapped it immediately & the 2nd one is fine, I'm still a little concerned because this model seems to be discontinued AND the prices dropped the following day as well
Best USB interface
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by Harrison C. on Reverb
If you used the 1st or 2nd generations then you gotta be wondering.. what about the physical buttons? Well, I don't think you would have needed to use them a whole lot mainly because unless your switching inputs every 5 minutes –it doesn't really matter. For new people... It's simple easy, clear, and full of all the stuff you would want for recording audio. Probably the only gripe is while you have playback on your computer back to your recording, I wish there was the option to isolate programs. In context, if you wanted to play something from youtube as your client is on zoom, they would be able to hear themselves. ... More
Bricked after firmware update. This is my second unit.
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 USB Audio Interface (Gen 3)
Reviewed by Matt L on Guitar Center
This is my second such unit. I performed the firmware update and it started acting strangely. The headphone jack stopped working. I use Windows 10 and I started getting connect/disconnect notifications repeatedly. I checked other devices in the same ports and nothing went wrong. Then the 4i4 would be connected but would not monitor any sound. The sound recorded was choppy. My first unit was refurbished and had some similar issues. I would stay away if you are a Windows user until this gets solved. I'm going to get a Motu m4. I'm finished with this interface. I did love the ease of use and sound quality though. I'm a little sad it didn't work out. ... More
Clean and Clear Sound
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4x4 USB Audio/MIDI Interface (3rd Generation)
Reviewed by Matthew on B&H Photo Video
The 4i4 has been an excellent addition to my home recording/podcasting setup. Downloading the Focusrite software was a little bit tricky (a no hardware connected message came up several times). However, a big reason all 5 stars remain in the rating is because of the quick, competent, and helpful customer service that is available online. The unit is paired with an AKG c214 and several podcast hosts have remarked how clean and clear the sound was during call in guest appearances. Well worth the price point for the quality and versatility.
Good interface for home use
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 USB Audio Interface (Gen 3)
Reviewed by Joe on Guitar Center
Solid, compact construction. Good value in terms of balancing number of inputs & outputs, options for inputs & outputs (XLR, instrument cable, MIDI), phantom power, quality, and price. Download a free software package to toggle between inst., air, or pad presets. I use it mainly to record voice and guitar at home. If I wanted to record more channels, I'd either upgrade to a Focusrite that has more inputs OR get a separate mixer and run the output from that into the inputs on the Focusrite.
Looking for something better...
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 USB Audio Interface (Gen 3)
Reviewed by nb on Guitar Center
When it got into a working streak it was fine. But then all of a sudden, activating the midi function in my DAW risks constant blue screens. And all of a sudden my total latency would go through the roof, requiring me to pull the usb connector and reset it. Sometimes this froze the DAW. Sometimes it brought the latency down. Went to the manuf to get "the right" drivers and, after they installed, the presence my my "devices" array looked and were named completely different than the ones I originally got from at purchase download. But they worked just as poorly as those. Spending too much time trying to get these to work. Looking for another brand. ... More
Great for all levels of recording experience!
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4x4 USB Audio/MIDI Interface (3rd Generation)
Reviewed by Claire on B&H Photo Video
I've had a studio for years and bought this because I needed a device that could be portable, runs off USB power from my computer, and is not proprietary to any one piece of software. The Focusrite is perfect. It is essentially a plug n' play device that works seamlessly with ProTools, Garage Band, Ableton, etc. If you are a beginner and are wanting to get into the game with dropping a ton of money, this is a very easy device to use , plus it comes with free Lite versions of several different recording software packages.
Only worked for 2 weeks!
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4x4 USB Audio/MIDI Interface (3rd Generation)
Reviewed by Laura on B&H Photo Video
After only 2 weeks, I kept losing connection after only getting through half a song. I thought it was Garageband, but it also stopped working with Pro Tools First Lite that came with the unit. I spoke with Focusrite and they are sending me a new unit. They said it's probably a hardware issue. Of course they also said it will take up to 2 weeks. I should have figured this out before my 30 day return window with B&H and just tried a different brand.
Good Quality
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4x4 USB Audio/MIDI Interface (3rd Generation)
Reviewed by Joel on B&H Photo Video
I Purchased the scarlet 4i4 because I needed an interface with a few inputs and it also has a five pin midi port for hooking up my older Casio keyboard. It seems to be fairly sturdy and it works as described. The software that it came with is good as a beginner software. my headphones sound decent through the scarlet but I guess that depends on the quality of your headphones. All in all, I believe the product is of good quality and will do what I need it to do, at least for now.
Simple, yet Powerful
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4x4 USB Audio/MIDI Interface (3rd Generation)
Reviewed by Rhys on B&H Photo Video
I have been using focusrite for over 10 years by now. Their latest generation of Scarlett interfaces are incredible. They do what you need, without being overly complicated and annoying to work with. The air channels really do make your tracks sparkle, and the preamps are incredibly quiet. Being bus powered is so convenient for an on the go workflow. The build quality is great as well. Even the knobs feel good to turn.
