Focusrite Scarlett Audio Interfaces announced

Today Focusrite have announced the addition of 2 USB audio interfaces to their range. These are the Focusrite Scarlett 18i6 and the Focusrite Scarlett 8i6.
Focusrite Scarlett 18i6
The Focusrite Scarlett 18i6 is an 18 in / 6 out USB 2.0 audio interface designed to make home multitrack recording a breeze. Two award-winning Focusrite preamps and 16 additional inputs allow you to capture inspired takes, without having to constantly re-patch your studio. Scarlett 18i6 comes with the latest in mix control software to deliver seamless integration, excellent routing flexibility and rock-solid driver stability.
Differences between Scarlett 18i6 and Saffire PRO 24
Scarlett 18i6 is a USB device while Saffire PRO 24 connects via FireWire. Although this will not impact the audio performance of the device, this does create some fundamental differences:
- Because USB does not provide the same amount of power as FireWire, the Scarlett 8i6 is not a bus-powered device. The included power adaptor must be connected in order to use the unit.
- Saffire PRO 24 includes JetPLLTM clock recovery technology from TC Applied Technologies, while the Scarlett 18i6 uses a different PLL system. As always, great care was taken in the choice of PLL system and several were rejected before selecting one for Scarlett 18i6. Both Saffire PRO 24 and Scarlett 18i6 provide excellent clock recovery with low jitter.
I/O configuration differences:
- Saffire PRO 24: 16 inputs (4 analogue)(10 digital)(2 virtual), eight outputs, 4x five-segment input meters
- Scarlett 18i6: 18 inputs (8 analogue)(10 digital), six outputs, 8x two-segment input meters, independent headphone mix (not shared with other outputs)
*Note that Scarlett 18i6 does not include Loopback inputs
Focusrite Scarlett 8i6
The Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 is an 8 in / 6 out USB 2.0 audio interface designed for the modern home studio. Two award-winning Focusrite preamps and a host of other I/O combine with the latest in mix control software to deliver seamless integration, excellent routing flexibility and rock-solid driver stability.
Differences between Saffire PRO 14 and Scarlett 8i6
Scarlett 8i6 is a USB device while Saffire PRO 14 connects via FireWire. Although this will not impact the audio performance of the device, this does create some fundamental differences:
Because USB does not provide the same amount of power as FireWire, the Scarlett 8i6 is not a bus-powered device. The included power adaptor must be connected in order to use the unit.
Saffire PRO 14 includes JetPLLTM clock recovery technology from TC Applied Technologies, while the Scarlett 8i6 uses a different PLL system. As always, great care was taken in the choice of PLL system and several were rejected before selecting one for Scarlett 8i6. Both Saffire PRO 14 and Scarlett 8i6 provide excellent clock recovery with low jitter.
*Note that aside from the changes listed above, the audio circuitry within the Scarlett 8i6 is the same as the Saffire PRO 14, including the high-quality Focusrite mic preamps.







